The 10 Best Bars of Colombo

Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, is a city that boasts an exciting nightlife. No matter what day of the week, you are sure to find something going on after dark. From rooftop bars to historic pubs – Colombo has everything for a nightlife enthusiast.

The nightlife culture in Colombo has been influenced by a variety of factors. Sri Lanka’s colonial history has played an important role in the development of the bar scene. Many of the bars have a British influence because of the country’s long occupation of the island. However, in recent years, the city has undergone a transformation and local Sri Lankan bars have emerged, which offer a unique experience.

After spending some time exploring and bar hopping, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best bars in Colombo. Here are our top picks:

1. The Bavarian

The Bavarian is a German-style bar that offers some of the best beers and German cuisine in Colombo. The bar’s interior is modeled after a traditional German pub and has a cozy atmosphere. They have a variety of German fare on their menu, including their famous pork knuckle, which is a must-try for anyone visiting the bar.

2. Colombo Sky Lounge

Colombo Sky Lounge is a rooftop bar located on the 26th floor of the Kingsbury Hotel. The bar offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean and the cityscape of Colombo. They have a variety of cocktails and tapas on their menu, making it a perfect place to unwind and relax after a long day in the city.

3. The Irish Pub

The Irish Pub is a classic bar found in Colombo’s Dutch Hospital shopping precinct. The bar is known for its live music, traditional pub grub, and of course, their range of Irish beers. The pub has a relaxed atmosphere, and it’s a perfect place to catch up with some friends for a pint or two.

4. The Library

The Library is a bar located on the 1st floor of the Shangri La Hotel. The bar’s interior is modeled after an old English library, with leather chairs and wooden walls. The bar has an extensive whiskey selection, and you’ll find some of the rarest whiskeys in Sri Lanka. This is an excellent place for whiskey connoisseurs.

5. The Steuart by Citrus

The Steuart is a rooftop bar that offers stunning views of Colombo’s skyline. The bar has a variety of cocktails on their menu, and their mojitos come highly recommended. The bar is located in the heart of the city, and it’s a perfect place to watch the sunset while sipping on a cocktail.

6. ON14 Rooftop Bar

ON14 Rooftop Bar is another popular rooftop bar located in the OZO Hotel. The bar’s interior is chic and modern, and they have an extensive range of cocktails and wines. The bar is known for its relaxed atmosphere and it’s a great place to visit for a casual night out.

7. Taphouse by RnR

Taphouse by RnR is a bar located in the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct. The bar is a beer lover’s paradise, with over 20 beers on tap. The bar has a relaxed atmosphere, and it’s a perfect place to catch up with some friends for a pint or two.

8. The Exchange – Bar & Grin

The Exchange is a bar located in the Big Bad Wolf Hostel. The bar has a unique concept, and it’s designed like a stock exchange. The prices of drinks fluctuate based on supply and demand, and it’s an experience like no other. The bar is popular with backpackers and travelers and is a perfect place to meet new people.

9. The Forbidden City by Tintagel

The Forbidden City is a bar located in Tintagel Colombo, one of the most iconic hotels in the city. The bar is perfect for those who are looking for an exotic and adventurous experience. The interior is modeled after a Chinese chop house, and they have a wide range of Chinese-inspired cocktails on their menu.

10. Loft Lounge Bar

Loft Lounge Bar is a rooftop bar located in the OZO Hotel. The bar has an industrial-themed interior, and they have a wide range of cocktails and wines on their menu. The bar is known for its live music evenings and relaxed vibe – a perfect spot for a date night.

Conclusion

Colombo is a city that boasts an exciting and diverse nightlife. You can find everything from rooftop bars to traditional Irish pubs. With so many great options to choose from, it’s hard to pick just one. But we hope this list of the 10 best bars in Colombo has given you some inspiration for your next night out in Sri Lanka’s capital.