When I first landed in Sri Lanka, I was tempted to stick to the safe side of the menu—bread, eggs, maybe a mild curry. But curiosity (and the delicious smells drifting from street stalls) quickly convinced me to ditch my comfort zone. For one whole week, I decided to eat exactly how the locals do, from breakfast to dinner. Here’s what happened.
Day 1: A Fiery Introduction
My first breakfast was string hoppers with coconut sambol and dhal curry. The sambol’s heat hit me like a tropical wave, but somehow, I couldn’t stop eating. This was going to be interesting.
Day 2–3: The Curry Marathon
I quickly learned that curry in Sri Lanka isn’t just one dish—it’s an entire universe. Jackfruit curry, beetroot curry, okra curry—each with its own flavor and spice level. The variety was dizzying, but so was the amount of rice I consumed. My body wasn’t used to this much starch, but my taste buds were having a party.
Day 4: Street Food Temptations
In the evening, I wandered through a busy Colombo street market and tried isso wade—crispy prawn fritters sold from a cart. Hot, oily, and perfect. I began to understand why locals are fiercely loyal to their favorite vendors.
Day 5: The Tea Break Revelation
I took a break from heavy meals with a steaming cup of Ceylon tea and a plate of kavum (sweet oil cakes). It was a reminder that Sri Lankan food isn’t just about spice—it’s also about comfort and tradition.
Day 6: Spice Level Overload
By now, my spice tolerance had grown—but not enough for the pol sambol my host served for breakfast. My eyes watered, my nose ran, and my mouth felt like it was on fire. Still, I cleaned my plate. This was progress.
Day 7: A New Appreciation
On the last day, I shared a meal with a local family. There was laughter, endless refills of curry, and the kind of hospitality you can’t put into words. I realized that eating like a local wasn’t just about the food—it was about connection.
Final Thoughts
After seven days, I felt fuller—not just in my stomach, but in my understanding of Sri Lankan culture. Food here isn’t just sustenance—it’s history, hospitality, and heart, all on a single plate.
I Tried Eating Like a Local for 7 Days—Here’s What Happened