Nuga Gama — A Village Feast for the Whole Family
Nuga Gama (meaning “village by the banyan tree”) at Cinnamon Grand is one of the most unique dining experiences in Colombo — and surprisingly, it’s one of the best for families with kids.
The Experience
Imagine dining in a recreated Sri Lankan village — complete with a large banyan tree, traditional huts, clay pot cooking stations, and a small pond. Now imagine that this village is located inside one of Colombo’s premier 5-star hotels. That’s Nuga Gama.
For children, this setting is magical. While waiting for food, kids can:
- Walk around the village exploring the huts and cooking stations
- Watch chefs prepare food in traditional clay pots over wood fires
- See the fish pond and small garden areas
- Sit in the swings scattered around the seating area
It’s the kind of restaurant where kids are entertained by the environment itself, which means less screen time and more genuine family time.
The Food
The menu is authentically Sri Lankan with a modern twist:
- Rice and curry spread: Multiple curries, sambols, papadams — served in clay pots
- Kottu roti: Made fresh at a cooking station — kids love watching it being chopped
- Hoppers and string hoppers: Perfect for kids who enjoy interesting textures
- Devilled prawns and chicken: Flavourful but can be adjusted for spice levels
For children who aren’t used to Sri Lankan food, the plain rice, hoppers, and dhal curry are reliable options. The waiters are accustomed to families and will happily adjust spice levels.
For International Visitors
If you’re visiting Colombo with kids and want to experience authentic Sri Lankan food in a safe, controlled environment, Nuga Gama is ideal. It gives children a cultural experience alongside the meal — much more engaging than a typical hotel restaurant.
Practical Information
- Setting: Outdoor, open-air (sheltered from rain with canopies)
- Best time: Dinner (7pm onwards) — the lighting and atmosphere are enchanting in the evening
- Booking: Recommended, especially for dinner and weekends
- Price: LKR 5,000-8,000 for a family of four
- High chairs: Available
- Parking: Cinnamon Grand valet parking available
Our Verdict
Nuga Gama is a special occasion restaurant that happens to be fantastic for families. The village setting captivates children, the food is outstanding, and the staff understand families. It’s pricier than everyday dining, but for a memorable family dinner in Colombo, it’s hard to beat. We rate it 4.4 out of 5.
Pro tip: Go for dinner rather than lunch — the evening ambiance with lanterns and firelight is truly special, and it’s cooler too.
📍 Getting There & Contact
- Address: Cinnamon Grand, 77 Galle Road, Colombo 3
- Phone: +94 11 243 7437
- Google Maps: View on Google Maps
