Journey Insights

Arugam Bay: the name alone conjures images of perfect barrel waves, golden sands, and endless sunshine. But for the seasoned traveller, the true magic of A-Bay isn’t just found between the morning surf sessions; it’s discovered in the quiet, intimate evenings when the sun dips below the horizon and the beach transforms into a dreamy, illuminated dining room.

If you’re searching for the perfect culmination to a day of Sri Lankan adventure—a meal that’s both authentic and utterly unforgettable—look no further than Cafe One Love. This isn't just dinner; it’s a sensory symphony where the food is fresh, the view is infinite, and the vibe is pure bohemian bliss.

The Allure of Arugam Bay at Twilight: Our Seaside Sanctuary

As the last surfers paddle in and the sky shifts from gold to deep indigo, the energy of Arugam Bay softens into a tranquil hum. The transition itself is an event, but securing a spot at Cafe One Love guarantees the best seat in the house. This cafe understands its unique selling point: dining on the beach, not just by it.

Kicking off our sandals and feeling the cool, soft sand between our toes was the first step in shedding the day's stress. The tables—rustic, low-lit, and scattered beneath swaying palms—create a genuinely romantic and intimate atmosphere. We settled into a perfect spot, where the rhythmic sound of the waves breaking just meters away became the evening's signature soundtrack.

The sea view here is spectacular, especially at night. The vast, dark ocean reflects the silver light of the moon, while distant fishing boats add tiny, twinkling stars to the horizon. It’s a backdrop so naturally beautiful, it requires no embellishment. The soft, ambient lighting of the cafe—a mix of lanterns and fairy lights—bathes the seating area in a warm, inviting glow, making the setting ideal for a romantic dinner or a relaxed evening with friends.

The Culinary Map: A Menu That Celebrates the Coast

The menu at Cafe One Love is a testament to culinary diversity, offering a delightful mix of local flavours and international favourites. We were looking for a meal that felt both indulgent and perfectly suited to our seaside location.

The Indulgent Starter: A Taste of the Tropics

To ease into the evening, we began with the Mediterranean Mezze Platter. It was the perfect appetizer to share, offering a range of textures and fresh flavours:

• Fresh vegetable sticks (carrot, cucumber, bell pepper).
• Crisp falafel and plump olives.
• Tangy feta cheese.
• Smoky grilled eggplant.
• Creamy hummus and rich beetroot dip.
• Served with warm bread slices.

The fresh vegetables and dips were a bright contrast to the heavy heat of the day, proving that even simple starters can be memorable when the ingredients are this fresh.

The Main Event: A Feast from the Sea

For the main course, there was only one choice that could truly honour our beachfront dining experience: The Seafood Platter. We placed our order, knowing this masterpiece takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare. This wait, however, only heightened our anticipation, giving us time to fully appreciate our wine and the view.

The platter arrived, a stunning centrepiece and an immediate declaration of coastal abundance:

• Grilled Lobster
• Garlic Butter Prawns
• Morning catch of the day's baked fish
• Tender baby squid with garlic mayo and lemon butter sauce.

The aroma was incredible—garlic, lemon, and the faint scent of the sea. The quality of the seafood was impeccable, cooked simply to allow the natural, sweet flavour of the ocean to dominate. It was a lingering, satisfying meal that spoke directly to the soul of Arugam Bay.

A Toast to the Moment: The Perfect Wine Pairing

No special dinner is complete without the right beverage. While we had enjoyed a cocktail earlier in the evening, the richness of the seafood and the cooling evening air called for a deep, smooth wine. The wine menu at Cafe One Love offers fantastic choices for both red and white wine lovers.

We decided to go with a red, opting for the Namaqua Shiraz. This choice provided a lovely contrast to the fresh seafood. It’s described as a South African Red Wine that is full-bodied, with a spicy aroma, and features notes of dark berries, mocha, and a vanilla finish. The spicy aroma and rich character proved to be a surprisingly perfect pairing, adding a layer of warmth and complexity to the meal.

For those who prefer a crisper taste, the Saltbush Chardonnay —an Australian creamy White Wine with hints of tropical fruit flavour—would have been an excellent choice to complement the lemon and garlic in the seafood. The variety available ensures that every palate finds its perfect match.

The Grand Finale: Sweet Indulgence

After such a grand savoury feast, there’s always room for a little sweet indulgence. We turned our attention to the SWEETS menu.

To keep the tropical theme going, we chose the Frozen Fruit Cubes. This refreshing dessert features frozen watermelon, mango, and passionfruit cubes, served alongside creamy vanilla ice cream. The cold, tangy fruit was the perfect palate cleanser after the rich seafood, wrapping up the dinner with a burst of tropical freshness.

For the chocolate lovers, the menu also features a Chocolate Brownie and Banana Fritters —two classics served with vanilla ice cream. The options are simple, sweet, and satisfying—a perfect final note.

Beyond the Plate: Service and Soul

The true brilliance of Cafe One Love lies not just in the beautiful setting or the delicious menu, but in the people. The service was attentive, friendly, and genuinely warm. The staff seemed to take real pride in their dishes, ensuring every course was perfect.

The atmosphere itself transitioned beautifully from a tranquil dinner setting to a laid-back, post-meal social scene. The subtle shift in the music, the laughter from nearby tables, and the overall feeling of peace made us linger long after our plates were cleared.

If you are traveling to Arugam Bay, making a reservation at Cafe One Love for a seaside dinner is non-negotiable. It’s a memorable destination that provides the perfect blend of luxury and bohemian beach charm. It's where you don't just eat dinner; you celebrate the holiday, one delicious bite and one beautiful sunset at a time.