​Welcome to Chanika Restaurant, Tangalle.

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Chanika is a family owned and managed restaurant that has been operating for many years along the coastal road, 2kms outside the village of Tangalle. 



If you are looking to experience the real flavour of Sri Lankan cooking then this is the place for you. Specializing in authentic Sri Lankan dishes with recipes that have been passed down over several generations. 

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Sri Lanka is rich in spices and centuries ago, was thriving in a spice trade with the Portuguese, Dutch and British. Every dish here is noted for it's own fragrant aromas. Cakes, mains, deserts and even drinks, all make full use of the countries abundance of fresh spices and ingredients. 



Traditional recipes have been passed down for many generations, some adapted as they go, but a simple Sinhalese curry can contain over 10 different herbs and spices. From the everyday garlic, ginger, chillies, coriander, fenugreek and cumin to the more exotic goraka and pandanus leaf. Not only are many of these spices used for their flavour and colour, but also their natural healing properties. Sri Lanka has developed it's own Ayurvedic system based on a series of prescriptions handed down from generation to generation over a period of 3000 years. 



So, along with using only the freshest ingredients, seasonal fruits and vegetables direct from the market, finding you the catch of the day straight off the fishing boats or from local fishermen on the beach, we  can guarantee you a quality dining experience and a healthy one too!

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Please let us know if there are any special requests, with dishes like Ambul Thial (another firm favourite in Sri Lanka, prepared with the signature flavour of local spice, Goraka). It requires some time to prepare, so we will need to know in advance.

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Rice and curries, fresh fish, prawns or calamari or any of the devilled dishes which can be spiced up with hot chilli.



Don't leave without tasting the Watalappan desert, a coconut based custard pudding that is a sweet favourite all over Sri Lanka.



Not that hungry?  Pop in for a refreshing fruit smoothie or fruit juice, freshly squeezed while you wait. Depending on the season you'll be able to try some unusual juices like WoodApple, or Jackfruit. 



Or try a tasty snack or pancake with some home brewed tea, while you watch fishing boats leaving for their catch of the day.

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We are available for group bookings and private functions  and can tailor make a menu suitable for your specific group, catering for vegetarians and non vegetarians. A combination of years of professional experience working in top hotels, combined with a passion for proper home cooked authentic Sri Lankan food, results in a meal that will have you coming back for more.

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There is something for every taste at Chanika Restaurant!



A Family Restaurant