Until my experience at Sigiri, I had only heard tell of the delights of Sri Lankan food. It’s not easy to find this cuisine – I was in San Francisco a few weeks earlier and was certain that I’d get the opportunity while there. I was disappointed to learn that the only Sri Lankan restaurant in the Bay area had closed.

Consequently, I was determined to seek out this elusive quarry during my 3 day (2 night) visit to NYC. I identified 3 active Sri Lankan restaurants – one in Staten Island where there is rumored to be a Little(tiny) Sri Lanka neighborhood. I decided to go for dinner to Sigiri because it’s in the East Village which is always fun – I figured with the dozen or two competing Indian restaurants within two blocks, they would make an effort to distinguish the menu from the common Indian fare.

I was well-rewarded. The restaurant is tiny – run by a Sri Lankan family. Seems the twenty-something son is in front with mom working the back of the house. There are 6 4-top and an equal number of 2-top tables in the narrow dining room. The decor is bright and colorful – a 3-foot tiger mask hangs in the window facing the street – but it’s not so garish as the Indian neighbors next door.

I had high hopes for this adventure, and I was still thrilled with the experience. I feel entirely justified in rating this among the top restaurants, especially since the entrees are generally cheaper than the high-volume, medium quality restaurants up the Ave.

The two of us ordered the appetizer sampler and an entree each – this was enough for two big eaters – we only made it a 3rd of the way through the order of Roti bread. I’d definitely recommend the appetizer sampler unless you aren’t so hungry.

This restaurant is BYOB, but no need to plan ahead, the grocery at the bottom of the stairs has a terrific selection of domestic and imported beers and several chilled white wines. I picked up a big bottle of a strong Indian-brewed lager (not Kingfisher) to go with our meal – it was tough to leave the shop without exploring the exotic spices!