The Empire Cafe

The Empire Cafe is housed in a beautifully restored colonial building, offering a grand and airy space perfect for spreading out. The high ceilings and large windows create an open, productive atmosphere. Best seating for work includes the large communal tables or the smaller tables tucked away in corners, many with views of the street below. They serve a wide range of Western and Sri Lankan dishes, with excellent coffee and freshly squeezed juices. The food is consistently good, making it easy to stay for lunch. The crowd is a mix of tourists, local professionals, and remote workers. Noise levels can be lively around lunch but generally remain a comfortable hum. It’s a great spot to observe Kandy life while remaining productive. The historical context and central location are definite highlights for digital nomads.