10 OF THE TASTIEST AND MOST POPULAR STREET FOODS IN SRI LANKA

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1. Kottu Roti

Sri Lanka’s most iconic street food—chopped flatbread stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, meat (or cheese), and aromatic spices. The sound of the metal blades clanging on the griddle is part of the experience. Cost: ranges from US$ 1 to 3, depending on where you buy.

2. Isso Wade (Prawn Fritters)

Crispy deep-fried lentil patties topped with whole prawns, often served with spicy chutneys. A must-try at coastal stalls or Galle Face Green in Colombo. Cost: For 1 USD, you can by minimum 15 of them.

3. Egg Hoppers (Biththara Appa)

Bowl-shaped crispy pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, with a soft egg in the center. Often served with lunu miris (spicy onion sambal). Cost: Per USD 1, you can purchase 2 of them.

4. Fish Roti / Vegetable Roti

Triangular or rolled stuffed flatbreads filled with curried fish, potato, or vegetables. Spicy, filling, and perfect for a quick snack. Cost: Minimum Two and Maximum 3 per USD 1.

5. Parippu Wade (Lentil Fritters)

Crunchy snacks made from ground lentils, spices, and green chilies. Often enjoyed with sweet tea or spicy sauce. Cost: Per USD 1, you can purchase a minimum of 15 Lentil Fritters.

6. Achcharu (Sri Lankan Pickled Fruits)

Street-style pickled fruits like mango, pineapple, or ambarella soaked in a tangy-sweet-spicy mix of chili, vinegar, and sugar. A favorite among locals on a hot day. Cost: A cup of Pickled Fruits may cost a minimum of US Dollar Half.

7. Naan with Dhal Curry or Pol Sambol

Freshly made naan or roti served with spicy lentil curry or coconut sambol, usually from roadside eateries or “roti kades.” Cost: You can buy one or two Naan with Dhal Curry or Pol Sambol for US$ 1. But, atleast you need three Naan’s to ensure that you will not feel hungry soon.

8. Ulundu Wade (Vadai)

Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these are savory doughnuts made from urad dal and spices. Often paired with chutneys or sambar. Cost: Two Big Wade’s you can buy at a price of USD 1.

9. Cassava Chips

Crispy and spicy deep-fried tapioca (manioc) chips seasoned with chili and salt—sold in packets on buses and trains. Cost: A packet of Cassava Chips may cost you US$ 1, sometimes, even lesser.

10. Pol Roti Sandwiches

Flat coconut roti served with fillings like onions, chili paste, egg, or spicy fish. It’s a hearty street food option, especially popular for breakfast. Cost: You can eat about three to four of them with some gravy or sambol for a price of US$ 1.

Kindly note that the prices given here are based on ‘Street Food’ prices, while if you do eat in high end restaurants, prices will vary.

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