When you are enjoying the scenic journey during the Ella Odyssey, you can taste the real Sri Lanka experience. And you know you can improve your authentic Sri Lankan experience with the local food experiences along the way and at the destination. From simple local snacks on the train to unforgettable tasty meals in Ella town, this journey offers travelers a true taste of Sri Lanka.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, knowing what to eat, where to eat, and what to bring will make your trip even better.
Traditional Local Dishes to Try Near Ella & Along the Route
Hoppers (Appa)
Hoppers are a popular breakfast or evening snack in Sri Lanka. You must-try this before leaving. It is like crispy edges and with a soft center, often served with sambol or curry. And egg hoppers, especially, are a favorite among travelers. Available in many small restaurants and local eateries near Ella.
Kottu
Kottu is one of the favourite street foods of the locals. This is very filling and budget- friendly food. When you walk along the road in town you can hear chopping sounds like rhythm.Chopped roti, vegetables, eggs, and meat come together in a sizzling performance that ends in one of Sri Lanka’s most beloved dishes.
Ceylon Tea
Sri Lanka is known as a tea country in the world. If you come to Sri Lanka and don’t taste fresh ceylon tea,your authentic food experience won’t be complete. So don’t miss fresh hill-country tea. You can enjoy a cup at small station stalls or tea shops. The combination of the cold mountain climate and a hot cup of tea creates a different feeling.
Rice & Curry
Rice and curry is the heart of Sri Lankan food. For those who want to eat like the locals, a plate of rice and curry is the answer. And if you want to get an authentic local dining experience you can eat rice and curry with your hands. It is served with a variety of vegetable curries, sambol, dhal, and sometimes meat or fish, each plate tells a story of home cooking and tradition. Some curries are mild, others fiery. We recommend that great option for lunch after arriving in Ella
Snacks to Bring on the Train
The Ella train journey is a long, scenic and peaceful journey, and the food options can be limited, so it is a good idea to bring your own snacks. You can also mix in some delicious local food while enjoying the scenic views. Many experienced travelers bring snacks from a nearby bakery. Crispy vegetable rolls, chicken patties or sweet buns neatly wrapped in paper. You can also add some biscuits and sweets to the journey. Enjoying fresh fruit like oranges and bananas while looking out at the beautiful misty mountains adds a natural freshness to the journey. Also, don’t forget to bring along a bottle of water or you can add something like orange juice, and milk packets to quench your thirst when you absolutely need it.
Buying Food from Station Vendors
At some stations along the train journey, vendors make brief appearances. They come aboard with baskets of boiled corn, pickled fruits, and short snacks like wade. Sometimes the train doesn’t stop long enough to catch them – but those quick exchanges become part of the authentic Sri Lankan train experience.
Best Places to Eat When You Arrive in Ella
Ella is full of cozy cafes and restaurants loved by travelers.
Cafe-Style Dining
- Great for breakfast, brunch, and coffee
- Often serve both Sri Lankan and Western food
- Ideal for relaxing after the train journey
Local Restaurants
- Best places to try rice & curry and kottu
- Affordable and authentic
- Ask locals for recommendations
View Restaurants
- Some cafés offer mountain or valley views
- Perfect for sunset dining
- Slightly higher prices, but worth the experience
Food Tips for Travelers
- Ask about spice levels if you’re sensitive to spicy food
- Drink bottled or filtered water only
- Carry hand sanitizer or wet wipes
- Eat at busy places, usually fresher and safer
- Try local food slowly if you’re not used to it
Taste the Journey
Food is not just fuel. it’s part of the story. Trying local dishes, sipping fresh tea, and enjoying meals in Ella will make your Ella Odyssey journey more memorable, authentic, and satisfying.
