A decadent spiced coconut custard pudding sweetened with kithul jaggery and garnished with toasted cashew nuts.
5 top-rated spots found
Upali's by Nawaloka
Traditional Watalappam
Sri Lankan
· $$
· Cinnamon Gardens
★★★★½ 4.6
1,850 reviews
Local LegendClassicAuthentic
9.4
Flavor
8.8
Value
8.5
Vibe
Upali's is widely considered the gold standard for home-style Sri Lankan cuisine. Their Watalappam is praised for its perfect density—neither too airy nor too heavy—and the use of premium Kithul jaggery which provides a deep, smoky sweetness that commercial sugars cannot replicate.
Set under a 200-year-old Banyan tree, the atmosphere elevates the dining experience. Their Watalappam is steamed using traditional methods, resulting in a rich, dark custard that captures the essence of rural Sri Lankan hospitality.
While famous for Kottu, Pilawoos serves a Watalappam that locals swear by. It is the ultimate 'no-frills' version that focuses entirely on a heavy spice profile, particularly cardamom and nutmeg, making it incredibly addictive.
The Fab has been a household name for decades. Their Watalappam is the most consistent in the city; if you buy one today or a year from now, the flavor profile remains identical. It is the benchmark for 'commercial' excellence.
Located within the Hilton, Curry Leaf offers a refined version of the dish. They use the highest grade of cashews and rare spices, resulting in a complex flavor profile that unfolds in layers on the palate.
📍 2 Sir Chittampalam A Gardiner Mawatha, Colombo 00200 · View on Maps