Journey Insights

There’s something about Ella that makes time feel slower, almost as if the misty hills want you to savour each passing moment. I’ve been here before, but this time I discovered something magical—Tuesday night at Café One Love. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to dance under the stars, eat tacos with strangers who instantly become friends, and sip cocktails while live music fills the air, this is where it all happens.

The Vibe That Greets You

Walking into Café One Love on a Tuesday evening feels like stepping into a pocket of happiness. The space glows with warm light, reggae-inspired colours, and that unmistakable hum of anticipation. You hear the laughter before you even sit down. Locals and travellers alike gather, shoes kicked off, conversations flowing as freely as the drinks.

There’s a laid-back, bohemian energy—think Bob Marley meets Sri Lankan mountain charm. And it’s not just about food or music. It’s about togetherness. You feel it in the way the tables are shared, the way strangers clink glasses, and the way the music invites everyone to sway, even the shy ones.

Tacos That Steal the Show

Let’s talk food, because that’s what pulled me in first. On the menu, you’ll find both Veggie Tacos and Chicken Tacos—two small tortillas stuffed with flavour, topped with gooey melted cheese, and paired with a creamy yoghurt sauce.

The veggie tacos surprised me with their heartiness. Fresh seasonal vegetables tucked into warm tortillas, each bite crunchy, cheesy, and satisfying. If you’re a meat-lover, the chicken tacos are just as indulgent—juicy, perfectly spiced, and comfortingly messy (isn’t that the best kind of taco?).

I paired mine with a plate of golden potato wedges earlier in the evening, but it’s the tacos I kept going back for. Trust me—this is party food done right.

Cocktails That Keep the Night Alive

A party in Ella isn’t complete without a cocktail in hand, and Café One Love does not disappoint. Their menu reads like a playlist of classics and island-inspired twists.

If you’re starting light, the Moscow Mule (vodka, ginger beer, lime, and honey) is refreshing with just the right amount of zing. The Cosmopolitan, with cranberry and lime, feels like a playful nod to city nights. And of course, there’s the iconic Pina Colada—rum blended with pineapple and coconut cream, instantly transporting you to a beachside dream even though you’re up in the hills.

But my absolute favourite was their One Love cocktail—a vibrant mix of vodka, blueberry or cranberry juice, Sprite, lime, and a hint of sugar. Sweet, fizzy, and dangerously easy to drink. It felt like the signature of the night, much like the café itself.

For the brave-hearted, the Long Island Iced Tea packs a punch with its mix of vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec. I tried a sip from a friend’s glass and immediately decided I’d stick to something lighter if I wanted to keep dancing!

Beer, Wine, and Easy-going Choices

Not everyone is a cocktail person, and that’s perfectly fine here. Café One Love has a solid beer list, from the classic Lion to imported options like Heineken and Carlsberg. If you’re after something a little sweeter, try a chilled bottle of Somersby Apple or Blackberry Cider—refreshing, crisp, and ideal for warm evenings.

And for wine lovers? They’ve thought of you too. Glasses of red or white wine are available, or you can make a night of it with a bottle shared among friends.

It’s this mix of choices that makes the night flow seamlessly. You’ll see a table with cocktails lined up, another laughing over beers, and someone in the corner sipping a glass of wine while nodding to the music.

Shisha Under the Stars

Now, here’s where things get even more atmospheric. Outside, under the open sky, you can order Shisha. Imagine lounging back, music drifting through the night, smoke curling lazily into the cool Ella air. It adds a social, playful element to the evening. I tried it for the first time, sharing a pipe with new friends from Germany and Sri Lanka. The flavours are smooth, the vibe is communal, and before you know it, hours have passed.

Music That Moves You

The heartbeat of Tuesday nights here is the music. Local artists take the stage with soulful tunes—sometimes reggae, sometimes acoustic covers, always brimming with life. Before long, the crowd is up dancing, the floor packed with travellers, locals, couples, and solo wanderers alike.

There’s no pretence. No judgment. Just pure joy as the rhythms carry you away. I found myself dancing with people I’d never met before, barefoot on the floor, laughing like old friends. That’s the beauty of Café One Love—it strips away barriers and reminds you how simple happiness can be.

Why Tuesday Nights Are Special

You might ask, why Tuesday? The truth is, in Ella, every day has its magic, but Tuesdays here feel like a tradition. It’s the night when people from every corner of the globe gather in one place for food, drinks, music, and connection.

By midnight, the café feels like a family gathering—strangers hugging goodbye, promises to meet again, and the warm glow of shared memories. It’s not just another night out. It’s an experience that anchors your Ella journey.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive early: Tables fill up quickly, especially near the stage.
• Try the tacos first: They’re the perfect base for a night of cocktails and dancing.
• Share a Shisha: It’s not just about the smoke, it’s about the conversations it sparks.
• Keep your camera ready: The vibe is Instagram-worthy, but more importantly, it’s memory-worthy.
• Don’t overplan: Let the night flow. This is one of those rare places where spontaneity brings the most joy.

As I walked back through the quiet streets of Ella after the party, the music still buzzing in my ears, I realised why Café One Love holds such a special place for travellers. It’s not just the food—though those tacos and cocktails deserve their own standing ovation. It’s not just the music—though it was enough to make me dance without caring who was watching.

It’s the feeling. The togetherness. The magic of strangers becoming friends in a little café perched in the hills.

So, if you ever find yourself in Ella on a Tuesday night, do yourself a favour: head straight to Café One Love. Order tacos, sip a cocktail, share a Shisha, and let the music carry you. You’ll leave with more than just a full stomach—you’ll leave with a story worth telling.