Here are hotels in Kandy that are widely praised for their food, with a short note on what makes each one stand out:

• Theva Residency (Hantana) — boutique hilltop hotel with an award‑winning/very highly reviewed restaurant (Theva Cuisine). Known for inventive Asian-fusion dishes, great presentation and valley views — a top pick for a memorable dinner. (tripadvisor.com)

• The Kandy House — restored colonial manor offering refined, intimate dining (multi‑course breakfasts and set‑menu dinners blending Sri Lankan and Western flavors). Excellent for a quiet, high‑quality hotel dining experience. (thetimes.co.uk)

• Amaya Hills (Rasawasala) — popular for its scenic terrace dining and themed buffets; many guests praise the breakfast and dinner spreads and the hilltop views. Good choice if you like generous buffets and dramatic vistas. (amayaresorts.com)

• Mahaweli Reach — riverside classic with multiple dining venues (Uyana Restaurant, Gangula Terrace); often recommended for its buffet and a la carte Sri Lankan and international options, plus romantic riverside dining. (mahaweli.com)

• Helga’s Folly — iconic, highly memorable boutique hotel whose on‑site kitchen/restaurant is frequently singled out for creative, homey dishes and a one‑of‑a‑kind atmosphere (expect an eccentric experience as well as good food). (tripadvisor.com)

• Cinnamon Citadel (Chaaya/Cinnamon Citadel Kandy) — reliable large hotel on the river with several dining outlets (Panorama, Café C) and options ranging from riverside à la carte to buffet; strong for riverside meals and scenic breakfasts. (cinnamonhotels.com)

Quick tips

• Many of the boutique places (Theva, The Kandy House, Helga’s) are small and fill up for dinner — reserve in advance. (tripadvisor.com)
• If you prefer big buffets and family‑style options, Amaya Hills, Mahaweli Reach and Cinnamon Citadel are safer bets. (amayaresorts.com)
• If you want vegetarian/Sri Lankan specialty menus, mention that when booking — most of the above explicitly cater to local cuisine and dietary needs. (tripadvisor.com)

If you want, I can narrow this to: best for fine dining, best for value/buffet, or best for views/romantic dinner — and I’ll include how far each is from central Kandy (Temple of the Tooth) and approximate price level.