Content []

One-day Burmese Culinary Journey: Explore The Top Restaurants In Yangon

Wednesday, November 22, 2023 Food & drink Heidi

In skilled hands, cuisine transcends mere ingredients on a plate—it becomes a narrative, a cultural showcase and a thrilling adventure. Being a foodie, our inclination is always to seek out the most renowned dining establishments whenever we explore a new destination. If you're in search of the top restaurants in Yangon for a day for your upcoming trip, below is a list that Autour Asia recommends for you.

I. The best breakfast in Yangon
- 1. Rangoon Tea House
- 2. Shan Kitchen
II. Top restaurants in Yangon for lunch
III. The best dinner in Yangon
- 1. Mandalay Restaurant
- 2. Burma Bistro

I. The best breakfast in Yangon

For tourists who relish early mornings and hearty breakfasts, consider your needs met. Kickstart your day with these delectable and satisfying breakfast in Yangon.

1. Rangoon Tea House

Address : 36 Inya Myaing Road Shwe Taung Kyar 2 Ward, Bahan Township, Yangon (Rangoon), Myanmar
Opening hours : 07:00 AM – 22:00 PM
Tel : +95 988 016 8318
Google map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/AN7ByTWSMcL144G59

Ascending the slightly crooked, winding wooden staircase, the bold black logo of Rangoon Tea House serves as an early testament to the existence of top restaurants in Yangon. On the second floor, a spacious and cool haven awaits—a harmonious blend of decor styles characterizes this establishment. Vintage black-and-white films of the city flicker on the walls, creating a nostalgic ambiance. What sets Rangoon Tea House apart is its modern atmosphere, deliberately crafted to be an inclusive space that welcomes both locals and travelers from around the globe, deviating from the traditional tea house archetype.

Rangoon Tea House effortlessly channels current culinary trends, proudly relying on locally sourced ingredients for its entire menu. As you settle into the inviting space, friendly servers promptly offer chilled water and present an extensive menu featuring a plethora of drink options and delectable edibles. Indulge in the quintessential Mohinga, a flavorful and spicy fish soup adorned with an array of tasty accompaniments. For those seeking local delights, Lahpet thoke and Nan gyi thoke, Ohn no kauk swe or steamed buns stuffed with butterfish are must-try options. Rangoon Tea House also offers a diverse menu featuring curries, salads, traditional tea, coffee, cocktails, wine, and craft beers. It stands as a culinary haven to provide a memorable dining experience for tourists.

2. Shan Kitchen

Address : 26/4 Nawaday Street Dagon Township, Yangon (Rangoon), Myanmar
Opening hours : 08:00 AM - 21:00 PM
Tel: +95 977 519 1772
Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RcK2FTVMSpsxzLv68

Shan Kitchen brings an impressive breakfast in Yangon by providing a comfortable, clean space while still retaining the authentic flavor of Shan cuisine. The restaurant is decorated in the traditional Myanmar style. Featuring Shan drums, bamboo hats and graceful woven baskets hanging on the wall. The friendly and airy atmosphere is complemented by soft lighting and air conditioning. Despite the slightly unexpected backdrop of modern pop music on the radio, it remains subtle enough not to disrupt meaningful conversations.

The culinary highlights at Shan Kitchen include the renowned Shan noodles, pounded fish with rice, Fish with lemon sauce, and Fried tofu. Shan noodles are traditionally a breakfast dish in Yangon. Accompanied by an authentic and zesty pickle side, the noodles unfold a symphony of flavors as intended. The fish with lime impresses with its light and tender texture, effortlessly flaking off the bone. The thin soup consistently delivers a hot and sour profile, enriched by a wonderfully peppery kick that tantalizes the taste buds without overpowering with a fishy essence. The prepared dishes are always guaranteed in terms of quality, authenticity. All of this makes Shan Kitchen a favorite place for tourists in Yangon.

II. Top restaurants in Yangon for lunch

Do you want to enjoy local Yangon dishes for lunch? Look no further as we unveil a selection of top restaurants in Yangon, promising a delightful midday dining experience.

1. 999 Shan Noodle House

Address: 130b 34th Street, Yangon (Rangoon) Myanmar
Opening hours: 06:00 AM - 19:00 PM
Tel: +95 1389 363
Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Pa996eZrQSZ9ULFF7

Since 1978, 999 Shan Noodle House has been a bastion of local Shan cuisine. Originating as a family business deeply rooted in the tradition of home-cooked Shan dishes, the current owner, Ma Le Le Win, fondly recalls savoring these recipes during her childhood. Despite its location in Junction Square, the prices at 999 Shan Noodle House pleasantly defy expectations, offering an affordable culinary haven. Stepping into this establishment feels like a homecoming, with friendly waitstaff and a warm ambiance created by wooden furniture, hay decorations, and artistic depictions of locals that transport patrons to the rustic landscapes of Shan state.

In addition to the famous Shan noodles, this fine dining restaurant in Yangon also has various Shan delicacies and other traditional Myanmar delicacies. What makes 999 Shan Noodle House different is the unique flavor of the noodles, far from the uniformity often found in many Shan noodle establishments. The cuisine is not only delectable but also complemented by amiable service. While indulging in the diverse noodle offerings, make sure not to miss the opportunity to try the sour pickled vegetables, nestled in a covered jar on each table—they provide a fantastic and flavorful kick to the overall dining experience. 999 Shan Noodle House combines tradition with affordability and distinction, ensuring each visit is an exciting journey into the heart of Shan cuisine.

2. Wai Wai's Noodle Place

Address : 301 Bo Aung Kyaw St Middle Block, Kyauktada Township, Yangon (Rangoon), Myanmar
Opening hours : 11:00 AM - 22:00 PM
Tel: +95 9 42115 0524
Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/M8jJkziTkoGpuzf18

Wai Wai’s Noodle Place stands as a renowned restaurant specializing in Shan state cuisine. It is near many places to visit in Myanmar Yangon.The establishment has two floors, with dining tables and chairs on the first floor and a first-floor seating area furnished with cushions and sofas around low tables for those looking for a more private space. The interior is elegantly decorated with traditional Myanmar decoration style, providing a cozy and friendly space and fine dining in Yangon. The visionary behind this culinary haven is Wai Wai, with a singular mission—to offer customers the finest dishes from her hometown in a health-conscious manner. The region is rich in the cultivation of sugarcane, avocado, rice, and, notably, tea leaves—the key ingredient in one of their signature dishes, laphet thoke.

The menu is thoughtfully categorized into Salads, Mains, Sides, and Juices. Among the noteworthy offerings are the reasonably priced salads featuring ingredients like pennyworth, potato, ginger, tea leaves, eggplant, bean, green, or tomato, each priced at 3,000 Ks. A must-try from Wai Wai's specials is the Shan Rice Noodles and Soups, priced at 2,500 Ks—an exquisite delight for Shan noodle enthusiasts. Each dish at Wai Wai's Noodle Place is served on generously sized plates. This fine dining restaurant in Yangon not only contains the quintessence of Shan State cuisine but also offers a culinary journey marked by special flavors and guaranteed health safety.

Wai Wai’s Noodle Place

Take a look at:
>> Yangon Travel Guide
>>Places to stay in Yangon

3. Shan Yoe Yar

Address : No.54 Ma Naw Hari St, Yangon (Rangoon), Myanmar
Opening hours : 06:00 AM - 22:00 PM
Tel: +95 925 056 6695
Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/zpXPkcJ5FUsomNuf6

Shan Yoe Yar Restaurant offers a traditional Shan dining experience in a historic wooden house with over 150 years of legacy. Nestled near downtown, the two-story wooden structure within a sprawling compound exudes an innate grace, captivating visitors at first sight. Inside, the restaurant has beautiful decor with spacious wooden seating, traditional musical instruments, charming old paintings, wall hangings and historical photos of the Shan state. Attentive staff, dressed in uniforms inspired by traditional Shan tribal motifs with friendly service that make this place among the top restaurants in Yangon.

The main attraction on the menu revolves around two noodle dishes: Kyaington Meeshay and the famous Shan Noodle. The noodles, distinguished by their elasticity ("Sanzui") and softness ("Samboe"), are quite impressive. Kyaington Meeshay stimulates the taste buds with the mixed flavors of fermented beans, chicken broth soup, tender chicken pieces, Shan cabbage, bean sprouts and scallions on top. The restaurant's dishes are rich in flavors of the Intha people from Inle Lake. Among the delicious dishes not to be missed are sa kone, traditional beef salad and fried fish with tamarind sauce, promising a rich culinary discovery.

Shan Yoe Yar Restaurant

III. The best dinner in Yangon

Embark on an extraordinary culinary odyssey with the top restaurants in Yangon, meticulously curated to satisfy every palate and inclination.

1. Mandalay Restaurant

Address : 35 Taw Win Road, Dagon Township Belmond Governor's Residence, Yangon (Rangoon) 11191 Myanmar
Opening hours : 06:00 AM - 22:30 PM
Tel: +95 1230 2092
Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KBgEakqR642Hdbfy9

Nestled within the enchanting Governor’s Residence - A Belmond Hotel beckons connoisseurs of halal food in Yangon. The chef masterfully blends traditional Burmese and European culinary elements, crafting dishes that burst with vibrant spices and hues. Savor the choice of traditional curry flavors, with recommendations leaning toward the succulent smoked catfish or any seafood option, offering a burst of freshness. Experience a subtle fusion of Burmese flavors and French culinary traditions in an ambiance where tables seamlessly blend into the surroundings—interspersed with pools, a swimming pool, and lush vegetation. As night descends, the candlelit dinner setting transforms into a romantic haven.

The cuisine, exquisite and refined, maintains a close connection to local produce and traditions. The restaurant further enhances this impression with a superb dining experience marked by personalized service and top-tier hospitality. Its idyllic location is a standout feature, offering outdoor tables where guests can enjoy a romantic lakeside dinner or unwind with friends. The establishment permits outside beverages and even features a mini bar. The amiable waitstaff adds to the overall charm. However, for those seeking a lakeside seat, reservations are recommended, ensuring a tranquil and delightful dining experience of halal food in Yangon.

Mandalay Restaurant

2. Burma Bistro

Address : No. 644 First Floor, Corner of Merchant Road & Shwe Bon Thar Road, Yangon (Rangoon), Myanmar
Opening hours : 07:00 AM - 23:00 PM
Tel: +95 940 118 3838
Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/mJLLQnZW5UsP1pbf7

On the first and second floors of a splendid 19th-century edifice nestled in the heart of downtown Yangon, this restaurant stands as one of the top restaurants in Yangon. The venue has been renovated to showcase its lofty ceilings, elegant balconies, and adorned with teak furniture and antiques. Spread across two levels, the restaurant has terraces framed by weathered colonial columns, vintage tiles, traditional teak and rattan furnishings, and verdant greenery. The amiable and attentive waiting staff add a touch of warmth to the ambiance. The restaurant's culinary offerings, centering on Myanmar cuisine with a hint of Thai and Western influence.

Myanmar's culinary diversity, complemented by a selection of Asian and Western staples. As authentic home-style cooking, it offers a delectable and approachable gateway to the rich flavors of Myanmar. The inclusion of numerous vegan options, such as curries, fried rice, and salads, is a noteworthy feature. For an ideal start to your meal, consider indulging in the recommended sugar cane juice. Additionally, if you can arrange for brown rice or a base at home, it provides a cost-effective option for your carbohydrate needs. Burma Bistro's tasteful renovation of this 20th-century gem on Merchant Street is truly commendable, and the reasonable prices enhance the overall fine dining in Yangon’s experience amidst this historic setting.

Burma Bistro - Top restaurants in Yangon

Above are our suggestions for some of the top restaurants in Yangon and give you a starting point for your upcoming trip. May your trip in Yangon be filled with delicious food, exciting experiences and impressive memories. If you need assistance in planning your vacation, please CONTACT Autour Asia. Have a good trip!

It is advisable to refer to:
>> Myanmar Packages Tours
>>Myanmar 9 days itinerary
>> myanmar 6 days itinerary