6 affordable restaurants to eat in Ella

If you find yourself in the lush green hills of Sri Lanka, Ella is a gem that should not be missed. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and adventurous trekking trails, this charming town also offers a vibrant culinary scene that caters to all tastes. Whether you're a fan of local flavors or seeking familiar western dishes, Ella's restaurants have something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best places where you can eat well without breaking the bank!

We explored Ella on two occasions, sampling a eclectic mix of dining options from trendy hotspots to hidden gems. In this article, we'll share our top recommendations for six restaurants that you should definitely check out during your visit. Are you ready to indulge in the flavors of Ella? Let’s dive in!

* While we strive to keep our recommendations updated, things can change. If you find any of the listed restaurants closed or notice a price variation, please let us know. Thank you! 🙂

1. Café Chill: The Most Famous Restaurant in Ella

Café Chill stands out as one of the most iconic spots in Ella, perfect for unwinding after a day of trekking. Known for its lively atmosphere, you can enjoy a variety of dishes ranging from Western options like pastas, schnitzels, and fish & chips to delicious local recipes. We highly recommend trying lumprais, a rice dish with chicken curry, egg, and fried eggplant, all wrapped in a banana leaf. Vegan options are also available!

Due to its popularity, we advise making a reservation. For the best experience, opt for a table on the first-floor terrace, where you can savor your meal in a more serene environment, away from the hustle and bustle of the kitchen. Prices hover around €10 per person, which is a fair deal considering the quality of food and service.

2. Rainbow Inn: A Breakfast Paradise

If you're a breakfast lover, Rainbow Inn is the place for you, serving breakfast all day long—a definite plus! Beyond breakfast, the menu features a temptingly diverse selection, including vegetarian and vegan burgers, gnocchi, quesadillas, and traditional Sri Lankan dishes like kottu and fried noodles. Conveniently located right in front of Café Chill, it boasts a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Expect to pay around €4.5-6 for a main dish.

3. Matey Hut: Affordable and Flavorful Curries

For those on a budget, Matey Hut is a must-visit. This family-run restaurant specializes in delicious rice and curry dishes. What sets it apart is the opportunity to personally select your choice of four vegetable curries (chicken is also available). We recommend trying the banana curry, egg curry, pumpkin curry, and jackfruit curry, each priced at a mere €3 per plate—an unbeatable deal!

4. Jade Green: Homemade Delights

Our first visit to Ella wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Jade Green, where we enjoyed a memorable homemade spaghetti bolognese. The food is freshly prepared, and everything is made to order, ensuring delightful flavors. Don’t miss out on their curry rice and kottu, both of which are also delicious! If you're dining as a pair, you can enjoy your meal on the cozy balcony, which, although small, offers a pleasant dining experience.

5. Café UFO: Dinner with Live Music

If you're looking for a place to enjoy dinner with some live music, look no further than Café UFO. The menu is a mix of Sri Lankan classics and Western comfort food, including fried chicken and pizza. After days of eating rice and curry, you might find yourself craving something different, and this café delivers! Don't forget to use your Revolut card for hassle-free payments without commissions while abroad.

6. Raha Ella: Value for Money

Last but not least, Raha Ella offers an excellent dining experience with a great quality-price ratio. Be sure to try their dosas served with coconut sambal and potato curry. The menu is extensive, featuring everything from noodles and rice dishes to roti with curry and even sandwiches. You won’t leave disappointed!

Extra: Isle of Gelato

While not the cheapest option, at around €3 for a gelato, Isle of Gelato is worth a visit for its incredible flavors! Their coffee is also among the best we've tasted during our travels, making it a perfect spot for a sweet treat or a caffeine fix. The ambiance of the café is charming, featuring a lovely upstairs lounge ideal for enjoying a leisurely afternoon.

Where to Find These Great Restaurants in Ella

To help you navigate your culinary journey through Ella, we’ve included a handy map pinpointing the locations of these top-rated restaurants known for their excellent quality and value:

These are our favorite six restaurants in Ella, but this quaint town nestled in the mountainous region of Sri Lanka continues to blossom with more foodie spots! Have you discovered any amazing eateries? What has been your favorite place to dine?

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