Nestled in the heart of Colombo, the Dutch Burgher Union is more than just a historical building it’s also home to a dining experience deeply rooted in the rich culinary traditions of the Burgher community. Known for its charming ambiance and authentic Sri Lankan-Burgher cuisine, the Dutch Burgher Union restaurant offers a unique menu that reflects centuries of colonial influence blended with local flavors. This dining spot is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, especially those in search of true Burgher food served with hospitality and heritage.
Understanding the Dutch Burgher Union
A Historical Institution
The Dutch Burgher Union (DBU) is a cultural and social organization that preserves the heritage of the Burgher community descendants of European settlers, particularly Dutch, Portuguese, and British, who integrated with local Sri Lankan culture over centuries. Its restaurant, housed within the DBU premises, has become known for offering traditional Burgher dishes that are difficult to find elsewhere.
Burgher Cuisine in Colombo
Burgher food is a delicious blend of European and Sri Lankan flavors. The cuisine has developed its own identity over generations, characterized by hearty stews, curries, chutneys, pickled vegetables, and sweet delicacies. The Dutch Burgher Union menu captures this diversity, celebrating recipes that have been passed down through families for years.
Main Dishes on the Dutch Burgher Union Menu
Lampries The Star of the Show
One of the most popular and iconic dishes served at the DBU is Lampries (also spelled Lamprais). This is a Dutch-influenced Sri Lankan meal that includes rice cooked in stock, frikkadels (meatballs), eggplant moju (pickle), a boiled egg, blachan (shrimp paste), and a meat curry usually chicken or beef all wrapped in a banana leaf and baked to perfection.
- Classic Chicken Lampries The traditional version with chicken curry, meatballs, and accompaniments, served in a steamed banana leaf for added aroma.
- Beef Lampries A heartier option for meat lovers, offering richer flavor and deep spice notes.
- Vegetarian Lampries A newer twist on the original, using jackfruit curry, dhal, and spiced vegetables to cater to vegetarians while preserving tradition.
Other Traditional Burgher Favorites
Besides Lampries, the DBU menu features a range of traditional home-style Burgher dishes that reflect both European influence and Sri Lankan cooking techniques.
- Breudher A spiced, buttery Dutch-Sri Lankan cake traditionally served during holidays and celebrations. Often enjoyed with butter or cheese.
- Dutch Curry A mild yet flavorful meat curry, usually prepared with pork or chicken, seasoned with spices like cinnamon and cloves, and finished with coconut milk.
- Pol Roti and Curry Thick, slightly crispy flatbreads made from coconut and flour, served with a selection of spicy side dishes.
Side Dishes and Accompaniments
Delicious Chutneys and Pickles
No Burgher meal is complete without an assortment of side dishes that add contrast, spice, and texture. At the Dutch Burgher Union, these are prepared in-house and served fresh.
- Seeni Sambol A sweet and spicy onion relish that pairs perfectly with roti or rice-based meals.
- Brinjal Moju Pickled eggplant with vinegar, sugar, and spices, offering a tangy balance to rich main dishes.
- Pineapple Chutney A refreshing, zesty chutney made with diced pineapple, mustard seeds, and chili.
Salads and Rice Options
While Lampries is the go-to rice dish, the menu also includes other rice preparations and fresh salads for lighter meals or to complement heartier items.
- Yellow Rice Fragrant rice cooked with turmeric, pandan leaves, and coconut milk, often served with chicken or fish curries.
- Mixed Green Salad A simple but fresh salad using local vegetables, drizzled with a house-made dressing.
Drinks and Beverages
Refreshing Local Drinks
The drink menu at the Dutch Burgher Union offers a variety of Sri Lankan beverages, both traditional and modern. These are designed to complement the bold flavors of the meals.
- Faluda A colorful, sweet drink made with rose syrup, milk, basil seeds, and jelly perfect for cooling down in tropical weather.
- Ginger Beer A spicy, fizzy beverage that adds a nice kick to any meal.
- King Coconut Water A natural and hydrating option served straight from the coconut.
Tea and Coffee
Given Sri Lanka’s long history with tea, it’s no surprise that the DBU offers an excellent cup of Ceylon tea. Both black tea and milk tea are served, along with traditional Sri Lankan-style coffee for those who prefer a stronger brew.
Desserts at the Dutch Burgher Union
Sweet Endings with Burgher Flair
The dessert menu is filled with treats that reflect Burgher and colonial heritage, often using local ingredients like coconut, treacle, and jaggery.
- Wattalappam A creamy coconut custard spiced with cardamom, nutmeg, and cloves, sweetened with jaggery.
- Love Cake A dense and rich cake made from cashew nuts, semolina, and pumpkin preserve traditionally served during festive occasions.
- Milk Toffee A soft and chewy caramelized treat made from condensed milk, sugar, and chopped nuts.
Service and Atmosphere
Warm Hospitality and Homely Setting
The restaurant’s atmosphere mirrors its menu rich in tradition and welcoming in spirit. Staff members are friendly and knowledgeable, happy to explain dishes or suggest pairings for newcomers unfamiliar with Burgher cuisine. The space itself reflects colonial-era architecture with a cozy interior that evokes a sense of home and history.
Events and Private Dining
In addition to the regular dining service, the Dutch Burgher Union also accommodates private functions, small parties, and cultural events. It’s a popular spot for those who want to celebrate special occasions with a taste of tradition and a side of community charm.
Why the Dutch Burgher Union Menu Stands Out
A Taste of History
Few places offer a menu that’s as deeply connected to a specific cultural heritage as the DBU. The dishes are not just food they’re historical artifacts that tell the story of a community and its evolution over time. Every bite offers a glimpse into the Dutch Burgher identity and the flavors that define it.
Affordable and Authentic
Despite the rich culinary history and high-quality ingredients, the pricing at the DBU restaurant remains accessible. This makes it an ideal spot for both casual meals and special dining experiences, ensuring that Burgher cuisine remains approachable to a broad audience.
The Dutch Burgher Union menu offers more than just delicious food it delivers a cultural journey through taste, tradition, and time. With signature dishes like Lampries, classic desserts like love cake, and an environment that feels both historical and homely, the DBU remains a must-visit spot in Colombo for anyone seeking authentic Burgher cuisine. Whether you’re exploring Sri Lankan food or reconnecting with heritage, the Dutch Burgher Union provides a meal to remember.