Neither of us had tried Sri Lankan food before, so when we crossed the strip-mall parking lot to the unassuming little restaurant almost tucked away in the corner, we had no idea at all what to expect. The simple, no-frills dining room and long warming tray display of unfamiliar dishes along the front next to the register told us that any longevity for this business would rely entirely on the food. The aromas were incredible, though, so we had instantly high hopes.

Our hopes were slightly dashed when we heard that none of the mutton dishes were still on the menu, but Raz ordered one beef and one veg dish from those on display with some rice, and I put in an order for Godamba Roti, and asked for suggestions on which meat and veg curry to pair it with. Godamba Roti appears to be a crepe-like flatbread that has an indescribably complex flavor. Alas, I did not write down any of the names of the sides and curries, and I couldn't even remember what I'd actually ordered when it came to the table. All I did know was that I'd never had anything else quite like it. Every single dish we had defied explanation, being simply too rich with complex and complementary flavors. One thing was certain, though, when the staff promised a dish was spicy, it pleasantly packed on the scovilles. Rice N' Spice was definitely one of those places we would come back halfway across the country to try again.