Kampong

★ 4.7 · 83 reviews Colombo Opened November 2025

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Arrack cocktails behind a grain store, in a 130-year-old Slave Island building

Walk through a working grain store to get to the bar. That's the entrance to Kampong, set inside a building over 130 years old next to the Kompanna Veediya train station in Slave Island. Brothers Chatura and Chalana Dayawansa, who also run Gini across town, built it to read the neighbourhood rather than dress it up.

The drinks list maps the surrounding streets: ten cocktails built mostly on arrack and local ingredients, with tapas-sized plates on the side. It filled up fast enough that reservations became the norm within weeks.

What guests say

Reviews by Google

Keertna Sapra 8 reviews · Local Guide 26 May 2026

Hands down SL’s best cocktail bar! The entrance Vs the inside will leave you surprised.. top notch cocktails and service. A must visit to experience the best of Sri Lankan bar culture!
Anna Wimmer 14 reviews · Local Guide 24 April 2026

Such a proper speakeasy/cocktail bar. Cocktails and food are amazing, the Station Gimlet is phenomenal. This place doesn’t feel like you’re in Colombo. It completely transforms you to another place while still holding true to the history of the surrounding areas. 100/10 recommend. Don’t miss out on this place!!
Shanaz Fouze 26 reviews · Local Guide 21 April 2026

Kampong has to be one of the best hidden gems in Colombo. The atmosphere is always warm, lively, and full of character, making it such a lovely place to spend an evening. What truly makes it stand out, however, is the staff. They are consistently welcoming, attentive, and genuinely passionate about what they do. One evening, we decided to try all of the drinks on the menu, and it turned into one of the most enjoyable nights we have had. Sitting at the bar is an experience in itself, as the team take the time to explain how certain drinks came to be on the menu and talk you through everything with such knowledge and enthusiasm. It adds a really personal touch that you do not often find. The food is equally impressive. We especially loved the duck and betel leaf dish, which was absolutely delicious. My personal favourite drink, though, has to be the Castle Special!!!! easily one of the best I have ever had. We have visited quite a few times now, and they have never disappointed. The owner is incredibly kind. We had the pleasure of speaking with him once, and he was so generous with his time, sharing the story behind how it all began. That sort of warmth carries through the whole place. Kampong has such wonderful energy because everyone there, from the owner to the staff, is genuinely kind and welcoming. One thing I would always recommend is being respectful of their reservation system and booking in advance rather than simply turning up. A quick WhatsApp message goes a long way, and they are always so helpful in trying their best to accommodate requests wherever they can. A truly special spot in Colombo.
Yonah Mazor 19 reviews · Local Guide 19 April 2026

Absolutely amazing!!! The best bar we’ve been to in SL. Every sip and bite were mind blowing!
Kimberly Rose 31 reviews · Local Guide 16 April 2026

What an absolute VIBE!! Honestly, i loved everything about this place.. the food, the drinks, the service, the music… they have it ALL going on!! 🤍👌🌹