Avoiding tourist prices for street food in Pettah market

Asked about 10 hours agoViewed 1455 times
S
Sophie T.9535 rep2
asked about 10 hours ago

Every time we ask for the price of street food in Pettah, the vendor pauses and then quotes something very high. How do we avoid the tourist tax.

33
asked about 10 hours ago
S
Sophie T.9535 rep2

6 Answers

Accepted Answer

The golden rule of Sri Lankan street food: Never ask "how much" first. Observe the locals ahead of you. If they hand over a 100 LKR note and get a samosa, you do the exact same thing. Point at the item, confidently hand them the 100 LKR note, and hold your hand out for the food. If they try to argue, just smile and shake your head. 99% of the time, they will accept the local price.

20
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answered about 9 hours ago
B
Bhante S.4680 rep1

Confidence is key. If you act like you live there, they treat you like it.

45
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answered about 9 hours ago
E
Emma L.4440 rep2

If they quote 1000 rupees for a king coconut, literally just laugh and walk away. They will drop it to 150 instantly.

42
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answered about 9 hours ago
D
Dr. Nimal.3590 rep1

What is a fair price for a paper cone of roasted chickpeas.

6
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answered about 9 hours ago
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Sophie T.9535 rep2

Usually 100 or 150 LKR maximum for a small paper cone.

2
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answered about 9 hours ago
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Bhante S.4680 rep1

Also, stick to the carts that have printed prices on a small cardboard sign hanging from the roof.

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answered about 9 hours ago
E
Emma L.4440 rep2

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