The Empire Cafe

Our Story

The Empire Cafe

Ayubowan, welcome to The Empire Cafe, Kandy, a foodie haven in the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. In case you hadn't already noticed, Kandy is a hectic city and a feast for all the senses, so here we aim to take it down a notch and slow down the pace while you enjoy some of the most homely meals and refreshers in town. The cafe is housed in the colonial, Olde Empire Hotel a designated UN conserved building that has been around since the 1890's. If only walls could talk! During its time the Olde Empire building has been used as a coffee factory (Kopi Kade), rollicking pub and since the 1970's a tourist guesthouse and restaurant frequented by lawyers and legal workers from the once neighbouring district court and many others. In February 2023 The Empir Cafe took over the lower floor of the building Only the freshest and locally sourced ingredients are used in our menu and we aim to adapt our dishes to the seasonal produce available to us. We offer a selection of Sri Lankan, Western and our signature Empire Classic's with a Lankan twist, which will keep you fuelled to take on the sights and sounds of Kandy. Check out our specials board for our latest seasonal dishes. If you are looking for a little momenta to remember your time at the Empire Cafe have a peek at our retail outlet, The Kandy Store located at the far end of the pink room. Items on sale include Sri Lanka inspired posters & postcards, organic lotions & portions, and candles.