Amelia WilliamsCraving the vibrant, spicy, and coconut-rich flavours of Sri Lanka? You’re in luck.
Auckland’s food scene is brimming with incredible spots that bring the authentic taste of the island nation right to our doorstep.
It’s a place for flavour adventures and a comforting taste of home for members of the Sri Lankan community. Foodies also have a chance to dive into an exciting and lesser-known cuisine.
We’ve explored the city to find the best Sri Lankan restaurants in Auckland. Our list includes casual takeaway joints serving heartwarming curries and lively eateries where street food sizzles on the griddle. Get ready to explore a world of flavour.
How much does it cost to eat at Sri Lankan restaurants in Auckland?
Dining out for Sri Lankan food in Auckland is quite budget-friendly. For a casual dine-in experience, you can expect a main dish to cost between NZ20andNZ30.
If you stumble upon a buffet, it’s often a great deal at around NZ$25 per person. Takeaway spots and set lunch menus are even kinder to your wallet.
Of course, prices can climb a bit at more upscale restaurants. But generally, you can enjoy a hearty, flavour-packed meal without breaking the bank.
1. Kothu Kadai
Website: https://kothukadai.co.nz/
Address: 1270 Dominion Road, Mt Roskill, Auckland 1041
Contact: 09 620 0668
Hours: Tue – Fri, 12 NN – 2:30 PM & 4:30 PM – 9 PM; Sat – Sun: 12 NN – 9 PM
Must-Try: Chicken Kothu Roti
If you want to try what might be the most iconic Sri Lankan street food, Kothu Kadai is the place to be.
They specialise in Kothu Roti, a dish made from chopped flatbread, vegetables, egg, and meat, all stir-fried on a hot griddle. The sound and smell of it being prepared is an experience in itself.
I went there specifically for their chicken kothu, and it was flavourful, spicy, and incredibly satisfying. The restaurant has been a fixture in the community since 2006, a testament to its consistency and skill.
They also offer a great range of traditional Sri Lankan and South Indian dishes.
If you are considering their catering service, one thing to keep in mind is that it is geared towards large events, requiring a minimum of 50 people. It won’t be ideal for a small family get-together or intimate group dinners.
Customer Reviews
The food was absolutely amazing! The ambiance created by the lighting added to the overall experience, making it feel truly special. Each dish was on another level—simply heavenly. Every item is a classic, and I can’t wait to come back again!
– Sharujan 12 | Google Review
Had a great experience here. Great food, great hosts and fantastic service. They don’t do thousand things but do what they do to their best. I would strongly recommend this place
– Las Akurugoda | Google Review
2. Dil Takeaways
Website: https://diltakeaways.co.nz/
Address: 8/2 Commissariat Road, Mount Wellington, Auckland 1060
Contact: 09 525 0384 / [email protected]
Hours: Tue – Fri, 11 AM – 7 PM; Sat, 10 AM – 6 PM
Must-Try: Lamprais
For food that tastes like it was made in a Sri Lankan family kitchen, Dil Takeaways is a true gem. This spot is all about home-style cooking, with recipes that have been passed down through generations.
You can really taste the care and tradition in every bite. Their menu is impressively diverse, including specialties you won’t find everywhere.
I was keen to try their Lamprais, a special rice dish baked in a banana leaf, and it was incredibly aromatic and comforting. It truly feels like they’re sharing a piece of their heritage with every meal they serve.
The only drawback is its location in Mount Wellington. If you live across town, getting a delivery might be a bit of a stretch, but it’s definitely worth the drive to pick up your order.
Customer Reviews
If you want yummy Sri Lankan Rice and curry for a decent price look no further. I’ve tried many places around Auckland but hands down the best in terms of the value and quantity. 🤤👌🏽 Keep up the good work guys!
– Patti Peiris | Google Review
Always love this place for homestyle reasonably priced Sri Lankan food. They are on uber eats, but if you got the time, call, order, and go pick up, as they got weekly specials etc that are always a good deal. And sometimes they have home made ice cream as well!
– Danidu Wijekoon | Google Review
3. Srilankan Daily Dish Restaurant
Website: https://www.srilankandailydish.co.nz/
Address: 2 Uku Lane, Hobsonville, Auckland 0616
Contact: 09 200 3688 / [email protected]
Hours: Sat – Thu, 11 AM – 9 PM
Must-Try: Rice and Curry Pack
Srilankan Daily Dish is focused on bringing authentic flavours straight to your door. Their focus is on convenient takeaway and delivery, making it easy to enjoy traditional meals at home.
Their menu covers the range of Sri Lankan classics, including rich curries, kottu, delicate hoppers, and various street-food snacks.
A friend who lives in Hobsonville swears by this place for a weeknight dinner fix. He recommended their classic Rice and Curry Packs, and I can see why.
They consistently deliver fresh, high-quality meals made with genuine spices that remind him of his travels.
While the convenience of their delivery model is a major benefit, their service area is naturally limited.
If you live further away, you might be outside their delivery radius, which is something to consider before you get your heart set on their delicious food.
Customer Reviews
Really nice food will be back again soon
– Gaz Scott | Google Review
Delicious, budget-friendly food recipes
– Harindra Ganegoda | Google Review
4. St Anthony’s Food
Website: https://stanthony.co.nz/
Address: 585 Sandringham Road, Sandringham, Auckland 1025
Contact: 09 846 8185 / [email protected]
Hours: Mon – Sun, 8 AM – 8 PM
Must-Try: Masala Wade
St Anthony’s Food is an institution in Auckland’s Sri Lankan community. Having been around since 1997, this place has a long history of serving authentic food that keeps people coming back.
Here, the aromas of a bakery, cafe, and restaurant mingle, as the counter serves everything from full curry meals to custom cakes.
I was told their short eats are even better than what you can find in Sri Lanka, and I have to agree—the crispy rolls had the perfect crunch and the savoury vade was packed with flavour.
With so many offerings, you can find almost any Sri Lankan specialty you’re looking for in one place.
However, their deep focus on this specific cuisine means the menu might feel limited if you’re dining with someone who prefers more international options.
This spot will appeal most to anyone dedicated to exploring authentic Sri Lankan food, but make sure you’re ready to deal with the parking chaos!
Customer Reviews
Food with pride and love. You can taste it every mouthful. After travelling in Sri Lanka and falling in love with the food (and the people), this is my number one place to take me back. The short eats are actually better than the vast majority I had in Sri Lanka and the Kothu I had just now was the best Kothu I have ever had. Outstanding! These people know how to cook.
– J R | Google Review
Was so glad to find this place. They got all kinds of Sri Lankan food. Rolls, vade, dhal, pol sambol, devilled potatoes, moju, strings, and even roast pan. Sri Lankan haven in Auckland 😍
– Farhat Jeh | Google Review
5. Citrus by Ambula
Website: https://ambulasrilankancuisine.co.nz/
Address: 48 Queens Road, Panmure, Auckland 1072
Contact: 0210 287 2655
Hours: Mon – Fri, 11:30 AM – 9 PM; Sat – Sun, 11 AM – 9 PM
Must-Try: Chef’s Special Rice and Curry
Citrus by Ambula cooks with high-quality, fresh ingredients, making traditional recipes that taste authentic and vibrant.
Their online ordering system is a welcome convenience for getting food delivered or picked up on busy nights.
One of the best things I’ve heard about Citrus is their attention to dietary needs, so I had to check out their Chef’s Special Rice and Curry. The freshness of the ingredients really shone through.
They also offer a good range of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring more people can enjoy their food.
As with many specialised restaurants, the main focus is squarely on Sri Lankan dishes, which could be a drawback if you’re dining with a group looking for a wider variety of international cuisines.
Plus, you might have to extend a little more of your patience a bit as they tend to get packed and busy during peak hours.
Customer Reviews
Had a nice lunch at Citrus and food was so delicious. It had authentic Sri Lankan taste 😋 The customer service is very friendly and the prices are reasonable too. If you also wanna try Sri Lankan cuisine in Auckland, this place is highly recommended ✨ I hope to come back to your restaurant when I’m craving yummy Sri Lankan food ♥️
– Yasuri Wijewardana | Google Review
Citrus one of the best Sri Lankan restaurents in the town. If you are living in Auckland a must visit. Experience true Sri Lankan taste and flavours ! Chef special rice and curry and fried rice is die for ! Love the food and friendly service.
– hashini sadhani | Google Review
