(This venue is closed.) The Sri Lankan neighborhood of Jamaica, Queens, offers a few markets but, at least in recent years, never more than a single dine-out option at any one time. Araliya was the latest to come (2012) and go (2013).
Newly arrived Spicy Lanka is the product of a lengthy makeover of the Ariliya storefront, much of which was dedicated to renovating, brightening, and polishing the dining room. An expanded menu is promised, too; this mutton kothu roti ($9) is a good foundation. As in kothu parotta, it consists of a flatbread that is chopped (Koh-too) and cooked with other savory ingredients. A kothu variation, also available here, swaps out the roti for the rice noodles called string hoppers.
Spicy Lanka
159-23 Hillside Ave. (Parsons Blvd.-160th St.), Jamaica, Queens
718-487-4499
www.Facebook.com/pages/Spicy-Lanka/671564519568669
