Best Breakfast Places in Colombo in 2023: Ultimate Guide

Are you planning on visiting Colombo and looking for some of the best places to see and foods to eat to make your trip even more special? Then you’ve come to the right place. Colombo is the largest city and commercial hub of Sri Lanka and full of attractions, culture and, most importantly, delicious food. Whether it’s your first visit to Colombo or you’ve been there before, there are plenty of places to explore and meals to try that will make your trip even more enjoyable. specifically, if you’re a traveller who wants to have a breakfast in Colombo, there are a number of fantastic options for you to choose from. From local delicacies to international favorites, there’s something to suit everyone. Let’s take a look at some of the best places and what to eat for a memorable breakfast in Colombo!

Colombo, the vibrant capital city of Sri Lanka, is a captivating destination that combines history, culture, and stunning coastal scenery. This bustling metropolis has something to offer every type of traveler. Here’s why you should consider visiting Colombo and what culinary delights await you.

Colombo boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture, with ancient temples and colonial-era architecture coexisting harmoniously with modern skyscrapers. The city is home to intriguing attractions like the Gangaramaya Temple, the National Museum, and the colonial-era Galle Face Green promenade, perfect for sunset strolls. Colombo’s coastal location also means you can enjoy pristine beaches like Mount Lavinia Beach and indulge in water sports. The city’s vibrant markets and bustling streets offer a glimpse into daily life in Sri Lanka, making it a truly immersive travel experience.

Sri Lankan cuisine is a highlight of any visit to Colombo. Start your culinary journey with a steaming plate of hoppers, bowl-shaped pancakes made from rice flour and coconut milk, served with spicy sambal (chutney). Don’t miss out on trying kottu roti, a delicious dish made from chopped roti, vegetables, and your choice of meat or seafood, all stir-fried to perfection. Seafood lovers will relish the fresh catches from the Indian Ocean, including mouthwatering prawn or crab curries. Round off your meal with Sri Lanka’s famous sweet treats like kokis (crispy coconut cookies) or wattalapam, a creamy, spiced dessert. Colombo’s diverse culinary scene promises a delightful journey for your taste buds.

In this post we listed some of the best breakfast places in Colombo.

Best Breakfast Places in Colombo

Whight & Co – 7.7/10

Whight & Co is a one of the best Coffee Shop to have breakfast in Colombo. If you are looking for the best breakfast places in Colombo you can try Whight & Co.

Best Known For

• Coffee
• Cold drip
• Eggs benedict
• Scenic views
• Breakfast food

Address of Whight & Co:

You can get directions to Whight & Co from below address:

Phone Number

+94 114 383 236

Working Hours

TodayNoon–8:00 PM

Sugar Bistro & Wine Bar – 8.1/10

Sugar Bistro & Wine Bar is a one of the best Bistro to have breakfast in Colombo. If you are looking for the best breakfast places in Colombo you can try Sugar Bistro & Wine Bar.

Best Known For

• Coffee
• Quiet meal
• Javanese rice
• Amberella juice
• Good for dates

Address of Sugar Bistro & Wine Bar:

You can get directions to Sugar Bistro & Wine Bar from below address:

Phone Number

+94 112 446 229

Working Hours

Mon–Sun8:30 AM–Midnight

Website

If you want more information about Sugar Bistro & Wine Bar, you can visit their website at: http://sugarcolombo.com

Barista – 8.1/10

Barista is a one of the best Coffee Shop to have breakfast in Colombo. If you are looking for the best breakfast places in Colombo you can try Barista.

Best Known For

• Pol sambol
• Sandwiches
• Great value
• Good for a quick meal
• Espresso

Address of Barista:

You can get directions to Barista from below address:

Working Hours

Today8:00 AM–7:00 PM

Website

If you want more information about Barista, you can visit their website at: http://barista.lk

Coco Veranda – 8.4/10

Coco Veranda is a one of the best Café to have breakfast in Colombo. If you are looking for the best breakfast places in Colombo you can try Coco Veranda.

Best Known For

• Coffee
• Cake
• Desserts
• Burgers
• Espresso drinks

Address of Coco Veranda:

You can get directions to Coco Veranda from below address:

Phone Number

+94 117 635 635

Working Hours

Mon–Sun7:00 AM–Midnight

Website

If you want more information about Coco Veranda, you can visit their website at: http://www.cocoveranda.com

German Artisan Bakery & Deli – 7.9/10

German Artisan Bakery & Deli is a one of the best German Restaurant to have breakfast in Colombo. If you are looking for the best breakfast places in Colombo you can try German Artisan Bakery & Deli.

Best Known For

• Farmers
• Breakfast food
• Pork sausages
• Cozy
• Great value

Address of German Artisan Bakery & Deli:

You can get directions to German Artisan Bakery & Deli from below address:

Cafe Kumbuk – 8.0/10

Cafe Kumbuk is a one of the best Breakfast Spot to have breakfast in Colombo. If you are looking for the best breakfast places in Colombo you can try Cafe Kumbuk.

Best Known For

• Healthy food
• Cozy
• Casual
• Good for dates
• Avocado toast

Address of Cafe Kumbuk:

You can get directions to Cafe Kumbuk from below address:

Working Hours

Tue–Sat8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Tea Avenue – 7.4/10

Tea Avenue is a one of the best Tea Room to have breakfast in Colombo. If you are looking for the best breakfast places in Colombo you can try Tea Avenue.

Best Known For

• Waffles
• Casual
• Cozy
• Good for groups
• Brownie frappe

Address of Tea Avenue:

You can get directions to Tea Avenue from below address:

Working Hours

Mon–Thu, Sun6:30 AM–11:00 PM

Website

If you want more information about Tea Avenue, you can visit their website at: http://www.tea-avenue.com

Barista – 7.6/10

Barista is a one of the best Coffee Shop to have breakfast in Colombo. If you are looking for the best breakfast places in Colombo you can try Barista.

Best Known For

• Coffee
• Espresso drinks
• Sandwiches
• Good for groups
• Casual

Address of Barista:

You can get directions to Barista from below address:

Phone Number

+94 112 055 491

Working Hours

Mon–Sun7:00 AM–11:00 PM

Website

If you want more information about Barista, you can visit their website at: http://www.barista.lk

Java Lounge – 7.7/10

Java Lounge is a one of the best Coffee Shop to have breakfast in Colombo. If you are looking for the best breakfast places in Colombo you can try Java Lounge.

Best Known For

• Coffee
• Cheesecake
• Espresso drinks
• Casual
• Frappuccinos

Address of Java Lounge:

You can get directions to Java Lounge from below address:

Phone Number

+94 112 556 633

Working Hours

Mon–Sun7:30 AM–Midnight

Website

If you want more information about Java Lounge, you can visit their website at: http://www.javalounge.lk

McDonald’s – 7.5/10

McDonald’s is a one of the best Fast Food Restaurant to have breakfast in Colombo. If you are looking for the best breakfast places in Colombo you can try McDonald’s.

Best Known For

• Big mac
• Burgers
• Ice cream
• Mc spicy
• Family-friendly

Address of McDonald’s:

You can get directions to McDonald’s from below address:

Phone Number

+94 112 817 755

Working Hours

Mon–Sun7:00 AM–11:30 PM

Bonus: Useful Tips Before Having Breakfast In Colombo

1. Traditional Sri Lankan Breakfast: Start your day by indulging in a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast. Look for local eateries that offer “string hoppers” (steamed rice noodle cakes), “kiribath” (milk rice), and various types of “sambol” (spicy condiments).
2. Hoppers and Egg Hoppers: Don’t miss trying “hoppers,” which are crispy-edged rice flour pancakes typically enjoyed with coconut sambol or a runny egg cooked in the center, known as “egg hoppers.”
3. Coconut Roti: Look for “pol roti,” a delicious coconut flatbread served with a side of “lunu miris” (spicy onion and chili relish) or “seeni sambol” (sweet caramelized onion relish).
4. Kottu Roti: If you’re feeling adventurous, try “kottu roti,” a popular street food made by chopping up roti and mixing it with vegetables, meat, and spices on a griddle.
5. Fresh Tropical Fruits: Sri Lanka is abundant in tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, pineapples, and bananas. Enjoy a plate of freshly cut fruits for a refreshing breakfast.
6. Tea and Coffee: Sip on Ceylon tea or locally brewed coffee as you start your day. Both options are readily available and pair well with the local breakfast dishes.
7. Western-Style Breakfast: If you prefer something familiar, many cafes and hotels in Colombo offer Western-style breakfast options like omelets, toast, and cereal.
8. Bakeries and Sweets: Explore local bakeries for a variety of Sri Lankan sweets and pastries. “Chinese rolls” (savoury stuffed pastries), “vadai” (deep-fried lentil fritters), and “pani pol” (jaggery-filled pancakes) are popular choices.
9. Seaside Breakfast: If you’re staying near the coast, consider having breakfast at a beachfront café to enjoy the ocean breeze along with your meal.
10. Explore the Markets: Visit markets like Pettah Market or Good Market for a diverse breakfast experience. You’ll find everything from fresh produce to street food stalls.
11. Street Food Stalls: Don’t hesitate to try street food vendors for a truly local experience. Look for places with a crowd of locals, as that’s usually a sign of tasty and authentic food.
12. Rice and Curry: While it might seem like a heavy breakfast, Sri Lankans often enjoy rice and curry for their morning meal. Choose from a variety of curries and enjoy the explosion of flavors.
13. Plan for Spices: Be ready for spices in your breakfast dishes. Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its vibrant use of spices that add layers of flavor to the food.
14. Ask Locals for Recommendations: Locals are usually more than happy to recommend their favorite breakfast spots. Strike up a conversation and get insider tips for a memorable breakfast experience.

Remember that Sri Lankan breakfasts can vary from simple to elaborate, so don’t hesitate to try a mix of options to truly savor the local flavors and immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary culture of Colombo. You can also check our other post that we listed some of the best breakfast spots in Kotikawatta, Sri Lanka here.

Thanks for reading our article about having breakfast in Colombo! Whether you’re a tourist just arriving in the city or a seasoned local who wants to take their morning meal to the next level, there’s something here for everyone. From tantalizing street food to exquisite fine dining, a hearty breakfast in Colombo promises to be an unforgettable experience. So forget your normal eggs and toast routine – immerse yourself in the city’s diverse food culture and sample the unique breakfast offerings in Colombo!