15 of THE BEST Restaurants in Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka
For a small surf town located in southern Sri Lanka, the food and drink scene in Hiriketiya certainly packs a punch. From delicious local delights like Hoppers and Dahl to scrumptious western brunches like the classic avocado toast, there are so many incredible restaurants in Hiriketiya.
Iโm no expert food critic, but I certainly am a big foodie and spent most of my 2 weeks in Hiriketiya trying out all of the coolest food spots it has to offer.
After my extensive taste testing, I can promise you that I uncovered some of the best restaurants in Hiriketiya, with options to satisfy every palate and every budget.
In this post, you will find the top places to eat (and drink) in Hiriketiya, from cheap local eats to boujee western bites and meals to take you all the way through from breakfast to dinner.
Hiritketya is a very special town, so not only will you be leaving with a full heart, but definitely a full belly too!
So what are the best restaurants in Hiriketiya? Read on below to find out!

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Hiriketiya Foodie Quick Facts
๐ How to eat well in Hiriketiya โ Hiriketiya is a food loverโs paradise with a wide variety of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From authentic Sri Lankan rice and curry to fresh seafood, healthy bowls, and international flavors, thereโs something here for everyone. Youโll find a mix of casual beachfront cafรฉs, trendy spots, and a few upscale restaurants. Whether youโre vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or just looking to indulge, Hiriketiyaโs restaurants cater to all dietary preferences with plenty of delicious options.
โก๏ธ What to expect โ The food scene in Hiriketiya blends the best of Sri Lankan cuisine with global influences. Local spots offer classics like kottu rotti, fresh fish curries, and hoppers, while modern cafรฉs serve up smoothie bowls, gourmet burgers, wood-fired pizzas, and brunch dishes.
๐ Best time to visit โ Hiriketiyaโs dining scene is vibrant year-round, but itโs worth noting that some places may close during the low season (May to October). During this quieter time, options may be more limited, so check ahead for opening hours. The high season (November to April) brings a buzz of activity, with all the best restaurants and cafรฉs in full swing, making it the perfect time to explore the areaโs incredible food offerings
Garlic Cafe
GARLIC CAFE AT A GLANCE
๐ฐPRICE RANGE: $
๐ฒCUISINE: SRI LANKAN
โญTOP DISH: CHICKEN KOTTU
โTOP TIP: GREAT IF YOU ARE ON A BUDGET
Garlic Cafe was my favourite local restaurant in all of Hiriketiya. Not only was the traditional food so damn good, but the portions were huge and the prices unbeatable.
I think I must have visited Garlic Cafe at least 10 times in the space of a week, so much so the wait staff used to laugh at us when we arrived and give us the โyouโre back again?!โ look ?.
Garlic Cafe is definitely one of the best restaurants in Hiriketiya and not to be missed. I recommend trying the Kottu Roti and the Dahl.
Garlic Cafe also has a sister restaurant called โPumpkin Cafeโ which is located near Dickwella Beach. So, no matter where you have based yourself youโll be able to get your Garlic or Pumpkin Cafe fix!

Dots
DOTS CAFE AT A GLANCE
๐ฐPRICE RANGE: $$
๐ฒCUISINE: SRI LANKAN & WESTERN
โญTOP DISH: HAPPY BELLY BREAKKIE
โTOP TIP: DOTS HAVE THE BEST FRIES IN TOWN
There is absolutely no doubt youโll be hearing lots about Dots if you are planning a visit to Hiriketiya. Itโs one of the few hostels in the area, and also where the main party is held on a Tuesday and Saturday night.
Not only is Dots one of the best places to party, but itโs also one of the best restaurants in Hiriketiya.
With healthy juices and Western brunches. Plus traditional Sri Lankan cuisine mixed in more dishes inspired from all over the world, youโll be sure to find something you like.
Dots also sources all of its produce from nearby farms and works with local fishermen and villages to source all of its seafood. With that being said, I personally think Dots is best visited for breakfast.

Blue Bay Chill Out Lounge
BLUE BAY AT A GLANCE
๐ฐPRICE RANGE: $$
๐ฒCUISINE: SRI LANKAN/SEAFOOD
โญTOP DISH: TUNA STEAK
โTOP TIP: A BIT OF A HIDDEN GEM
Blue Bay may be one of Hiriketiyaโs hidden gems, but itโs hands down one of the best spots to savour incredibly fresh seafood. During my visit, I had the most unforgettable dish which was freshly steamed tuna paired with perfectly cooked vegetables and a side of yummy coconut rice.
It was so delicious that I still find myself daydreaming about it. If I ever return to Hiriketiya, heading back to Blue Bay for another taste of that dish will be at the very top of my list!
Mond
MOND AT A GLANCE
๐ฐPRICE RANGE: $$
๐ฒCUISINE: WESTERN
โญTOP DISH: CHICKEN BRIOCHE
โTOP TIP: VISIT FOR COFFEE WITH A VIEW
If youโre a coffee lover like me then Mond is a must-visit. Itโs hands down one of the best spots in town for a morning caffeine fix, serving up some very delicious coffee. Their brunch menu is pretty solid too, offering a mix of light and hearty options to fuel your day.
What makes Mond super special is its stunning rooftop with sweeping views of the ocean. It is the perfect place to ease into your morning whilst enjoying some of the best views in Hiriketiya (honestly, starting my day here felt like a little slice of paradise).
With all that being said, Mond isnโt the most budget-friendly spot in Hiriketiya. A coconut latte will set you back around 1200 LKR which is in line with Western prices. While it is on the pricier side the quality and experience you get here will more than make up for it. If youโre looking to treat yourself to great coffee, good food, and an unbeatable view, Mond is worth every penny!

Smoke and Bitters
SMOKE AND BITTERS AT A GLANCE
๐ฐPRICE RANGE: $$$
๐ฒCUISINE: FUSION
โญTOP DISH: PULLED GOAT TACOS
โTOP TIP: MAKE A RESERVATION
Looking for a unique place to eat in Hiriketiya? Smoke & Bitters is a must-visit. Nestled within a coconut grove close to Pehebiya Beach (Dickwella Beach), this cocktail bar and smokehouse is not only hailed as one of the top restaurants in Hiriketiya but it is also one of the best in Asia. Itโs been ranked #29 on the list of the โTop 50 bars in Asiaโ list.
The concept here is super unique. All dishes are expertly smoked and all cocktails feature handcrafted bitters for a very unusual, but delicious flavour pairing. The restaurant utilises fresh and local ingredients and they serve up Sri Lankan dishes with a modern twist.
For such an incredible dining experience you will have to pay the price tag. Smoke and Bitters is probably the most expensive restaurant in Hiriketiya. If you are on a backpacker budget, a visit to Smoke & Bitters will probably be a bit of a splurge. However, given the quality of the food and the overall experience, I definitely think this is worth treating yourself for.
This is a super popular spot so I recommend making a reservation, especially during the peak season.

Roti Hut
ROTI HUT AT A GLANCE
๐ฐPRICE RANGE: $
๐ฒCUISINE: SRI LANKAN
โญTOP DISH: CHEESE OR NUTELLA ROTI
โTOP TIP: GREAT FOR A QUICK SNACK
If you are looking for a quick and budget-friendly snack in Hiriketiya, Roti Hut is the perfect spot to check out. Itโs important to know that this is not an official restaurant but a humble food cart run by a friendly local that you can find parked on the road just off the beach (behind Dots Bay House).
Roti Hutโs charm lies in its simple but scrumptious menu. Here you can find both sweet and savoury rotis. From classic veggie or chicken fillings to more indulgent ones like Nutella, there will be something to satisfy your craving.
That being said, thereโs a bit of unpredictability about this place. Since itโs a one-man operation, thereโs no guarantee heโll be there when you visit. But if youโre lucky enough to spot his cart, youโre in for a tasty treat.

Hiriketiya Seafood Restaurant
HIRIKETIYA SEAFOOD AT A GLANCE
๐ฐPRICE RANGE: $
๐ฒCUISINE: SRI LANKAN
โญTOP DISH: RICE & CURRY BUFFET
โTOP TIP: GREAT BUDGET BUFFET OPTION
Hiriketiya Seafood Restaurant is an absolute gem. It might not look like much at first glance (and to be honest we walked past it multiple times before deciding to go in) but itโs one of those places that completely surprises you in the best way!
The spot quickly became one of my favourite local restaurants in town. The best dish here has to be their rice and curry buffet which allows you to enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan feast for as little as 1200 LKR. The curry is so good, and you can fill your plate to your heartโs desire.
This restaurant just goes to show you shouldnโt judge a book by its cover. So, if youโre looking for a
no-frills, budget-friendly meal that delivers on taste, Hiriketiya Seafood Restaurant is a must-try.

Verse Collective
VERSE COLLECTIVE AT A GLANCE
๐ฐPRICE RANGE: $$
๐ฒCUISINE: SRI LANKAN & WESTERN
โญTOP DISH: ALL-DAY BREAKFAST
โTOP TIP: GREAT COWORKING PLACE TOO
On the other side of town, opposite Dickwella Beach youโll find Verse Collective. Not only is it a popular hostel and co-working hub, but itโs also home to one of the best restaurants in Hiriketiya. Similar to Dots, Verse Collective serves a fusion of both Asian and Western Dishes.
The menu offers a little something for everyone whether youโre in the mood for a healthy bowl or something a little heartier. On top of that, they occasionally offer Asian fusion Teppanyaki which is a super fun interactive evening so be sure to check that out if they have it on.
Verse Collective is one of those places you could easily spend the whole day, working, eating and taking the occasional dip in the sea so be sure to check it out.
Duniโs Hoppers
DUNIโS HOPPERS AT A GLANCE
๐ฐPRICE RANGE: $$
๐ฒCUISINE: SRI LANKAN
โญTOP DISH: PINK HOPPERS
โTOP TIP: GREAT PLACE TO TRY A UNIQUE SRI LANKAN DISH
Keen to try an authentic Sri Lankan breakfast? Then Duniโs Hoppers is the place to go. Hoppers are a speciality that is often described as a cross between a pancake and a noodle. At Duniโs, youโll find the pancake-style hoppers which are bowl-shaped thanks to the special pans they are cooked in.
The hoppers are served with your choice of toppings. Popular options include egg, spinach, dhal and lots more. These are a fantastic alternative breakfast option if you are looking to start your day with something a little different. Not a fan of hoppers? Donโt worry! At Duniโs, you can also find some of the best smoothie bowls in Hiriketiya.
I highly recommend a visit to Duniโs Hoppers, not just for the incredible food but also for the opportunity to support a locally owned business.

La Playa
LA PLAYA AT A GLANCE
๐ฐPRICE RANGE: $$$
๐ฒCUISINE: WESTERN
โญTOP DISH: PUMPKIN AND BLUE CHEESE PIZZA
โTOP TIP: GREAT FOR ALL-DAY LOUNGING
If I had to pick my favourite place in Hiriketiya to hang out and spend the day, La Playa would be the spot. This spot has it all, stunning views, chic decor, great music and of course amazing food and drinks.
When it comes to food, La Playa is a must if youโre craving a pizza and a crisp cold glass of white wine. Their menu features a range of delicious options but my favourite has to be pumpkin and blue cheese pizza. It might sound unconventional, but trust me, itโs absolutely worth trying.
Whether youโre there for lunch, dinner or just a lazy afternoon, La Playa is the kind of place that makes it hard to leave.

Locos
LOCOS AT A GLANCE
๐ฐPRICE RANGE: $$
๐ฒCUISINE: WESTERN
โญTOP DISH: BRUSCHETTA
โTOP TIP: BEST COFFEE IN HIRIKETIYA
If youโre on the hunt for THE BEST coffee in Hiriketiya, look no further than Locos. This spot is a coffee loverโs dream. On top of that they have a fantastic brunch menu thatโs worth trying out. I highly recommend giving the bruschetta a try (they pile those tomatoes realllll high).
What I love about Locos is that they have a coffee loyalty card program, so if youโre in Hiriketiya long-term you can bag yourself a free coffee every once in a while. With its amazing coffee, tasty food, and loyalty perks, Locos is definitely worth visiting for anyone spending time in Hiriketiya.
Kingsley Hot Kitchen
KINGSLEY HOT KITCHEN AT A GLANCE
๐ฐPRICE RANGE: $
๐ฒCUISINE: SRI LANKAN
โญTOP DISH: ROTI
โTOP TIP: GET THERE EARLY (SMALL & POPULAR RESTAURANT)
If youโre craving authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, Kingsley Hot Kitchen is another gem you wonโt want to miss. Much like my beloved Garlic Cafรฉ, they serve up mouthwatering rotis along with a variety of delicious curry options that are sure to hit the spot.
The space at Kingsleyโs is small and cosy, and thanks to the incredible food, itโs almost always packed. If youโre planning to visit for dinner, Iโd recommend arriving a little earlier than usual to snag a seat.
What really sets Kingsleyโs apart is the warm hospitality of the owners. Theyโre incredibly friendly and welcoming which makes your dining experience even more special.

Raa Hiriketiya
RAA HIRIKETIYA AT A GLANCE
๐ฐPRICE RANGE: $$
๐ฒCUISINE: SRI LANKAN WITH MODERN TWIST
โญTOP DISH: WHITE CURRY JACKFRUIT GOUJONS
โTOP TIP: ALSO A GREAT COCKTAIL BAR
Raa Hiriketiya is a fairly new but very welcomed addition to the town. Raa describes itself as an Arrack Bar and Sri Lankan Kitchen, but itโs not the usual dishes and drinks youโll find here.
You can expect to find delicious cocktails with unique twists (and they are probably some of the best cocktails youโll find in this part of Sri Lanka) as well as a modern take on classic Sri Lankan dishes. You can enjoy some with unique plates of food like jackfruit goujons, white fish stew and Sri Lankan potato fry.
Not only that but Raa has an incredible view over of the Ocean so itโs a great place to watch the sunset and relax with some cocktails as you listen to the waves crash against the shore.
Lemongrass Cafe
LEMONGRASS AT A GLANCE
๐ฐPRICE RANGE: $
๐ฒCUISINE: SRI LANKAN
โญTOP DISH: COCONUT ROTI & DHAL
โTOP TIP: SERVICE CAN BE SLOW
Lemongrass is another fantastic local restaurant in Hiriketiya. This restaurant is all about fresh, homemade Sri Lankan food thatโs packed with flavour. My personal favourite? The coconut roti is served with dhal and coconut sambal although pretty much everything here Is delicious.
The owners at Lemongrass are incredibly sweet and welcoming, adding to the cosy, laid-back vibe of the place. Since everything is made from scratch, you might have to wait a little while for your food, but trust me, itโs worth every second.
Malu Poke
MALU POKE AT A GLANCE
๐ฐPRICE RANGE: $$
๐ฒCUISINE: POKE BOWLS
โญTOP DISH: BUILD YOUR OWN BOWL
โTOP TIP: GREAT LUNCH OPTION
After a little health kick? Then make sure you head to Malu Poke. Here you will get to build your very own poke bowl. Youโll be able to choose from a variety of bases, meats/fish, toppings and sauces.
As well as poke bowls they also offer a great range of shakes and smoothies. I know this is a rogue combo but washing down my salmon poke bowl with a delicious Milo milkshake was one of my favourite things to do.
Malu Poke is located right next to the beach, so youโll be able to enjoy your favourite Poke Bowl all whilst taking in a stunning view of the ocean, making it the ultimate combination of great food and a relaxing vibe.

Prepare for your trip to Sri Lanka
๐๏ธAccommodation:ย When youโre hunting for great deals, make sure to check out different sites likeย Booking.comย andย Hotels.com! If youโre on a budget, then make sure to check outย Hostelworld.
โ๏ธFlights: Check out the best flight deals with Skyscanner and Trip.com. I never search anywhere else!
๐Transport: Need to book a bus or train whilst travelling? Check out your options on 12goasia.com, Bookaway.com and thetrainline.com.
๐Rental Cars: Looking to rent a car for your adventures? Check out prices on Rentalcars.com and Discovercars.com.
๐๏ธActivities:ย Check outย Get Your Guideย andย Viatorย for 100s of activities whilst travelling.
๐ฆInsurance: Make sure youโre covered against any incidents during your trip. Get affordable and flexible insurance with SafetyWing.
๐ฑDownload an eSIM:ย Avoid roaming fees, and have peace of mind that you have internet access when WiFi isnโt available. Download SIMs from eitherย Airaloย orย Holaflyย for your time abroad.
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- 18 Of The Very Best Hostels & Hotels In Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka
- 12 of the BEST Coworking Spaces In Sri Lanka for Digital Nomads
- 16 Of The Best Restaurants in Ahangama, Sri Lanka
Happy eating
I hope you have a wonderful time eating at all of the best restaurants in Hiriketiya. If you have any more questions about anything discussed in this blog post, please feel free to reach out!