The Story of Kamayan
From the Philippines, to Japan, to Unawatuna.
The story of Kamayan Beach Restaurant began on the road.
While travelling around the world, I discovered something unforgettable in the Philippines. In some restaurants, guests gathered around banana leaves, sharing seafood prepared in countless ways, eating with their hands, laughing and connecting. No cutlery. No distance. Just people, food and the ocean breeze.
That was where I first discovered the word “Kamayan.”
In Filipino culture, kamayan means “eating by hand.” But it represents more than a way of eating. It is a tradition built around togetherness, connection and the simple pleasure of sharing good food.
The word stayed with me.
I loved its spirit so much that I opened my first restaurant named Kamayan in Japan, where Filipino staff helped bring that same warmth, hospitality and culture to the table.
But my heart always pulled me back to Sri Lanka.
When I decided to open Kamayan Beach Restaurant on our own shores, I wanted the name to carry an even deeper meaning — one that reflected the spirit of this place.
For us in Sri Lanka, Kamayan came to represent “feeling life and eating well.” It is about slowing down, tasting the moment and letting the sea remind you of what truly matters.
Today, Kamayan brings these inspirations together: the joyful, hands-on spirit that inspired us in the Philippines, and the flavours and hospitality of Sri Lanka.
Our menu brings together fresh ocean catch, authentic Sri Lankan dishes, Western favourites and Chinese-inspired cuisine , all served with the same sense of freedom, warmth and connection.
Here, you do not simply eat. You feel the sand, hear the waves and taste the flavours of the coast.
Kamayan is more than a restaurant. It is a place where cultures meet, people connect and every meal is served with soul.
Come hungry. Eat your way — with your hands or with cutlery. Slow down, enjoy the moment and feel life.
Welcome to Kamayan.