Cool Land Hot Hut

For travelers on a budget, this little literal hole in the wall has the best Sri Lankan buffet for lunch. It’s the ideal lunch spot after a long day on your feet exploring the Nuwara Eliya town. They offer a wonderful range of traditional rice and curries and a variety of meats to choose from. A meatarian at heart, I am particularly fond of their chicken curry. For those looking for an affordable option for strawberry juice, Cool Land Hot Hut offers a decent option.

A little difficult to find, this hidden gem can be accessed through a small side door near the Softlogic Life Insurance office and boasts a unique ambience. Diners can expect, dark crowded seating with an interesting playlist of classics such as “No Woman, No Cry” blasting over the stereo. The last time I ate here I walked out humming “Ging Gang Goolie” for the rest of the day.

Where to find it: https://maps.app.goo.gl/cdn7UgjeAvXeXtS76 

Meal Times:

• Breakfast: 8:00 am – 10.30 am
• Lunch: 12 noon – 5:00 pm
• Dinner: 6.30 pm – 10:30 pm

Price Range: You can enjoy the simple rice and curry buffet for LKR 650 and the full buffet for LKR 1300

De Silva Food Center

If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat, De Silva’s is my favorite spot. A Nuwara Eliya staple this joint has been serving up great short eats for years, if my hubby is to be believed. They offer up a price friendly cosy cup of tea along with some great short eats on the side. Their rolls are divine and have always been as my husband famously narrates that a young creeper (a planter in training) once ate 7 rolls in one sitting.  If you’re a little hungrier, they also have a Sri Lankan buffet upstairs with some decent Sri Lankan cuisine.