Canteen (by Soul & Surf)

Matara Rd, Ahangama 80650, Sri Lanka
+94 76 230 1126
$$$ Cafe , Bar
(52 Reviews)

Canteen (by Soul & Surf) is a relaxed café and bar nestling along the coastline of Ahangama, where the steady rhythm of the ocean blends seamlessly with laid-back dining and vibrant local surf culture. Positioned right by a quiet cove, it offers more than just a meal — it’s a spot for those who appreciate good food paired with real views and a casual, spirited atmosphere.

This is a place where mornings often start with breakfast overlooking the bay’s soft waves, drawing surfers and travelers who want to refuel after an early session in the water. The food here takes a fresh, straightforward approach with highlights like the battered fish and smashed potatoes standing out as crowd-pleasers, delivering a satisfying combination of coastal flavors with comforting textures. Whether you’re up for a laid-back brunch or winding down with a cocktail as the sun dips below the horizon, the menu has something thoughtful for that moment.

The interior and design show a conscious, unique taste — not overly polished, but with enough character and a carefully curated soundtrack that creates a distinct vibe you won’t easily find elsewhere in the area. The mix of locals and visitors lends a dynamic yet welcoming feel, making it a comfortable spot to linger over multiple courses or just hang out with a refreshing matcha smoothie or a jalapeño cocktail.

Service here is noted for being attentive without intrusion, enhancing the easygoing mood. If you enjoy a setting where good food meets genuine local spirit and natural beauty, Canteen fits well into a day spent exploring Ahangama’s surf scene or relaxing along the southern coast. Late afternoons and early evenings deliver a particularly attractive atmosphere, with the light fading over calm blue waters and a chance to watch surfers paddle by as the sky shifts colors.

In short, Canteen works well for those who value a combination of fresh, thoughtfully prepared food, authentic local vibes, ocean views, and a friendly, unpretentious dining experience that mirrors the easy pace of life in this part of Sri Lanka.

Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Live performances
Popular for
Lunch
Solo dining
What they serve
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Happy-hour drinks
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Wine
Best for
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Tuesday

08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Wednesday

08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Thursday

08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Friday

08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Saturday

08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Sunday

08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

52 Reviews
Alannah

25 Dec 2025

The food here is AMAZING. Every. Single. Meal. Personally, I couldn’t fault any of them. I had never eaten half the food that I was served but I tried anyway and YUM. Not to mention the smoothies (matcha one is gooooddd!) The service was also just as great and the view can’t be beaten. I miss it here, definitely check it out

Magnus Drue Knudsen

24 Dec 2025

Full on banging! 100% recommend. Went there for breakfast which was fantastic. The most incredible view and even went for a little surf! I will be back to try the dinner options for sure

Devin Ratnasinghe

20 Dec 2025

Went for Brunch with some friends.. The food and drinks are amazing!! I had the Tuna bowl (The tuna is prepared more towards the rare side which i loved! but if you prefer it fully vooked let the staff know when you order it..)..and the cocktails are great I love the Jalapeño Smash.. location is great too.. amazing little cove with blue water and great sunsets

Maja Czerwińska

05 Nov 2025

I absolutely adore this spot! Have been eating here often while staying one month in ahangama and I probably tried most of the things from the menu It’s not just great, fresh food, amazing view but also very unique design and choice of music. This place has a very special vibe - the one you can’t really find nowhere else. And pictures doesn’t show how good it is. Thank you guys for such an amazing job!

Ross B

24 Oct 2025

Food was amazing, and such a nice spot with a lovely view of the bay. Couldn’t recommend it more. Staff were great, and really good value for money

Filip A.

07 Oct 2025

Soul & Surf Canteen has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere with a surf vibe. The view of the ocean makes the whole place feel calm and inviting. The music was good and added to the overall mood, making it easy to linger and enjoy the moment. The staff were friendly and welcoming, which matched the warm atmosphere. The food was delicious and felt fresh. The crispy cauliflower was especially interesting — a bit different, but full of flavor. Overall, it’s a great spot to unwind, enjoy good music, and have a tasty meal right by the ocean.

Danae Millán

29 Sep 2025

I really like this place. The atmosphere is mellow and pretty, with a beautiful beach view and a partial look to The Cove surf spot. Wonderful to watch on good days while eating. Really enjoyed the purple egg hoppers - wished they were a bit more filling but tasted really good. And liked the cappuccino too. Bonus points for the doggies around.

Saf

17 Sep 2025

A wonderful chilled spot right by the water, with a great menu (plenty of gluten free and plant based options), great vibe and super friendly staff. Loads of space to work remotely if that’s your vibe, or to just chill out with a drink (I recommend the iced coconut drink or the jalapeño smash) and some good food (the egg hoppers are delicious) and enjoy the sunset over the beautiful cove. Recommended!

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