Tabelog ratingBANDARA LANKA (バンダラ ランカ) offers a focused Sri Lankan dining experience in a distinctive setting. Located on the ground floor of an art gallery complex in Shinjuku, the restaurant features a serene interior and a planted terrace with a koi pond. The specialty here is the Sri Lankan plate, a composition of multiple curries and side dishes designed to be sampled individually before being mixed together. The experience is rounded out by a wide selection of Ceylon teas and Sri Lankan arrack, reflecting a deep commitment to the country's culinary culture.
Guests consistently praise the food's authentic, vibrant flavors. Popular dishes include the lentil (dal) curry, acidic and spicy fish or prawn curries, and a flavorful chicken curry. The carrot salad and savory mackerel (saba) croquettes are also frequently highlighted. Many visitors appreciate the warm, English-speaking hospitality of the owner, who explains the dishes, making it an accessible experience for newcomers to Sri Lankan food. The high-quality Ceylon tea service is another major draw.
A few points are worth noting. The food can be genuinely spicy, with a strong pepper heat, so those with a low tolerance should inquire about milder options. Some reviewers have found dinner portions modest for the price, and a few have noted occasional slow service. Most importantly, the restaurant has a strict policy against admitting young children, which has surprised some families who found it wasn't clearly stated online.
Lunch is widely considered excellent value, with reviewers in 2024–2026 paying around ¥2,500 for a generous plate that includes dessert and tea. Dinner is more expensive, with a typical spend of ¥5,000–¥6,000 and checks cited by reviewers ranging from ¥6,000 to over ¥7,700 depending on drinks like arrack (around ¥800). While some find dinner pricey, most agree the quality and unique atmosphere justify the cost.
- Getting There: The restaurant is an 8-minute walk from Shinanomachi Station (JR Sobu Line), an 8-minute walk from Yotsuya Sanchome Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Exit 1), and a 9-minute walk from Kokuritsukyougijou Station (Toei Oedo Line, Exit A1).
- Reservations: Reservations are recommended, as weekends fill up quickly. Walk-ins are possible but may involve a queue.
- Age Restriction: Please note that children under junior high school age are not permitted to enter.
- Payment: Credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners) and electronic money (transportation IC cards like Suica, and QUICPay) are accepted. QR code payments are not.
- Seating: There are 24 seats. No private rooms are available.
- Practical Info: The entire restaurant is non-smoking. No parking is available. The owner and staff often speak English.
