The Definitive List of the Best Restaurants in Galle, Sri Lanka

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During two months traversing the tropical lands of Sri Lanka, Galle was one of the last cities on my destination count. 

(Starting in Colombo, I planned a route across the country via Ella, down to Arugam Bay, and then up the south.) 

Galle is about two hours from the capital. Galle is a fascinating place, renowned for its fort and facets showcasing times when the Brits ruled over the land. 

Whether you’re here on a day trip or a couple of nights, you’re going to want to know about the restaurant scene. 

Right on the ocean, seafood is a big player, whether fresh or in a curry, especially crab and tuna! Local cuisine is incredible in Sri Lanka. I personally appreciate that the curries, for example, aren’t mind-numbingly hot! But there’s a variety to enjoy. So, let’s tuck into the best restaurants in Galle Sri Lanka. 

1. The Bungalow: Elevated yet casual 

Everything about The Bungalow makes my aesthetic-appreciating heart skip a beat! 

While dining out is all about the food, it’s also the exteriors (and interiors) around you that make up a restaurant experience. And this place doesn’t disappoint, personifying the very things that make Galle a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka. 

It’s located within the historic fort, with both indoor and outdoor courtyard seating (I recommend this area). From the dinnerware to the furniture, it all adds to the ambiance. 

But down to what we came here for: the food! Seafood is the star of the show (like much of Sri Lankan cuisine), and you have to order the whole shell crab. Otherwise, you can’t go wrong with tempura prawns for starters. Or do enquire about the catch of the day, fresh from these southern shores! Cocktails are amazing, too!

2. AQUA Forte: The best in Sri Lanka 

Italian cuisine has always been my favorite; whether it’s to cook or eat. But I’m not gonna lie, I’m often hesitant to do the whole Italian vibes when I’m in a foreign country (especially SEA). After many trips to Italy, I’ve become even more of a hardcore judge! 

But when a spot is voted as the best of its kind in any country, I’m more than willing to give it a shot. Voted as the best Italian restaurant in Sri Lanka, AQUA Forte hones in on the fine dining category — and doesn’t disappoint. I think any Italian would be proud! 

Wines and prosecco are all imported and DOC certified. The food is contemporary Italian, but honors classic flavor profiles and dishes. Order the ‘Capesante, Zucca, Spinaci E Pecorino,’ i.e., seared scallops, pumpkin mousse, pecorino crisps, and sautéed spinach.

Or, if you’re more in the mood for the whole pizza vibes (which you won’t find on this menu), add AQUA Pizza to your eating agenda of the best restaurants in Galle Sri Lanka instead for pukka Neapolitan-style pizza. 

Speaking of Napoli, here’s some of the best street food in Naples, the birthplace of pizza! 

3. Coconut sambol: Curry buffet vibes 

I’m obsessed with the name of this next winner from the best restaurants in Galle Sri Lanka, epitomizing the very essence of Sri Lankan cuisine: coconut and sambol. In this tropical country, sambol refers to a spicy coconut-based condiment, “pol sambol.” As you can see, the name of this restaurant couldn’t be more befitting if it tried. So cute! 

Anyhoo, if you didn’t guess it by now, it’s alllll about local flavors at Coconut Sambol! It’s like a buffet-style set up, and food is served on banana leaves or in a basket. 

Heading towards the cape is where you’ll discover this local gem. There’s nothing overly fancy, and the daily specials change all the time. But you have to try the home-cooked curry done in a clay pot, and if it’s available, the homemade ginger beer (trust me on this one). 

4. The Tuna & The Crab: Japanese-inspired vibes 

Is it just me, or are we loving the titles of the best restaurants in Galle Sri Lanka? I know I have a penchant for words, but gosh, I really feel like every spot is indicative of what’s in store. The Tuna & The Crab (two of the most popular seafoods in Sri Lanka, FYI, and so dirt cheap at that) is, in fact, a Japanese seafood restaurant. 

Specializing in Japanese, an entire menu is dedicated to tuna, and then an entire menu for crab-focused dishes, including sushi options. Then there’s the general seafood section menu, offering dishes like cuttlefish tossed in olive oil or freshwater prawns. 

The teishoku part (in Japan, these are preselected meals like a bento box) comprises various sets and bento boxes, like the Furai Moriawase Set and the Bento Box for Wine Lovers. 

Dreaming of Japan? Make use of this epic Ultimate 2 Week Japan Itinerary during planning and travels.

5. Galu Bojuna: For hoppers and kottu 

No matter which city, town, or village, whether talking Sigiriya, Tangalla, or Negombo, one thing remains the same. My ultimate dining experiences are always at the hyper-local, most unassuming-looking places. Galu Bojuna reminds me of such things, and it’s one of the best restaurants in Galle Sri Lanka, for authentic, simple Sri Lankan chow. 

Found near the city’s Old Gate, if you’ve got your list of quintessential Sri Lankan foods to try (mine was pages long before arriving in the country), this is one place to tick off many of them. 

Dive into egg hoppers (typically a breakfast time meal, but you’ll find them at many local places at any time of day), egg kottu, prawns kottu, Sri Lankan rice and curry (a national dish), and and and.  

P.S. Apart from the classic egg hoppers, they also serve a cheesy devilled prawns version! 

6. Bastille Fort Galle: For a seafood extravaganza

Growing up in Durban, South Africa, we ate seafood multiple times a week. When I moved to Southeast Asia and arrived for the first time in Sri Lanka, I felt like I was home again. In my books, there’s no such thing as too much seafood, and I cannot tell you how many times a week I ate crab in Sri Lanka! 

At Bastille Fort Galle, you have to dive headfirst into the crab curry. Slightly sweet, and 100% delicious, although I can’t handle my spice, it’s one dish I’d have my nose run and ears burn any day for! Also on that crab note, another one to try is the tempura soft-shell eating crab. 

Travel foodie tip: Speaking of spice, if you’re comparing Sri Lankan curry to Indian curry, the spice levels are a lot more mellow on this island. Often it’s paired down with coconut milk or cream. But for those who DO want a spice kick, this restaurant is renowned for it.  

The seafood bliss doesn’t end there! Lobster, clams, tuna carpaccio, you name it. 

7. Pedlar’s Inn Cafe: A local institution 

Ever find that if you’ve been traveling in a certain country for too long and all you want are some familiar favorites? For me, it’s always strong coffee. I adore Sri Lanka, but man, oh man, this country loves its tea (another area where the whole British influence comes through). 

If you’re exploring the town and are in dire straits of a damn good cappuccino (Lavazza-style) and a solid bite to eat, Pedlar’s Inn has got your back. It’s also the type of place where, on the menu, you’ll find a little bit of everything. 

Pedlar’s Inn isn’t just one of the best restaurants in Galle Sri Lanka but also one of the most popular on social media. It makes sense, it’s been around since 2004, standing the test of many times! 

8. Charlie’s Bar & Bistro: With ocean views 

Decked out in a nautical-esque theme, Charlie’s Bar & Bistro is fab for any occasion; whether it’s dinner plans or an afternoon cocktail. It’s got a refined atmosphere for sure, and there’s also an outdoor terrace — which I am all about. 

Oh, and did I mention the ocean in the background??? Is there a better setting for day drinking? (In my opinion, nope!) I also love that you can grab a bunch of bar-type snacks, like popcorn, breads and dips, cashew nuts, etc.

Between 3 pm and 6 pm is Southern High Tea time! But reservations are essential. 

9. Elita Restaurant: Casual seafood 

If you think there’s an oceanload of seafood options among the best restaurants in Galle Sri Lanka, you’re absolutely correct — and I wouldn’t want it any other way. It really showcases what Sri Lankan cuisine is all about. 

Quick story: In Hikkaduwa one morning, I made my way to the local market. For one kilogram of prawns, I paid something silly like US$7. For an entire kg!!! I’ll let that one settle in. If you’re in Hikkaduwa, don’t pass up the opportunity, especially if you enjoy cooking. 

Elita Restaurant is another seafood-loving extravaganza, serving incredibly fresh fish, especially…tuna. Until you’ve traveled the country, you’ll be shocked when hearing how cheap restaurant prices are for seafood in comparison to what you’re used to paying. The overall ambiance is super laid back and extra inviting!

Sri Lanka remains etched in my heart and is my favorite country in Asia. I relate so much to Indian culture, from its spirituality to love for all things colorful! If you’re much the same as me and planning a trip to Goa, India, check out this 3-day Goa itinerary! 

Or, if your bucket list contains Nepal, here’s an ultimate 7-day itinerary for a journey of a lifetime off the beaten track.  

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