Best Restaurants in Hikkaduwa

my1 Nethmini Prebashani
August 13, 2025
8 min read

Hikkaduwa, a vibrant beach town on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, is known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful coastal views. The town offers an array of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining, catering to every taste. Mangrovia is a popular spot, offering a blend of local and international cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood. For an authentic Sri Lankan experience, The Crab serves delicious crab dishes and fresh seafood, making it a favorite among seafood lovers. Aloha Coffee Gallery is perfect for a relaxing coffee break, with a cozy ambiance and a variety of coffees and light snacks. If you’re craving traditional Sri Lankan curries, Spaghetti & Co is the place to be, offering hearty, flavorful dishes. For a more upscale experience, Citrus Hikkaduwa offers a perfect combination of gourmet food with stunning beach views, making it a great place for a special evening out.

Types of Restaurants in Hikkaduwa

Seafood Restaurants

Hikkaduwa is famous for its fresh seafood, with many restaurants offering dishes like grilled fish, prawns, and calamari. These restaurants often provide beautiful views of the beach, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the ocean breeze while savoring fresh catch.

Sri Lankan Cuisine

For a true taste of Sri Lankan food, the local restaurants in Hikkaduwa serve traditional rice and curry dishes, hoppers, and fresh fruit juices. These places offer authentic flavors and a cultural experience.

International Cuisine

If you’re in the mood for something more familiar, Hikkaduwa also offers restaurants that serve international cuisine, from Italian pizza and pasta to continental dishes and fast food options. These places cater to both tourists and locals alike.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Hikkaduwa offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly menus with fresh salads, vegetable curries, and fruit-based smoothies. These options are great for those seeking a healthy meal in a vibrant coastal setting.

Top Features to Look for in Hikkaduwa Restaurants

Fresh Local Ingredients

Hikkaduwa restaurants often focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The use of seasonal produce and fresh seafood is a common practice, ensuring that meals are flavorful and of high quality. Restaurants that prioritize local ingredients often offer an authentic taste of Sri Lanka’s coastal regions.

Scenic Views

Many restaurants in Hikkaduwa offer breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, or surrounding landscapes. Dining with a view can elevate the dining experience, making it an ideal choice for both romantic dinners and family gatherings.

Diverse Menu Options

From traditional Sri Lankan cuisine to international dishes, the restaurants in Hikkaduwa offer diverse menus to cater to a wide range of tastes. Whether you're a fan of spicy Sri Lankan curries or prefer global cuisines, Hikkaduwa's restaurant scene has something for everyone.

Authentic Ambience

The best restaurants in Hikkaduwa create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that reflects the local culture. Traditional Sri Lankan decor, vibrant colors, and wooden furnishings are commonly seen, helping to create a cozy and authentic dining environment for guests.

Excellent Customer Service

Exceptional customer service is a key feature of top-rated restaurants in Hikkaduwa. Friendly and attentive staff go a long way in creating a memorable dining experience, ensuring guests feel welcomed and valued throughout their meal.

Popular Dishes to Try in Hikkaduwa

Seafood Rice & Curry

Seafood Rice & Curry

This iconic Sri Lankan dish combines fresh seafood with rice and a variety of curries, including spicy sambol and vegetable curries. Often served with a side of crispy fried fish, this dish is a must-try for seafood lovers visiting Hikkaduwa.

Hoppers (Appa)

Hoppers

Hoppers are bowl-shaped pancakes made from rice flour and coconut milk. They are crispy on the edges and soft in the center. Often served with a variety of fillings, such as eggs (Egg Hopper), or with curry, hoppers are a popular breakfast item in Hikkaduwa.

Grilled Prawns

Grilled Prawns

Grilled prawns in Hikkaduwa are seasoned with a blend of Sri Lankan spices and grilled to perfection. Often served with a tangy lime dip, this dish is a delightful treat for those looking for a flavorful, smoky seafood dish.

Fish Ambul Thiyal

Fish Ambul Thiyal

Fish Ambul Thiyal is a traditional Sri Lankan sour fish curry. It features firm fish, typically tuna, cooked in a tangy and spicy gravy made with tamarind and a variety of local spices. It's served with rice and is a flavorful and aromatic dish to enjoy in Hikkaduwa.

Kottu Roti

Kottu Roti

Kottu Roti is a popular street food in Hikkaduwa, made by stir-frying chopped roti (flatbread) with vegetables, egg, meat, and spices. This hearty dish is quick, flavorful, and perfect for a satisfying meal any time of the day.

Tips for Dining in Hikkaduwa

Try the Local Seafood

Hikkaduwa is famous for its fresh seafood, so make sure to try the local seafood dishes, including grilled fish, prawns, and calamari. Many restaurants serve seafood with a Sri Lankan twist, adding delicious spices and local flavors.

Book a Table in Advance During Peak Season

Hikkaduwa can get quite busy, especially during the tourist season (December to April). To ensure you get a spot at your favorite restaurant, it's a good idea to book a table in advance, especially for popular spots by the beach.

Enjoy the Local Street Food

Don't miss out on the street food in Hikkaduwa. From Kottu Roti to fresh coconut water, the street food scene offers an authentic taste of Sri Lanka. Vendors offer tasty and quick meals that are perfect for a casual lunch or snack.

Check the Spice Level

Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its bold flavors and spices. If you're not used to spicy food, be sure to ask the restaurant staff to adjust the spice level to your preference. Many restaurants are happy to accommodate your taste.

Explore the Beachfront Dining Options

Hikkaduwa is known for its beautiful beaches, so make sure to enjoy a meal at one of the beachfront restaurants. Dining by the ocean offers stunning views and a refreshing sea breeze, making it a perfect experience during your visit.

Hikkaduwa Weather & Location

📍 Location

Hikkaduwa is a coastal town located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, approximately 98 km from Colombo. It is a famous tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, vibrant nightlife, and relaxed atmosphere. The town is easily accessible via the Southern Expressway, coastal railway line, and intercity bus services.

🌤️ Weather

Hikkaduwa enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, averaging between 27°C and 31°C. The town experiences two main monsoon seasons:

  • Southwest Monsoon (May–September): Brings heavier rainfall, especially in May and June.
  • Northeast Monsoon (November–February): Lighter rains with sunny intervals, making it a popular time for tourists.

The driest and most popular months to visit are from December to April, ideal for beach activities, snorkeling, and sightseeing.

🗺️ Map

Below is the location of Hikkaduwa on the map for your convenience:

Final Thoughts

Hikkaduwa’s food scene blends fresh coastal seafood, authentic southern flavors, and relaxed beach vibes—perfect for casual bites or special occasions. Plan for sunset seatings, book ahead in peak months, and don’t miss local staples like ambul thiyal, hoppers, and isso wade.

For the best experience, confirm seafood pricing by weight, share any dietary needs with staff, and explore areas like Polhena and Madiha for ocean-view dinners. Support venues that source locally and follow eco-friendly practices to help keep Hikkaduwa’s coastline pristine.

What’s next? Browse our picks for sea-view spots and vegan-friendly cafés in Hikkaduwa, then reserve your table—golden hour goes fast!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Latest Articles

Our Categories

Copyright © 2024 Sri Lanka Travel Pages . Developed by Traventy Australia Pty Ltd | About Us|Contact Us|Privacy Policy | Terms & Condition

Proudly powered by Traventy

 

 / 

Sign in

Sign in

Send Message

My favorites