The Dutch Burgher Union of Ceylon image

The Dutch Burgher Union of Ceylon

Restaurant Club

Social club in a colonial building since 1908, with a laid-back bar/eatery & indoor/outdoor seating. People often mention service, good, lamprais, rice, experience, quality, great, Dutch, portion, Union,


Address

VVW5+WH2, 114 Reid Ave, Colombo 00500, Sri Lanka

Website

www.thedutchburgherunion.org

Contact

+94 112 584 511

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.30 (928 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Wednesday: (Eid al-Fitr), 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM, Hours might differ
  • Thursday: 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM
  • Friday: 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM
  • Saturday: 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM
  • Sunday: 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM
  • Monday: 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: service (19) good (17) lamprais (12) rice (12) experience (11) quality (11) great (11) Dutch (10) portion (10) Union (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 1/5 Ravi N. 6 months ago on Google • 29 reviews
    I recently had a disappointing experience at DUB joint and feel compelled to share my honest feedback about the quality of their food and customer service. I visited a place called Dutch Burger Union and decided to order their grilled chicken, expecting a delicious and flavorful meal. However, to my disappointment, the chicken turned out to be extremely salty. It was so overpoweringly salty that I couldn't even finish a single bite. In disbelief, I called over the waiter and expressed my dissatisfaction with the dish. The waiter took the chicken back to the kitchen to show it to the chef as I requested and assured me that they would address the issue. I specifically asked the waiter to have the chef taste the chicken to understand the problem. Unfortunately, despite the waiter's claim of informing the chef about my concerns, the chef never bothered to come and apologize for serving such a poor quality dish. I felt ignored and disrespected by the lack of attention given to my complaint. To make matters worse, when I received the bill, I was shocked to find that I was expected to pay for the dish that I couldn't even eat. This added insult to injury and left a sour taste in my mouth, metaphorically speaking. The overall customer service I experienced at Dutch Burger Union was subpar, to say the least. Not only was the quality of the food extremely disappointing, but the lack of accountability from the chef and the requirement to pay for an inedible dish only compounded my dissatisfaction. I had higher expectations for Dutch Burger Union and had hoped for a better dining experience. Unfortunately, my experience left me feeling greatly let down. I sincerely hope that they take this feedback seriously and work on improving their food quality and customer service in the future. Based on my encounter, I cannot recommend Dutch Burger Union to others and caution potential customers to be aware of the poor quality of food and lackluster customer service they may encounter. I believe it is important to share honest experiences, and I hope that my review helps others make informed decisions.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Chandani p. 1 year ago on Google
    Ordered the lamprice. It was sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo tiny. Started eating and without exaggeration it was over in less than two minutes. Total rip off. Tasty but not at all worth the money we spend. It is a crime to earn this way and do business. Give people a good quantity to eat for the massive price you charge. Will not buy again as this is cheating people.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Graham De M. 6 months ago on Google
    Utterly Disappointed and Disgusting experience. 16.10.2023 I brought a Mixed Meat Lumprais for my Mom for lunch. It was originally 1250 and even it was a takeaway I had to pay Service Charge and GOV vat and it costed me 1500. When i took it i felt it was bit smaller than expected. But I thought atleast it would be quality and tasty. But it wasn’t. The portion size is very small and it’s not enough even for a five year old. And there are nothing on the Lamprais. And the taste was like burnt wood. I have attached the pics herewith. Utterly shameful and disgraceful, for what they had offered. Not recommended for anyone unless they increase the portion size and improve the quality..
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sameena I. 3 years ago on Google
    It’s a finest place to hangout and chill with friends and family. Currently they won’t allow to use the main entrance due to renovation work. The building has an antique look. The restaurant was not so crowded. Covid19 health guidelines were followed at the entrance. Parking spaces available within the premises. Customer service was friendly and quick. The food was quiet good and prices were reasonable as per the portion.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Sandamali A. 1 year ago on Google
    OMG! Do not buy the Lamprais. First of all it was super pricey (Rs. 1400 for the mix and Rs. 1300 for chicken). It’s okay to charge a descent amount as long as you give a fair product. This was not!! Secondly, it was TINYYYYYYY!! It did not include the ash plantain. The cutlet was some weird tiny (the size of an olive) thing. I’m not exaggerating! The meat curry was sooo dry. Wow what a rip off!! It’s so sad that this establishment is cheating people with this food item. Unfortunately I bought 10 packs to take overseas. I should’ve tried one first. I honestly thought that it’ll be good as it’s a Dutch dish. It’s so bad that it’s almost fraudulent!!!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nip C. 3 months ago on Google • 253 reviews New
    A great place to grab a meal. An oasis from the busy streets of Colombo 7. The iced coffee is delicious and so was the naran juice. The short eats were yummy too - we tried the cutlets. The lamprais was delicious albeit being on the smaller side portion size wise. I had the mixed meat option

  • 5/5 Rochelle L. 1 year ago on Google
    The most friendly and professional staff! Plus, the food is always tasty, the quality never changes. The rice and curry during the week is just amazing, so tasty and such a large portion. They also have yellow rice and ghee rice options, both are delicious but the yellow rice is exceptional. The lamprais are famous here - authentic and so, so tasty. You can’t go wrong whether you’re here for a snack (the bites are divine) or a meal. Also a great place for a drink with friends. I’ve eaten here for over a decade whenever I’m in Sri Lanka - it’s definitely a favourite!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Chandi R. 7 months ago on Google
    Delicious cuisine and excellent ambience! Loved everything about it but was very disappointed with the service. My young waiter couldn't speak English, we tried communicating and he would nod his head each time which I erroneously assumed meant that he understood what I was saying. He didn't understand what I said and a whole lot of issues followed. I had issues with ordering dishes and payment. If you can speak in Singhalese then you are fine. Otherwise I would use a Google translator to avoid any confusion.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Krishanth K. 1 year ago on Google
    Calm and beautiful place, clean and nature friendly environment. Tasty foods & affordable price
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ken C. 2 months ago on Google • 60 reviews New
    What a hidden gem, tucked away in Colombo 7. We had a gut busting divine breakfast here. The staff are very attentive and the food amazing. The location is stunning. It was a perfect place to slowly waste time over coffee and breakfast.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Suchira S. 3 months ago on Google • 151 reviews New
    Our Senior Management Team recently indulged in a special lunch at THE DUTCH BURGER UNION OF CEYLON, and the experience was nothing short of exceptional. The culinary journey unfolded with delicious food that tantalized our taste buds, creating a memorable dining experience. The waiting time at the establishment proved to be quite acceptable, allowing our team to enjoy a leisurely and unhurried lunch. The staff at THE DUTCH BURGER UNION OF CEYLON played a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience. Their attentiveness and professionalism contributed to the seamless flow of service, making our luncheon not just a meal but an enjoyable occasion. The ambiance of the venue, coupled with the delectable fare and efficient service, created an atmosphere conducive to meaningful discussions and team bonding. From the moment we stepped in, the staff's dedication to ensuring a positive dining experience was evident.

  • 5/5 Kim M. 2 years ago on Google
    Updated: 22/02/22 The mixed Lamprais is now Rs.800/- and the chicken is Rs.700/- not the same, but still good for a treat. Might be better to go for some short eats like becon and egg buns and beef Chinese rolls (Rs.100 - 160/- price range) A part from the famous lamprais they also serve some good kottu and burgers after 6pm. You need to be member to order from the bar. No slippers or shorts after 7pm at the bar area.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Firoze M. 1 year ago on Google
    We went there with high hopes however, it was more of a let down. The non air-conditioned sitting area was uncomfortable and sweaty. The food was not quite flavorful and looked quite budgeted. This is the first time I have had Lum Rice without an egg inside. To make matters worse the quantity is quite less. The final nail in the wall is the high price as compared to the quantity served. Service... What service? Conclusion. I have finished my last visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Irshan O. 10 months ago on Google
    Check the picture. What do you think of the portion? A Chicken Lump rice worth 1320. Ordered from pickme When contacted the F&B manager and I asked him if this quantity is filling for lunch, if he will be full. He agrees to my concern and responds that he will inform the management as feedback. What a rip off!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Nishan H. 2 years ago on Google
    Tasty and clean food. Friendly and courtious service. Relaxing environment.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chanaka De S. 1 year ago on Google
    The new look Dutch Burgher Union is excellent. Its well refurbished and very welcoming, with excellent facilities. The outdoor area has now been converted into a lovely courtyard. However, the old charm still remains. The food is excellent. Now, they also serve breakfast. Really worth a visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Shannon H. 1 year ago on Google
    I had both the chicken lamprais and the Beef/pork mixed lamprais. The taste was alright but damn those portion sizes are small! (I remember a few years ago when they were massive). I had to have 2 rice packets just to fill myself up. I am having a hard time justifying the price to portion size at this place (each lamprais came to around 1100 LKR each so LKR 2400+ for meal up service charges per person is a bit much imho. You can find much more value for money elsewhere). Also the lamprais had a bit of a frozen and reheated quality to it. I doubt I will go here again. Bakery items were were pretty good but again quite expensive (though I don't give them total credit for this as their own bakery section shows that their baked items are from an outsourced bakery). I recommend their cinnomon rolls.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Emali De S. 1 year ago on Google
    Dropped in for lunch. We ordered yellow rice,gee rice,lumprice for drink ginger beer and dessert chocolate cake and a cinnamon roll. All in all the food was testy quantity was good except for the lumprice. Cinnamon roll was too dry. The renovation looks really nice. Customers service was great too.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Upul S. 5 months ago on Google
    Day light robbing of clients at DBU. I Bought a lumprais on 25th October and found that there is nothing to eat after paying a price of almost RS 1500 which included taxes amounting to Rs 250. It was not enough even for a small child and contained a salad of mix meat of may be three tea spoons and other curries gave a burnt and bitter taste. Please be careful of buying lumprais from them as they are over priced , poor in quality and quantity.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sharmini N. 8 months ago on Google
    Never a disappointment. Freshly baked bacon & egg pastries and seeni sambol buns an everyday delight and a must-have ice coffee (one of the best in town). Yellow rice with black pepper pork gives you that authenticity even more so recommended than the mixed lamprais.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Mari D. 6 months ago on Google
    We visited for lunch yesterday. Place was lovely, food was good but served warm and had to be sent back to be reheated.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amanthi B. 1 year ago on Google
    The new look cafe is modern yet preserves the colonial look of the original building. Staff are friendly and provide a quick service. Food is excellent as always. The outdoor area has been turned in to a courtyard under the shade of mango trees. Such good vibes and so Srilankan!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Tharani A. 6 months ago on Google • 45 reviews
    We went for lunch and ordered lamprais, which was great quality and tasted amazing. The service was good and food arrived quickly. The servings are slightly less than other lamprais, but actually it was very filling and just right for all of us there. We were disappointed to see no fish/vegetarian option was available, but the vegetarian yellow rice meal was also excellent. Would definitely recommend!

  • 5/5 Kanchana W. 2 months ago on Google • 8 reviews New
    ADS SOLAR brought their expertise to The Dutch Burgher Union of Ceylon, and it was an illuminating experience! Yesterday, our team from ADS SOLAR conducted a comprehensive inspection to revolutionize the Union's electricity expenses through our Solar Green System. During our visit, we were thrilled to engage with The Dutch Burgher Union of Ceylon's General Manager in discussions about reducing their electricity bills to '0'. The warm camaraderie extended to enjoying a delightful ice coffee, turning a hot day into a productive and enjoyable session. Our commitment to providing friendly and efficient service was reflected in every interaction. We are proud to offer sustainable and innovative solutions to The Dutch Burgher Union of Ceylon. Here's to a brighter and greener future together! Thank you for choosing #ADS SOLAR.

  • 5/5 Lalin J. 9 months ago on Google
    Food was great price is responsible service is good. I recommend the place outdoor dining area is nice.

  • 4/5 Asoka D. 10 months ago on Google
    Food was amazing! Facilities were great! Most of the staff was great! With the exception of the guy who served us at table 5 at around 2.30pm on the 25th May. Not customer focused, take it or leave it attitude, bit clumsy and know it all feeling, did I enjoy that part of it, Clearly NO. Will I come back again, yes of course, but hope to see improvement.

  • 4/5 Ricardo R. 1 year ago on Google
    Had a gathering of schoolmates and the experience was awesome sitting outside on the deck. Thankfully the weather was pleasant with a fan helping to keep us cool. Service was excellent and the timing and delivery of the food was better than some 5 star hotels.

  • 5/5 Gareth C. 10 months ago on Google
    We had lunch at the Dutch Burger Union as we heard that it was "the" place to eat an authentic lamprais (seasoned rice with veges and meat steamed in a banana leaf). The food was delicious and the atmosphere chilled and relaxed. Highly recommend their Lamprais.

  • 1/5 suzanne j. 1 year ago on Google
    Had lumprise packets and they certainly did not taste as good as it used to a couple years ago. Needs a lot of improvement ! Ordered a drink and they didn’t have it. Ordered a dessert and it wasn’t available. Very disappointing!

  • 3/5 Buddhika W. 1 year ago on Google
    Their Bacon 🥓 & egg 🥚 is still the best. Chicken pie was excellent. Beef roll, beef patty and cinnamon roll were absolutely terrible. The cinnamon roll was stale. The roll and patty both had more potato than meat.

  • 5/5 Amalan Dhananjayan (. 1 year ago on Google
    This looked more like a community centre than a restaurant. They have a pastry shop and a restaurant here and a hall which can be utilized for events. Got ample car park space. We had Lamprais which was the most recommended food here. I may have got spoilt by the Perera and Sons bakery, I thought it tasted great but still I prefer the P&S one more. It's a must try It's a bit different than the usual ones I had. The price is on the Cheaper side but as well as the quantity is small. Tried their home made Ginger beer and it was good. The place is calm and quiet and it had a very relaxing atmosphere. And it seems like they have repaired and using an old building preserving its architecture. Unfortunately I forgot to take any photos but will update next time I visit here.

  • 4/5 Daminda A. 1 year ago on Google
    Only for members. Awesome place to hangout 🤗🇱🇰 amazing setup. Social club in a colonial building since 1908, with a laid-back bar/eatery & indoor/outdoor seating.

  • 4/5 Vijith P. 1 year ago on Google
    Excellent atmosphere and food. Upstairs member lounge is a great place too... what prevented a five star rating is the price to food portion ratio.

  • 5/5 Neda S. 1 year ago on Google
    Had rice and red pork curry for lunch, with Narang juice, and followed by the moistest chocolate fudge cake on the island. The food was cooked to perfection with plentiful ingredients and a very professional presentation. The service was prompt and very friendly. The new restaurant area is absolutely beautiful and the coffee was very good too. Such a civilized and lovely experience. Thank you!

  • 5/5 Wanda 1 year ago on Google
    Nice ambiance, perfect for older people who still have a zest for life. Very dignified guests with perfect old style courtesy. Service is good, food is good, Wednesday is hopper night and has a band playing nostalgic music. Loved it.

  • 5/5 Clyde C. 2 years ago on Google
    Cozy place to hang out. The cuisine is superb and very tasty. The atmosphere is very homely. There are some unique dishes and drinks which are awesome.

  • 5/5 Krishni I. 2 years ago on Google
    Definitely 1 of my favourite places in Colombo. Excellent food & love the food theme nights! Great place to start the night! Been coming here for years! Feel at home

  • 5/5 Sam A. 1 year ago on Google
    Great food at VOC Cafe. Ginger Beer is exceptional. Service at Cafe is a bit disorganised. Was first at the counter to pay for the pastries but 2 other customers who got there after me were served first. Not a long wait but it seems a bit like an old boys club where the better known customers are given priority service even if their bills are paltry.

  • 4/5 Chamila U. 1 year ago on Google
    Mixed lamprais was great! It was a good portion and everything was flavorful. But personally, I found the outdoor seating not practical with caterpillars and other bugs falling from trees onto the seating area.

  • 5/5 Harendra G. 2 months ago on Google • 1 review New
    The accommodation at the DBU is a hidden gem. Very comfortable and clean and the staff very accommodating and helpful. We were long term guests here and would definitey stay here on our future visits to Srl Lanka. The secure car parking was an added bonus. The very busy VOC cafe and the restaurant are excellent, serving great food. Very happy to recommend the DBU to all our friends and visitors to Sri Lanka

  • 1/5 Arun P. 2 months ago on Google • 2 reviews New
    Absolute cheats and an incompetent bunch! They are charging over 18% VAT, and some other taxes in addition to VAT. Ordered Chicken String Hopper Koththu take away. Although the box stated String Hopper Koththu, it was Pork Roti Koththu. You can get far better and satisfying service at a third grade roadside street vendor. Will never step foot inside this disgusting premises again.


Call +94 112 584 511 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Trends



Last updated:

Similar places


Similar Restaurants nearby

Cinnamon Grand Colombo image
1
Cinnamon Grand Colombo
Hotel
Stately resort with 16 restaurants & bars, a spa complex & an outdoor pool, plus a shopping mall.
4.70 (17.8K reviews)
The Kingsbury Colombo image
2
The Kingsbury Colombo
Hotel
Elegant rooms & suites in a striking, contemporary hotel offering 4 restaurants, a pool & a spa.
4.50 (17.6K reviews)
Shangri-La Colombo image
3
Shangri-La Colombo
Hotel
Refined quarters in an upmarket hotel with ocean views, plus 4 restaurant, an outdoor pool & a spa.
4.60 (14.7K reviews)
Street Burger - Bambalapitiya image
4
Street Burger - Bambalapitiya
Hamburger restaurant
👍👍 Delicious burgers prepped in a very short time. If you are a burger or fast food lover, you should definitely try this out! They have some interesting range of drinks as well. Don’t forget to order some fancy fries along with your burger so that you wouldn’t feel bad while seeing all the others havi...
$$ $$
4.60 (7.4K reviews)
Taco Bell - Horton Place image
5
Taco Bell - Horton Place
Fast food restaurant
👍👍 First time i have experienced tacos and it was a really good experience there. Vibe is so cool , specially with the xmas decorations and all. Service is really attentive and friendly. Spacious and parking is available. Food is really up-to the standard and really tasty. Highly recommend this place t...
$$ $$
4.30 (5.4K reviews)
Last updated:
()