A Quick Stopover in the Colombo

Many travelers spend minimal time in Colombo as means of transit between flying in or out of the airport. For late evening flights, a short night out in the capital can be best maximized around the Dutch Hospital shopping precinct.

Old Colombo Dutch Hospital

The Dutch Hospital is the oldest building in the Colombo Fort area, dating back to the 1680s. Today, it is a heritage building with shops and restaurants catering to tourists. While touristy, it is a relaxing stop to shop for souvenirs and have a leisurely meal before flying out.

Welcome to the Dutch Hospital. When you enter the courtyard, you immediately step away from buildings and bustle of the central business district. Start with last minute souvenir shopping of crafts, clothes, and food to take home followed by dinner at one of the nearby restaurants

 

Where to Eat in and near the Dutch Hospital

The most popular restaurant in the Dutch Hospital is Ministry of Crab. The restaurants next door offer Japanese cuisine, Mediterranean, and a few local plates. Alternatively, you can walk outside of the shopping precinct to the nearby restaurants

Because of its reputation, crowds line up at Ministry of Crab. If you prefer not to wait or dine elsewhere for crabs, you can also walk to Black Pepper just outside the Dutch Hospital premises

 

Where to Drink near the Dutch Hospital

For one (or two) more drinks before flying out, Taphouse by RnR serves drinks and music in the evenings. If you want one last cup of tea before leaving Sri Lanka, walk over to the t-Lounge by Dilmah.

One last cup of tea. Dilmah is one of the most popular tea brands from Sri Lanka. This tea shop is a great place for a quality cup of tea. The menu offers classic selections as well as sweet alternatives

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Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct
Hospital Street, Colombo
10am to 10pm

Ministry of Crab
Dutch Hospital, Colombo
+94-11-2-342-722
11:30am to 3:30pm, 6pm to 10:30pm

Black Pepper
No. 62/6 Dutch Hospital Square
Chatham Street, Colombo
+94-11-2-320-544
10am to 3pm, 6:30pm to 10:30pm

Taphouse by RnR
Dutch Hospital, Colombo
+94-77-377-3844
Sunday to Wednesday, 11am to 11pm
Thursday to Saturday, 11am to 12am

t-Lounge by Dilmah
No. 62/2 Block B
Chatham Street, Colombo
+94-11-2-447-168
11am to 11pm

 


 
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