Discover Lakruwana Restaurant in Staten Island's Stapleton Heights district, a vibrant destination that brings authentic Sri Lankan flavors and culture to New York's borough.

Nestled at 668 Bay Street, Lakruwana Restaurant offers a richly decorated and arty dining experience that immerses you in the sights and tastes of Sri Lanka. Known for its elaborately designed interiors that evoke a maximalist Sri Lankan vibe, this establishment is a gem for food lovers seeking something unique beyond typical city fare.

Sri Lankan Culinary Delights and Weekend Buffet Experience

Lakruwana Restaurant is celebrated for its flavorful and authentic Sri Lankan dishes. Guests rave about standout menu items such as the mind-blowing mulligatawny soup, delicious shrimp vermicelli kothu, and the savory chicken lamprais. The weekend buffet, a highlight for many visitors, features a wide variety of curries, sambols, and vegan options including multiple types of rice and dal, making it an excellent choice for diverse palates.

The buffet is available on Saturdays and Sundays from 12:30 PM to 9:30 PM and offers a relaxed, chill ambiance perfect for groups, families, and anyone looking to indulge in a flavorful feast. The owners’ recommendation to try the buffet over a la carte is well-founded given the breadth of vegan and vegetarian options and the freshness of the dishes.

Ambiance and Amenities That Enhance Your Visit

Step inside Lakruwana and be transported by its impressive Sri Lankan maximalist decor, which complements the culinary adventure perfectly. The spacious layout ensures comfort even during busy weekend hours. While the restaurant does not serve alcohol, it offers coffee, dessert, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that locals and visitors alike adore.

Additional conveniences include parking options with free street parking, acceptance of debit and credit cards, restroom facilities, and a kid-friendly environment. Though reservations are recommended, they are not accepted through the MICHELIN Guide website, so contacting Lakruwana directly is advised for bookings.

Community praise and sentiment

Visitors consistently express positive sentiments about Lakruwana Restaurant, highlighting the incredible flavors, friendly service, and the unique cultural atmosphere. Many patrons consider it worth the trip to Staten Island just for this dining experience, praising the family-run operation and the care that goes into every dish.

What are the buffet hours at Lakruwana Restaurant? The weekend buffet is available on Saturdays and Sundays from 12:30 PM to 9:30 PM.
Is Lakruwana Restaurant vegetarian-friendly? Yes, the restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including dishes like eggplant curry and pineapple curry.
Does Lakruwana Restaurant accept reservations? Reservations are not available through the MICHELIN Guide website. It's advisable to contact the restaurant directly for reservation inquiries.

Lakruwana Restaurant: A vibrant slice of Sri Lankan heritage in New York City.

Established in 1995, Lakruwana Restaurant has been a cherished family-owned gem, dedicated to bringing the rich flavors and traditions of Sri Lankan cuisine to New York City food lovers. This vibrant eatery is famed not only for its mouth-watering dishes but also for its elaborately decorated, arty interiors that transport diners to the heart of Sri Lanka.

A timeline of resilience and tradition

Lakruwana's journey began in 1995 with its original opening in Manhattan, where it quickly became the go-to destination for authentic Sri Lankan flavors in a city bursting with culinary diversity. Patrons were drawn to its dedication to traditional recipes and the warm family atmosphere that made every meal memorable.

However, in 2004, tragedy struck when the Manhattan location was destroyed by fire, forcing the family to temporarily close their doors. Despite this setback, the spirit of Lakruwana was unbroken, and after years of planning and hard work, the restaurant made a triumphant return in 2010.

The new location in Staten Island at 668 Bay Street marks a fresh chapter for Lakruwana, where it continues to delight guests with a diverse menu of traditional Sri Lankan dishes. The restaurant's commitment to authenticity and quality shines through in every bite, from its renowned curries to its refreshing desserts.

What makes Lakruwana a standout experience

Authentic Sri Lankan cuisine that captures the island’s vibrant spices and unique flavors.
Vibrant and arty decor that creates an immersive cultural dining atmosphere.
Family-owned tradition that has nurtured authentic recipes and warm hospitality for decades.
Diverse menu offerings including vegan and vegetarian options that cater to modern dietary preferences without compromising on traditional taste.

Lakruwana Restaurant overview in Staten Island New York USA.

Lakruwana Restaurant offers an authentically vibrant Sri Lankan culinary experience in the heart of Staten Island's Stapleton Heights neighborhood. Known for its richly decorated interiors that immerse guests in Sri Lankan culture, this restaurant has become a favored destination for food enthusiasts seeking something beyond everyday dining.

unique dining experience and menu highlights

Lakruwana excels with its carefully crafted dishes featuring authentic Sri Lankan flavors. Guests rave about standout items such as the rich and comforting mulligatawny soup, delicious fish cutlets, egg curry, and an assortment of vegan and vegetarian options that delight both herbivores and omnivores alike. The restaurant is particularly popular for its weekend buffet, which showcases a broad selection of curries, sambols, dal, rice varieties, and refreshing desserts — all prepared with a balance of spice that suits diverse palates.

This place is not just about the food; the ambience is a feast for the senses, featuring maximalist and culturally rich decor that transports diners away from Staten Island to the vibrant streets of Sri Lanka. The friendly and attentive service, often led by the owner and her family, creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere that many visitors have found memorable and authentic.

considerations and potential drawbacks

While Lakruwana offers an exceptional and culturally immersive dining experience, there are a few practical considerations to keep in mind when planning your visit. Parking can be limited in this neighborhood, so arriving early or planning alternative transportation is advisable. Additionally, the restaurant does not accept reservations, which can lead to wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

Another important point is the cash-only policy on weekends, which might be inconvenient for some guests. However, credit and debit cards are accepted during the week, offering some flexibility. Also, the kitchen takes breaks during certain times, occasionally limiting the availability of a la carte orders, so opting for the buffet during these times might be the best choice.

why visit lakruwana restaurant

Lakruwana stands out as a destination for those looking to explore authentic Sri Lankan cuisine within a vibrant cultural setting. It offers a rare chance to enjoy exotic flavors and rich traditions without leaving New York City. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or meat lover, the diverse menu and weekend buffet present delicious options that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.

Authentic Sri Lankan cuisine offering rich, unique flavors that captivate the palate.
Vibrant and culturally rich decor that transports diners to Sri Lanka’s lively atmosphere.
Popular weekend buffet with a wide variety of curries, sides, and vegan options.
Friendly and attentive service that enhances the overall dining experience.

Despite some limitations like the cash-only policy on weekends, limited parking, and a no-reservations policy, Lakruwana remains a hidden gem worth discovering for those interested in authentic Sri Lankan cuisine paired with an immersive cultural environment. Its unique combination of flavors, décor, and hospitality makes it a standout restaurant in Staten Island's dining scene.

4.5

668 Bay St, Staten Island, NY 10304, USA

(347) 857-6619

Closed - Opens 5:00 PM

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

Closed

Thursday

Closed