A Culinary Journey Inspired by the Flavours, Landscapes, and Cultures of Southern Sri Lanka
Hilton Yala Resort has unveiled an exciting new collection of menus at Dhira – The Region’s Kitchen, reaffirming its position as one of Sri Lanka’s most compelling dining destinations and inviting guests to embark on a culinary journey inspired by the flavours, ingredients, traditions, and stories of the region.
Nestled between the Indian Ocean and the wildlife-rich landscapes surrounding Yala National Park, Dhira – The Region’s Kitchen has become renowned for its distinctive approach to dining, where locally sourced ingredients, regional influences, and contemporary culinary techniques come together to create memorable experiences that celebrate both place and culture.
The newly launched menus showcase an extensive collection of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and plant-based offerings, carefully curated to reflect the diversity of Sri Lanka’s culinary heritage while embracing influences from across South and Southeast Asia. From comforting local favourites to refined signature creations, each dish has been designed to immerse diners in the flavours of the region while delivering the elevated standards synonymous with Hilton.
Guests can begin their day with signature breakfast experiences such as Good Morning Sri Lanka, an authentic tasting plate featuring Egg Hopper, String Hoppers, Milk Rice, Fish Ambulthiyal, curries, and sambals, or discover inventive creations such as Eggs on the Beach, where poached eggs, sea prawns, turmeric-coconut emulsion, and curry leaf toast come together in a vibrant interpretation of coastal flavours. Those seeking lighter options can enjoy dishes such as the Coco-Ananas Hopper, Red Rice Pancake, and The GM Oatmeal, all inspired by the island’s tropical bounty.
At lunch, the menu pays tribute to Sri Lanka’s rich agricultural and maritime heritage through dishes such as the Yala Curry Treat, a celebration of the island’s diverse produce, spices, and culinary traditions. Diners can also savour standout creations including Black Pepper Koduwa, Dhira Butter Chicken, and the flavour-packed Seafood Hokkien Fried Rice, showcasing the abundance of fresh seafood found along Sri Lanka’s southern coastline.
As evening descends over Yala, Dhira transforms into a sophisticated showcase of regional gastronomy. Signature dinner offerings include the celebrated Jaffna Crab Curry, Aromatic Confit Seabass, Batti Mutton Biryani, and the premium Umami Mignon, each crafted to highlight bold flavours and exceptional ingredients. Complementing these are thoughtfully curated vegan and vegetarian selections such as Jaffna Vegetable Curry, Vegetable Biryani, Black Pepper Broccoli Tofu, and Eggplant Milanese, ensuring every guest can discover a dish that resonates with their palate.
No culinary journey is complete without dessert, and Dhira’s new menus feature a collection of indulgent finales inspired by local ingredients and flavours. Highlights include the Buffalo Curd Cheesecake, Yala Chocolate Biscuit Pudding, and Mango Sago, each offering a contemporary interpretation of beloved regional tastes.
“The new menus at Dhira reflect our passion for celebrating the incredible diversity of flavours that define this part of the world,” said Jerome Tissera, Director of Culinary, Hilton Yala Resort. “Our objective was to create a dining experience that feels deeply connected to the destination while showcasing the creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation of our culinary team. Every dish has been carefully developed to tell a story—whether inspired by the coast, the forest, local communities, or the rich culinary traditions that have shaped Sri Lanka over generations.”
Beyond the menu itself, Dhira continues to deliver a dining experience that embraces the essence of Yala. The restaurant’s design, atmosphere, and service philosophy work together to create a sense of discovery, encouraging guests to engage with the destination through food, culture, and storytelling.
“Today’s travellers are increasingly seeking authentic and memorable dining experiences, and Dhira has become a destination in its own right for both resort guests and local diners,” said Indika Fernando, Food & Beverage Manager, Hilton Yala Resort. “These new menus offer greater depth, variety, and regional character, allowing us to showcase the very best of our culinary identity while continuing to deliver the exceptional hospitality and service standards that guests expect from Hilton.”
As Hilton Yala Resort continues to gain international recognition for its hospitality, wildlife experiences, sustainability initiatives, and culinary excellence, Dhira – The Region’s Kitchen remains at the heart of the guest journey—bringing together exceptional cuisine, warm hospitality, and the vibrant flavours of the region in a setting unlike anywhere else in Sri Lanka.
Whether enjoying a leisurely breakfast, a relaxed lunch, an indulgent dinner, or a special celebration, guests are invited to discover a new chapter in Dhira’s culinary story—one where every meal becomes a journey through the tastes, traditions, and landscapes of Southern Sri Lanka.