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Best Sri Lankan Restaurants in Melbourne

The Sri Lankan restaurant scene in Melbourne is still quite young. Not too long ago, the only Sri Lankan dishes you could find were hidden on the menus of Malaysian and Indian restaurants, and demand was minimal.

But the Sri Lankan food scene has exploded in Melbourne in recent years. Migration has increased significantly in the last decade, and more Australians are coming back from holidays on the island nation seeking hoppers, curry, short eats, dal and hot butter cuttlefish.

So do as Sri Lankans do – get as many curries, sambals and spicy extras on your plate of rice as possible. Whether you’re picking from a sub-$15 buffet or trying out one of the city’s most exciting restaurants, these are the best spots to sample Sri Lankan cuisine in Melbourne.


Updated on 10 May 2024

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Citrus
Restaurant
Citrus
This Sri Lankan restaurant is a Fitzroy North favourite. It has one of the best (and cheapest) buffets in Melbourne – regardless of cuisine.
Spicy Wicket
Restaurant
Spicy Wicket
There's fiery curries, tasty sambols spooned onto roti and hoppers, and more. Order dozens of dishes, ask the staff what goes with what, then share everything.
Maalu Maalu
Restaurant
Maalu Maalu
A homey Sri Lankan buffet where $25 gets you meat and veggie curries, rice, sambol and more.

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