Palmyrah Restaurant — Restaurant in Colombo

Palmyrah claims to offer "authentic" and "traditional" Jaffna flavors, but unfortunately, the experience fell short of that promise. The flavors felt diluted, seemingly modified to cater to a Western or non-native palate, which diminished the authenticity that one would expect from such a place.

The odiyal kool starter, advertised as one of their signature dishes, was particularly disappointing. The flavors were off, and rather than the earthy, seafood-rich taste typical of kool, it was overshadowed by an unexpected addition—possibly a tomato or chili-based sauce—that completely altered the dish’s character. This departure from tradition was a letdown.

The other dishes didn’t fare much better. The hoppers were underwhelming, I assumed that the batter wasn't fermented enough, and both the kothu and prawn dish lacked the bold, nuanced flavors that define authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.

The core issue seems to be a dilution of traditional recipes. By trying to appeal to a broader audience, Palmyrah has compromised the very essence of what makes Jaffna cuisine so special. If you market your food as "authentic," it’s crucial to stay true to the original flavors rather than tailoring everything for a "foreign" palate.

The service, too, left something to be desired. It took over 10 minutes before our server even approached our table, despite the restaurant being almost empty. There was a noticeable lack of attentiveness, which contributed to the overall lackluster experience.

On a positive note, the atmosphere was clean and pleasant, but that alone isn’t enough to redeem the experience.

Given the hype surrounding Palmyrah, especially from YouTube videos labeling it a "must-visit," I’d have to disagree. Based on this visit, I’d recommend giving it a pass unless they go back to delivering the rich, authentic Jaffna flavors they...

Palmyrah Restaurant in Colombo is a charming culinary gem, offering an enticing taste of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Their complimentary papadam and delightful rasam soup set the stage for a remarkable dining experience. The extensive menu features a variety of delectable options, but don't miss the Fish Pittu with eggplant curry – a standout choice.

This place is a must-visit! Prices are reasonable, considering the exceptional food quality, and the service is top-notch. Perfect for gatherings with family and friends, the restaurant accommodates large groups effortlessly. You'll be treated to a genuine taste of Sri Lanka, with impeccable service, even during busy times.

Palmyrah Restaurant immerses you in the flavors of Jaffna, offering a taste of northern Sri Lankan culinary traditions. The decor and ambiance reflect Sri Lankan culture, creating a warm and inviting setting. The menu features a range of traditional dishes, with a focus on both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Indulge in string hoppers, crab curry, mutton curry, and more. Seafood lovers can savor fresh catches like prawns, crabs, and fish.

While the food is a highlight, be prepared for a bit of a wait, and note that some dishes may arrive slightly cooler than desired. The ambiance is pleasing, and air conditioning adds to the comfort during warm weather. Palmyrah Restaurant is a culinary journey through Sri Lankan authenticity, making it a favorite for locals and tourists eager to explore the vibrant cuisine of this beautiful...

If you are looking for authentic Sri Lankan food, you have come to the best place in town. Palmyrah restaurant at the Renuka City Hotel has a diverse menu, that covers all the major bases of unique Sri Lankan favorites. There are string hoppers, hoppers, rice & curry, Thosai, Kothu and Pittu. There is a superb selection of rice, curries, sambols and of course appetizers. In addition, there are mouthwatering desserts. I had the plain samba rice with crab meat curry, tempered ladies fingers (okra) with pol sambol. It was divine. My only suggestion is that the crab curry should be made with lump crab. To have small shredded pieces that are buried and overwhelmed by the thick gravy, destroys the experience. Therefore, what is lacking is texture and bite to truly savor this dish. Before anything came out, the house serves rassam in a Turkish coffee cup with pappadum. This combination is dynamite. The rassam is thick with a mix of strong flavors that really hit the spot. My complaint about the atmosphere is that it was very chilly where I was sitting (and cooling the food). I made numerous attempts to address the problem with the server and then with the manager. They toned down or even shut the air conditioner to only turn it back on. This on off cycle repeated many times during my lunch. The dining room filled up pretty soon. Judging from the crowd, service was fantastic. I will be tasting many more dishes and will post pictures...