Top 4 Places to Eat in Polonnaruwa

Written by Finn Weber, Karen Price, Chamara Perera
12/08/2025
Explore the historic ruins of an ancient city in Polonnaruwa, Central Province, Sri Lanka.
Alfred Franz, Pexels

Polonnaruwa's culinary landscape is rich with traditional Sri Lankan flavors, offering diverse buffet experiences that highlight local ingredients and home-style cooking.

1. Jaga Food

Cuisine: Authentic Sri Lankan

Nestled away from the main roads, Jaga Food offers a truly authentic Sri Lankan dining experience in a charming outdoor setting by a serene canal. This family-run restaurant serves a delightful buffet of traditional curries, often cooked over firewood, with many ingredients sourced from their own organic farm. Guests can enjoy a wide array of vegetarian and vegan options, and some even offer complementary cooking lessons. Be prepared for a rustic and cozy ambiance.

Price: Around 2500 LKR per person (~$8-9 USD) for the buffet.

Getting There: Located off D9 Ela Wel Para, Jayanthipura. It is best reached by tuk-tuk, which can cost around 300-500 LKR from the main Polonnaruwa town or ancient city area.

2. Priyamali Gedara

Cuisine: Traditional Sri Lankan Buffet

Priyamali Gedara offers a comprehensive buffet showcasing authentic 'farmer-style' Sri Lankan cuisine. Guests can explore a wide variety of dishes, typically including several types of rice, numerous vegetable curries (such as lentils, pumpkin, and manioc), and options for chicken and fish. The flavors are well-balanced, providing a unique opportunity to savor traditional dishes not commonly found elsewhere. The staff provides warm hospitality, making guests feel at home.

Price: Budget-friendly, comparable to other local buffets.

Getting There: Situated at 1595 Bandiwewa, Jayanthipura. A tuk-tuk is the most convenient way to reach this location, with fares similar to those for Jaga Food.

3. Ariya Rest House Restaurant

Cuisine: Authentic Sri Lankan

Found within Ariya Rest House, this restaurant is a hidden gem known for its inviting atmosphere and exceptional Sri Lankan cuisine. They feature a highly praised buffet lunch with a diverse selection of local dishes, including beloved curries like eggplant, jackfruit, and durian. The staff is consistently noted for their friendliness and welcoming nature, contributing to a truly delightful dining experience. It offers a great value for authentic food.

Price: Mid-range; good value for a buffet, approximately 2000-3000 LKR per person (~$6-10 USD).

Getting There: Located near historical sites in Bendiwewa. It is easily accessible by tuk-tuk from the main Polonnaruwa area, typically costing around 200-400 LKR.

4. Lake View Restaurant at Hotel Sudu Araliya

Cuisine: International and Sri Lankan

For a more upscale dining experience, the Lake View Restaurant at Hotel Sudu Araliya provides a spacious and elegant setting with stunning views overlooking a sparkling lake. This restaurant offers an extensive buffet that includes both traditional Sri Lankan specialties and a variety of international dishes. An à la carte menu is also available, ensuring a wide selection for diverse tastes. It is a suitable option for those seeking a luxurious dining experience.

Price: Higher end for Polonnaruwa, likely 4000-8000 LKR per person (~$13-26 USD) depending on buffet or à la carte choices.

Getting There: Located within Hotel Sudu Araliya on B529, Polonnaruwa. Easily reachable by tuk-tuk, with fares typically ranging from 300-600 LKR depending on your starting point within Polonnaruwa.

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