Must-Try Foods In Ella Rock (Ella) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Ella Rock, Ella, Sri Lanka

Ella Rock is not only a renowned hiking destination in Sri Lanka but also a place where the food culture is a blend of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine with some global influences, due to the international tourists that visit this locale. The area reflects a culinary history that is steeped in the indigenous ingredients and spices of the island. Foods such as rice and curry, which form the staple meal, are flavored with locally grown spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. The influences of nearby Indian cooking styles are also prevalent, with dishes such as roti, dosa, and various types of sambols. The vegetarian tradition is strong in Sri Lanka; hence, many local dishes are vegetarian by default due to the predominant Buddhist culture.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Ella Rock, Ella, Sri Lanka

1. Kottu Roti (Vegetarian option available) - A flavorful street-food dish made from godamba roti (a type of Sri Lankan flatbread) and vegetables, often served with spicy curry sauce.
2. Rice and Curry (Vegetarian option available) - The quintessential Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice with a variety of curries including dhal (lentil curry), and curried vegetables.
3. Hoppers (Vegetarian) - Also known as appa, these are a type of pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, with an egg cooked inside if desired.
4. Fruit Smoothies (Vegetarian) - Fresh tropical smoothies made from local fruits such as papaya, mango, and pineapple.
5. Vegetable Roti (Vegetarian) - A snack made from flatbread stuffed with spiced vegetables and grilled.
6. String Hoppers with Pol Sambol and Curry (Vegetarian) - Steamed rice noodles served with coconut sambol and a side of curry.
7. Coconut Rotti with Lunu Miris (Vegetarian) - A thicker type of roti made with grated coconut, served with a spicy onion relish.
8. Watalappan (Vegetarian) - A rich pudding made from coconut milk, jaggery, cashew nuts, and spices, reflecting the Malay influences in Sri Lankan cuisine.
9. Dosa (Vegetarian) - These are thin, crepe-like pancakes made from fermented batter and typically served with spicy sambol or chutneys.
10. Curried Jackfruit (Vegetarian) - Young jackfruit cooked in a fragrant curry sauce, a popular meat substitute and a staple dish in Sri Lankan cuisine.

Top Famous Restaurants in Ella Rock, Ella, Sri Lanka

AK Ristoro

Address: Wellawaya-Ella-Kumbalwela Highway, Ella 90090, Sri Lanka

Famous Food: Dosa (Vegetarian)

Café Chill

Address: Wellawaya-Ella-Kumbalwela Highway, Ella 90090, Sri Lanka

Famous Food: Kottu Roti (Vegetarian option available)

Ella Flower Garden Restaurant

Address: Passara Road, Ella 90090, Sri Lanka

Famous Food: Rice and Curry (Vegetarian option available)

Curry Leaf

Address: Wellawaya road, Ella, 90090, Sri Lanka

Famous Food: String Hoppers with Pol Sambol and Curry (Vegetarian)

Dream Café

Address: Main Street, Ella 90090, Sri Lanka

Famous Food: Hoppers (Vegetarian)

The Remo's Restaurant

Address: No 57, Grand View, Passara Road, Ella 90090, Sri Lanka

Famous Food: Vegetable Roti (Vegetarian)

Matey Hut

Address: Ella - Passara Road, Ella 90090, Sri Lanka

Famous Food: Coconut Rotti with Lunu Miris (Vegetarian)

Each of these restaurants offers a unique taste of Ella's local cuisine, with many providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking for traditional Sri Lankan dishes, vegetarian-friendly options, or some international fare, Ella has a dining experience for every palate.