Must-Try Foods In Embekka Devalaya (Kandy) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Embekka Devalaya, Kandy, Sri Lanka: Food History

Embekka Devalaya, which is famed for its intricate wood carvings and historical significance, doesn't have its own unique food history but is rather enveloped in the rich culinary traditions of the Kandyan region. Kandyan cuisine has been influenced by a mix of local agricultural practices, historical events, and colonial influences. The food in the area is known for its spices, particularly cinnamon, which thrived in the region during historical times and continues to be significant today.

Agriculture has always been essential in this area, and many dishes reflect the crops grown locally, including a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and grains. Traditional meals often center around rice, with curries made from vegetables, legumes, and meats, except beef, which is not consumed by many due to the religious and cultural significance of cows in Sri Lanka.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Embekka Devalaya, Kandy, Sri Lanka

1. Dhal Curry (Veg): A staple in Sri Lankan meals, this spicy lentil curry is flavorful and comforting.
2. Kiribath with Lunu Miris (Veg): This dish consists of rice cooked with coconut milk, often served with a spicy onion relish.
3. Polos (Jackfruit curry) (Veg): A savoury curry made with young green jackfruit, cooked until it has the texture of meat.
4. Gotu Kola Sambol (Veg): A traditional Sri Lankan salad made from finely chopped gotu kola leaves, mixed with coconut, shallots, and lime.
5. Wambatu Moju (Eggplant/Brinjal pickle) (Veg): A sweet and spicy pickled eggplant dish that's tangy and often accompanied by other curries.
6. Hoppers (Appa) (Veg/Non-Veg): Bowl-shaped pancakes usually served with a variety of sambals or curries; can be made into egg hoppers for a non-vegetarian option.
7. String Hoppers (Idiyappam) (Veg): These are steamed rice noodle pancakes, often eaten with curry or coconut sambol.
8. Kottu Roti (Veg/Non-Veg): Made from godhamba roti (flatbread) and vegetables, egg, or meats chopped and mixed on a flat iron skillet, typically served with spicy gravy.
9. Fish Ambul Thiyal (Sour fish curry) (Non-Veg): A sour fish curry where the fish is cut into cubes, seasoned, and allowed to cook in a low heat with a blend of spices including dried goraka.
10. Watalappan (Veg): A rich pudding dessert made from coconut milk, jaggery, cashew nuts, and spices, similar to flan or caramel pudding.

Top Famous Restaurants in Embekka Devalaya, Kandy, Sri Lanka with Famous Food

• Restaurant: Balaji Dosai
  Address: No 09, D. S. Senanayake Veediya, Kandy
  Famous Food: Masala Dosai (Veg)
• Restaurant: The Empire Cafe
  Address: 21 Temple Street, Kandy
  Famous Food: Pumpkin Curry with Red Rice (Veg)
• Restaurant: The Kandy Garden Cafe
  Address: 9 Sangamitta Mawatha, Kandy
  Famous Food: Devilled Chicken (Non-Veg)
• Restaurant: Licensed to Grill
  Address: 37, Yatinuwara Street, Kandy
  Famous Food: Grilled Chicken (Non-Veg)
• Restaurant: Café Secret Alley
  Address: 10A, Randles Hill Road, Kandy
  Famous Food: Avocado on Toast (Veg)
• Restaurant: Natural Coffee
  Address: Kandy City Centre, 5th Floor KCC, Kandy
  Famous Food: Coffee and Cakes (Veg)
• Restaurant: Slightly Chilled Lounge Bar (Bamboo Garden)
  Address: Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, Kandy
  Famous Food: Kung Pao Chicken (Non-Veg)
• Restaurant: Sharon Inn
  Address: 59, Saranankara Road, Kandy
  Famous Food: Roti with Dhal Curry (Veg)

When visiting Embekka Devalaya in Kandy, it is important to note that while Sri Lanka has both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, travelers are encouraged to try the vegetarian dishes which are equally rich and flavorful, showcasing the true essence of Sri Lankan spices and cooking techniques.