Food In Jetavanaramaya

The Food History of Jetavanaramaya, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

The Jetavanaramaya is a significant monument in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. While the site itself is a stupa, a place of worship and veneration, its history is closely intertwined with the culinary practices of the Buddhist monks who once resided in the adjoining monastery. The monks followed a simple vegetarian diet in accordance with the Buddhist precepts of non-harm. Their meals were often prepared from local produce such as rice, fruits, and vegetables, which were either grown in their own gardens or donated by devotees. Over time, this simple diet influenced the local cuisine with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and vegetarian dishes.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Jetavanaramaya, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka for Tourists

1. Dhal Curry (Veg) - A staple dish made of lentils, which is rich in flavor, commonly served with rice.
2. Pol Roti (Veg) - Coconut flatbread that pairs perfectly with spicy relishes and sambols.
3. Kottu (Veg/Non-Veg) - A popular street food dish made with shredded flatbread, vegetables, and optional meats (excluding cow).
4. Jackfruit Curry (Veg) - A delicious curry that uses young jackfruit for its meaty texture.
5. Wambatu Moju (Veg) - An eggplant/brinjal pickle mixed with a blend of spices creating a balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors.
6. Hoppers (Veg/Non-Veg) - Bowl-shaped pancakes that come with an array of toppings and sides, including egg (for an eggy hopper variant that is non-veg).
7. Kiribath with Lunu Miris (Veg) - Sri Lankan milk rice served with a spicy onion relish.
8. Gotukola Sambol (Veg) - A traditional Sri Lankan salad made with finely chopped gotukola leaves and mixed with coconut, lime, and chili.
9. Fried Tempered Potatoes (Veg) - Spiced and fried potato dish, usually tempered with mustard seeds, turmeric, and curry leaves.
10. Gulab Jamun (Veg) - Deep-fried milk solid balls soaked in sugar syrup, a beloved sweet treat.

Top Famous Restaurants in Jetavanaramaya, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

• Mango Mango
  Address: 525/2 Freeman Rd, Anuradhapura
  Famous Food: Vegetable Kottu (Veg)
• Little Paradise Anuradhapura
  Address: 622/18 Godage Mawatha, Anuradhapura
  Famous Food: Sri Lankan Rice and Curry (Veg/Non-Veg)
• Seedevi Family Restaurant
  Address: Maithreepala Senanayake Mawatha, Anuradhapura
  Famous Food: Hoppers (Veg/Non-Veg)
• Big Mama's Home Dining
  Address: 388/11 Bandaranayake Mawatha, Anuradhapura
  Famous Food: Traditional Sri Lankan Meal (Veg/Non-Veg)
• Ranthaliya Rest House
  Address: Anuradhapura-Padeniya HWY, Anuradhapura
  Famous Food: Fish Ambul Thiyal (Non-Veg)

Note that while most restaurants offer vegetarian options, the inclusion of non-vegetarian items is commonplace, and it is always recommended to inquire about the ingredients before ordering, especially if you adhere to a vegetarian diet.