Ella, the charming and quaint town in the hill country, is a traveller’s dream destination! It is one of the most popular travel destinations in Sri Lanka , where time seems to slow down, and there’s a new adventure awaiting you behind every corner.
Tucked away amidst lush green tea plantations, waterfalls and stunning views, Ella has some of the best sights the island has to offer and many things to do. From climbing Little Adam’s Peak to walking along the iconic Nine Arches Bridge and watching the train go by to taking a short trip to Lipton’s Seat in Haputale (where the world-famous tea producer Thomas Lipton would sit and admire his tea fields) and hiking to the top of Diyaluma falls (the 2nd highest waterfall in the country), there’s no shortage of natural wonders to explore here in this charming and laid-back village. Even the train ride to Ella is breathtaking!
Ella is not just about natural beauty. It’s a place where you can experience the best of both worlds: the natural beauty and cultural diversity, with Sri Lanka’s colonial heritage coexisting with its rich Tamil and Sinhalese culture.
Also, let’s not forget those cute and cosy cafes, where you can wind down and refuel after a hike through the tea plantations or to the top of waterfalls. Whether you are looking for a hearty breakfast or some Sri Lankan favourites, you will find plenty of options for every palate, budget and craving.
So, here are some of the best cafes in Ella that you shouldn’t miss when visiting this idyllic escape.
Cafe Chill
No trip to Ella is complete without a visit to Cafe Chill. This trendy and stylish restaurant is an all-time favourite spot in Ella that’s located right in the heart of the town, beckoning tourists and locals alike with its cosy atmosphere. You’ll be greeted by a blend of rustic and modern charm when you step inside.
It’s not just the ambience that draws people in; it’s also the diverse menu of traditional Sri Lankan and gourmet delights from the East and West that keeps people coming back for more. Whether you’re in the mood for a steaming cup of coffee, a chilled drink or a delicious slice of pie, they’ve got you covered!
You can also enjoy some good music, free Wi-Fi and a full bar while you are at it. All in all, it’s a great place to hang out with your travel buddies or make some new friends.
Cafe One Love
Located in the heart of Ella Town, Cafe One Love is a Bob Marley-inspired cafe that draws you in with its welcoming and relaxing ambience. Spread across three flows, the insides of the cafe are lined with hammocks and beanbags, with the exposed brick walls covered in colourful dream catchers, devil masks andcolourful artworkgiving it a hippie and eclectic feel.
This hip and vibrant cafe serves up a diverse menu that caters to every craving, from pizzas to sandwiches and an array of cocktails, smoothies, juices and coffee. Not to forget, the staff at Cafe One Love are a huge part of what makes this place so special. With warm and friendly smiles, they’ll make you feel right at home.
And let’s not forget about the resident doggos who are always up for some belly rubs and ear scratches.
The Barn by Starbeans
If you are looking for a dining experience with a modern ambience, look no further than The Barn by Starbeans. Located very close to the railway station, this beautiful cafe is housed in a charming, converted barn house, giving it a warm and inviting feel.
Their menu boasts a delicious selection of food ranging from Sri Lankan to Italian, Mexican and seafood dishes to delight your palate. They also offer a range of high-quality wines, cocktails, juices and smoothies to go along with your meals.
Rainbow Cafe
With a colourful and inviting decor, Rainbow Cafe is a cosy, vegan-friendly cafe that serves a mix of local and Western food. From delicious homemade pancakes to Instagram-worthy smoothie bowls and gluten-free breads, this cafe is a great spot for breakfast, brunch, or simply to spend some time relaxing. Adding to the charm of this cafe is, of course, the friendly staff with their warm smiles and friendly service.
Cafe UFO
Prepare for an out-of-the-ordinary experience at Cafe UFO, where a fun atmosphere, upbeat music and friendly service collide with great food. This cafe offers a diverse menu with a wide range of options that cater to every craving. If you’re looking to have some evening drinks then Cafe UFO is the place to be! This quirky cafe definitely lives up to its name, with an exterior shaped like a classic flying saucer. The motivation to build this sustainable, eco-friendly cafe stemmed from the uncontrolled construction of haphazard buildings popping up in the area with the design inspired by the flying machine named the “Flying Peacock machine” that belonged to King Ravana (a mythical multi-headed King).
Dream Cafe
Pizza lovers rejoice! Overlooking the main street, Dream Cafe offers a mouthwatering selection of pizzas, paninis, sandwiches and local cuisine. The property also features a full bar serving wine, beer and spirits. As with many cafes and restaurants in Ella, Dream Cafe has a relaxing atmosphere and friendly staff who are happy to assist you in choosing the best food choices from the menu.
When it comes to cosy cafes and delicious dining experiences, the choices are endless in Ella. Whether you are looking for a lively spot to hang out or a quiet retreat to simply relax, there’s something to suit every mood. With great cafes, unique things to do and a relaxed atmosphere, you won’t be disappointed with this charming town. And if you need help planning your Sri Lankan adventure, Fernando Travels is here to make it happen!