Must-Try Foods In Kandy Cultural Show (Kandy) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Kandy Cultural Show, Kandy, Sri Lanka

The Kandy Cultural Show is a vibrant showcase of Sri Lankan traditional dances, music, and costumes, which reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region. Kandy has a unique food culture that has been shaped by various factors, including its geographical location, historical events, and the influence of the monarchy that once resided there. The last kingdom of the island, Kandy was the bastion for Sinhalese culture and this included its cuisine. Kandyan food is known for its distinct flavors, with a heavy emphasis on local spices and ingredients grown in the surrounding hills.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Kandy Cultural Show, Kandy, Sri Lanka

While attending the cultural show in Kandy, tourists should indulge in the local cuisine. Here are the top 10 dishes, along with their food type (vegetarian or non-vegetarian):

1. Rice and Curry (Non-Veg/Veg) - A staple dish in Sri Lankan cuisine with a mix of fragrant rice and a variety of curries including dhal, vegetables, and meat options.
2. Hoppers (Appa) (Veg) - A bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with spicy sambol or curry.
3. Kottu Roti (Non-Veg/Veg) - A street food favorite featuring chopped flatbread mixed with vegetables, egg, and optional meats, stir-fried on a hot griddle.
4. String Hoppers (Idiyappam) (Veg) - Steamed rice noodle nests, typically served with coconut sambol and curry.
5. Polos Curry (Veg) - A curry made from young jackfruit, cooked with a blend of spices until tender.
6. Wambatu Moju (Eggplant Pickle) (Veg) - Sweet and savory candied eggplant dish with a hint of spice.
7. Kiribath (Milk Rice) (Veg) - Rice cooked in coconut milk, cut into diamond shapes and often served during special occasions.
8. Lamprais (Non-Veg/Veg) - A Dutch-influenced dish with spiced meat, rice, and accompaniments wrapped in a banana leaf and baked.
9. Pittu (Veg) - Cylindrical steamed cakes made from rice flour and coconut, typically paired with curry.
10. Wood Apple Juice (Veg) - A refreshing drink made from the pulp of the wood apple, combined with sugar and water.

Top Famous Restaurants in Kandy, Sri Lanka

Aside from the Kandy Cultural Show, tourists should explore some of the acclaimed restaurants in the city which offer a range of flavorful dishes:

• The Empire Cafe - Address: 21 Temple St, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka
  Famous Food: Mixed Rice & Curry Plate (Non-Veg/Veg)
• Balaji Dosai - Address: No 9, D. S. Senanayake Veediya, Kandy, Sri Lanka
  Famous Food: Masala Dosa (Veg)
• Hela Bojun Hala - Address: Getambe Kandy MC, Kandy, Sri Lanka
  Famous Food: Traditional Sri Lankan Thali (Veg)
• The Kandy Garden Cafe - Address: 9 Sangamitta Mawatha, Kandy, Sri Lanka
  Famous Food: Sri Lankan Style Kottu (Non-Veg/Veg)
• Devon Restaurant - Address: 51, 1st, Dalada Veediya, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka
  Famous Food: Biryani (Non-Veg/Veg)

Each of these restaurants offers unique culinary experiences that highlight the flavors of Kandyan cuisine and Sri Lankan hospitality.