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Hours
Sun
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Mon
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Tue
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Wed
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Thu
8:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Fri
8:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Sat
8:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Details
Someone from this business manages this listing.
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CUISINES
Seafood, Grill, Gastropub
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Drinks
features
Does this restaurant have live music
Details
About
Casual & convenient beach side dining with an emphasis on keeping both parents and children happy. Serving up international style cuisine using fresh, local ingredients. Now also selling authentic Italian Pizza. Proper coffee, with local beans, ethically farmed & sourced. We smoke our own fish & chicken and produce our own mozzarella & halloumi cheese. Hosting weekly events that focus on arts, culture & community. Activities include surfing, slackline, climbing wall, table football and skate ramp. Open to any & all, from 7am till 9.30pm. Enjoy!
CUISINES
Seafood, Grill, Gastropub
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Drinks
FEATURES
Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Live Music, Beach, Playgrounds, Dog Friendly, Family style, Sports bars
Contribute
5.0
258 reviews
Excellent
231
Very good
15
Average
4
Poor
3
Terrible
5
Becky Percival
Frome1 contribution
Feb 2020 • none
I so loved The Shack, that I had to go back after a little trip to Hiriketiya! I ended up staying in all three accommodations which were very clean and tidy. The Love Shack was probably my favourite and I'll definitely be taking my son with me there next year, but the Beach Shack was also great. What I loved was being able to walk out directly onto the beach, and although the Love Shack had a kitchenette I always ended up eating in the restaurant because it was all so delicious and decently priced! Great smoothies, juices and coffees, brilliant breakfasts...in fact I would recommend every single thing on the menu, which is also kid-friendly. The staff were very accommodating and friendly, and being a solo traveller on this occasion there was always someone interesting around to talk to. Thursday nights are a must with fabulous live music, and in general the location was amazing, set on a stunning beach, perfect for trips to Galle or Unawatuna. The only thing I regret was not learning to surf!
Written February 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John_Mann_london
Well thank you so much for taking the time to write such a detailed and eloquent review - I don’t where to start to address your points! But I think what pleases me most is that you felt safe as solo female traveler - we really try to provide a space where you can fully relax knowing that the staff are watching out for you. Really hope to see you back here soon!
All the best
John
Written February 28, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
sally3sunshine
Brighton3 contributions
Feb 2020 • none
This is a brilliant place to eat, drink, hang out and meet people. The food is delicious, there's plenty of variety and it's very reasonably priced. The Shack is bang on the sea front, although you would never guess what a lovely beach lies behind the hustle and bustle of Matara Road. We were staying nearby so ended up going there most days and met lots of interesting people, locals too. We really enjoyed the live music.
Written February 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John_Mann_london
Thanks so much for the lovely review. Yes the juxtaposition of the busy road and the chilled beach is amazing! Really glad you enjoyed the band we try to have live music at least twice a month. Really hope to see you here again soon.
All the best
The Shack Team
Written February 29, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
TheRuin
Dikwella4 contributions
Apr 2021 • family
We have been coming here for the last 3 years and it's undoubtedly the best place for families we been to in Sri Lanka. Located on the trendy Dewata beach just outside Galle it serves a great selection of food and drinks which are consistently excellent quality. Boasting a great surf beach, climbing wall, skate ramp, pool table, table football, cinema screen and music room the kids are always entertained. They also have 3 great apartments all with a fantastic view of the beach. Can't recommend highly enough!
Written April 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John_Mann_london
Wow what a fantastic review! We aim to be the best family restaurant in Galle so it highly pleasing that you think it is! Our motto is "Happy Kids Happy Parents" so that's why we have made sure the kids are always entertained. Look forward to seeing you again soon. The Shack team
Written May 3, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lukas Agerskov
Copenhagen21 contributions
Feb 2020 • none
We went here for pizza after surfing for a bit, and ordered two pizzas with coke:
Prices are medium with about 3600 for two pizzas and two cokes. Quite reasonable. Pizza, we agreed, was more or less average. This was due to a big upside, and a big downside:
Upside: Crust is well made and cooked in a true stone oven giving a very nice crust.
Downside: Everything on the pizza (We had buffalo mozzarella on one and mushrooms+beef) was tasteless, kinda boring and anonymous.
All in all, for a beachbar, normally being horrible we can still recommend it. But if you believe it to be in top ten of all places in Galle, you would be very very wrong.
Written February 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John_Mann_london
Thanks for taking the time to review it. We are disappointed that you didn’t think the pizza toppings were good - the buffalo mozzarella is the best we can get hold of in Sri Lanka as is the beer which is from an organic farm. I guess you mean that you don’t like beach bars in general from your comments so maybe 3 bubbles isn’t too bad! I would recommend your try some of the other food beside pizza next time you come.
All the best
John
Written February 24, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jennifer L
114 contributions
Aug 2020 • none
We ordered pizza from here a few times during the curfew and when we couldn't go out and it is very good, if a bit inconsistent at times (for some reason the last time our pizzas seemed to have very little cheese). But the crust is always crispy and done to perfection and the sauce is tasty. The waitstaff if friendly and helpful. It's a fantastic location on the beach to chill and surf. It has a shower that you can use after surfing. I liked the music too.
Written August 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John_Mann_london
Sorry to hear about your cheese-less pizza - we aim to produce consistently high quality products so we will be addressing this immediately. Hope you come back soon and extra cheese in on the house! Glad to like the music - so do we! 😂
Written August 24, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Max_from_Moscow
Moscow14 contributions
Jan 2020 • couples
Good beach cafe (also has clothing store and rooms to stay) with the best pizza we’ve tried on the island (try 4 cheeses - they add some cool smoked cheese inside). Also tried some nice seafood snacks. So, if you’re tired of carry, that is the place to visit.
Also it is a good spot if you’re beginner surfer. There is surfing school in few meters. So, you can combine all the good things in one place: surf first, have some nice food and drinks second.
Written January 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John_Mann_london
Really glad you enjoyed your time with us at The Shack. The pizzas are a new addition so we are very chuffed that you enjoyed them so much - Quattro Formaggi is my favourite too! Hope to see you here again soon!
Written January 7, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
May
2 contributions
Mar 2020 • friends
We stayed at the Shacks AirBnB accommodation, so when we say the food here is great, we know what we are talking about - we basically had all our meals here.
The food is really good and very generously priced. The menu has a lot of different options, you won't leave with bored tastebuds!
The atmosphere is that of a layed back cafe on the beach, where both locals and tourists come.
Some nights they have live music events!
The staff is very friendly and accommodating.
Written March 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John_Mann_london
Thanks for making time you write us a review. We are very flattered that you thought our food was so good! We aim to do simple dishes well - so glad you didn’t get bored of the menu! Hope you can come back soon!
All the best
The Shack Team
Written March 9, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Brice
42 contributions
Feb 2020 • couples
After a year, I came back to this landmark of Dewata Beach.
The atmosphere is super nice. The owner succeeded to make a comfortable (though super accessible) place, right in front of the sea.
The drink and food menu is very creative as qualitative.
Do not hesitate to try their spiced beverages.
You won't be disappointed.
Written February 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John_Mann_london
Well thank you for the lovely review - it means all the more that’s it’s the second time you have come! We have spent a lot of time and effort improving the cafe over the last year - I’m glad you like the improvements.
Come again soon!
Written February 24, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hitu P
4 contributions
Oct 2023 • couples
Hey, I went there on a Monday evening, and hardly anyone was there.
Got escorted to our table and then were surly forgotten about even though there were lots of staff mulling around on their phone.
Decided to get up and go to the bar to order drinks after 10 minutes of waiting, which finally got a waiter's attention, who then decided to come and take our order.
Boy, when the food arrived, it was “finger-licking good”. It was worth the initial wait, especially as the waiter more than made amends for his lapse and the food made the whole occasion worthwhile.
Wonderful setting with good funky music in the background.
Definitely will be coming back in the daytime to feel the vibes and enjoy the food and especially the drink.
Written October 30, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Di W
Sunshine Coast161 contributions
Aug 2023 • couples
Wow chef's special is Masala dosa and it's pretty darn special we weren't hungry so we ordered 1 to share and I could have seriously eaten a whole 1 to myself. It was a good price as well 1500 and the service was great and the setting on the beach was lovely. But the price of beer let's this place down 650 for a small can 375ml possibly the most expensive beer we have purchased in Sri Lanka.
Written August 9, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TravelBag™ Asia
13 contributions
Aug 2020 • none
As a Travel Agency that has had its fair share of visiting many places, we can whole-heartedly say that we have found this unique gem to be one of a kind. It's irrisistable, entertaining and provides more than just an awesome menu, but something that we can enjoy and continue our paths down a healthier lifestyle.
With a cocktail menu that broke my virginity as a non-drinker and the best community of close knitted expats that frequently visit bringing the place alive, there is no other place that we as the founders of TravelBag™ Asia can truly recommend to get back to what life used to be like before 2020.
Wall Climbing, Surf Camps, Skateboard Ramps, Billiards, Darts, Indoor Cinema, Fooseball, Extreme Bike Tours, Amazing Coffee, Delicious Menu that keeps us healthy and more. This is a place where children can truly be themselves naturally, walking around barefoot, with a massive team always keeping their eyes out while the little ones get to explore the world again. By the way, did we mention Thursdays?
Written September 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John_Mann_london
Well where to start? We are super proud to be the subject of this tremendous review. We aim to provide a sanctuary where our patrons can eat, drink, sleep and play so your comments are music to our ears.
Please visit again soon!
Many Thanks
Thr Shack Team
Written September 15, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lily L
Livorno2 contributions
Jan 2020 • none
The Shack is without a doubt the BEST restaurant in Galle. It has the sea, child friendly facilities, a wide range menu and a Italian certified pizzeria! The art murals and comfy furnishing are just the cherry on top of the cake for this magical place. We love you Shack!
Written January 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John_Mann_london
Wow what a great review - thank you so much! We try to create a space where local artists can express their talent and glad you think it's worked. Please come back soon!
Written January 10, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sabine Lenz
2 contributions
May 2021 • solo
I have been staying just above shack beach café during the travel restrictions in May 2021.
I was so lucky to have the best restaurant/bar/ café just downstairs. Lambert and his team made my stay really unforgettable. The food was fantastic, so were the drinks....healthy, homemade and delicious! And all of this delivered into the apartment. Baba was exceptional helpful with all the extras you need during covid times....he organised pcr test, transport to hospital/ Airport etc. He's really the best example of srilankan friendliness and hospitality!!
If you're in the area, the shack beach café is a must go!!!
Written July 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John_Mann_london
Thanks for this lovely review - it’s been a tough time to have a beach cafe so it means a lot when we make people happy! Baba is a true gentleman we are very lucky to have him in the team. And Lambert well he’s just the main man!
See you on the beach!
The Shack Team
Written July 4, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
scarletarden1
Whitstable4 contributions
Jan 2022 • couples
As you enter the Shack you walk through to a beautiful beach!!! We ate here 3 times in 4 days we loved it so much. Would recommend to anyone staying in or near Galle. The food is absolutely gorgeous - everything felt like it had been cooked with pure love. And the staff are so lovely!! X
Written January 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John_Mann_london
Thank you so much for this glowing review - we take a lot of pride in our food and it’s great to hear when it’s appreciated! Really hope to see you again here soon.
All the very best
The Shack Team
Written January 14, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Amrit M
1 contribution
Mar 2024 • family
We visited The Shack Beach Cafe based on a friend's recommendation, and loved it so much that we ended up having lunch here every day during our visit in Galle!
The food is excellent, and there's something on the menu for everyone. Our kids loved the beach access and splashing in the waves. When they got too hot, the could head inside for a round of table tennis.
The staff were all very friendly and helpful.
Overall an excellent experience for families, or anyone looking for a chilled out afternoon on the beach.
Written March 21, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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