On this episode of Eat Live Love San Fernando Valley, we’re taking you inside Apey Kade, where bold spices, crispy hoppers, and rich, flavorful curries transport your taste buds straight to Sri Lanka.
Located in Tarzana on Ventura Boulevard and Corbin, Apey Kade is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic, homemade-style Sri Lankan cuisine. This family-owned restaurant has garnered attention from major publications, including The Los Angeles Times’ Top 101 Restaurants. Today, we’re diving deep into their story and their incredible food.
The Meaning Behind Apey Kade
Upon arriving, I had the pleasure of speaking with Nizma. She shared that “Apey Kade” means our store in Sinhala. The name reflects the welcoming nature of the restaurant—it’s a place for everyone, not just the family who runs it. “It’s kind of like visiting family,” she explained, and that warmth is felt in every dish they serve.
What Makes Sri Lankan Cuisine Unique?
For those unfamiliar, Sri Lankan food has similarities to Indian cuisine but stands out with its heavy use of coconut milk, curry leaves, and an extra kick of spice. “We do a lot of chilies and aromatics,” Nizma said, emphasizing the bold flavors that define their dishes.
Must-Try Dishes at Apey Kade
If it’s your first time trying Sri Lankan food, Nizma recommends starting with lamprais, one of their most traditional dishes. This meal includes short-grain pearl rice, green banana curry, eggplant, onions, a cutlet, and a choice of meat, all wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed for an explosion of flavor.
Another standout dish is kottu roti, a popular Sri Lankan street food. It’s like a stir-fry, but instead of rice or noodles, they use chopped roti mixed with leeks, onions, carrots, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and an array of spices.
We also tried their famous hoppers, crispy, bowl-shaped crepes made from fermented rice flour. The egg hopper, served with a runny egg in the center, pairs beautifully with their house-made shrimp curry and katta sambol, a fiery chili paste that packs a punch.
For something unique, the string hoppers—delicate rice noodles served with a creamy coconut curry—offer a completely different texture and taste experience.
One of the best things about Apey Kade is that they ship their lamprais nationwide, making it easy for people across the country to enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan meal from home. “They’re really easy to freeze and reheat, and they keep their flavor really well,” Nizma told me.
From the fragrant spices of the lamprais to the comforting crunch of a perfectly made hopper, this meal was an unforgettable journey. And of course, we finished it off with a Sri Lankan milk tea—rich black tea sweetened with condensed milk, much like Vietnamese iced coffee.
Visit Apey Kade
If you’re looking to try something new, Apey Kade is a must-visit. With its family-run atmosphere, generous portions, and complex, vibrant flavors, this spot is a true hidden gem in Los Angeles.
Located on Ventura Boulevard and Corbin in Tarzana, Apey Kade brings the heart and soul of Sri Lankan cuisine to the San Fernando Valley.
Be sure to check them out, and if you enjoyed this episode, like, comment, and share to support local businesses! Stay tuned for our next adventure on Eat Live Love San Fernando Valley!
19662 Ventura Blvd, Tarzana, CA 91356
Follow them on their social media accounts:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apeykade/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Apey-Kade-100063643715679/
