Ministry of Crab

Seafood restaurant · Colombo

Ministry of Crab

Seafood restaurant · Colombo

Old Dutch Hospital Complex, 04 Hospital St, Colombo 00100, Sri Lanka

Highlights

Celebrated Sri Lankan mud crab, famous crab pate, prawn dishes

Old Dutch Hospital Complex, 04 Hospital St, Colombo 00100, Sri Lanka Get directions

ministryofcrab.com

@ministryofcrab

Rs 10,000+ · Menu

Reserve

@theworlds50best

"Rank: #29 "Set in a preserved 400-year-old Dutch Hospital in Colombo with a minimalist but huge open kitchen, Ministry of Crab is a haven for crustacean fans, celebrating the Sri Lankan crab in everything from the food to the crab-claw plants that serve as the restaurant’s only décor. The restaurant was set up by the country’s leading chef-restaurateur Dharshan Munidasa together with Sri Lankan cricket legends Mahela Jayawardena and Kumar Sangakkara."

https://www.theworlds50best.com/asia/en/the-list/21-30/ministry-of-crab.html

Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2021: Southeast Asia, India & Subcontinent

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@cntraveler

The Best Bars and Restaurants in the World: The 2021 Gold List

"I ordered Sri Lankan crab and prawns that were almost the size of my arm at Ministry of Crab, a seafood-focused restaurant in Colombo’s 400-year old Dutch Hospital Shopping precinct. The preparation was so spicy, so tasty, that I shed tears of heat and happiness. It really was that good. -P.K." - CNT Editors

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-bars-and-restaurants-in-the-world-gold-list

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@cntraveler

3 Days Around Colombo, Sri Lanka

"Browse the Ayurvedic skincare balms at the cult favorite Spa Ceylon before heading a few doors down to the city’s hardest-to-book reservation: Ministry of Crab, a temple to seafood opened by Sri Lankan cricket icons Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara. Wrap yourself tightly in a bib and get your hands dirty as you dig into the sloppy, delicious garlic chili crab."

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/3-days-around-colombo-sri-lanka

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KT Oorloff

Google

We had such an amazing experience at Ministry of Crab in Colombo! I loved the little touches – like being served oysters on a mini cricket bat and seeing the history of cricket stars on the welcome reservation card. Such a unique and beautiful idea! The food was absolutely delicious, especially the jumbo-sized crab – it was the highlight of the night. The flavors were incredible and so fresh. The service was top-notch, really attentive and high standard, which made the whole experience even better. If you’re in Colombo, I’d definitely recommend visiting Ministry of Crab – it’s not just a meal, it’s an experience!

Saroj Anilkumar Sachu

Google

When in Sri Lanka, you absolutely have to dine at the Ministry of Crab (MOC)! It’s more than just a meal — it’s a luxurious culinary experience. As someone from southern India, I’m no stranger to crab, but MOC took it to an entirely different level. The freshness, seasoning, and presentation were impeccable, making each bite memorable. The ambiance adds to the experience, with a lively yet sophisticated vibe that complements the food perfectly. Be prepared to spend a little more, as it is one of Asia’s top restaurants, but trust me — it’s worth every dollar. From the first bite to the last, it’s an indulgence that will leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a fine dining experience in Colombo, MOC is an absolute must-visit! P.S. Be ready to get your hands a little messy — eat the Sri Lankan way! Using your hands is part of the fun, and yes, you’re supposed to feel a little messy while enjoying every bite.

Hushra

Google

Absolutely incredible experience at Ministry of Crab! The food was outstanding – fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. We had the signature garlic chili crab and it was hands down one of the best seafood dishes I've ever had. Also, the prawn curry was superb with bread. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, and the atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming. Tip: If you're planning to go for dinner, make sure to book in advance. It gets busy quickly and walk-ins are rarely available during peak hours. Totally worth the hype – a must-visit if you're in Colombo!

A D

Google

A must visit if you love seafood. The place looks grand in the historic Dutch hospital precinct. We were hosted to our reserved table with reservation displayed as a note from the owners, Sri Lanka cricket legends, it was great. The menu format was unique like a constitution with rules. Crab & prawns are the feature items, priced by their weight with a variety of curry options to choose form. Price is in USD. We had the prawn curry pot with kade bread & rice. We were given aprons too. The staffs were very friendly & always attentive, especially Madhushankar giving us all the background info. The biggest live crab was displayed around. The bill came as a letter in an envelope. There is attention to details in every aspect, decor, food, behaviour - gem of a place, extremely well managed. Both indoor & outside seating available. Reservation recommended for peak times as very popular place.

Savana Varshavski

Google

We spend 3 hours there just to seat and enjoy the food, drinks and atmosphere. All food was excellent and recommendations of waiters were really good. Not easy to choose from large menu without assistance. My vegetable curry was perfectly cooked with right amount of rice a side. And pizza 3 cheeses one of the best outside of Europe. Fresh and crispy salad really large portion. Please fect play list. And traditional yellow rice in banana leaf is impressive and tasty

Zahidur Reza

Google

Finally visited the highly recommended Ministry of Crab, and it did not disappoint. I’ve had crabs in many different styles before, but this was on another level — like the Wagyu of crabs. We ordered the medium size, and the meat content far exceeded expectations. Every bite was sumptuous, with every piece packed full of rich, flavourful crab meat. We also tried the butter prawn, which was equally impressive — if not even more so. Meaty, perfectly cooked, and bursting with flavour. The bonus surprise was their iced tea, easily one of the best I’ve ever had. Yes, the price point is on the higher side and might deter some. But my philosophy is: where else will I get this again, and when will I next be back in Colombo? For me personally, it was absolutely worth it. An unmissable experience for any seafood lover.

Thamar Mon

Google

Heard lot and experienced way far than what heard. Heaven for crab lovers and their sauce also loved seer fish grill with teriyaki sauce. Highly expensive but worth for the dining experience and great to know their tradition and history. Must visit when you are in Colombo

Asif Khan

Google

I was a bit underwhelmed. I had built this place io the amazing! The food was decent, but having eaten at Gallery Cafe the day before, I preferred the experience there. Service was inconsistent and prices are quite high, listed in USD. My $35 prawn dish was surprisingly small. The highlight of the menu was the $2 spice mix with coconut, it was excellent.