Sigiri

Section: Own This City, Passport NY, Jan 29-Feb 4 2009
What: A Sri Lankan restaurant in the East Village that has been drawing "homesick expats" for 20 years.
Cost: $ (Chicken Biryani $13.50, Aapa $10.00)
Address: Sigiri Sri Lanka Restaurant, 91 First Avenue (b/w 5th and 6th St)
Review: Delicious, plentiful portions of what was a worthwhile introduction to Sri Lankan favorites. The saffron and herb flavored basmati rice was crumbly with a couscous-like texture. A significant departure from its Indian counterparts. Chicken Lamprais ($13.50) came wrapped in a banana leaf and was spicy hot. Highly recommended. The Aapa served with onion sambol also raised the Fahrenheit, but remains a pass.

Rating: 4 out of 5 Rotis. TONY hit the spot with this Sri Lankan hole in the wall. Cramped tables and chairs could use a little work.