A taste of the good life by the sea
Our story is one of sun-drenched days, salt-kissed air, and a passion for food that brings people together.
We’re a beachfront escape where laid-back Aussie vibes meet Mediterranean flavours with a hint of Sri Lankan soul.
The Heart Behind Xplorers
Xplorers began with a simple dream: to create a culinary haven where every dish tells a story and every guest feels at home. Founded by a team of passionate food enthusiasts, our journey started in a small, bustling kitchen with a commitment to fresh, local ingredients and innovative flavors.
Over the years, we've grown, but our core values remain unchanged. We believe in the power of food to bring people together, to celebrate moments, and to create lasting memories. Our chefs, inspired by global cuisines and traditional techniques, meticulously craft each menu item to ensure an unforgettable dining experience.
From our cozy ambiance to our friendly staff, every aspect of Xplorers is designed to offer a warm and inviting atmosphere. We are more than just a restaurant; we are a community, a family, and a destination for those who seek extraordinary flavors and heartfelt hospitality. Join us and become a part of our continuing story.
Our Pillars
The core of the Xplorers experience.
Open-Fire Dining
Artisanal Dining Experience where Seafood meets Meat, and Veges meet Fire and flavour parties in your mouth.
Pasindu’s Bar
Sip one of Pasindu’s creations: classic moonshine & mocktails, house ferments & sodas. You are free to BYO and liquor shop just a few steps on the beach.
Relax Your Way
Undercover beachfront dining, garden tables, bean bags on the beach or Yoga in the sand, the choice is yours.
Wheelchair Accessible
Equipped with wheelchair ramps and accessible dining spaces to ensure a comfortable experience for all our guests.
Our Roots in Sri Lanka
The Staples story in Sri Lanka begins with John Staples, born in 1770. He arrived in Galle in 1797, just a year after the British took control of the island from the Dutch. At that time, Ceylon was a land of shifting empires, fortunes, and adventure.
John married Eleanor Waller and together they raised six children, anchoring the Staples family firmly in Sri Lanka. Life was never without drama: on 17 November 1810 in Galle, John served as the second in a duel between Captain John Parker and Captain James Brown — a vivid reminder of the intrigue and tension of colonial life.
From that moment on, every direct male Staples descendant was born in Sri Lanka. The first was John’s son, William Adolphus Staples, born in 1814, and the last was my father, Douglas Staples, born in 1930.
I became the first male member of the family to be born outside Sri Lanka, fortunate enough to enter the world in my amazing home country of Australia. Yet my return to Sri Lanka is more than chance — it is proof of the circle of life. Two centuries after John first set foot in Galle, I have found my own life and work on the same southern shores, continuing the story he began.
And today, I am blessed with five sons who carry the Staples name forward. Each of them makes me proud in their own way, and through them I see our family’s story continuing into the future.
Through Xplorers, we carry that legacy forward. From colonial intrigue to contemporary adventure, the Staples family story has always been tied to Sri Lanka — and now it’s our privilege to share that story with you.
📜 The Duel in Galle
Back in 1810, life in Galle could be just as fiery as it is today. On 17 November, two British officers — Captain John Parker and Captain James Brown — decided to settle their differences the old-fashioned way: with a duel.
My ancestor, John Staples, stood by Parker’s side as his second. Shots were fired, Brown was killed, and history was made. It became the first jury trial under British rule in Ceylon.
The verdict? Parker — the man who pulled the trigger — was sentenced to just one week in prison. John Staples was acquitted and walked free.
This story has been passed down through the family ever since — a wild reminder of just how colourful life was when the Staples first put down roots in Sri Lanka.
H. Mei Liang Staples
Founder of Obsession X Ltd
Hello, and welcome to my space. My name is Mei Staples — Mei means Plum Blossom — and I am a business owner, a dreamer, and someone who believes in the power of stories to honor the lives of those we love and have lost.
I was born in a small village in Canton, China, where life was simple but not always easy. My story has been shaped by both love and loss. My mother passed away at 49, my sister at just 19, and my beloved aunt at 42. Their absence left a deep sadness, but also gifted me a legacy of strength and resilience. I carry them with me in everything I do.
At 19, I began as a factory girl, then worked my way through customs and office jobs, eventually rising to deputy general manager. Later, I built my own café brand — a place filled with people, laughter, and connection. Life then carried me to New Zealand, where I rediscovered myself and embraced new dreams.
Today, alongside my husband Bruno (Bryan), I call Sri Lanka home once more. Here I founded Obsession X Ltd, a company dedicated to curating meaningful travel, wellbeing, and cultural experiences that connect people across borders.
I am deeply connected not only to China, but also to New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Australia, and Italy. Each of these places has left a mark on my heart and continues to shape my vision.
Our Mission
At Obsession X Ltd, we believe travel is more than movement — it is transformation. We curate experiences that are fun, soulful, and real, blending moments of joy with respect for culture, nature, and community.
We focus on four pillars:
- ✨ Wellbeing & Lifestyle Travel — Ayurveda retreats, yoga, and wellness journeys that heal and inspire
- 🌏 Culture & Volunteer Travel — cultural immersion, language, food, and projects that give back to communities
- 🏞️ Adventure & Landscapes Travel — authentic outdoor explorations, where nature challenges and restores us
- 🌿 Local Quality Products — branding, marketing, and bringing Sri Lanka’s finest wellness and cultural products to the global stage
Our goal is simple: to celebrate Sri Lanka’s traditional strengths — its wellbeing, culture, and eco-tourism — and to share them with the world in a way that is sustainable, meaningful, and filled with hope.
Sleep close to the sea.
Xplorers Homestays — curated villas, cabanas, and near-beach homes across the southern coast. Designed for comfort, serviced by us.
What Our Guests Say
"An epic slice of food/ drink & paradise. Great vibe, service, excellent food and a stunning beach/ ocean view. The perfect place to enjoy a sunset, whilst sipping on a tasty drink."
"Fantastic place to enjoy sunset drinks and a bite to eat. Cocktails are great, the food was delicious and the service is top notch - friendly and welcoming. Highly recommend."
"We had a fantastic time at Xplorers bar! Top-notch service which was friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. The food was delicious and beautifully presented. The atmosphere is cozy, vibrant, and a perfect place to enjoy the sunset. Highly recommend this gem to anyone looking for a memorable dining experience!"
"A Hidden Gem with Amazing Food and Service! If you're looking for a hidden gem, this place is it! The food was absolutely incredible—every dish was packed with flavor and beautifully presented. The service was just as impressive, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that made us feel right at home. Brian and May, the owners, are fantastic hosts. Their laid-back banter kept us entertained all night, adding to the relaxed yet vibrant vibe of the place. It’s rare to find a spot that nails both the food and the experience, but this one does it effortlessly. Highly recommend—can’t wait to go back!"
"Best homemade hummus we’ve ever tasted. Served warm with equally gorgeous homemade flat bread. Reasonably priced. Amazing. Right on the beach. Perfect location! Highly recommend"
"Incredible restaurant and bar! The food and service I couldn't fault. The view is spectacular! One of the best places in Ahangama especially to watch the sunset. I highly recommend!"
"What a fantastic wee bar, right on the beach! Amazing experience watching and listening to the waves. You won’t get friendlier service anywhere! Check it out!"
"A hidden gem by the beach, this café offers stunning ocean views, a calming breeze, and a cozy ambiance. The food is fresh, and the vibe is perfect for unwinding. If you love a cold beer by the view, this is the perfect spot!"
"More than just a breakfast. Food is good, the view great and they are amazing."
"The great place to enjoy a sunset with a glass of fresh juice and some snacks! Very nice interior and good vibes"
"Check out the new trendy bar/restaurant located next to the Fortress Hotel in Koggala, Sri Lanka. "Xplorers", this place is beautifully decorated with authentic Sri Lankan art and furniture, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The staff is super friendly and makes you feel right at home. The kitchen offers a wide variety of delicious Western and Asian dishes. On weekends, they have live music and a BBQ buffet, making it the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy good food and music. We absolutely loved our experience here and will definitely be returning soon. Big thanks to the management and staff for giving us an unforgettable night. Can't wait to come back!"
"A great place next to the hotel!! Very nice people 👍🏻"
"We ate delicious tacos and had a drink. People were very caring and the place is super beautiful directly on the beach. A big plus for me was that you do not hear the street, it’s very calm :)."
"We’re staying at the Fortress Hotel next door to the bar. Great little place to step over the wall and watch the sun set or to have a nightcap. Great ocean views and friendly staff"
"Great local place to chill with a delicious margarita watching the sun go down. Great vibe, friendly staff. Recommend."
"The vibe of this bar was perfect and the staff were incredibly friendly! I will definitely be returning to Xplorers soon"
"Great spot with an amazing atmosphere and friendly staff! Will definitely be returning"
"Great place to have sundowners and dinner. Very friendly staff"
Book Your Experience
Reserve your table for an unforgettable dining experience.