There’s something magical about Hiriketiya. It’s not just the turquoise waves curling onto the crescent-shaped bay, or the palm trees that look like they were arranged by a daydreamer—it’s the rhythm of life here. Wake up with the sun, surf till you’re hungry, wander barefoot in search of food, and find yourself in a place where every restaurant feels like it was built for a slow life well-lived.
Even though Hiriketiya is a tiny beach town in Sri lanka , it’s bursting at the seams with a variety of food outlets—from breezy cafes and jungle hideaways to family-owned curry houses. Whether you’re in the mood for tropical smoothie bowls, wood-fired pizza, or a home-brewed rice and curry, here’s a rundown on the 10 top-rated restaurants in Hiriketiya that not only eat well but serve up a real taste of this relaxed paradise.
1. Bacuzzi
Right on the beachfront, Bacuzzi is one of those spots you stumble upon after a swim, lured by the smell of wood-fired pizza and the sound of good music. It’s got a coolly laid-back atmosphere—rustic tables, fairy lights, and surfboards propped in the corners. The pizzas are the draw here: thin-crusted, perfectly charred, and smothered in liberal layers of creamy burrata, truffle oil, or spicy salami. It’s the perfect place to kick back with a cocktail and watch the sky shift colors over the bay. If you’re with friends, order a few pies to share and settle in—you’ll probably end up staying longer than planned.
2. Smoke & Bitters
If you’re up for something elevated but still rooted in the jungle vibes of the south coast, Smoke & Bitters is a must. A mere tuk-tuk ride from Hiriketiya, this al-fresco restaurant nestles secretly behind coconut palms and has a brooding sort of charm—glowing dim light, wispy smoke smells wafting out of the kitchen, and a cocktail menu as good as anything in a large city bar. Their menu revolves around spice and smoke, fire-grilled prawns, tamarind ribs, and jackfruit sliders in spicy sauce take center stage. The cocktails are as inventive—most infused with local herbs and house-made bitters. Arrive here at sunset, reserve if possible, and get ready to enjoy every morsel.
3. Dots Bay House
Dots is the pulse of Hiriketiya—half restaurant, half surf camp, half community center. It’s got a little bit of everything: yoga classes, surfboard rentals, a shop, and a humming restaurant that’s vibrant from dawn until midnight. Their menu is global and feel-good, with breakfast smoothie bowls, fresh tacos, hearty burgers, and rice bowls that bring Sri Lankan spices into play. By night, Dots transforms into a social spot with live music, cocktails, and conversations that drift into the warm coastal air. Whether you’re a solo traveler or with a crew, you’ll feel welcome here. Keep an eye on their event board—there’s always something happening.
4. Salt House
Salt House rests peacefully in a shaded garden mere minutes from the beach and feels like a health retreat hidden within a restaurant. It’s a boutique hotel property and recognized for its serene, tropical ambiance and menu filled with healthy, wellness-oriented food. Consider avocado toast with beetroot hummus, grain bowls brimming with roasted vegetables and seeds, and vegan pancakes topped with fruit and coconut cream. It’s the sort of spot where you go when your body craves something clean, fresh, and filling. Digital nomads adore it too—there’s good Wi-Fi, a chill atmosphere, and comfortable seating to work or unwind.
5. Malu Poke
Tiny, happy, and sweetly plain, Malu Poke is your first choice for a quick and nutritious snack. It’s one of the town’s only dedicated poke bowl joints, and it does it well—select your base (rice, greens, or quinoa), select your protein (tuna, tofu, or chicken), and add on toppings of mango, avocado, seaweed, and spicy mayo. All is fresh, customizable, and light enough to eat before wading back out into the surf. Seating is minimal, so most grab their bowls to-go and feast on the beach. It’s a good option if you’re on the run but still in need of something sustaining.
6. The Garlic Café
If you’re seeking genuine Sri Lankan flavors, The Garlic Café is a hidden local gem that stays simple and soulful. This family-owned place doesn’t have fancy signs or trendy decor—it’s simply genuine food prepared with love. Their rice and curry buffet is constantly evolving, based on what’s in season, but you can count on dishes like creamy lentil dhal, spicy fish curry, green beans sautéed, and the unforgettable coconut sambol. All of it is served buffet-style, and the servings are large. The owners are friendly and hospitable, always willing to discuss the cuisine or provide a second serving. It’s an ideal introduction to Sri Lankan home-style cuisine.
7. La Playa
La Playa takes beachfront dining to new heights with its open patio, cool tunes, and a menu that harmoniously blends Mediterranean flavors with local ingredients. From grilled fish and fresh salads to prawn pasta and souvlaki wraps, the food is fresh and colorful. Their beverage menu is just as refreshing—tropical cocktails, cold beers, and fresh juices with a view of the ocean. It’s a wonderful spot to relax in the afternoon or sit down for a long evening meal with friends. Bonus: they occasionally feature fire shows or live music, so inquire what’s happening when you get there.
8. White Peacock
Tucked behind a wall of green, White Peacock is a calm vegan café that resembles your own little haven. The atmosphere is earthy and cozy, with rattan chairs, potted plants, and mellow music that makes you want to stay awhile. Their meals are entirely plant-based and rich-tasting: creamy coconut dal, roasted vegetable wraps, raw sweet treats, and smoothie bowls that are almost too beautiful to eat. It’s a great spot to have a peaceful meal and some quiet time to think, read, or write in your journal. They occasionally host art classes or community events, so watch for flyers.
9. Juice Life – Urban Eatery
Juice Life is your go-to spot for fast, clean food and reviving beverages. The shop is small but slick, with a chill, tropical-meets-city vibe. They have some of the city’s best smoothie bowls on offer, each piled with crunchy granola, banana, chia seeds, and coconut. Their wraps and toasties make for perfect lunch on the run, and their cold-pressed juices save the day on hot afternoons. It’s perfect for a nutritious breakfast, light lunch, or a post-surf boost. Bonus: they serve reasonable Wi-Fi and some shaded outdoor seating if you feel like hanging out for a while.
10. Sea View Clay House Restaurant
This is the kind of place you might not even notice unless someone mentioned it to you—and now someone has. Sea View Clay House is a simple, family-owned restaurant in which the dishes are prepared in ancient clay pots to add an extra layer of flavor. Their seafood curry is amazing, usually prepared using the day’s catch, cooked in coconut milk, and flavored using curry leaves and spices. The decor is basic, but you can see and hear the sea and sense the love that goes into each dish. It’s the ideal last meal before hitting the road—slow, delicious, and filled with love.
Final Thoughts
Hiriketiya is not just a surf break—it’s a spot that fills your heart and your stomach. Restaurants here are not just somewhere to grab a bite; they’re social hubs, surf clubs, morning rituals, and leisurely dinner venues where stories last late into the evening. No matter your budget or willingness to splurge, your hankering for comfort food or your desire to experiment with local flavors, Hiriketiya’s culinary offerings will suit all tastes. So arrive ravenous, follow your nose (and this guide), and allow every meal to be part of your adventure in this sun-kissed corner of paradise.
