Upali’s — Where Real Sri Lankan Families Eat
If you want to experience authentic Sri Lankan food in a setting that’s genuinely welcoming to families (without the 5-star hotel price tag), Upali’s is where you need to go.
Why Families Love Upali’s
The Food
Upali’s serves what Sri Lankan families eat at home — just better. The menu revolves around rice and curry, and the spread is impressive:
- Multiple curries served in clay pots: chicken, fish, dhal, potato, beans
- Lamprai: A Dutch-Burgher rice dish wrapped in banana leaf (a Colombo classic)
- Hoppers and egg hoppers: Perfect for kids who enjoy dipping and scooping
- Devilled chicken/fish: Slightly spicy but can be ordered mild
- Watalappam: A traditional Malay-influenced dessert (coconut custard pudding) — kids love it
The portions are generous and meant for sharing, which is how Sri Lankan families eat. Order a rice-and-curry for the table and let everyone dig in.
For Picky Eaters
- Plain rice with dhal curry is mild and universally liked by kids
- String hoppers with coconut milk (kiri hodi) — simple and delicious
- Fried rice — available and kid-approved
- Chicken nuggets or chips: Not authentic, but available for emergencies!
The Setting
Upali’s has a casual, bustling atmosphere. Think wooden furniture, traditional décor, and a background hum of families enjoying their food. It’s the kind of place where no one will judge you if your child is messy or loud — because everyone else’s kids are too.
Multiple Locations
Upali’s has several branches across Colombo:
- Colombo 7 (Nawaloka) — the original and most popular
- Rajagiriya — more spacious, easier parking
- Nugegoda — newest branch
Price Guide
A family of four can eat well for LKR 2,500-4,000 including drinks. For the quality and quantity of food, this is outstanding value.
Our Verdict
Upali’s is our go-to recommendation for families who want to eat real Sri Lankan food without the fine-dining formality or price. It’s casual, friendly, affordable, and the food is genuinely excellent. Every visitor to Sri Lanka with kids should eat here at least once. 4.3 out of 5.
Pro tip: Go slightly before or after the lunch rush (11:30am or 1:30pm) for a quieter experience. The Colombo 7 branch gets packed between 12-1pm.
📍 Getting There & Contact
- Address: 65 C.W.W. Kannangara Mawatha, Colombo 7
- Phone: +94 11 269 8888
- Google Maps: View on Google Maps
