Must-Try Foods In Colombo Dutch Museum (Colombo) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Colombo Dutch Museum

The Colombo Dutch Museum does not primarily focus on food, but it is a testament to the cultural influences that the Dutch brought to Colombo during their time in Sri Lanka from the 17th to the 19th centuries. The Dutch introduced various culinary practices and ingredients that were eventually integrated into local cuisine. The museum itself is housed in a restored Dutch colonial building that once served as the official residence of the Dutch Governor and has since been used to preserve artifacts reflecting the period's cultural and historical legacy, including aspects of food culture.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Colombo

While the Colombo Dutch Museum itself is not a place to eat, it is located in Colombo, a city that offers a cornucopia of gastronomic delights. Here are the top 10 dishes, both veg and non-veg, you should try while visiting Colombo:

1. Kottu (Non-Veg) - A popular fast food dish made from godhamba roti (flatbread), vegetables, and your choice of chicken or fish, all chopped and mixed on a hot plate.
2. Hoppers (Veg/Non-Veg) - Bowl-shaped pancakes made with fermented rice batter and coconut milk, with the option to add an egg or honey for sweetness.
3. String Hoppers (Veg) - Made from rice flour dough pressed into noodle form and then steamed, often served with curry.
4. Dhal Curry (Veg) - A staple dish consisting of lentils cooked in a spicy and creamy curry sauce.
5. Fish Ambul Thiyal (Non-Veg) - A sour fish curry that uses dried goraka, a local fruit, to give it a unique flavor.
6. Polos (Veg) - Curried young jackfruit, known as "Polos" in Sinhalese, cooked with spices until the texture becomes similar to pulled pork.
7. Wambatu Moju (Veg) - An eggplant pickle side dish that combines sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.
8. Lamprais (Non-Veg) - A portion of mixed rice packed with meat, shrimp, eggplant, and more, all wrapped in a banana leaf and baked.
9. Kiribath with Lunu Miris (Veg) - A festive dish of rice cooked in thick coconut milk, often served with 'Lunu Miris', a spicy onion relish.
10. Wood Apple Juice (Veg) - A refreshing drink made from the pulp of the wood apple and sweetened with sugar or honey.

Top Famous Restaurants Near Colombo Dutch Museum

While you won't find restaurants inside the museum itself, here are some famous dining establishments located in Colombo:

The Ministry of Crab - Old Dutch Hospital, Colombo 01

Famous for: Crab dishes (Non-Veg)

Upali's by Nawaloka - 65 C.W.W. Kannangara Mawatha, Colombo 07

Famous for: Traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, both Veg and Non-Veg options available

Nuga Gama at Cinnamon Grand - 77 Galle Road, Colombo 03

Famous for: Authentic village-style Sri Lankan fare (Veg/Non-Veg)

Rare at Residence - No 20, Park Street, Colombo 02

Famous for: Fine dining with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients (Veg/Non-Veg)

Kaema Sutra - Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo 01

Famous for: Modern Sri Lankan cuisine (Veg/Non-Veg)

Please note that the addresses and restaurant names are given for you to explore these culinary delights near the Colombo Dutch Museum, and you should check with each establishment for the latest menu options and availability.