Ceylonta

4.5

14 Reviews

CAN$31 to CAN$50

Sri Lankan

Make a booking

2 people

14 Mar 2025

19:00

Booked 1 time today

Neighbourhood gem
Good for groups
Good for special occasions

Ceylonta, which can be found in Ottawa, Ontario, is a restaurant that specializes in Sri Lankan and other specialty foods found in the South India region. Sri Lankan food is notable because of the way that spices are roasted before being added to the food, a process which unlocks the flavors. In addition, Ceylonta steams many of the main courses on the menu, which makes for healthier meals in general.

While you're enjoying the relaxing atmosphere at Ceylonta, you can check out the wide variety on the menu. Some of the most popular choices include the sizzling platters, mutton roll, dosai, and coconut sambol.

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
CAN$31 to CAN$50
Cuisines
Sri Lankan, South Indian, Indian
Hours of Operation
Mon–Fri 11:00–14:00 Daily 16:00–21:00
Phone number
(613) 237-7812
Website
http://www.ceylonta.com/
Dress code
Smart Casual

Location
403 Somerset St W Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K2P 2P5
Area
Nepean
Cross Street
Located on Somerset Street West, between Bank and Kent.
Parking details
Street Parking
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Outdoor Smoking Area, Takeaway, Wheelchair Access

Mutton Roll
Crispy bread crepe stuffed with mildly hot curried goat. Served with tangy red chili sauce.
Ulunthu Vadai
Two pieces, Donut shaped urith dhal savouries. Served with tangy coconut chutney.
Fish Cutlet
A large croquette made of flaked fish and mashed potato mixed and rolled with onions and aromatic hot spices.
Rasam
Curry flavoured stock with a touch of tamarind.
Sambar Vegetable Soup
A mixed vegetable soup flavoured with tamarind and chili.
Spicy Tomatoe soup
Vegetable Samosa
Indian pastry stuffed with spiced vegetables.
Kadalai Vadai
Kadalai Vadai $6.00 Two pieces. Fried patties of spicy lentil and urid dhal similar to falafels.

Traditional Entrees

Vegetable Thali
A traditional platter of seven assorted curried vegetables served with steamed Basmati rice and pappadam.
Meat Thali
One selection of chicken, beef, mutton or egg added to the vegetable Thali platter.
Chicken Biryani
A delicious savory rice dish that is loaded with spicy marinated Chicken, caramelized onions, yogurt and flavorful Basmati rice. This dish is served with tandoori chicken and boiled egg.
Mutton Biryani
A delicious savory rice dish that is loaded with spicy marinated Mutton, caramelized onions, yogurt and flavorful Basmati rice. This dish is served with tandoori chicken and boiled egg.
Vegetable Biryani
A delicious savory rice dish that is loaded with spicy marinated vegetables, caramelized onions, yogurt and flavorful Basmati rice. This dish is served with tandoori chicken and boiled egg.
Fish Thali
Curried ﬁsh added to the vegetable Thali platter.
Beef Biryani
A delicious savory rice dish that is loaded with spicy marinated Beef, caramelized onions, yogurt and flavorful Basmati rice. This dish is served with tandoori chicken and boiled egg.
Shrimp Biryani
A delicious savory rice dish that is loaded with spicy marinated Shrimp, caramelized onions, yogurt and flavorful Basmati rice. This dish is served with tandoori chicken and boiled egg.

Dosai

Masala Dosai
A dosa is a thin South Indian pancake/crepe made from a fermented batter of ground black gram (lentil) and rice. Dosas are stuffed with a savory, wonderfully spiced potato and onion filling served with coconut chutney and Sambar.
Ghee Dosai
A dosa is a thin South Indian pancake/crepe made from a fermented batter of ground black gram (lentil) and rice. Dosas are coated in delicious golden Ghee (clarified butter) served with coconut chutney and Sambar.
Plain Dosai
A dosa is a thin South Indian pancake/crepe made from a fermented batter of ground black gram (lentil) and rice. Dosas are served with coconut chutney and Sambar.
Egg Dosai
A dosa is a thin South Indian pancake/crepe made from a fermented batter of ground black gram (lentil) and rice. The egg, sunny-side up is fried into the dosa served with coconut chutney and Sambar.

Ceylonta Style Roasts

Ceylonta's Chicken Palandi
White chicken meat marinated in Sri Lankan chillies and smothered in chef's special ginger/ garlic/ yogurt sauce.
Ceylonta's Roast Beef
Strips of tender curried beef stir-fried with sliced onions and crushed red peppers.
Ceylonta's Fish Steaks
Crispy king fish steaks marinated in tumeric and hot red peppers.
Tandoori Chicken
Four pieces of roasted chicken marinated in Ceylonta's tandoori spices.

Stir Fried Dishes

Chicken Fried Rice
Combined with steamed basmati rice, steamed green beans, peas, and other vegetables. Stir-fried with herbs and spices.
Vegetable Fried Rice
Combined with steamed basmati rice, steamed green beans, peas, and other vegetables. Stir-fried with herbs and spices.
Mutton Fried Rice
Combined with steamed basmati rice, steamed green beans, peas, and other vegetables. Stir-fried with herbs and spices.
Beef Fried Rice
Combined with steamed basmati rice, steamed green beans, peas, and other vegetables. Stir-fried with herbs and spices.

String Hoppers Kothu

Mutton String Hoppers Kothu
Thin strips of noodles and mutton chopped and stir-fried with a blend of onions, herbs, and spices.
Chicken String Hoppers Kothu
Thin strips of noodles and chicken chopped and stir-fried with a blend of onions, herbs, and spices.
Vegetarian String Hoppers Kothu
Thin strips of noodles and vegetables chopped and stir-fried with a blend of onions, herbs, and spices.
Beef String Hoppers Kothu
Thin strips of noodles and beef chopped and stir-fried with a blend of onions, herbs, and spices.

Kothu Rotti

Porotha (2 pcs)
Chicken Kothu Rotti
Chopped flat bread stir-fried with onions, green chillies, spices, and chicken.
Mutton Kothu Rotti
Chopped flat bread stir-fried with onions, green chillies, spices, and mutton.
Naan
Vegetarian Kothu Rotti
Chopped flat bread stir-fried with onions, green chillies, spices, and vegetables.
Beef Kothu Rotti
Chopped flat bread stir-fried with onions, green chillies, spices, and beef.
Egg Kothu Rotti
Chopped flat bread stir-fried with onions, green chillies, spices, and egg.

Steamed Entrees

String Hoppers
Rice noodles formed into lacy circles and steamed to a light and fluffy texture. Served with coconut sambol and curried lentils.
Pittu
A steamed dish of red rice flour and grated coconut. Served with sambol and your choice of protein.

Devilled Dishes

Devilled Chicken
Cooked in a mouth watering tomato based chili sauce imported from Sri Lanka. Moderately hot, spicy, sweet, and tangy.
Devilled Beef
Cooked in a mouth watering tomato based chili sauce imported from Sri Lanka. Moderately hot, spicy, sweet, and tangy.
Devilled Fish
Cooked in a mouth watering tomato based chili sauce imported from Sri Lanka. Moderately hot, spicy, sweet, and tangy.
Devilled Shrimp
Cooked in a mouth watering tomato based chili sauce imported from Sri Lanka. Moderately hot, spicy, sweet, and tangy.
Devilled Potato
Cooked in a mouth watering tomato based chili sauce imported from Sri Lanka. Moderately hot, spicy, sweet, and tangy.

Curried Dishes

Butter Chicken
Flavoured with chosen condiments and roasted spices like coriander, cumin, and fennel.
Curried Eggplant
This Sri Lankan fried eggplant curry is savory and sweet heaven with just the right balance of flavors. Flavoured with chosen condiments and roasted spices like coriander, cumin, and fennel.
Curried King Fish
Flavoured with chosen condiments and roasted spices like coriander, cumin, and fennel.
Curried Shrimp
A Sri Lankan Shrimp Curry where the shrimp heads are cooked first in a rich and aromatic coconut curry base to coax out the full depth of flavor.
Curried Beans
Cabbage Stir Fry and Spinach with Coconut
Curried Lentils
Flavoured with chosen condiments and roasted spices like coriander, cumin, and fennel.
Curried Chicken
Flavoured with chosen condiments and roasted spices like coriander, cumin, and fennel.
Curried Egg
Served with coconut.
Curried Potatoes With SauceCA$16.00
Flavoured with chosen condiments and roasted spices like coriander, cumin, and fennel.
Curried BeefCA$23.00
Flavoured with chosen condiments and roasted spices like coriander, cumin, and fennel.
Chick PeasCA$16.00
Curried SquashCA$19.00
Curried MuttonCA$23.00
Flavoured with chosen condiments and roasted spices like coriander, cumin, and fennel.
Shahi PaneerCA$22.00

Side Dishes

Vegetable SamosaCA$6.00
Indian pastry stuffed with spiced vegetables.
Kadalai VadaiCA$6.00
Two pieces. Fried patties of spicy lentil and urid dhal similar to falafels.
Fish CutletCA$6.00
A large croquette made of flaked fish and mashed potato mixed and rolled with onions and aromatic hot spices.
Naan BreadCA$7.00
Garlic Naan BreadCA$7.00
Fried Sprats (Sardines)CA$23.00
Maldive's dried fish with sliced onion and crushed red pepper.
Ceylonta Style ChutneyCA$7.00
A hot sauce made from blended coconut, chilies, and lime.
Seeni SambolCA$7.00
Thin chips of Maldive's dried fish and thinly sliced onions cooked in sweet, hot, and tangy spices.
Katta SambolCA$7.00
A mixture of coarsely ground red chilies, chipped Maldive's dried fish, and onions in lemon juice. Very hot.
ChutneyCA$7.00
Coconut SambolCA$7.00
Finely grated coconut mixed with a combination of red hot chilies and other spices.
Basmati RiceCA$7.00
A plate of basmati rice cooked in ghee and flavored with saffron and fried onions.
Pappadam CA$6.00
Four pieces. A quick fried crispy, mildly spicy, and thin lentil wafer.

Desserts

Ceylonta’s Rice PuddingCA$6.00
PayasamCA$6.00
Similar to tapioca pudding.
Ice CreamCA$7.00
Mango, Coconut or Vanilla
Gulab Jamun (2 pcs)CA$6.00

What 14 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.5

4.5 based on recent ratings

4.6Food
4.5Service
4.2Ambience
4.5Value

Noise • Moderate

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

Ceylonta delights with "excellent, authentic Sri Lankan food" and "friendly service." Loyal patrons praise its "spectacular meals" and creative dishes. With customizable options and a welcoming atmosphere, it's a beloved neighborhood gem. The "kind servers" and "authentic decor" add to the charm, making it a must-visit for flavorful dining experiences.

14 Reviews

C
Caroline
New York City2 reviews
3.0
Dined on 19 February 2025
1. Overall 3
2. Food 4
3. Service 2
4. Ambience 2
One waiter who, in his defense, had just returned from overseas, had to manage all the takeout which was very busy and four tables of customers. We waited for every course and for the initial service for at least 20 minutes each time, and then we’re not asked at the end of our meal with all our dishes in front of us if we wanted dessert or tea or coffee- we were pretty much abandoned at that point- so we just got up and started leaving. He was a nice fellow, but he was not as attentive as he should’ve been. Chicken parantha was great, butter chicken was less than mediocre. Atmosphere was dark and dreary probably won’t return.
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S
Shelley
Ottawa3 reviews
5.0
Dined on 3 January 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Plates were very generous… Tastes unique. We will return.
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M
Mal
Ottawa8 reviews
5.0
Dined on 2 November 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
Excellent, authentic Sri Lankan food and friendly service. An excellent experience. Will return often...
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M
Marie
Ottawa1 review
5.0
Dined on 31 October 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 4
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
The waiter in particular was very chatty and helpful. We had a fun time. Also noteworthy, the chef has gone out of his way to deliver variations on popular dishes. As we have eaten in many South Asian restaurants getting a creative spin on old favourites is a very good thing indeed. a very worthwhile evening!
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J
Jack
Las Vegas2 reviews
5.0
Dined on 19 October 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Spectacular meals that had been consistent for decades. The same is true for their always-friendly service. This restaurant is a favourite for many people in the neighborhood.
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W
Winston
Ottawa2 reviews
5.0
Dined on 26 September 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
I cannot believe I have only discovered this place now, having lived in Ottawa for several years. Ceylonta is delicious, servers are so kind and the decor is authentic as well as calming. Count me in as a returning customer!
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P
Paul
Ottawa6 reviews
5.0
Dined on 14 September 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 5
Been a customer for over 20 years and Ceylonta always satisfies. Great food and service. Friendly staff. Love the new drink options. This could be the best South Indian/Sri Lankan restaurant in Canada.
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R
Randall
Seattle12 reviews
5.0
Dined on 13 September 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
Excellent food and service. Great cocktails, wine so-so. The recommendations that Tony made were perfect for us.
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E
Erin VIP
New York City4 reviews
5.0
Dined on 12 September 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
I've been coming to Ceylonta for almost two decades and can happily say it continues to be my all-time favourite restaurant in Ottawa. So many amazing dishes to choose from and the staff are fantastic.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Ottawa1 review
5.0
Dined on 28 July 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Food was delicious and the service was fantastic! Will be back soon!!!
1 person found this helpful

FAQs

Ceylonta offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (613) 237-7812.

Ceylonta is rated 4.5 stars by 14 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a booking

2 people

14 Mar 2025

19:00

Booked 1 time today

Order delivery or takeout

403 Somerset St W Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K2P 2P5

Additional information

Cross Street
Located on Somerset Street West, between Bank and Kent.
Area
Nepean
Hours of Operation
Mon–Fri 11:00–14:00 Daily 16:00–21:00
Price
CAN$31 to CAN$50
Cuisines
Sri Lankan, South Indian, Indian
Dining style
Casual Dining
Dress code
Smart Casual
Parking details
Street Parking
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Outdoor Smoking Area, Takeaway, Wheelchair Access

Website
http://www.ceylonta.com/
Phone number
(613) 237-7812

Ceylonta

Make a booking

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Appetizers

Mutton Roll

Ulunthu Vadai

Fish Cutlet

Rasam

Sambar Vegetable Soup

Spicy Tomatoe soup

Vegetable Samosa

Kadalai Vadai

Traditional Entrees

Vegetable Thali

Meat Thali

Chicken Biryani

Mutton Biryani

Vegetable Biryani

Fish Thali

Beef Biryani

Shrimp Biryani

Dosai

Masala Dosai

Ghee Dosai

Plain Dosai

Egg Dosai

Ceylonta Style Roasts

Ceylonta's Chicken Palandi

Ceylonta's Roast Beef

Ceylonta's Fish Steaks

Tandoori Chicken

Stir Fried Dishes

Chicken Fried Rice

Vegetable Fried Rice

Mutton Fried Rice

Beef Fried Rice

String Hoppers Kothu

Mutton String Hoppers Kothu

Chicken String Hoppers Kothu

Vegetarian String Hoppers Kothu

Beef String Hoppers Kothu

Kothu Rotti

Porotha (2 pcs)

Chicken Kothu Rotti

Mutton Kothu Rotti

Naan

Vegetarian Kothu Rotti

Beef Kothu Rotti

Egg Kothu Rotti

Steamed Entrees

String Hoppers

Pittu

Devilled Dishes

Devilled Chicken

Devilled Beef

Devilled Fish

Devilled Shrimp

Devilled Potato

Curried Dishes

Butter Chicken

Curried Eggplant

Curried King Fish

Curried Shrimp

Curried Beans

Cabbage Stir Fry and Spinach with Coconut

Curried Lentils

Curried Chicken

Curried Egg

Curried Potatoes With SauceCA$16.00

Curried BeefCA$23.00

Chick PeasCA$16.00

Curried SquashCA$19.00

Curried MuttonCA$23.00

Shahi PaneerCA$22.00

Side Dishes

Vegetable SamosaCA$6.00

Kadalai VadaiCA$6.00

Fish CutletCA$6.00

Naan BreadCA$7.00