Top 5 Places to Eat in Ella

Written by Finn Weber, Karen Price, Chamara Perera
12/08/2025
Breathtaking view of the iconic Nine Arch Bridge nestled in lush Sri Lankan rainforest.
Smitesh Parekh, Pexels

Ella's dining scene offers a delightful mix of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and diverse international options, catering to a range of tastes from budget-conscious travelers to those seeking a more refined experience.

1. Matey Hut

Cuisine: Authentic Sri Lankan

Matey Hut is a highly recommended spot for its truly authentic Sri Lankan rice and curry, often considered among the best in the country. Despite its modest, rustic appearance, the flavors are rich and satisfying, with generous portions. They offer a variety of curries, including excellent vegan and vegetarian options like eggplant and dahl, and guests can often choose their own curries. The atmosphere is cozy, and the staff are friendly. It's common to find a queue, especially in the evening, but the food is widely regarded as worth the wait. Many visitors also praise their cooking classes.

Price: Inexpensive; a rice and curry meal offers excellent value.

Getting There: Located conveniently near the tunnel of Ella, it is generally within walking distance from the main town area.

2. Cafe Chill

Cuisine: Sri Lankan & Western Fusion

Cafe Chill stands out as a popular, centrally located establishment with a relaxed and welcoming ambiance, especially its chill-out area on the top level. It's a go-to spot for many visitors, attracting a diverse crowd, and is known for its social atmosphere, sometimes with a DJ and late-night bar options. The menu offers a blend of Sri Lankan specialties like jackfruit burgers and lamprais, alongside Western favorites such as burgers, pizzas, and pasta. Vegan and vegetarian dishes are clearly marked and available. Prices are considered a bit higher than local standards but reflect the quality and atmosphere. Service can be slow during peak times due to its popularity.

Price: Mid-range; e.g., a jackfruit burger for 1,200 LKR (approx. $4 USD), pizzas ranging from 2,400 LKR to 2,950 LKR (approx. $8-$10 USD).

Getting There: Situated right in the heart of Ella, it is easily accessible on foot from most accommodations in the main town.

3. AK Ristoro

Cuisine: Italian & International Fusion

AK Ristoro provides a quaint and relaxed dining experience slightly away from the main road, offering a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant excels in Italian-inspired cuisine, including delicious pasta dishes like Bolognese, as well as a selection of other international and Eastern-inspired dishes. Many guests praise the quality of the food, the friendly and attentive staff, and the excellent value. Vegetarian and vegan pasta dishes are available.

Price: Mid-range; described as offering wide variety at very reasonable prices.

Getting There: Located just a short walk from the main road, it is easily reachable on foot.

4. The Barn by Starbeans

Cuisine: Western & Sri Lankan, Coffee

The Barn by Starbeans is recognized as a semi-fine dining establishment in Ella, offering a more sophisticated dining experience. It boasts a charming rustic decor and an inviting atmosphere, often featuring live music. The restaurant is particularly known for its wood-fired pizzas, quality coffee, and diverse menu that includes hearty breakfasts, seafood dishes, burgers, and various Western and Sri Lankan options. It also provides good vegetarian and vegan choices, like vegetable curry or vegan burgers. Its location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, especially at sunset, making it a scenic dining choice.

Price: Expensive; prices range from 750 LKR to 17,500 LKR for certain dishes. Described as 'a bit pricey'.

Getting There: Centrally located in Ella, it is easily walkable from the main area.

5. Wimala Restaurant

Cuisine: Authentic Sri Lankan

Wimala Restaurant is a top recommendation for those seeking truly authentic Sri Lankan food at local prices. It is a narrow establishment that is frequented by locals, suggesting a genuine taste of regional cuisine. The rice and curry lunch is a highlight, offering a healthy portion of rice with various sides like dal and sambols, with options to add proteins. Expect traditional spice and flavor profiles here.

Price: Very inexpensive; a vegetarian rice and curry lunch was noted at 650 LKR (approx. $2 USD).

Getting There: Information on its exact location beyond 'just as you enter the tourist hub of Ella' is limited, but generally, local eateries are found within or very close to the main town, making it walkable.

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