This blog post is all about the best restaurants in Galle Fort, Sri Lanka.
Galle Fort was one of the highlights of my trip to Sri Lanka. The cobbled streets, colonial-era buildings, and stunning coastal views were a feast for the eyes, but the food?
That was a feast for the soul.
If you’re heading to Sri Lanka, make sure Galle Fort is on your itinerary. It’s a place where history meets incredible flavours, and trust me, you’ll want to try all of the best restaurants in Galle on this list.
Here’s my guide to the best restaurants in Galle Fort, what to eat, and how to make the most of your visit.
This blog post is all about the best restaurants in Galle, Sri Lanka.
Why Visit Galle Fort?
Galle Fort quickly became one of my favourite spots in Sri Lanka. We spent two nights here while travelling along the south coast, hopping between stunning beaches like Mirissa, Weligama, and Tangalle.
If you are travelling through Sri Lanka or planning a trip there, make sure to check out my Sri Lanka Travel Guide that’s packed with everything you’d need to know for your trip and that will help you plan your route and experience:
As much as I loved the sand and surf, Galle Fort offered a completely different vibe. It was perfect for breaking up the beach days with a bit of history, culture, and some of the best food of the trip.
RELATED Best Restaurants in Galle blog post to read: The Best Travel Route & Itinerary For Sri Lanka
The History of Galle Fort
Situated on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a fascinating history.
Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later fortified by the Dutch, the Fort has stood the test of time, weathering colonial battles, trade, and even the devastating 2004 tsunami.
Today, it’s a vibrant hub of boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants, all wrapped within its well-preserved ramparts.
Walking through the Fort feels like stepping back in time. The cobblestone streets are lined with colonial-era buildings, each with its own story to tell. From churches to old warehouses turned into chic cafes, there’s a wonderful blend of old and new.
You can spend hours wandering through its alleys, browsing local crafts, and stopping for gelato or a fresh coconut along the way.
What I loved most was how relaxed the Fort felt. It’s small enough to explore on foot, but there’s plenty to keep you entertained.
Whether you’re watching the sunset from the ramparts or enjoying a quiet breakfast at a tucked-away cafe, Galle Fort has this unhurried charm that makes you want to linger just a little longer.
What to Eat in Sri Lanka
Before diving into the best restaurants in Galle Fort, let’s talk about Sri Lankan food. It’s vibrant, flavourful, and packed with spices. Some must-try dishes include:
- Sri Lankan Rice and Curry: A staple meal served with several small curries, ranging from lentil dhal to jackfruit and spicy coconut sambal.
- Hoppers: Bowl-shaped pancakes made with fermented rice flour, often served with egg or curry.
- Kottu Roti: A stir-fried dish made with chopped roti, vegetables, egg, and sometimes meat.
- Seafood: Fresh and abundant, especially along the coast. Crab curry and grilled prawns are a must.
- Pol Sambol: A tangy coconut relish that pairs perfectly with almost anything.
RELATED Best Restaurants in Galle blog post to read: A Complete Guide To The Best Sri Lankan Food To Try
The Best Restaurants in Galle Fort
Below are my top picks of the best restaurants in Galle Fort. Perfect if you’re visiting the area during your time in Sri Lanka.
1. Lucky Fort Restaurant & Cooking Class
If there’s one thing you’ll notice while traveling in Sri Lanka, it’s that you can get rice and curry on just about every street corner.
We ate our fair share during the trip, and while himself swears by a curry we had in Ella, Lucky Fort’s offering stole the show for me. Hands down, this was my favourite curry of the entire trip. Not just one of the best restaurants in Galle, but one of the best restaurants in Sri Lanka.
RELATED Best Restaurants in Galle blog post to read: Ella, Sri Lanka: Where to Stay With the Best View
Lucky Fort is famous for its rice and 10 curries, and it’s not hard to see why. The platter arrives with a spread of small curries in vibrant colours, each with its own distinct flavour.
It’s served with a generous helping of rice, but the curries are the true stars here. I loved how they catered to a mix of spice levels, offering something for every palate.
And if you’re curious about how these amazing curries are made, they also offer a cooking class.
2. Double Happy Chinese Restaurant
While Sri Lanka’s traditional cuisine was a highlight of the trip, sometimes you crave something a little different.
Enter Double Happy Chinese Restaurant. A small, unassuming spot tucked away in Galle Fort that serves some of the best dumplings I’ve ever had.
We stumbled upon Double Happy after a morning of exploring the Fort, and it was exactly what we needed. Their handmade dumplings were little pockets of joy. Perfectly steamed, with fillings ranging from juicy pork to vegetarian options.
The flavours were so fresh and authentic, and their signature dipping sauce added just the right tangy kick. After indulging in rice and curry for days (not that I’m complaining), this was a welcome change of pace.
3. Galu Bojuna
If you’re an early riser or just a fan of breakfast, Galu Bojuna is one of the best restaurants in Galle Fort for breakfast or brunch.
This charming spot serves up hearty Sri Lankan breakfast options alongside international favourites.
Try their hoppers with egg and sambal, or opt for a classic coconut roti with dhal curry. Their coffee is excellent too, making it the perfect start to your day.
4. Dutch Cafe
For a budget-friendly brunch, Dutch Cafe is hard to beat. Their avocado on toast is simple yet satisfying, and they also offer other light bites like omelettes, smoothies, and sandwiches.
This is a great spot if you want something quick and casual before heading out to explore the Fort. It’s not fancy, but it’s reliable and affordable.
5. Elita
For seafood lovers, Elita is the place to be. This vibrant restaurant sources its fresh catch daily from local fishmongers.
Dishes like red prawn curry, butterfish in yellow curry, and also cold raw oysters are bursting with flavour and freshness.
The decor, with its bold amber walls and Sri Lankan demon masks, also adds to the experience. So pair your meal with a daiquiri for a truly memorable night.
6. Coconut Sambol
If you’re craving an authentic Sri Lankan meal, Coconut Sambol is a hidden gem you so don’t want to miss.
This cosy restaurant offers a homely rice and curry buffet featuring six vegan or vegetarian dishes and one meat curry, all made fresh daily.
For just a few hundred rupees, you’ll enjoy hearty, soulful food in a space that also feels like dining in a village home.
7. The Arch Restaurant
The Arch is all about creative, shareable plates served in a beautiful colonial setting.
Known for its house-made pasta and standout dish, The Arch Crab (served with a 12-spice sauce), this spot blends Sri Lankan flavours with global influences.
The relaxed, family-style dining and craft cocktails also make it a great choice for a night out.
8. Tuna & The Crab
Set in the historic Old Dutch Hospital, Tuna & The Crab combines Japanese and Sri Lankan flavours in a stunning heritage location.
Sit at the sushi bar and enjoy fresh sashimi, teppanyaki-grilled sirloin, or also okonomiyaki—a savoury cabbage pancake.
Everything is made with the day’s fresh catch, so ensuring every bite is as fresh as it gets.
9. Maru
For poke bowl lovers, Maru is a must-visit and one of the best restaurants in Galle Fort. Inspired by Japanese culinary traditions, their tuna sashimi bowl spiced with fiery local chillies is a standout.
They also offer a delicious teriyaki eggplant bowl drizzled with wasabi mayo.
Cool off with a refreshing king coconut and also enjoy the breezy vibe at this casual eatery.
10. Dairy King
For a sweet treat, head to Dairy King, Galle Fort’s oldest ice cream parlour.
This family-run spot serves homemade ice creams in unique flavours like ginger, cashew crunch, and also mango.
Plus, the pastel pink decor and friendly atmosphere make it an unforgettable stop for dessert.
11. Pedlar’s Inn Cafe and Restaurant
A long-time favourite in Galle Fort, Pedlar’s Inn is a cosy cafe so perfect for coffee or a light meal.
With its retro decor, outdoor veranda seating, and buzzing location on Pedlar’s Street, it’s also a great spot to take a break from exploring.
Try it in the evening when the vibe is at its liveliest.
12. Aqua Pizza
Sometimes you need a break from curry, so Aqua pizza is the perfect place for this. For authentic Neapolitan pizza, Aqua Pizza is unbeatable.
13. 1710
Housed in the stylish Merchant Hotel, 1710 is known for its locally inspired menu. The Merchant Biryani, made from Moorish family recipes, is a must-try.
Other highlights include ambul thiyal pizza, a creative twist on a sour fish curry, and their homemade ginger beer. So stop by on a weekend to enjoy live music in one of the best restaurants in Galle Fort.
14. Church Street Social
Located in the elegant Fort Bazaar boutique hotel, Church Street Social blends Sri Lankan and global flavours with dishes like Sri Lankan black pork curry and also lagoon crab salad.
The chic decor and airy setting make it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner.
15. Kixi
This fun, laid-back cafe is the perfect spot for iced lattes (don’t miss their adorable floating iced teddy bears!) and also sweet treats like french toast, apple pie and waffles.
Its rooftop is lovely on breezy evenings, and the friendly staff make it an inviting place to linger over coffee.
16. Galle Fort Restaurant
This unpretentious spot is one of the best restaurants in Galle Fort for Chinese food. So make sure to try their spicy chicken noodles, red pepper steamed snapper, and dumplings.
But don’t skip their unique desserts, like White Rabbit ice cream and sago in coconut milk. Outdoor seating with views of the clocktower also adds to the charm.
17. Dumplings Cafe
A quaint, plant-filled cafe, Dumplings Cafe is a great stop and one of the best restaurants in Galle Fort for a quick snack.
Their limited but delicious menu includes baozi, dumplings, and chicken rice bowls, with gluten-free options made from taro or sweet potato flour.
Also pair your meal with a refreshing cold brew oolong tea.
18. Chambers
Middle Eastern flavours come to life at Chambers, a cosy spot on Church Street.
From hummus to falafel and also lamb tagine, the menu offers a variety of rich, satisfying dishes. Perfect for a dinner that feels both comforting and exotic.
19. Ropewalk
For cocktails with a twist, Ropewalk is a standout.
The chic setting in the Galle Fort Hotel makes it a fantastic spot to wind down after a day of exploring.
Tips for Exploring Galle Fort
Below are some tips and advice for exploring Galle Fort, Sri Lanka while in search of the best restaurants in Galle Fort.
- Time your visit: Mornings and evenings are the best times to explore, but midday can get quite hot.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The streets are uneven, so you’ll want to wander freely without worrying about sore feet.
- Catch the sunset: Walk along the Fort walls as the sun sets over the ocean. It’s so breathtaking.
- Shop local: From handcrafted jewellery to unique artworks, Galle Fort is also a great place to pick up souvenirs.
- Stay overnight: The Fort has plenty of boutique hotels and guesthouses, so allowing you to enjoy it at a slower pace.
The Best Restaurants in Galle Fort
Galle Fort isn’t just a feast for the eyes, it’s also a feast for the taste buds too.
With its mix of traditional Sri Lankan dishes and also international options, the best restaurants in Galle Fort are a foodie’s paradise.
Whether you’re indulging in the curry platter at Lucky Fort or grabbing dumplings at Double Happy, every meal here feels special.
So, pack your appetite and head to the best restaurants in Galle Fort.
It’s a place where history, culture, and cuisine come together in the most magical way. So trust me, you’ll leave with a full belly and unforgettable memories from the best restaurants in Galle Fort.
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