affordable restaurants in Colombo
Colombo, Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital, offers a rich culinary experience without breaking the bank.
From street-side food stalls to cosy cafes, the city is home to various affordable restaurants that serve delicious local and international cuisine.
Whether you’re in the mood for traditional rice and curry, flavourful kottu roti, or fresh seafood, Colombo’s budget-friendly dining spots cater to all tastes.
With a blend of flavours influenced by Sri Lankan, Indian, and even Western cuisine, these affordable eateries make it easy for travellers to enjoy the city’s food scene on a budget.
Even though there are many affordable restaurants in Colombo, we chose the following based on their ambience, diverse food selection, excellent service and hospitality, and high standards of hygiene and cleanliness.
And also customer reviews and ratings, price range, value for money, and local people’s preferences also guided our selection to ensure a great dining experience for you.
01. Mayura Hotel
Mayura Hotel is a small restaurant in Pettah known for its authentic Jaffna-style cuisine.
Despite its name, it’s not a hotel but a cosy small restaurant loved for its delicious meals served on a banana leaf.
The restaurant is particularly famous for its small but super tasty crab curries with rich flavours.
Don’t forget to try their well-beaten and fried butter omelette, adding a unique touch to their menu.
Mayura Hotel offers a simple yet delightful experience for those seeking traditional Sri Lankan flavours in a warm, local setting.
02. Kandoori
Kandoori is a popular Indian restaurant in Colombo, known for its diverse menu offering Indian, Chinese, Western, and Sri Lankan cuisine.
The star of the menu is their flavorful Biryani, a must-try for food lovers. Alongside the Biryani, Kandoori serves a variety of other delicacies like soft Naan bread, rich Indian curries, stir-fried noodles, and nasi goreng, blending different culinary influences.
With its wide range of dishes and bold flavours, Kandoori is a favourite among locals and visitors.
Making it an excellent spot for those seeking a mix of traditional and international cuisine in Colombo.
03. Fazly’s Halal Refreshment
Located in the heart of Colombo, Fazly’s Halal Refreshment is a trendy burger joint known for its affordable and succulent burgers.
Since opening in 2000, it has grown into a well-known home-grown brand, beloved by locals for its good food and excellent value for money. Fazly’s extensive burger menu offers a variety of options to suit all tastes, while the restaurant also features other delicious items like submarines, sandwiches, shawarmas, grilled dishes, kebabs, and hot dogs.
With its broad selection and affordable prices, Fazly’s remains one of the best affordable restaurant in Colombo for tasty fast food.
04. Elite Indian Restaurant
Elite Indian Restaurant offers affordable and tasty Indian food, making it a popular spot for budget-conscious diners.
Known for its satisfying chicken biryani, the restaurant also boasts an extensive selection of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian Indian dishes. While the food is flavorful, service can be slow, particularly for non-biryani orders.
Despite this, Elite Restaurant remains a decent option for those with time to spare and who crave authentic Indian cuisine.
It’s an ideal choice for anyone seeking quality food without breaking the bank.
05. Hotel Bankshall
Hotel Bankshall is a beloved local eatery in Colombo, renowned for its authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.
With decades of history, this humble establishment offers a satisfying dining experience with dishes like flavorful rice and curry, savoury hoppers, and kottu roti.
Bankshall Hotel is especially known for its unique quail dishes and pol sambol, which stand out among the menu offerings.
While the sides are decent, the quail and rice and curry experience are highlights.
Despite a slightly crowded atmosphere, the friendly staff and affordable prices make it a worthwhile visit for those seeking genuine Sri Lankan flavours.
06. Sriyani
Siriyani Restaurant in Pettah is a hidden gem offering a mix of South Indian and Sri Lankan food, along with a variety of eggless bakery items. The menu includes delicious rice curry, quick eats like vada and bonda, chapati with curry, flavourful biryani, and crispy dosas.
For a refreshing treat, try their natural fruit juices.
Known for its excellent value, Siriyani is a great choice for those looking to enjoy authentic flavours without breaking the bank.
Perfect for a quick meal or takeaway, it’s a must-visit spot for an affordable restaurant in Colombo.
07. Ricorn Hotel & Bakers
Ricorn Hotel in Colombo is known for offering affordable and tasty local food, making it a popular choice for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The restaurant serves a variety of bakery items like buns, cakes, pastries, bread, and muffins.
It’s particularly famous for its flavourful cheese kothu and chicken kothu, which are must-tries.
Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or something sweet, Ricorn Hotel delivers quality food at a budget-friendly price, making it the perfect spot for anyone seeking delicious food without breaking the bank.
08. Aluthkade street food
Aluthkade Street Food is a vibrant and bustling hub for foodies in Colombo, offering a diverse range of delicious and affordable snacks and meals.
From the spiciest sandwiches to naans, parathas, Indian and Lankan curries, and fresh juices, this street has all the street food for you to eat away.
Hotdogs and burgers with a unique Lankan twist are also famous here. With its lively atmosphere and friendly vendors, Aluthkade is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic Sri Lankan culinary experience full of flavour and excitement.
09. Acropol
Acropol is considered a Middle Eastern fast food joint in Colombo, specializing in Greek and Lebanese dishes.
They are known for serving some of the best shawarmas in the city.
While their lunch menu is limited, their dinner options are like the Greek Special Shawarma, Chicken Burger, Naan rotti with curries and Noodles. One of the highly recommended dishes is their Kebab Platter.
With friendly service and a comfortable atmosphere, Acropol offers a welcoming spot for a casual meal with friends, making it an ideal destination for those seeking tasty and authentic Middle Eastern flavours in Colombo.
10. Dinemore
Dinemore is a popular restaurant chain in Sri Lanka, renowned for its delicious and affordable meals.
With a focus on family-friendly dining, Dinemore offers a diverse menu featuring both local and international dishes.
From savoury rice and curry to juicy burgers and pizzas, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
One of the most favourite items for locals is their Submarines, available with a variety of fillings.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and friendly service has made it a beloved spot for an affordable restaurant in Colombo among both locals and tourists alike, perfect for casual dining.
11. Malay Restaurant
Malay Restaurant offers a delightful escape into the vibrant flavours of Southeast Asia, renowned for its authentic Malay cuisine.
This restaurant uses fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques; this charming establishment serves up dishes that reflect the culinary artistry of the region.
From aromatic satay skewers to the rich and creamy nasi lemak, every meal is a flavour-packed journey.
The menu boasts an extensive variety of options, including vegetarian and seafood delicacies, ensuring something for everyone.
With its warm, inviting atmosphere and attentive, friendly staff, Malay Restaurant is an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a delicious meal.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a local foodie, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking an affordable restaurant in Colombo.
12. Dindigul Thalappakatti Restaurant
Dindigul Thalappakatti Restaurant in Colombo brings the fiery flavours of South India to Sri Lanka. Renowned for its succulent chicken biryani, the restaurant’s signature dish is a masterpiece of aromatic rice, tender chicken, and a medley of fragrant spices.
Beyond the biryani, Dindigul Thalappakatti boasts a diverse menu featuring other South Indian classics like Chettinad chicken, mutton curry, and seafood dishes.
The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity is evident in its use of traditional cooking techniques and high-quality ingredients.
With its vibrant decor and warm atmosphere, Dindigul Thalappakatti provides a memorable dining experience for those seeking a taste of the fiery flavours of South India.
13. Majestic City Food Court
Majestic City Food Court in Colombo offers diverse dining options to satisfy every craving.
From local Sri Lankan cuisine to international flavours like Chinese, Indian, and Western, there’s something for everyone.
With its casual atmosphere and affordable prices, it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a quick, delicious meal.
Whether you’re in the mood for spicy Sri Lankan dishes or comforting global favourites, the food court provides a convenient and satisfying dining experience, perfect for a break while shopping or exploring the city.
14. New Banana Leaf Restaurant
New Banana Leaf Restaurant in Colombo offers a delightful culinary journey through Sri Lankan cuisine.
Known for its authentic dishes served on banana leaves, the restaurant specializes in flavorful rice and curry combinations.
From the aromatic chicken biryani to the spicy fish curry, every dish captures the essence of Sri Lanka’s rich culinary heritage.
New Banana Leaf provides a warm and inviting setting with its cosy atmosphere and friendly service.
It is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic Sri Lankan dining experience in Colombo. Perfect for both locals and tourists.
