At Yakaduru Yala, we believe that exploring Sri Lanka is not complete without tasting its vibrant, soulful cuisine. Our meals are more than just food – they’re an experience rooted in traditional Sri Lankan culture, served fresh in a serene setting near Yala National Park. With every bite, guests are invited to savor the authentic, home-cooked flavors of the island, crafted with love, care, and a deep respect for tradition.
Whether you’re starting your day with a hearty breakfast, enjoying a warm lunch under the sun, or winding down with a starlit dinner, the culinary journey at Yakaduru Yala brings you closer to the true taste of Sri Lanka.
Traditional Sri Lankan Breakfast at Yakaduru Yala
Every morning at Yakaduru Yala begins with a spread of flavorful, comforting dishes prepared the traditional way – using fresh, local ingredients and age-old methods. Here’s what you can expect:
- Kiribath (Milk Rice)
A symbolic and beloved dish, kiribath is made by cooking rice in creamy coconut milk. It’s typically served with lunu miris (a spicy onion and chili sambol) or seeni sambol (a sweet and spicy caramelized onion relish), offering a perfect blend of mellow and bold flavors.
- String Hoppers (Idiyappam)
Delicate rice flour noodles, steamed into soft spirals, are served with a variety of traditional Sri Lankan curries. This dish is a breakfast staple known for its lightness and ability to absorb spices beautifully.
- Roti
Our Sri Lankan roti is a warm, hand-rolled flatbread made with wheat flour and grated coconut. Served with flavorful side curries or sambols, it’s a rustic, satisfying start to your day.
- Pittu
A traditional breakfast made by steaming a blend of rice flour and grated coconut into soft, crumbly cylinders. Best enjoyed with warm coconut milk and spicy curries.
- Traditional Beans
Varieties such as chickpeas, mung beans, and cowpeas are cooked in authentic Sri Lankan styles – wholesome and hearty additions to your morning plate.
Lunch: Authentic Sri Lankan Rice & Curries
At lunchtime, we invite you to sit down to one of the most celebrated meals in Sri Lanka – a plate of authentic rice and curries.
Guests at Yakaduru Yala enjoy generous servings of red or white rice, accompanied by a flavorful variety of Sri Lankan authentic rice and curries. Cooked with locally grown vegetables, spices, and proteins, each curry is handcrafted to offer deep, comforting flavors that reflect the island’s culinary identity.
This nourishing midday meal brings together taste and tradition in the most delightful way – just like how it’s done in Sri Lankan homes.
Dinner:Hoppers, Kottu & BBQ
As evening falls over the wild beauty of Yala, dinner at Yakaduru Yala becomes a magical experience
under the stars. Guests can indulge in iconic local favorites, each bursting with flavor:
- Hoppers (Appa) – Choose from plain, egg, or sweet honey hoppers, freshly cooked in clay pans for that perfect crispy edge and soft center.
- Prawn, Fish & Chicken Curries – Rich, slow-cooked, and packed with authentic spices, these are served alongside hoppers or rice.
- Seeni Sambol & Lunu Miris – Bold, spicy, and sweet condiments that elevate every meal.
- Sri Lankan Kottu – A crowd-favorite street dish made by stir-frying chopped roti, vegetables, egg, and meat with spices – a flavorful must-try.
- Sri Lankan BBQ – For a smoky and rustic dinner, enjoy BBQ meats or seafood, grilled with traditional spice blends and served with local salads and sides.
Sustainable and Culinary Experience
At Yakaduru Yala, our food philosophy is grounded in sustainability, eco-friendly practices, and a deep love for Sri Lankan traditional culture. All meals are prepared with locally sourced produce, supporting nearby farmers and fishing communities. Every dish celebrates authenticity, whether you’re enjoying it in the bush dining area or under the stars.
We don’t just serve meals – we serve stories, culture, and the timeless beauty of Sri Lanka’s culinary heritage.
Come hungry, leave with memories – only at Yakaduru Yala.
