How to Find the Best Local Dishes While Travelling in Sri Lanka - Savour Sri Lanka's Cuisine!

Before you arrive in Sri Lanka, it's important to do your research on the local cuisine. This will give you an idea of what to expect and what dishes to try. Sri Lankan cuisine is heavily influenced by Indian, Dutch, Portuguese, and British cuisine, so there are a variety of flavours to explore. Some of the most popular dishes include rice and curry, hoppers, kottu roti, and string hoppers. Knowing what to expect will make it easier for you to navigate the local food scene and find the best places to eat.

One of the best ways to experience the local cuisine in Sri Lanka is to explore the local markets. Here you'll find an array of street food vendors, fresh produce, and spices that are used in traditional Sri Lankan dishes. Some of the best markets to visit include the Pettah Market in Colombo, the Kandy Central Market, and the Galle Market. Make sure to try the local street food, such as kottu roti or vadai, for a truly authentic culinary experience.

Another way to find the best local dishes in Sri Lanka is to ask the locals for recommendations. Sri Lankans are known for their hospitality and love sharing their culture with visitors. When staying at boutique hotels in Sri Lanka offered by the likes of Boutique Collection By Amaya, strike up a conversation with the staff and ask them for their favourite places to eat or dishes to try. They may even offer to take you to their favourite restaurant or cook a meal for you themselves.

If you're interested in learning more about Sri Lankan cuisine and how to make it yourself, consider taking a cooking class. There are many cooking schools throughout Sri Lanka that offer classes for both beginners and advanced cooks. You'll learn about the different spices and techniques used in Sri Lankan cuisine and get to taste your creations at the end of the class. This is a great way to not only experience the local cuisine but also take a piece of Sri Lanka home with you.

Finally, make sure to try regional specialities when travelling in Sri Lanka. Each region has its own unique dishes and flavours, so don't be afraid to venture off and try uncommon places to eat at. For example, in Jaffna, you'll find a variety of seafood dishes, while in the hill country, you'll find more vegetarian options. Trying regional specialities will give you a better understanding of Sri Lankan cuisine and culture.

While it's tempting to stick to popular tourist spots and restaurants, you'll likely find the best local cuisine by exploring less frequented areas. Talk to locals and ask for recommendations, or wander through local markets and food stalls. Sri Lankan street food is famous for its delicious flavours, and trying it out can be a great way to get a taste of the local culture. Be adventurous and open-minded when it comes to trying new dishes, and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. You may just stumble upon some hidden gems and delicious culinary experiences that you wouldn't have discovered otherwise. In conclusion, Sri Lanka is a food lover's paradise with a diverse range of flavours and dishes to explore. By researching the local cuisine, exploring local markets, asking locals for recommendations, taking a cooking class, and trying regional specialities, you'll be able to make the most of your culinary experience while travelling in Sri Lanka.