Myanmar cuisine features eclectic dishes and flavours that make for an unforgettable foodie adventure.
From tea leaf salad to Burmese curry there is much to treat your taste buds.
BURMESE CURRY
A staple for locals, Burmese curry is rich in flavour and aroma. A typical curry offered at Yangon restaurants will come with a choice of meats or seafood be it beef, pork, chicken or fish. Do keep in mind that a traditional restaurant will most often also serve a range of delicious side dishes including fried vegetables, salad, rice and spicy dips.
MOHINGA
Another local favourite, mohinga offers foodies a chance to savour round rice noodles that can be enjoyed in a yummy fish broth. Depending on where you order this dish, you may also have the option of adding toppings such as deep-fried vegetables and slices of hard-boiled egg.
TEA LEAF SALAD
A perennial favourite in Myanmar, tea leaf salad, locally known as ‘lephet thoke’ is in fact, made from fermented tea leaves. Though it is not uncommon for these leaves to be eaten as they are, the salad form with pickled tea leaves is also popular; it is generally mixed with tomatoes, nuts, cabbage, garlic and chilli.
SHAN-STYLE RICE
A dish originating from the Shan ethnic group, this savoury fish rice dish is sometimes served with such sides as pork rinds that have been deep-fried, leek roots and raw garlic. Of course, the main allure is the turmeric infused rice topped with fish flakes.
SWEET SNACKS
Just as important as the savoury dishes are the sweet snacks, the perfect complement to a morning or afternoon cup of tea. These snacks are locally known as ‘moun’ and include ingredients like cooked sticky rice, fruit and coconut (both the grated and milk forms). Local pancake versions such as ‘moun pyit thalet’ are among the ‘must try’ favourites.
PLACES WHERE YOU CAN EXPERIENCE AUTHENTIC MYANMAR CUISINE:
Shan Yoe Yar is located in Yangon, specialises in Shan cuisine and is well worth visiting. The tamarind fried fish is a highlight here as is the sour soup.
Amidst the charming interiors of this Yangon based restaurant, you can look forward to enjoying tea leaf salad and even some pork belly bao. Of course, tea is also a popular choice as are the cocktails.
AUNG MINGALAR SHAN NOODLE SHOP
An eatery that is family-owned, Aung Mingalar is popular with the locals and for good reason; the Shan noodles served here is a speciality and not to be missed as are the fried pork dumplings.
Of course, for a wide array of authentic local cuisine head to the Mingalar Market where you will find stalls serving an eclectic collection of dishes from noodle soup to Shan tofu salad.
Foodies at this restaurant of Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon can enjoy a delectable array of a la carte and buffet options; local dishes include traditional tea leaf salad as well as Myanmar-style beef curry or Bagan-style pork curry.
After feasting on all the delicious food that Myanmar offers, you will want to relax and there is no better place in Myanmar than
CHATRIUM HOTEL ROYAL LAKE YANGON
Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon shines as one of the city’s top hotels for pure luxury and rich colonial-style heritage. Situated among lush greenery and beside the famous Kandawgyi Lake, this Yangon hotel provides plenty of views that are stunning and spectacular. Every guestroom is spaciously designed and furnished to reflect the luxurious surroundings, with breathtaking views of Shwedagon Pagoda. Choose from six restaurants and bars for delicious dining, relax by the beach-styled swimming pool, work-out at the Fitness Centre and rejuvenate at Nemita Spa.
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