Sri Lanka (Commonwealth Union)_ Sri Lanka’s flavorful and savory food has once more won a worldwide audience. The island nation achieved a spot among the top ten gastronomic locations in the 2025 Condé Nast Travelers Readers’ Choice Awards. This accolade is well-deserved for a country that has long been a traveler favorite for its spice, hospitality, and culinary creativity. Sri Lanka ranked seventh overall, outranking well-known culinary destinations like Greece, South Africa, Peru, and the Maldives with a phenomenal 95.56% score. The ranking was determined through votes cast by readers worldwide, who were asked to name the destinations that most delighted their taste buds this year.
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For anyone who has wandered through Colombo’s bustling Pettah Market or shared a home-cooked meal in a Sri Lankan household, the recognition comes as no surprise. The country’s cuisine is a sensory experience—colorful, spicy, and full of creativity. Everyday favorites such as kothu roti, which is made by slicing and tossing flatbread with vegetables, eggs, and meat on a hot griddle, capture the essence of street life. Meanwhile, the popular hopper, a crispy bowl-shaped pancake commonly topped with an egg or curry, works well for both breakfast and dinner. According to Condé Nast Traveler, Sri Lanka’s rise in the rankings reflects the growing appreciation for cuisines rooted in family and tradition. “Much of Sri Lankan cooking centers on home recipes passed down through generations,” the magazine noted. “That heartfelt connection is what makes the food so special.”
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Beyond its powerful fragrances, Sri Lankan cuisine conveys a more complex story forged by centuries of cultural exchange. South Indian, Middle Eastern, and colonial European influences exist alongside local skills and produce. The end result is a meal that is both familiar and distinct, with a pleasing balance of spice, texture, and aroma. The Condé Nast award marks a watershed moment for Sri Lanka’s gourmet scene, which has gradually gained international recognition. For years, travelers have spoken of the island’s irresistible combination of flavors—fiery curries mellowed with coconut milk, tangy sambols made with lime and chili, and fragrant rice dishes served with fresh seafood from the coast. Now, the world seems ready to agree.
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In the 2025 list, Thailand claimed the top spot with a score of 98.33%, followed by Italy (96.92%), Japan (96.77%), and Vietnam (96.67%). Other destinations in the top ten include Spain, New Zealand, Greece, South Africa, and a tie between Peru and the Maldives. Almost every country in the top tier received scores greater than 94%, illustrating how close the competition was this year. This honor is more than just a number for Sri Lanka; it is a celebration of the country’s people and their long history with cuisine. From Jaffna’s crab curries to Galle’s coconut sambol breakfasts, each region contributes a distinct flavor to the national palate. Food here is more than just something to eat; it is a reflection of community, hospitality, and legacy.
The recognition further boosts Sri Lanka’s reputation as a must-see destination for international visitors. The island, known for its golden beaches, ancient cities, and verdant mountains, is now a foodie’s dream. Visitors can spend their mornings sipping sweet tea in foggy hill country, their afternoons exploring spice plantations, and their evenings enjoying spicy curries by the sea. According to Condé Nast Traveler, Sri Lanka offers a little bit of everything, including a blend of history, beauty, and flavor that lingers long after the last bite. International praise feels both appropriate and long overdue for a country that has quietly perfected the art of character-infused comfort food.
