Upali's by Nawaloka — Restaurant in Colombo

I was looking to experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and Upali’s by Nawaloka was my answer.

After leaving my apartment l was so excited that my tastebuds were in full flight. This was only my 3rd day in Sri Lanka and wanted to experience some really authentic fare and that’s exactly what l got.

From the moment l entered Upali’s there were happy smiling staff and the greeting was warm and welcoming. Yes l had looked up the restaurant before l came and on doing that l expected the restaurant to be busy so l came early. I was pleasantly surprised that there was only one couple there before me.

I had a good look around the restaurant and the history that it presents and holds. From the paintings on the walls to the Morta that was used back in the 1950’s really gives you a sense of authenticity and age.

The restaurant had a nice calming feel. I chose a table with a view of the street, was given a menu and opted for the homemade ginger like beer that was recommended. I sat and explored the menu and that was an educational moment within itself.

I was instantly set on the Lunch Speacial which consisted of 2rice/3veg/coconut sambal/papadums and dried fish. I cant remember the name for the homemade drink though it was delicious, not too carbonated or sweet and paired really well with the spicy meal. I must point out that if you’re not accustomed to spicy food then it’s probably a good idea to let them know beforehand.

The lunch special arrived and wow. Everything looked so delicious, fresh and wholesome. I was so hungry as this was my 1st meal of the day @11.30am.

The lunch special starts at 11.30am until it runs out. It comes at a price of rs1035.

Naveen the waiter was so fantastic and friendly. He brought out the rice dishes first and then proceeded to bring g out the cart which has all the vegetables and gravies in it.

It was time to try this amazing food. Delicious and so satisfying within every bite. Throughout the meal l had amazing conversations with Naveen and also got to meet UMESH. They were both such amazing young fellas that were very enthusiastic and passionate.

Great conversations and extremely great food.

It was that good that l ordered 3more dishes for take away. Highly recommend

Thank you to...

Nestled in the heart of Colombo, Upali's stands as a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Sri Lanka. From the moment you step through its doors, you're enveloped in an ambiance that's both warm and inviting, setting the stage for an unparalleled dining experience.As you peruse the menu, it's evident that Upali's takes great pride in showcasing the diversity of Sri Lankan cuisine. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, blending traditional recipes with a modern twist, ensuring that there's something to satisfy every palate. The flavors are bold and authentic, capturing the essence of the island's spices and ingredients.The standout dishes at Upali's are a culinary journey through Sri Lanka. The prawn curry is a feast for the senses, with its rich and aromatic sauce complementing the perfectly cooked prawn. The pol sambol, with its spicy coconut flavor, adds a delightful zest to any meal. Vegetarian options are equally impressive, with the jackfruit curry being a must-try for its succulent texture and flavorful gravy.But it's not just the food that makes Upali's special; it's the atmosphere and the service. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure you feel welcomed, offering recommendations and sharing insights into the dishes that make your dining experience truly memorable. The decor, with its nods to Sri Lankan culture, complements the culinary journey, making you feel as if you've been transported to a different world.Upali's also understands the importance of community and sustainability. They source their ingredients locally where possible, supporting local farmers and ensuring that the food not only tastes good but also contributes positively to the local ecosystem.In conclusion, Upali's is not just a restaurant; it's a celebration of Sri Lankan culture, cuisine, and hospitality. Whether you're a local or a traveler, a meal at Upali's is a journey through the flavors and traditions of Sri Lanka, leaving you with a lasting impression and a desire to return. It's a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of what Colombo...

I have visited Upali’s many times and used to love the food and ambiance, but my recent visit was extremely disappointing and frankly, embarrassing, especially because I brought foreign friends along, expecting the usual high standards.

I made a reservation for 12 people after confirming that hoppers would be available. I even triple-checked at 8:00 PM, stressing the importance of this as my guests were eager to try traditional Sri Lankan hoppers. I was reassured everything was in order.

However, upon arriving at 8:30 PM, our reserved table wasn’t ready. We were taken to a private dining area, which was fine, but things quickly went downhill from there. The waitstaff seemed overwhelmed, only two waiters were available and I had to physically follow one to get our orders taken, which was awkward and frustrating.

To make things worse, we were told that hoppers were no longer available. This was the most embarrassing part, considering I had confirmed it earlier. I had to walk to the kitchen myself, where a very kind staff member showed me the hopper batter and offered to prepare 5 or 6 hoppers, which he kindly did. That was the only highlight of the night.

The waiter told us, “If you want hoppers, you have to come early,” which made it sound like this was just some roadside shop on Galle Road, not a reputable restaurant with reservations and proper communication.

We tried to order alternatives, but most traditional items like string hoppers and pittu were also unavailable. Only kottu, paratha, and egg roti were offered. With no choice left, we went ahead with that.

By 10:00 PM, the staff had clearly decided they were done for the night—they refused to take further orders, claiming the kitchen was closed. We had to practically beg just to get some tea.

This visit was honestly a disaster. I felt humiliated in front of my foreign friends. Upali’s used to have great food, a welcoming vibe, and solid service. Sadly, this visit has convinced me...