Sri Lanka's national cuisine carries significant European influences but is distinguished by its unique spiciness and bold flavors. It's customary for hotels on the island to offer buffet-style dining for guests. However, it's advisable to ask the waiter for dishes with milder spiciness levels, as Sri Lankan cuisine tends to be quite spicy. Even if you're told that a dish is not spicy at all, it may still contain some pepper. Don't hesitate to complement your meal with bread when enjoying meat and vegetable dishes.
When dining in Hikkaduwa, be sure to explore the delightful vegetarian options. Fruit and vegetable salads, a variety of soups, and, of course, seafood are among the favorites.
While alcohol options in Sri Lanka may not be the finest, you might want to sample local choices like coconut vodka, known as arak, for the experience. Without a doubt, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy Sri Lanka's famous tea and coffee, as the country remains a prominent player in the world of tea production.