Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and the vibrant Sri Lankan community has brought its flavorful cuisine to the forefront of the city’s dining scene. If you’re craving fiery kottu roti, aromatic rice and curry, or crispy hoppers, this guide covers the best Sri Lankan restaurants in Dubai for 2025.
Here are the top 5 must-visit Sri Lankan eateries in Dubai, ranked for authenticity, popularity, and taste.
1. Chef Lanka Restaurant – Karama
Location: Al Karama, Dubai
Average Cost: AED 20–50 per person
Timings: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.3)
Why Visit:
Chef Lanka is a household name among the Sri Lankan community in Dubai. Known for its casual vibe and genuine flavours, this restaurant offers everything from lamprais to devilled dishes that are as close to home as it gets.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Chicken Kottu Roti
- Mutton Lamprais
- Fish Ambul Thiyal
- Hoppers with Lunu Miris
2. Palm Garden Restaurant – Al Qusais
Location: Al Qusais 1
Average Cost: AED 15–40
Timings: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.2)
Why Visit:
Perfect for a quick bite or a hearty lunch, Palm Garden serves generous portions of Sri Lankan classics. Their weekend buffet is a big hit for families and foodies alike.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Weekend Buffet (over 10 dishes!)
- Dhal Curry with Red Rice
- Coconut Sambol
- Seeni Sambol Rolls
3. Ayubowan – Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT)
Location: Cluster N, JLT
Average Cost: AED 30–80
Timings: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4)
Why Visit:
For a refined Sri Lankan dining experience, Ayubowan blends traditional recipes with a modern aesthetic. With vegan and gluten-free options, it appeals to health-conscious diners too.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Devilled Prawns
- Egg Hoppers with Curry
- Jackfruit Curry (Polos)
- Watalappan Dessert
4. Apey Kade – Discovery Gardens
Location: Zen Cluster, Discovery Gardens
Average Cost: AED 20–50
Timings: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.1)
Why Visit:
“Apey Kade,” meaning “Our Shop,” offers a nostalgic taste of Sri Lanka in a cozy, vintage setting. It’s a favourite among those looking for comfort food with a side of culture.
Must-Try Dishes:
- String Hoppers & Kiri Hodi
- Coconut Roti & Lunu Miris
- Fried Brinjal (Wambatu Moju)
- Parippu (Sri Lankan Dhal)
5. Thushanis – International City
Location: England Cluster, International City
Average Cost: AED 15–40
Timings: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Google Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.0)
Why Visit:
If you’re after authentic street food-style Lankan snacks, Thushanis is the place. Their late-night eats and spicy kottu are local legends.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Beef Kottu Roti
- Fish Cutlets
- Coconut Pancakes (Pol Pani)
- Milk Tea (Sri Lankan Style)
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Sri Lankan cuisine or discovering it for the first time, these top Sri Lankan restaurants in Dubai will take your tastebuds straight to Colombo. From fiery sambols to sweet watalappan, the flavors are unforgettable and the hospitality warm.