A Toast to the Mountains: Brunch with a View and a Kick in Ella
The morning after a serious hike is always a mix of satisfaction and exhaustion. My legs were sore from the trek up Ella Rock, and my stomach was rumbling with an appetite that only mountain air can create. I wasn't just looking for a meal; I needed something that would be both comforting and invigorating, a proper reward for the miles I'd put in.
As I wandered down Ella's main street, I came across Cafe One Love, a three-story cafe that seemed to be humming with a promise of good times. The views, the scent of coffee, and a glimpse of a menu that was anything but ordinary told me I had found the perfect spot for brunch. This wasn't going to be just a meal; it was going to be a celebration, a proper toast to the mountains and a fantastic trip.
A Relaxed Retreat with a View
Walking into Cafe One Love, you're immediately hit with a wave of good vibes. The place has this chilled-out, bohemian feel to it, and it’s built up the side of a hill, with different open-air levels to explore. I found a great spot on the top floor, with a stunning view of the lush, green valley below. The cool mountain air was a refreshing contrast to the warm sunshine, and the soft music created a relaxed backdrop.
The decor is a brilliant mix of colourful artwork and comfy seating that just invites you to settle in. It felt less like a cafe and more like a big, creative living room. I noticed that many people had taken their shoes off, a little detail that made the place feel even more like a home away from home.
The Brunch that Fuels You
You can't toast to the mountains on an empty stomach. The menu here is a fantastic mix of local Sri Lankan dishes and Western favourites, all designed to satisfy any appetite. I wanted something that was both healthy and filling.
I couldn't resist starting with a plate of Bruschetta. It was crispy bread topped with fresh tomatoes, garlic, onion, and a drizzle of olive oil, and it was the perfect light start to my meal. For the main event, I was torn between a few options. I considered the light and airy Pancakes served with fresh fruits and honey, but my appetite was calling for something more substantial.
I ended up going for the Sri Lankan Egg Hoppers. This local street food specialty is a work of art. A perfectly crispy, bowl-shaped pancake with a nested egg inside. It came with a spicy sambol, and the combination of the crispy hopper and the rich, spicy flavours was amazing. I also saw a friend at another table enjoying the Quinoa Salad, a vibrant mix of quinoa, avocado, cucumber, and tomatoes. It all looked and smelled so good.
A Drink in Hand: The "Kick" in Your Brunch
Brunch here is more than just coffee. While they do have an amazing selection of hot and cold coffees, I decided to go for a drink that added a bit of a kick to my morning. The Cool Mocca caught my eye—it's a cold coffee with a double espresso, cacao milk, and a swirl of chocolate and caramel syrup. It was sweet, rich, and incredibly refreshing.
For those who want to turn brunch into a real celebration, the bar has you covered. They have a full cocktail menu with classics and unique house creations. A Mojito or a Pina Colada would have been a great choice. But what really surprised me was the wine. You could get a glass of red or white, which is a perfect sophisticated touch for a celebratory brunch.
The Location
One of the best things about Cafe One Love is its fantastic location. It's right on the main street of Ella, just a short walk from the train station. This central spot makes it the perfect place to start or end your evening, a natural magnet for anyone exploring the town. Its convenience is a big plus, but as I quickly discovered, it's the incredible experience inside that makes it so hard to leave. The mix of a central location, amazing food and drink, and that unbeatable vibe makes it a must-visit spot on any Ella itinerary.
Brunch Redefined
So, what's the formula for an epic brunch in Ella? For me, it's simple: you head to Cafe One Love. You order a delicious plate of Sri Lankan Egg Hoppers. You sip on a vibrant Cool Mocca or a celebratory glass of wine. You let the music and the wonderful people carry you away into a new day. It’s an afternoon of unexpected joy, a brilliant way to break free from the normal brunch routine and create memories that will last a lifetime.
If you find yourself in Ella, do yourself a favour and don’t settle for a boring brunch. Head straight to Cafe One Love and experience the magic for yourself. I promise you, you won't regret it. What’s the first drink you'd try? Let me know in the comments!