If you’re planning a holiday to Sri Lanka and hoping to embark on a foodie venture, here is your insider guide. Having grown up with Sri Lankan roots and visited the island numerous times, I’ve compiled a list of 10 must-try foods. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine or curious about local faves, this list covers everything from popular street foods to unexpected delights.

1. Chinese Rolls (Sri Lankan Pan Rolls)
   Chinese rolls, or pan rolls as they’re sometimes called, are a classic Sri Lankan short eat (hot snacks). Despite the name, these crispy treats don’t resemble traditional Chinese cuisine. They feature a flavorful filling—my personal favorite is fish—wrapped in a pancake-like crepe, then crumbed and fried.
2. Cutlets
   Sri Lankan cutlets are savory, fried snack shaped like small balls. Typically filled with spiced fish and coated in breadcrumbs, these bite-sized delights are a staple of Sri Lankan short eats. They offer a crunchy exterior and a flavorful, spiced interior.
3. Pattis
   Pattis are another popular Sri Lankan snack, encased in pastry and often shaped like a semi-circle or triangle. Filled with a savory mixture, usually of meat or vegetables, they’re a delicious and morish.
4. Kottu Roti
   Kottu Roti is a quintessential Sri Lankan street food. This dish features shredded roti mixed with chopped vegetables and meat, all stir-fried together with aromatic spices.
5. Eggplant Curry
   Sri Lankan eggplant curry is my personal favourite of Sri Lankan curries. Typically served with rice, eggplant curry is a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and sweet flavors.
6. Hoppers (Appa)
   Hoppers, or appa, are a Sri Lankan classic. These crispy, bowl-shaped crepes are often enjoyed with curries and sambols. Egg hoppers, where an egg is cooked at the base, are particularly popular. For a sweet twist, try a plain hopper with palm sugar or palm sugar syrup.
7. Dinemore Subs
   While not traditionally Sri Lankan, Dinemore Subs offer a unique local twist. This popular food chain serves the Chicken Submarine, a spicy chicken sandwich that’s a favorite amongst my family.
8. Chocolate Eclairs
   Sri Lankan chocolate eclairs are my favourite treats to have while in Sri Lanka. Unlike the cream-filled versions found in Australia, these eclairs are filled with rich chocolate buttercream. You can find them at popular local bakeries such as Fab and Perera & Sons.
9. Spicy Drumlets from KFC
   While global fast-food chains often have different menus in each country, Sri Lankan KFCs offer a special treat: spicy drumlets. These spicy chicken wings are a personal favorite and a must for whenever I visit Sri Lanka.
10. Hot Butter Cuttlefish
    Hot Butter Cuttlefish is my all-time favorite Sri Lankan dish. The first time I had it was years and years ago at the restaurant Chinese Dragon in Colombo and I have been in love with the fried seafood dish since. On my most recent visits, I have seen hot butter cuttlefish on several menus but the Chinese Dragon version is still my favourite.

While this list highlights 10 delicious foods to try in Sri Lanka, there are countless other delights waiting to be enjoyed. Enjoy your journey through Sri Lankan flavors!