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+ 94 773 27 5582The Sri Lankan sun dips below the horizon, painting the Hiriketiya sky in fiery strokes of orange and pink. The heat of the day gives way to a cool, salty breeze rolling in off the Indian Ocean. Your skin is warm, your spirit is relaxed after a day of surfing or lounging, and a familiar, pleasant feeling begins to stir: hunger. This is that magical moment of transition from a lazy beach day to a vibrant coastal night, and the only question that matters is, "Where do we eat?"
In a place as enchanting as Hiriketiya, the answer needs to be more than just a place with food. You need a destination that captures the very essence of the town—a place with a soul. You need The Hangout.
More than just a restaurant, The Hangout is the beating heart of Hiriketiya’s social scene. It’s a place where stories are shared, friendships are forged, and the day's adventures are toasted. It’s here that your perfect dinner plan comes to life, centered around satisfying cravings with epic burgers, fresh-off-the-grill seafood, and a cocktail menu that reads like a love letter to tropical living. This is your guide to crafting that perfect evening.
Before we even talk about the food, let’s talk about the feeling. Walking into The Hangout as dusk settles is an experience in itself. The ambient lighting, the laid-back music that seems to sync with the rhythm of the waves, and the gentle buzz of conversation create an atmosphere that is instantly welcoming.
The open-air design means you’re never truly disconnected from the paradise outside. You can feel the sea breeze, hear the distant crash of waves, and watch as the last light of the golden hour fades into a canopy of brilliant stars. It’s a setting that encourages you to slow down, to be present, and to truly savor the moment. This isn't a rushed dinner; it’s a session of pure, unadulterated chill. The vibe is effortlessly cool, attracting a vibrant mix of surfers, travelers, and locals, all coming together to share in the simple joy of a good meal in a beautiful place.
The menu at The Hangout presents a wonderful challenge, a delicious fork in the road. Tonight’s dinner plan forces a choice between two titans of taste, each promising a completely different yet equally satisfying experience. So, what’s it going to be: classic comfort or a taste of the ocean?
The Comfort Classic: Conquering the Meaty Burger ????
There are some cravings that only a truly great burger can satisfy, and The Hangout’s Meaty Burger is engineered to do just that. This is a masterpiece of textures and flavors, built to conquer even the most serious post-surf hunger.
Your first choice sets the stage: a juicy beef smash pattie or a perfectly cooked chicken smash pattie. The "smash" technique ensures a delightfully crispy edge that gives way to a tender, flavorful center. This glorious pattie is then topped with a layer of melted cheese that drapes over it like a warm blanket.
But a burger is a team sport, and the supporting cast here is world-class. Crisp lettuce, fresh slices of tomato, and tangy pickled cucumber provide a fresh, sharp crunch that cuts through the richness. A generous spread of creamy, house-made aioli adds a touch of savory decadence, bringing all the elements together. And of course, no burger experience is complete without a heaping side of golden, perfectly salted french fries, ready for dipping. It’s a two-handed, no-nonsense, utterly satisfying classic done right.
If your soul is leaning towards the sea, the Grilled Calamari is your answer. This dish is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the quality of fresh, local ingredients. Sourced from the abundant waters of the Indian Ocean, the calamari is treated with the respect it deserves.
Forget heavy batter or deep fryers; this is all about the pure, clean flavor of the grill. The calamari is cooked over an open flame, giving it a subtle, smoky char while ensuring it remains incredibly tender and succulent—never tough or rubbery. Each bite is a taste of the sea, elevated by the smokiness of the grill.
Served as a complete platter, the calamari is accompanied by those same irresistible golden chips and a crisp, fresh side salad. The zesty salad provides a light, refreshing counterpoint to the smoky seafood, creating a perfectly balanced meal that is both satisfying and light. It’s the perfect choice for a warm evening when you crave something fresh yet substantial.
Your perfect dinner plan needs the perfect drink to complete it. The cocktail menu at The Hangout is a vibrant collection of classics and creative signature mixes, ensuring there's a perfect pairing for your chosen meal and mood.
A hearty burger calls for a drink that can stand up to its bold flavors. A Dark & Stormy is an excellent choice, with the spicy kick of ginger beer and zesty lime cutting through the richness of the meat and cheese. Alternatively, a classic Mojito, with its muddled fresh mint and bright lime, offers a wave of refreshment that cleanses the palate with every sip.
The delicate, smoky flavor of the Grilled Calamari pairs beautifully with something lighter and more aromatic. The Sunset at The Hangout is not just a drink; it's an experience named for the moment you should be enjoying it. Its unique and refreshing blend is the perfect companion to seafood. An Aperol Spritz is another fantastic option, its bittersweet, bubbly character enhancing the fresh, clean taste of the calamari.
So, as the sun sets over the palm trees and the lights of Hiriketiya begin to twinkle, your dinner plan is sorted. It starts with soaking in the incredible vibes at The Hangout, continues with a delicious choice between an epic burger or fresh grilled calamari, and is perfected with a handcrafted cocktail.
This is more than just a meal. It's the perfect end to a perfect day in paradise. It's a taste of the laid-back, joyful spirit of Hiriketiya, served on a plate and in a glass. The only question left to answer is: what will you be ordering tonight?