This blog post is all about the best Hikkaduwa restaurants.
If you’re planning a trip along Sri Lanka’s southern coast, chances are Hikkaduwa will feature on your itinerary.
Known for its laid-back surf vibe, long stretches of beach, and vibrant backpacker energy, this coastal town offers a great mix of things to do. But if you ask me, one of the real highlights of Hikkaduwa is the food from these best Hikkaduwa restaurants.
From hole-in-the-wall roti joints to breezy beachfront cafés, Hikkaduwa has a surprisingly good food scene with something for everyone. Whether you’re after cheap local eats, Sri Lankan rice and curry, or smashed avo and smoothie bowls, there’s a spot here for you.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the best Hikkaduwa restaurants, covering all bases: local gems, Western favourites, vegetarian options, and budget-friendly bites.
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!
This blog post is all about the best Hikkaduwa restaurants.
Where is Hikkaduwa?
Hikkaduwa is a small town on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast, around 100km south of Colombo and just a short drive from Galle.
Once a quiet fishing village, Hikkaduwa is now a bustling beach town popular with surfers, backpackers, and digital nomads alike.
It’s well known for its consistent surf, snorkelling spots, and laid-back energy. You’ll find plenty of beach bars, surf schools, and tuk tuks ready to take you anywhere you want to go.
You can see our time in Hikkaduwa in my Sri Lanka travel vlog below that covers the south coast of the island, including the best Hikkaduwa restaurants we ate at:
What to Do in Hikkaduwa
While this post is all about the best Hikkaduwa restaurants, it’s worth mentioning a couple of things you shouldn’t miss while in town:
- Surfing: Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there are plenty of surf breaks here, and boards can be rented cheaply from anywhere along the beach.
- Tsunami Museum: A sobering but important stop, the local museum offers an eye-opening account of the devastation from the 2004 tsunami and how the community has rebuilt. It’s deeply moving and worth a visit.
- Beach days & snorkelling: Swim with turtles just offshore or take a snorkelling tour—there’s plenty to explore in the warm waters.
- Day trips: You’re close to Galle, Unawatuna and Mirissa if you fancy hopping down the coast.
Now, let’s get to the reason you’re here: the best Hikkaduwa restaurants.
RELATED blog post to read: Ultimate 1 Month Sri Lanka Itinerary and Travel Route
11 Best Hikkaduwa Restaurants
Whether you’re craving a quick roti, a big Sri Lankan breakfast, or a sunset burger by the sea, these are the best Hikkaduwa restaurants you should check out.
1. Hello Burger
Hello Burger is exactly what it says on the tin: a burger joint with big portions and a chilled vibe.
They do beef, chicken and veggie options, and it’s a good change of pace if you’ve been eating rice and curry for days. One of the best Hikkaduwa restaurants for lunch or a casual dinner.
2. Salty Swamis
This stylish café has serious Bali vibes. Think smoothie bowls, sourdough toast, tacos, and cold brew.
A bit more expensive than local options, but it’s worth it for the setting and quality. Very popular with digital nomads and surfers looking for a Western brunch or quality coffee.
3. Ranjith Café
An unassuming roadside local spot, Ranjith Café serves up some of the best authentic rice and curry in Hikkaduwa.
It’s no-frills and incredibly affordable, with heaping plates of food for a couple of pounds. You won’t find fancy décor here, but you will find fresh, home-cooked Sri Lankan food packed with flavour.
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!
4. Home Grown Rice & Curry Restaurant
One of the best Hikkaduwa restaurants for traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry in a homely setting.
You’ll be welcomed like family, and the food is always fresh, seasonal and full of flavour. Their daily curries vary depending on what’s available, but you’re always in for a treat.
5. Chami’s Place Guest House and Café
A relaxed and cosy spot offering a mix of Sri Lankan and Western food. Their banana pancakes and omelettes are perfect for breakfast, and they also do a solid rice and curry in the evenings.
One of the best Hikkaduwa restaurants with budget-friendly prices and friendly staff, with a nice backpacker vibe.
6. Sunny Side Up
If you’re after all-day breakfasts, look no further.
Sunny Side Up is a small café popular for its Western-style eggs, toast, smoothies and great coffee.
One of the best Hikkaduwa restaurants for relaxing mid-morning or catching up with some reading while you wait for the midday sun to pass. We dined here twice during our time in Hikkaduwa!
7. Canal View
Hidden slightly away from the main strip, Canal View offers a quiet garden setting and authentic Sri Lankan cooking.
Their fish curry and dhal is a local favourite, and the prices are very reasonable. It’s a peaceful place to escape the busier beach road eateries.
8. Sea Salt Society
Sea Salt Society is a beachfront restaurant and bar with gorgeous views and a higher-end menu.
Expect seafood platters, grilled meats, cocktails, and live music some evenings. It’s definitely on the pricier end of these best Hikkaduwa restaurants, but worth it for a nice dinner or date night.
9. Steffi’s Mandala
This vegetarian-friendly spot is known for its colourful Buddha bowls, vegan curries and smoothies.
It’s a great choice if you’re after something healthy and filling. There’s a relaxed, boho vibe, and the staff are always happy to chat about the food.
10. Funky De Bar
A local favourite with a mix of Sri Lankan and international food, Funky De Bar has a great happy hour and hosts live music regularly.
Their seafood is fresh, and they do some very decent pizzas too. Come here for a lively evening and a mix of locals and travellers.
11. The Coffee Shop Hikka
For great coffee and a quiet place to sit, The Coffee Shop is a hidden gem. They have pastries, sandwiches, and a solid espresso, plus Wi-Fi if you need to catch up on emails.
It’s perfect for a lazy afternoon or a casual breakfast away from the beach crowds.
Final Thoughts on Hikkaduwa Restaurants
One of the things we loved most about Hikkaduwa was the variety and quality of food available at all price points.
Whether you’re looking for a cheap local curry, a big burger after a surf, or a boho café with smoothie bowls and vegan bites, there’s something for everyone here.
It’s one of those towns where you can eat out three times a day and never run out of options. And most of the time, you’ll be doing it just metres from the beach.
So whether you’re visiting Hikkaduwa for a few days or using it as a stop on your Sri Lankan coast-hopping adventure, make sure to come hungry as you won’t be disappointed.
Planning your Sri Lanka itinerary? Don’t forget to check out my Sri Lanka Travel Guide for route suggestions, travel tips, and accommodation picks.
And be sure you’re covered with SafetyWing Travel Insurance before you go. It’s flexible, affordable, and perfect for long-term travel across Asia.
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- Ultimate 1 Month Sri Lanka Itinerary and Travel Route
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If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to check out my 80+ page travel guide eBook which you can download here to help you plan!
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