Toronto is home to one of the largest Sri Lankan Tamil communities outside Sri Lanka, making the GTA one of the best places in North America to experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.

From crispy hoppers and spicy kothu roti to rich Jaffna-style curries and freshly made string hoppers, Sri Lankan food is known for its bold spices, aromatic curries, and incredible variety.

To discover the city's most authentic restaurants, we asked Toronto's multicultural community where they go when they want food that reminds them of home.

These are the Sri Lankan restaurants locals recommended.

Hopper Hut

📍 Google Maps
https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Hopper+Hut+Scarborough

Hopper Hut was one of the most frequently recommended restaurants in the discussion and has become a landmark for Sri Lankan food in Toronto.

Known for its authentic Jaffna cuisine, it's a favourite for both longtime locals and newcomers.

What to Order

Egg Hoppers
Chicken Kothu Roti
String Hoppers
Mutton Curry

Why People Love It

Many Sri Lankans describe Hopper Hut as one of the closest experiences to eating back home.

Its extensive menu and authentic preparation have earned it a loyal following.

Martin's Bakery

📍 Google Maps
https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Martins+Bakery+Scarborough

Martin's Bakery is much more than a bakery.

It's one of Toronto's best-known destinations for Sri Lankan snacks and quick meals.

What to Order

Mutton Rolls
Fish Patties
Cutlets
Lamprais

Why People Love It

Fresh snacks are available throughout the day, making it an ideal stop for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Babu Catering

📍 Google Maps
https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Babu+Catering+Scarborough

Babu Catering has built a reputation for generous portions and authentic Tamil home-style cooking.

Many families rely on it for catering weddings and celebrations.

What to Order

Chicken Curry
Rice and Curry Combo
String Hoppers
Jaffna Beef Curry

New Kalyani

📍 Google Maps
https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=New+Kalyani+Scarborough

A longtime favourite within Toronto's Tamil community, New Kalyani serves many traditional dishes that are difficult to find elsewhere.

What to Order

Crab Curry
Mutton Curry
Pittu
Devilled Chicken

Canbe Foods

📍 Google Maps
https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Canbe+Foods+Scarborough

Part grocery store and part restaurant, Canbe Foods has become a staple for many Sri Lankan families.

What to Order

Kothu Roti
String Hoppers
Fresh Short Eats
Traditional Curries

Why Toronto Has Some of Canada's Best Sri Lankan Food

Beginning in the 1980s, Toronto welcomed thousands of Sri Lankan Tamil immigrants, many of whom settled in Scarborough.

Today, neighbourhoods such as Kennedy Road, Markham Road, and Lawrence Avenue East are home to dozens of restaurants, bakeries, and grocery stores specializing in Sri Lankan cuisine.

The result is one of the most authentic Sri Lankan food scenes you'll find outside of Colombo or Jaffna.

First-Timer's Guide to Sri Lankan Food

Not sure what to order?

These dishes are excellent introductions.

Kothu Roti

One of Sri Lanka's most famous street foods. Chopped roti is stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, meat, curry, and spices on a hot griddle.
The rhythmic chopping sound is part of the experience.

Hoppers

Thin bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour.
They can be served plain or with an egg cooked in the centre.

String Hoppers

Steamed rice noodle nests typically served with curry and coconut sambol.
A popular breakfast throughout Sri Lanka.

Lamprais

Rice, meat, vegetables, and sambol wrapped in a banana leaf and baked.
Originally influenced by the Dutch Burgher community.

Mutton Rolls

Deep-fried rolls filled with seasoned meat and potatoes.
One of Sri Lanka's most popular snacks.

FAQ

What is the best Sri Lankan restaurant in Toronto?

Based on recommendations from Sri Lankan locals, Hopper Hut is one of the city's most recommended restaurants, alongside Martin's Bakery, Babu Catering, New Kalyani, and Canbe Foods.

Is Sri Lankan food the same as Indian food?

No. While the cuisines share some ingredients, Sri Lankan food has its own identity, featuring coconut, curry leaves, pandan, black pepper, and unique spice blends. Dishes like hoppers, kothu roti, and lamprais are distinctly Sri Lankan.

What should I order if it's my first time trying Sri Lankan food?

Start with chicken kothu roti, egg hoppers, string hoppers with curry, and finish with a mutton roll or a cup of Ceylon tea.

Where can I find authentic Sri Lankan food in Toronto?

Scarborough is considered the heart of Toronto's Sri Lankan Tamil community and is home to many of the city's best restaurants and bakeries.

Final Bite

The best Sri Lankan restaurants in Toronto are rooted in family traditions, bold flavours, and a strong sense of community.

Whether you're trying kothu roti for the first time, enjoying fresh hoppers with spicy sambol, or picking up warm mutton rolls from a neighbourhood bakery, these locally recommended restaurants offer an authentic taste of Sri Lanka right here in the GTA.