The 11 BEST Restaurants in Weligama Sri Lanka: A Guide to My Favorite Foodie Spots

Last Updated on April 10, 2025 by Oliver

Weligama is definitely one of the most popular beach towns in Sri Lanka—and honestly, I get why. The surf culture is huge here, with loads of surf camps, schools, and people arriving from all over the world to learn how to surf. Naturally, that kind of crowd creates a chill, laid-back vibe, and you can really feel it when you hang out in Weligama for a while.

But does that also mean Weligama has a good food scene? Are the restaurants in Weligama actually good?

That’s exactly what I want to talk about in this article. I’ve eaten my way through Weligama over the past few trips, and I’m going to share my honest thoughts on the best restaurants I found. Just a heads-up: I’ve tried food all over Sri Lanka—north, south, east, west—so I do tend to compare. Sometimes that’s helpful, sometimes I probably overthink it. But it is what it is.

In my personal opinion, the restaurants in Ahangama or Hiriketiya are a little ahead when it comes to quality, service, and overall vibe. That’s just how I felt—take it or leave it. That said, Weligama still has some really good foodie spots (Cafes in Weligama are amazing though!). And hey, if you’re craving something extra special, Ahangama is just a short drive away anyway.

My intention here is to give you an honest review of the best restaurants I found in Weligama. They might not be the absolute best in Sri Lanka, but they’re still worth visiting. None of the places on this list will disappoint—you’ll eat well and have a good time. I might be a little tougher than most when it comes to reviews, but I’d rather keep it real than just list every place for the sake of it.

So with that said, here are my favorite restaurants in Weligama, Sri Lanka.

What Are the Best Restaurants in Weligama, Sri Lanka? I’ve Got the Answers!

As I mentioned in my intro, Weligama’s food scene may not be as upscale as places like Ahangama or Hiriketiya Beach, and that’s totally fine. The restaurants here offer amazing value for money and plenty of tasty local spots.

My number one pick in Weligama is The Cliff. It has an incredible view of the ocean and is the best spot in town for sunset.

Another spot I love, especially when I’m in the mood for something greasy and indulgent, is Hangten Rooftop. Their smash burgers are absolutely amazing (and probably not the healthiest option, but who cares?).

Meewitha is another favorite. I’m all about cheap eats, and Meewitha nails it. You get loads of delicious food for such a good price, whether you’re craving Sri Lankan dishes or something international.

1. The Cliff Weligama // Best Restaurant in Weligama

Opening Hours: 4pm-10pm
Price: $$$
My Rating: ★★★★★
Menu & Location

This list isn’t in any particular order, but I’ll be honest—The Cliff Weligama is probably my favorite restaurant in town. I’ve been here so many times because I genuinely enjoyed everything about it.

The location and overall vibe are just spot on. It’s set on a big open lawn right by the cliffs, with ocean views, comfy seats, and sunbeds where you can hang out, order food, and watch the sunset. It’s the kind of place you come to and end up staying way longer than planned.

As for the food—it’s phenomenal. Their specialty is the mutton burger, which I’ve had multiple times because it’s just that good. Mutton is pretty common in Sri Lanka (you’ll see mutton rolls at a lot of places), and they do it really well here. That said, my personal favorite is the grilled cuttlefish.

Out of all the spots I tried in Weligama, this one definitely feels the most upscale. It’s a little more expensive, but totally worth it—especially if you come around golden hour and make it part of your sunset plans.

2. Silent Pup Restaurant // Great Restaurant with a View

Opening Hours: 9am-11pm
Price: $$
My Rating: ★★★★
Menu & Location

If you’re looking for another great sunset spot in Weligama that’s a little more low-key—and definitely easier on the wallet than The Cliff—Silent Pup Restaurant is a great choice.

I really love this place. Everything here is a bit more simple in the best way: casual outdoor seating, a direct view of the ocean, and the perfect angle for sunset. Grab a cold beer and you’re set. It’s super chill.

The food here surprised me in a good way. I actually ended up here because the owner of the small hotel I was staying at recommended it—and I always love a good local tip. I’m glad I listened.

I came back a few times and tried a few different things. Their calamari is really tasty, and I’d definitely recommend it. They also do grilled prawns, which were super fresh and tasty (I think it depends on what they get from the fishermen that day). Oh, and if you hang around after sunset, get their piña colada—it’s dangerously good. You might want to grab a tuk tuk home after that one.

3. The Atlas at Cape Weligama

Opening Hours: 7am-10:30pm
Price: $$$$
My Rating: ★★★
Menu & Location

I went to The Atlas on my last night in Weligama—I guess I was looking for something a bit special to wrap up my time there. It seemed like the most upscale restaurant in the area, and in terms of setting and presentation, it definitely is.

The location is stunning—set right on top of the cliffs with panoramic ocean views. The restaurant itself is this beautiful open-air pavilion facing the sea and sunset, but still fully covered, so you’re good even if it rains. The service was also top-notch, as you’d expect from a place that’s part of one of the top luxury hotels in Sri Lanka. I peeked into a couple of the rooms too… and yeah, it’s gorgeous.

I had a coconut soup to start, which was really nice, followed by some sashimi and prawn curries. We also had a glass of white wine that paired super well with everything. Honestly, the whole experience was great.

That said, the price tag was steep. I get that it’s a luxury hotel restaurant in Sri Lanka, but for what we paid here, you could eat at some of the best restaurants in the country—like Smoke & Bitters in Hiriketiya—for way less. So while I did enjoy the food, I think you’re paying more for the setting and the atmosphere than anything else.

4. Meewitha Weligama

Opening Hours: 12pm-9pm
Price: $$
My Rating: ★★★★
Menu & Location

Meewitha is probably my number one spot in Weligama when it comes to value for money. It’s a super basic, no-frills local restaurant, but the food is incredibly flavorful and always hits the spot. I’ve been here at least three times for both lunch and dinner, and every time it was packed—mostly with backpackers from the nearby hostels, which says a lot.

To be honest, I haven’t tried a huge variety of dishes here. I had one meal I loved so much, I just kept ordering it every time I came back: the rice with prawns. The prawns are so perfectly fried and seasoned, it’s just one of those simple-but-perfect dishes. They also do really solid veggie curries, so if you’re vegetarian or vegan, this is a great little spot.

5. Layback Rooftop // Best Rooftop Restaurant in Weligama

Opening Hours: 8am-5pm
Price: $$
My Rating: ★★★★★
Menu & Location

Layback Rooftop is one of my top three rooftop spots in Weligama—and definitely a place I kept coming back to. It’s part of the Layback Surf Camp (which I’ve heard great things about, but can’t speak to personally since I’ve only ever been up to the rooftop restaurant).

I came here a few times, mostly for breakfast because it’s that good (I also included it in my best cafes in Weligama article). But I’ve also been here for lunch and honestly, it never disappointed. The view is lovely, the décor is chill and stylish, and the vibe is relaxed—basically everything you want from a rooftop spot.

That said, I’m a firm believer that a great view doesn’t make bad food taste better. Luckily, the food here is good. I really liked their calamari, but the all-day breakfast menu is where it’s at. I’d happily eat their avocado toast, Turkish eggs, or shakshuka for late lunch—zero shame.

6. Hangten Rooftop // My Number 1 Burger in Weligama

Opening Hours: 7am-9:30pm
Price: $$
My Rating: ★★★★★
Menu & Location

The second of my three favorite rooftops in Weligama is Hangten, which is part of Hangtime Hostel—and it’s such a good vibe. It might actually be my favorite spot when I’m in the mood for something a bit more social. If you’re looking for dinner, drinks, and maybe a chat with some fellow travelers, Hangten’s the spot. It’s always full of backpackers and has a really easygoing, friendly atmosphere.

I honestly wasn’t expecting much from the food at first—just because, you know, hostel restaurants aren’t usually known for their menus. But I was very pleasantly surprised. The burger here is so good. Like, best-in-Weligama good. They do this double cheese smash burger that you can upgrade to a double-double burger… and then it’s just gooey, cheesy, meaty carnage (in the best way possible). It totally gave me American diner vibes, and now it’s my go-to when I’m craving something super satisfying and a little indulgent.

7. Maru Weligama // My favorite Poke & Ceviche in Weligama

Opening Hours: 10am-11pm
Price: $$
My Rating: ★★★★
Menu & Location

Maru Weligama is one of my go-to spots when I’m craving fresh fish. Maru Poke (they just opened a second location in Hiriketiya—very exciting!) is all about seafood, and they do it really well. Their poke bowls are super tasty, and I’d also recommend the shrimp ceviche if you’re into something light and citrusy.

I also love Maru for the location. It’s right on the beach, super chill, and they even have a pool. So while you can totally come here for dinner, I usually end up here for lunch. I just think poke makes such a perfect midday meal—light, fresh, healthy and then lounging by the pool afterwards is a great way to spend a sunny afternoon.

8. Meyola Restaurant

Opening Hours: 8:30am-11:30pm
Price: $
My Rating: ★★★★
Menu & Location

Meyola in Weligama is one of those places that surprised me. At first glance, it doesn’t seem like it would be anything special—a plastic menu with a mix of Western and local dishes like burgers, prawn pasta, and fish tacos, all served in a wooden shack. The signs didn’t scream “amazing food,” but I was definitely wrong.

I tried their prawn pasta, fish tacos, and cheeseburger with fries. Were these the best I’ve ever had? No. But were they super delicious and an absolute steal for the price? Absolutely.

If you’re looking for tasty food that won’t break the bank, I’d recommend Meyola. It’s not fancy, but it definitely delivers a satisfying meal for a great value.

9. Ceylon Sliders // Super cool Vibe (Also good for breakfast)

Opening Hours: 7:30am-9pm
Price: $$
My Rating: ★★★★
Menu & Location

I’ve driven past Ceylon Sliders so many times on the road to Weligama from Ahangama, but for some reason, I never stopped in until recently. And I’m so glad I finally did! From the road, you wouldn’t expect much, but their rooftop and restaurant are actually super cute and a great spot to hang out.

I had the yellowfin tuna and the fish and chips, both of which were fantastic. At first, I thought it was just a burger place—being called Ceylon Sliders and all—but I was really happy with what I ordered, so no complaints there.

I had a chance to chat with the staff, and I learned that Ceylon Sliders has a pretty cool backstory. Two Swedes started a blog, then opened up a yoga retreat, and eventually opened this spot. It’s not just a restaurant; there’s also a boutique shop and a really charming boutique hotel attached. Definitely worth checking out!

10. After Surf Rooftop Cafe // Best Restaurant with a View

Opening Hours: 8am-9pm
Price: $$$
My Rating: ★★★★★
Menu & Location

I absolutely loved coming to After Surf, especially for breakfast, brunch, and coffee—it’s definitely one of the best breakfast spots in town. But, let’s talk about their lunch and dinner menu, which, unsurprisingly, is also pretty great.

I only visited once and went solo, so I couldn’t try a ton of dishes, but what I had was delicious. I went for the Papa’s Tuna, which was a perfectly grilled tuna steak served with rice, vegetables, and mango. It all came together really well. I also tried one of their cocktails (unfortunately, I’ve forgotten the name), but it was fantastic.

Combine all of this with the amazing location—beautiful rooftop, sunset, and ocean views—and you’ve got a top-notch experience.

11. Dulnetha Restaurant Weligama

Opening Hours: 8am-10pm
Price: $
My Rating: ★★★
Menu & Location

Dulnetha Restaurant is my go-to spot in Weligama for authentic Sri Lankan food. Here, you get all the traditional Sri Lankan dishes, with a wide variety of curries to choose from—everything from chicken to vegan and vegetarian options. The way it works is pretty typical for Sri Lanka: they make the main curry fresh for you, and then there’s a spread of other curries, dips, vegetables, and side dishes that have been prepared throughout the day. This is why some dishes might be served at room temperature rather than hot.

What I love about Dulnetha is that they bring out this massive spread of rice, curries, and side dishes, and the flavors are just on point. Even though I’m not the biggest fan of Sri Lankan food in general, this place really nails it!

FAQs About the Best Restaurants in Weligama

Are there rooftop restaurants in Weligama?

Yes, there are! Some of my favorite spots in Weligama are rooftops. Hangten Rooftop, After Surf Rooftop, and Layback Rooftop are all great choices for breakfast, coffee, lunch, dinner, or cocktails. I really enjoyed all of them.

Is W15 Weligama Sri Lanka good?

I’ve been there once because some friends were really keen to check it out. To be honest, I’m not the biggest fan. Beach clubs like that might work well in places like Bali, but they don’t really fit the laid-back vibe of Sri Lankan beach towns. But that’s just my opinion.

What are the best restaurants in Weligama Bay?

My top picks are The Cliff Weligama for an upscale dinner experience with stunning sunset views and fantastic cocktails, and Meyola because it’s simple, delicious, and perfect for a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts on Where to Eat in Weligama

Looking back, I might’ve been a little too harsh in the intro. The food spots in Weligama are actually pretty solid. You can have a great time here and enjoy a variety of meals. Weligama has a bit more of a backpacker vibe, so the affordable, tasty eats here really suit that crowd. On the other hand, Ahangama feels more like a digital nomad and expat hub.

After writing this article, I’ve got some great memories of these places. I genuinely enjoyed trying their food and hanging out at each spot. I hope my personal experiences help you find a great place to eat during your time in Weligama!

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