Here are three Kandy places to stay if great dining is a priority, with why each stands out and a quick practical tip for booking.

1. The Kandy House — boutique, best-for-food experience

• Why: A converted manor-house boutique with a chef-driven menu that fuses Sri Lankan and international dishes; known for special “curry nights” and a highly-regarded dinner experience and garden/veranda dining. (theculturetrip.com)
• Best for: Romantic/quiet stays, food-focused travelers who want curated meals rather than buffet dining.
• Tip: Dining for non‑guests is usually by reservation/availability — book your table (or a room with dinner included) in advance.

2. Helga’s Folly — quirky, atmospheric, memorable dining

• Why: An iconic, artistically decorated boutique hotel with a singular, theatrical atmosphere and an on‑site restaurant that’s part of the experience rather than just a place to eat. Great if you want something unique and memorable with your meals. (en.Wikipedia.org)
• Best for: Travelers seeking an eccentric, Instagram‑friendly stay and an unusual dining setting.
• Tip: It’s small and popular — reserve both room and dinner early.

3. Cinnamon Citadel Kandy — riverside, reliable hotel restaurants

• Why: Larger, riverfront property with multiple on‑site dining venues (riverside restaurant, cafe and lounge), good views and consistent, broad menus — suitable if you want scope (buffet and à la carte) and convenience. Guest reviews are generally positive for views and service but can be mixed on specific dishes, so check recent reviews before you go. (cinnamonhotels.com)
• Best for: Families or travelers who want multiple dining options on site and a scenic location close to the Mahaweli River.
• Tip: For the best evening atmosphere, ask for a table on the terrace/by the river and check whether there are themed nights (barbecue, live music) during your dates.

Quick booking & dining tips for Kandy

• Reserve ahead: many of the smaller boutique places and their dinner tables fill fast, especially around festivals and long weekends.
• Ask about special dinners: some hotels run curated curry feasts or chef’s tasting nights — great value and a true taste of local cuisine. (The Kandy House is known for this.) (wayfairertravel.com)
• Location vs food: the very best boutique dining is often at properties just outside the town centre (you’ll need transport), while city hotels give easier access to cafés and restaurants.
• If you want more local restaurant variety, look for hotels near the lake or the town centre — that puts you within short drives of Kandy’s cafés and standalone restaurants.

If you’d like, I can:

• Check current availability and nightly rates for specific dates, or
• Compile a short list of well-reviewed standalone Kandy restaurants and cafés to pair with whichever hotel you pick.