EnjoyIt - Dining & Nightlife Guide - Volume 3

EnjoyIT

THIRD EDITION Feb 2015 - May 2015

Dining & Ni ghtlife gh tlife Gu ide

Tiki-Taka cocktail by Escape Gastro Bar

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team

table of contents

Managing Director

) Editor's Note

5

Andreas Sigurdsson

PROJECT MANAGER Yuko Maskay

Dining 10

4

EDITORIAL Leena Salim Yuko Maskay

) Top 10 Unique Dining

CONTRIBUTORS

) Favourite Myanmar

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Mimi Wu Natty Tangmeesaung Oliver Slow

SALES sales@myanmore.com Ph: +95 (0) 1 375680

PHOTOGRAPHY Daniel Roca, Mimi Wu Shady Ramadan, The Pictureman Yuko Maskay

ART & PRODUCTION Kyaw Kyaw Tun Mai Aye Mya Thida, Su Su Thin Aung Yoon Wai Wai Aung

PUBLISHER U Myo Aung Pyi Zone Publishing House Permit No: 04285

Experiences

THIRD EDITION February 2015

ABOUT MYANMORE MYANMORE is a registered brand under Lychee Ventures (Myanmar) Limited providing digital and print publishing as well as creative services. MYANMORE is managing the leading online city guide www.myanmore.com and the printed publications Weekly Guide, InDepth, EnjoyIt and KnowIt. The mission is to provide great content and experiences for residents of Yangon to enjoy and explore.

Disclamer No part of this guide can be reproduced or transmitted in any form without prior written permission from MYANMORE. All details are deemed correct at the time of print, the editor, employees and contributors can not be held responsible for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions that might occur. The editor reserves the right to accept, reject, or amend any submitted artwork, photographs, illustrations and manuscripts.

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Juan Gallardo

) Sunday Brunch ) Cheap Eats

18 20

22

) Local 26 ) Myanmar Culture Valley

32

) ) ) )

Pearl Condo

34

) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) )

Korean 48

) Cafes 100 ) Top Places for Gourmet ) Interview:

Restaurants 24

Indian 37

Ngwe Tun

Tea House Culture 110

) Bakeries 112 ) We all Scream for Ice-Cream!

) Interview:

Thai 57 Best Places for Wifi 61 63

Western 66 Best Tapas

73

Fastfood Joints

74

115

Nightlife 116

Best Teppanyaki, Yakitori or Yakiniku Restaurant 47 Chinese 52

108

) Evolution of

Japanese 41

Southeast Asian

98

Coffee 106

) Interview:

PRINTER Room.2, Building 2, Pazundaung Oo Yin Housing, Yangon.

Ph: +95 (0) 1 396074

Cafes & Bakeries

Foods 16

) Best Outdoor Dining 94 ) Delivery 96 ) Open 24 Hours 97

Jean Curci

118

Bars 120 ) Bars 122 ) Rooftop Bars 130 ) Interview:

Mario Ebanks

132

) Pub Crawl ) Street Bars ) Cocktail Guide

134 138 139

French 78 Interview: Boris Granges

80

) Italian 83 ) Finding a Taste of Home in Foreign Grocery Aisles 86

) Best Pizza ) Fine Dining

89 91

Nightclubs 140 ) Best Karaoke 143 ) Map 144 ) MYANMORE Awards

148

) MYANMORE Card Deals 150

editor's note

I’d like to congratulate the winners of the 2015 MYANMORE Awards. The winners were determined through you—the readers’—votes and is a testament to the dedication and resilience of the people behind the venues. We look forward to another succulent year full of ravishing dishes and memories.

Our goal for this edition of the Dining & Nightlife Guide was to step into your shoes, and provide you with the most comprehensive and informative guide available in Yangon. We worked tirelessly—calling venues, researching online (with many frustrating, unreliable wifi moments), crowd sourcing and just asking around—to ensure accuracy, integrity and usability.

And, if you didn’t know already, we’re more than a Guide. If you haven’t already taken advantage of our MYANMORE Card, I urge you to do so. You can get up to 50% discount on over 70 restaurants, cafes, bars, spas, travel agencies, bookstores and gyms throughout Yangon. To sign up, go to www.myanmore.com/yangon/card.

Also, don’t forget to add us on Viber, where you can get immediate, up-to-date information about happenings and activities in Yangon, including the best places to dine for your type of lifestyle.

Last, but not least, the efforts are not mine alone. This was a team endeavor that took everyone’s input and dedication. I want to acknowledge and thank everyone who was involved in the making of this Guide.

Much Love, Yuko Maskay

Icons to the Guide ?? Address

B Wifi Available

Contact Number

Card Facilities Available

PP Operating Hours

Cost

We would like to thank all the venues for submitting photos for our Guide and our contributing writers.

EnjoyIt / February 2015

’m pleased to finally announce that the new and improved 3rd Edition of the Dining & Nightlife Guide is finally out! It’s only been a year since the first volume was launched and we have seen an increase in restaurants, cafes, nightclubs and bars sprawling all over the city. As the country opens up, more tourists are coming into Yangon, along with foreigners looking to make a home in this beautiful city of Yangon. And with that, many venues are catering to the needs of this booming town, with more savory, authentic dishes to satiate our appetites.

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I

Index

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Bars 7th Joint Bar & Grill 122 19th Street 138 50th Street Café 122 Bar One 4 123 Beer Stations 138 Bonanza Gastro Bar 130 Captain’s Bar 123 Cask 81 123 Club Rizzolli (The Ritz) @ Chatrium 123 Cocoon Cafe and Bar 123, 130 Escape Gastro Bar 123 Friendship bar 124 Gallery Bar, Sule Shangri-la Hotel 124 Gekko 124 Ginki Kids 125 Hotel Milanoa Rooftop Mini Restaurant 130 Hotel Parami 130 Ice Bar 125 Kandawgyi Park 138 Kokine Bar & Restaurant @ Kokine Swimming Club 125 Maru Wine Bar 125 Mojo 122 New Kosan 138 Off The Beaten Track 125, 138 Roof Alchemy 125, 130 Sports Bar 138 The Blind Tiger 126 The Lab Wine & Tapas Bar 126 The Rangoon Bar 126 The Space Bar 127, 130 Turbo de Bar & Restaurant 127 Union Bar & Grill 129 Vista Bar 129, 130 Water Library 129 Yangon Sailing Club 130

Cafes & Bakeries 365 Café 100 Acacia Tea Salon 111, 112 Ananda Coffee and Cocoa 106 Bar Boon Coffee 101, 107 Barista Lavazza 106 Cafe Bellagio 101 Chatime 101 Coffee Circles 102, 107 Coffee Club 102

Credit: House of Singapura Daren Bread 112 Easy Cafe 100, 111 Feel PreGel (Feel Myanmar) 115 Frosting Cat 113 Frozee Gelato Creamery 102, 115 Gekko 115 Genius Coffee 107 Gusto Cafe 102 Ice Berry 102 Ice Cream Bar 115 Ice-Manias 115 II Fornaio Bakery @ L ’Opera 112 Kosan Café 102 La Tartine French Bakery 107, 113 Modern Tea Shop 111 Moon Bakery 103 Morning Star 111 Nervin Café & Bistro 103 Off The Beaten Track 103 Parisian Cake & Coffee 113 Rangoon Tea House 111 Sharky’s 114, 115 Shwe Pa Lin Tea House 111 Shwe Pu Zun Bakery and Cafeteria 104 Smoothee Foodee 104 Snow Factory 104 Swensen’s 115 Ya Kun Coffee & Toast 104, 111 Yangon Bakehouse 107, 114 Yangon Paris Bakery 114

365 97 999 Shan Noodle House 27 Acacia Tea Salon 20, 67, 91 After Work Bistro & Bar 67 Agnes @ Kandawgyi Palace Hotel

21, 79, 94 Alamanda Inn 67, 95 Anaimo 42 Ang’s Restaurant: Malaysian 63 Arirang 48 Aung Mingalar Shan Noodle Restaurant 27 Aung Mingalar Shan Noodles 22 Aung Thukha 27 Aux Saisons 83, 92 Bawarchi Indian Restaurant 37 BBQ Chicken 67, 74 Belmond Governor's Residence

12, 21, 92, 95 Bonanza Gastro Bar 73 Bonsai Sushi & Japanese Restaurant 42 Bulgogi Brothers 49 Cafe Dibar 83 Cafe KSS 74 Cafe Napoli 84 Café SS 97 Cafe Sule @ Sule Shangri-la 20, 68 Cafe Thiripyitsaya 61 Cafe Tykhe 22 Chatime 32, 34 Chatrium Hotel 61 Chew Q 58 Coffee Club 61 Corriander LeaF 37 Cousins Grill 68 Crustacean Restaurant 63 Dae Won Gak 49 Dailycious II, Thai Food 32 Danu Phyu Daw Saw Yee 27 Eliq Restaurant 64 Escape Gastro Bar 73 Fatman Steak 68

Dining 19th STREET 50th Street Cafe

13 20, 67, 89

Credit: Shady Ramadan

Mom’s Kitchen 65 Monsoon 64 Nagasaki Tei 47 Nepali Food House 38 New Burger 97 New Delhi Restaurant 23, 38 Onyx 69 Orchid Restaurant @ Inya Lake Hotel 21, 61 Orzo @ Sedona Hotel 84 Padonmar Restaurant 30, 95 Pan Swel Taw 33 PaPa Pizza 35, 89 Parami Pizza 84, 90 Pattaya Thai Restaurant 60 Peperoni Pizzeria 62, 85, 89 Peppers Diner 70 Perfect Restaurant 30 Port Autonomy 15, 21, 70 Potato Break 33, 76 Pwint Thit San Food Centre & Family KTV 97 Rangoon Tea House 14, 30 Royal Cafe 33 Sabai 58 Salud Restaurant 70 Samurai Sushi 44 Savoy Hotel 62 Sedona Hotel 62 Shake Bubble Tea 76 Shangril-la Hotel 62 Shan Yoe Yar 30 Sharky’s 66 Shiki-Tei 44 Shwe Kaung Hot Pot 53 Shwe Pa Lin Tea House 23 Shwe Sa Bwe 79, 93, 95 Si Chuan Dou Hua 54 Signature Restaurant 70, 95 Singapore Kitchen 65 Smoothee Foodee 76 Snow Factory 35 Spice Brasserie 21 Sprouts 70 Strand Hotel bar 62 Summer Palace @ Sule Shangri-La Sushi Yangon 33 Suzuki 60 Taing Yin Thar 30

Credit: Shady Ramadan

Nightclubs Cafe Liberal 142 DJ Bar 142 G6 Karaoke Resort 143 GTR 142 Happy KTV Karaoke 143 M3 143 Music Box 143 Pioneer 142 Pwint Thit San Food Centre & Family KTV 143 Relax Karaoke 143 Utopia Family KTV 143 Winner II KTV 143 Nightlife 117 Royal Garden 53

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Credit: Shady Ramadan

Teke Teke Yakitori Bar & Restaurant 44 Thai 47 Bar & Restaurant 60 Thai Kitchen 60 The Blind Tiger 14, 73 The House Bar & Grill 71 The Lab Wine & Tapas Bar 13, 73 The Muses 54 The Pizza Company 90 The Seoul 50 The Strand Grill @ The Strand Hotel 71, 93 The Thiripyitsaya Sky Bistro 13, 72 Titu’s Indian Banana Leaf Restaurant 38 Toba 65, 97 Tony Roma’s Steak House 72 Union Bar & Grill 21, 72, 90 Vietnam Kitchen 65 Vino Di Zanotti 85, 90, 93, 95 Vintage Luxury Yacht Hotel 15 Waffle Ace 76 Water Library 93 Western Park 54 White Rice Restaurant 54 WTC Cafe 35, 62 Ya Kun Coffee & Toast 65, 76 Yamagoya Ramen 45 Yangon Bakehouse 35 Yhet’s Sushi & Soba 45 Yoogane 35, 50

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Feel Myanmar 26 Fook Mun Lau 53 Freshness Burger 32, 74 Friendship Restaurant 27 Frolick 32 Fuji Japanese Restaurant 42 Gekko 42, 73 Golden City Chetty 23, 38 Golden Crab 58 Golden Duck 52 Green Elephant Restaurant 27, 58 Green Gallery Restaurant 58 Green Mile 49 Han Il Kwan 49 Han Kook Kwan 49 Happy Cafe 33 Happy Cafe & Noodles 28 Harley’s 75, 97 HARU 47 Heaven Pizza 89 Her’s Korean Restaurant 49 Hokkaido 47 Horn Japanese Beef Steakhouse 42 Hot Spot BBQ & Hotpot 28 House of Memories 28 House of Singapura 61, 63 Ichiban- Kan 43 Indian Tadka 38 Ingyin Restaurant 38 Inya 1 First House 52 Japan Japan 43 Katsu Japanese Restaurant 43 Khaing Khaing Kyaw 23 Kipling’s Restaurant @ Savoy Hotel 92 Kobe Ya 47 Kohaku Japanese Restaurant @ Chatrium Hotel 41 Kou Fu 53 KPC Korean Food 49 L 'Alchimiste 14, 79, 92, 94 La Maison 20 69 La Tartine French Bakery 34 Le Bistrot @ Savoy Hotel 79 Legacy Thai Restaurant 59 Le Nacha 59 Le Planteur 78, 82, 93, 94 Linkage 64 L ’Opera 12, 83, 89, 91, 94 Lotteria 35, 75 Lucky 7 Cafe 29 Mai Thai Restaurant 60 Manhattan Fish Market 69 Manpuku 47 Marry Brown 75 Maru Restaurant & Grill 44 MICT Park Canteen 23 Minn Lan Rakhine Seafood 29

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On the next page, check out our recommended guide to the Top 10 Dining Experiences in Yangon.

Credit: L ’Opera

EnjoyIt / February 2015

The dining scene in Yangon continues to push the boundaries in terms of flavours from around the world. It is no longer just about the food. It is the combination of teasing your senses with flavours and aromas, the unique ambience and the experience. With so many restaurants popping up, especially with international franchises coming in, we are happy to say that there will be more happy bellies.

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dining

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TOP 10 unique dining experiences These are special times to be in Yangon. The city is going through a transformation.

When it comes to dining, no longer is Yangon a poor cousin to other cities. It is, arguably, becoming the fastest growing city in Asia. With many dining venues that have opened up in the last year, diners can now enjoy more dining options where the atmosphere, the service, the authenticity and the X-factor is just as important as the food.

In no particular order, here are our Top 10 Dining Experiences in Yangon: HISTORICAL BUILDING Belmond Governor’s Residence ?? 35 Taw Win Road, Dagon Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar 01229860, 01228260 PP Daily $20 - $40

Credit: L ’Opera

GARDEN LAKE L’ Opera Italian Restaurant & Bar ?? 62D, U Htun Nyein St, Mayangone Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar 01665516, 01660976, 09730307

What was once a dilapidated building in the early 1900 and home to the ruler of Myanmar’s southern states, Belmond Governor’s Residence, through the years, has blossomed into a first class luxurious resort hotel, surrounded by extensive gardens and ancient trees. A combination of Burmese tradition and modern luxury, it’s like stepping into an oasis of a bygone era. Their nightly Burmese Curry is popular as it is authentic and flavourful. Enjoy it with local tea and cheroot, a local experience.

PP 11am to 2pm, 6am to 10:30 pm Daily Starting from $40

Set beautifully on the edge of Inya lake and classically designed, dining at L ’Opera’s extensive open garden makes it one of the most romantic dinner spots. Chef Massimiliano has revamped their Italian menu to a cleaner, simpler and livelier feel with more adventurous options. Another plus point – surprise your dining companion with a boat trip out on the lake afterwards.

Credit: Belmond Governor's Residence

?? 20th Floor, Sakura Tower, 339 Bogyoke Aung San Road, Kyauktada Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar 01255277 PP Daily 10am to 11pm $20-40

Although not many, there are few rooftop venues that are also known in Yangon offering a view of - wait for it - the Shwedagon Pagoda. Perched atop the 20th floor of the Sakura Tower downtown, the Thiripyitsaya Sky bistro offers one of the best views in the city-northwards beyond the Shwedagon Pagoda and south over the other side of the Yangon River.

While the food is good, and the service on par, the views are the real attraction. Arrive a little before 6pm to catch the skyline colour show and have some drinks while it all fades around you.

MEDIterranean TAPAS BAR The Lab Wine & Tapas Bar ?? 70A Shwe Gon Daing road, Bahan, Yangon, Myanmar 09250018200, 09250537979 PP Everyday 5.30pm until late $20 - $40

Bringing a new dining experience to Myanmar, Yangon’s first dedicated tapas and wine bar The Lab, serves not just Spanish tapas alone, but also features Northern African such as Mechouia Salad with Tuna and Middle Eastern fare such as Houmous and Baba Ghannouch that comes in portions that are meant for sharing. They’ve recently added fine cheeses and cold cuts into their menu. Add Middle Eastern and African beats plus decent wine, and you have a complete Mediterranean experience in Yangon.

Credit: Thiripyitsaya Sky Bistro

LOCAL STREET EATS 19th STREET ?? 19th Street (Upper Block), Latha Township, Yangon, Myanmar PP 9am to 12 midnight generally $5-20

Many would agree that 19th street is the goto place for a real authentic feeling of street food that includes the activity of mobile foodhawkers selling giant fried grasshoppers or tea

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THIRIPYITSAYa SKY BISTRO

leaves salads, the lottery sellers or the same beggars making their rounds every hour milling about. Diners are surrounded by all kinds of BBQ seafood and various local fare. Tourists come because they’re curious, locals for the whisky and the expats are there for the cheap food and to network. The sight, the smell and the atmosphere brings to mind the term, “keeping it real”.

Credit: The Lab

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ROOFTOP DINING

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L’ Alchimiste tops as one of the finest dining experience that Yangon can offer. With their unique old colonial setting overlooking the Inya Lake to their exquisite French cuisine, with music serenading from the air, you will want to come back here over and over again.

Recommended especially for couples, families and even high-end business meetings..

Credit: Rangoon Tea House

UPSCALE TEA HOUSE Rangoon Tea House ?? 77 Pansodan Rd, (Lower Block), First Floor, Kyauktada Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar 095178329 PP 11am to 10pm $5 - 20

Want to experience the local experience but want to do it in comfort? Then head to Rangoon Tea House. In essence, RTH is a modern take on the local tea shop, but with expat prices. Set on the spacious second floor of Pansodan’s hustle and bustle, it serves 12 blends of tea to suit anyone’s palate. Popular favourites such as mohinga and samosas have been the talk of the town.

Credit: MYANMORE

SECRET HIDEOUT The Blind Tiger ?? 111 United Condominium, Corner Nawaday St & Alain Pyar Pagoda Road, Dagon Township, Yangon 01388488

THE FRENCH CONNECTION

PP Saturday 5pm till late. (Closed Sunday) PP Open for lunch soon

L’Alchimiste French Restaurant ?? No.5, U Tun Nyein Street, Mayangone Tsp,

BB Starting from US $4.5

Yangon, Myanmar 01660612, 01657928, 01122101 PP Daily 11am to 10:30pm Starting at $40

A speakeasy, also known as a Blind Tiger, refers to an establishment that sells alcoholic beverages illegally during the Prohibition era in the

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different kind of dining experience with views of the water. Live like a king and stay the night in one of their luxurious rooms.

MODERN BEER HALL Port Autonomy ?? Lanthit Jetty, Oo Pa Street. Saik Ken Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar 09250064694 PP Closed on Mondays.

Credit: Blind Tiger

PP Drinks 11am to 11pm PP Food 6pm to 10.30pm

US. The term is now used to describe retro-style bars. A latest addition to Yangon’s dining and nightlife scene, The Blind Tiger is located in an obscure condo that leads to a secret door. Once there, you’ll realise there’s no door knob; you have to be let in by the staff. Once inside, enjoy an extensive menu of tapas and grills with an art-deco setting. Try the Chili Martini if you’re adventurous. It’s all hush-hush of course!

FLOATING HOTEL Vintage Luxury Yacht Hotel ?? No. 6 Botahtaung Jetty, Botahtaung Township,

PP Sunday Brunch 11am to 5pm $20 - $40

Located in Lanthit jetty next to TS1 Gallery, Port Autonomy is a tin-roofed with no air conditioning, pop-up food concept that introduces a modern take on a dock-side Burmese beer hall. A gastro pub that features heavy on regional seafood, the décor is just as interesting, with the kitchen fitted out to look like the back of a food truck and their plates and mugs made of tin. Diners get to dine and observe the locals going about their lives with night markets just outside of the beer hall.

Yangon, Myanmar 01 9010555, 01 9010536 PP Daily Starting at $5, Setmenu $20-$99

Anchored in the Yangon River, the Vintage Luxury Yacht Hotel is a five-deck Finnish ship renovated into a hotel, styled with art nouveau, art deco and Victorian furnishings; one almost expects to see folks in ladies in ball gowns coming down the steps. Relatively new, it offers a

Credit: Port Autonomy

EnjoyIt / February 2015

Credit: Vintage Luxury

Myanmar food is an eclectic mix of South Asia and Southeast Asia foods, packed with unique ingredients, flavourful taste and varied texture. Although they may not be as well recognized as their Asian counterparts, like India, China and Thailand, their dishes are definitely something you want to sample, for both the cultural experience and the amazing taste.

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favourite myanmar foods

Tea Leaf Salad (Lehpet Thouk) Many new arrivals to Yangon could be forgiven for thinking that tea shouldn’t be edible, but those who sit down to a delicious dish of ‘lehpet thouk’ will realise they were very wrong indeed. Like most Myanmar dishes, it is a concoction of different flavours that give it a unique taste. It is also considered as a stimulant.

Credit: Gary Stevens, Mohinga

Mohinga The national dish Mohinga is, in its simplest form, a fish broth packed with rice noodles, eggs, fritter and the occasional fish head. But don’t let that put you off. It may not sound, or even look, like the most appetising of meals, but the people of Myanmar have perfected the art, adding all the right ingredients to give you a taste explosion.

There are a variety of ways to make it, but most dishes include hard-boiled eggs, dried chilli and an abundance of vegetables.

Credit: buforthesky.com, Shan Noodle Soup

Shan Noodles (Shan Kouw Swe) Despite having originated in far-away Shan State, this noodle dish has very much made its home in the Burmese-strongholds of the country. Served in a noodle soup, ingredients usually added are vegetables, chilli and marinated chicken or pork. A personal highlight of the local food.

Credit: Kennejima, Tea Leaf Salad

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Rakhine Montti This dish of rice noodles and fish soup is packed with great taste and aroma. Similar to Mohinga, but with its own taste, as the name suggests, it comes from Rakhine state, western part of Myanmar.

Nan Pyar with Beans Myanmar tea shops are predominantly where locals sit and sip tea, but they also offer a variety of snacks, mostly pleasurable when dunked in your tea. Some tea shops also serve naan breads, potato curries and sweets.

Credit: Gary Stevens, Coconut Noodle Soup

Coconut Noodles (Ohn No Kouw Swe) A brilliantly subtle and lightly-curried meal where the coconut used to cook the noodles contrasts brilliantly with the protein option (usually chicken). As usual, variations are made, and additions can include lime, chilli and fish sauce.

Grilled Fish Best known in Yangon for being cooked in Chinatown, the Grilled Fish is available at dozens of barbecue stalls across the city, and is just as tasty in just about all of them. Marinated in lots of different flavours, it is the lemon on the meat that really stands out, and is a terrific, cheap option wherever you are in the country.

Burmese Curry Normally much oilier than its Indian equivalent, a Burmese Curry is usually a relatively rich sauce. Chicken is the go-to main ingredient, but other options include pork, shrink, beef and mutton. The best part of a Burmese curry though is the selection of side dishes that come with it.

Animal’s Innards Certainly not one for the faint-stomached, these tiny stalls are seen across the country and are incredibly popular among the local people. Various types of innards of animals (usually pigs) are boiled in a hot pot and then eaten on a stick. Definitely one for the type of visitor who wants to try everything.

Nangyi Thoke One of the few dry noodle dishes available in Myanmar, Nangyi Thoke is a thick, round noodle that is usually served with slices of chicken.

Additions include egg, chilli and lemons.

Credit: butforthesky.com, Nann Gyi Thok

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Credit: Stella, Rice with Fried Chicken

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for the love of myanmar Juan Gallardo is a native of Sevilla, a city nestled in Southern Spain. An avid traveller, he has been to many countries and fell in love with the people, food and culture of Myanmar. Calling himself an “ordinary tourist”, he decided to write about a book about a country he so adores. His book, Delicious Myanmar, is a story told by the indigenous people of Myanmar, through their home cooking, traditions and customs. Juan talks to Yuko Maskay about his book, why he loves travelling and his infatuation with Myanmar.

Where is home?

I call home wherever I am at any particular moment. I am from a beautiful city in Southern Spain called Sevilla and I have for a year each in the US, France, Morocco and for the last two years, I’ve been travelling all over Myanmar. Now I am living and enjoying London with my girlfriend.

Could you tell me a bit about your book, Delicious Myanmar?

Delicious Myanmar is a photobook to discover Myanmar through its people and food. I have travelled all over the country and asked locals to cook their favorite dish for me in their own kitchen and the traditional way. I share pictures and write about the people, the dishes and the culture.

During my first trip in Myanmar, after a few months of eating the same dishes all the time, I realised that when I went out lunching with local friends, there were so many more dishes I didn’t know about. As a tourist, most of the time you can’t understand the menu or there is a different and shorter menu for you than for locals. I found it so varied and delicious that I decided to come back for another four months just to learn everything about their cuisine.

Who is your favorite person that you stayed with/interviewed for the book?

I love all of them but if I have to choose one, I would choose the children from NEED, an ecoagriculture school who cooked mohinga for me. This is the dish on the front cover of my book.

They even made the spoon with bamboo and coconut shell. I stayed a few days in the farm; it was amazing to get up very early in the morning and have a “coffee mix” next to the outdoors with an open fire with them. Cooking and sharing meals with them was an experience I will never forget.

How did you first get the idea to write a book?

As soon as I discovered how delicious Myanmar food is, I decided to do a book about it with my photography and personal experience. I think it’s a good book to have as a guide if you are travelling to Myanmar or as a coffee-table book to remember your trip.

Biggest challenge when making this book?

Learning from the beginning all about editing and publishing. Plus choosing which photos are in the book. All my photos are very personal and have something special for me, so it was very sad

What’s special about Myanmar?

People, food and culture. It’s located in the heart of Asia and there is a beautiful and rich mix in these three aspects. But it is mainly the people who make the real difference. They are honest, friendly and their warmth will touch your heart.

Caption: Juan Gallardo

Which countries have you travelled to? Favorites? Least favorite?

I have travelled extensively in the US and Europe. I know Morocco quite well and I have been to Japan, China, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, and, of course, Myanmar. I don’t have a least favorite country; they are all very different with very interesting culture, people and food, which you can’t compare. My favorite part of the world is Southeast Asia and in particular Myanmar, being the most authentic and welcoming country I have ever been to so far.

What was your worst experience traveling?

Street dogs at night in Thailand. Nothing has happened to me thankfully; I have walked the long way back to the guesthouse more than once and on that street there were 20 dogs protecting their territory.

Passion besides traveling?

I like scuba diving, football, music and sunny countries to travel in flip flops.

Favorite food? Why? Any curry with coconut milk. Rich flavour and spiciness that makes you suffer but it’s so good you want more and more.

Any tips for aspiring travelers?

My favorite quote from Mark Twain: Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.

For more information about Juan Gallardo and his book, go to www.myanmartravelessentials. com/delicious-myanmar Yuko Maskay is an editor at MYANMORE. She identifies herself as a cultural stew of Nepali, Japanese and American. She loves experiencing new cultures, good food and reading the back label of products. On most days, she can be found contemplating on the meaning of life, scrutinizing billboard ads or attempting a new yoga move.

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to leave some of them out.

An ideal way to start a Sunday is to wake up late—just past noon—and straight to brunch. There are many options for brunches in Yangon to suit your appetite, whether it be French-inspired cuisine facing the lake, a live jazz band accompaniment, a champagne-infused light meal, or simply one that has flavours from around the world.

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sunday brunch

Credit: Cafe Sule @ Sule Shangri-la Hotel

Cafe Sule @ Sule Shangri-la – Sunday Brunch Buffet WINNER!

PP 11 am till late B

?? 223 Sule Pagoda Road, Pabedan Township,

$3.5 - $12

Yangon 01242828 PP 12pm to 3pm B $36 per person (food+free flow of drinks) (Reservation needed)

The impressive buffet held on Sundays by Sule Shangri-La provides many cuisines and treats.

There is something for everyone with flavours from Japan, India, China, Burmese and Western and many fusion varieties. The dessert section always get our thumbs up. We like it too that the waffles and pancakes are made fresh, on demand!

50th Street Cafe ?? 9/13 50th Street, Botahtaung Township, Yangon 01397060

What's better than being able to watch your favourite games at 50th St Bar’s big screens all day whilst having brunch? It’s when you match that with a 50% off Happy Hour deal all day too! They serve a separate à la carte menu for brunch.

Acacia Tea Salon Runner-up! ?? 52 Saya San Road, Yankin Township, Yangon 01554739 PP 10am to 3pm BB $3 - $15

Every Sunday, Acacia Tea Salon hosts its Sunday Brunch at their plush restaurant. Menu of an American breakfast, pancakes, fresh juices or hot drinks are available from US $12 to US $15 per person. Don't forget to visit their

?? Kadawgyi Hotel, Kan Yeik Tha Road, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, Yangon.

Port Autonomy New! Runner-up! ?? Between Lanthit Jetty Kaing Dan No(1) Jetty, Oo

01249255 PP 11:30 am to 3 pm

sunday brunch

Agnes @ Kandawgyi Palace Hotel runner-up!

shi, pasta dishes, meats, bread and cheese platters and a whole host of other treats, it’s a terrific way to spend a Sunday. The experience is topped off by the brilliant jazz band. Free flow of wine, beer and soft drinks.

Pa Sa Street. Saik Ken Township, Yangon 09253710651

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bakery too while you're there. There's always something freshly-baked there that will entice you to bring home.

PP 11 am to 4:30 pm

B $29 including one glass of sparkling wine

B

Belmond Governor's Residence

With their Sunday Brunch called Sunday Funday Brunch, drop by for their cheap deals on cocktails like Mimosa and Bloody Mary. Chef Kevin is also known to whip up a different menu every week.

Spice Brasserie @ ParkRoyal Runner-Up!

?? 35 Taw Win Road, Yangon

?? 33 Alan Pya Pagoda Road, Dagon Township, Yangon

01229860

01250388

BB

PP 12 pm to 3 pm Starts at US $52/person exclusive of 10% Service

B

Charge and 5% VAT.

$34 per person (food + free flow drinks (including tax charges)

Enjoy a wide selection of BBQ and rotisserie items such as Angus roast beef, Ngapali lobster, grilled river prawns and seabass. Discover the new pasta station and sample their delicious homemade pastries, bread selection, artisan cheeses and cold cuts while sipping on a glass of wine, cocktail or beer. The brunch includes a free flow of house white, red and sparkling wine, rum sour, Myanmar beer, juices, soft drinks and water.

PARKROYAL's recently-renovated Spice Brasserie, located at the lobby, serves a various range of cuisine for their Sunday Brunch that caters to most palates. We were surprised to find the wat thar dote htoe, which is a local street food of a hotpot with intestines on sticks.

Throw your caution out the window - try them.

Union Bar & Grill

Orchid Restaurant @ Inya Lake Hotel Runner-up! ?? 37 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Yankin Tsp, Yangon 01662866

?? 42 Strand Road, Botahtaung Township, Yangon 09420101854 PP 11am to 3pm.

B

PP 11:30 am to 2:30 pm B $32 free flow drinks

The Orchid Restaurant at Inya Lake Hotel hosts a great spread of food every Sunday. With su-

Enjoy a quiet Sunday catching up on reading or take advantage of Union’s fast internet connection. Sunday Brunch set menu of starters, eggs and main course available. Choose two courses and a Prosecco for US $22.

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Starting from $9

The beautiful lakeside restaurant of Agnes in Kandawgyi Hotel offers a magnificent spread of French-inspired food every Sunday. A real highlight of Yangon’s culinary scene, it’s easy to see why with its great selection of meats, salads, grilled meats and desserts that sets it apart from the other brunches around.

Cheap Eats!

If you can't navigate the street food, not to fret, you can still fill your belly for a few bucks. The following is a list of foreigner-friendly restaurants that serve delicious food for under $2.

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22

As this is a country where the average person makes under $3 a day, there exists a variety of businesses catering to filling mouths on the cheap. Cheap restaurants and food stands abound in the city, from fried roti stands to noodle houses to an endless array of near-identical curry houses. If the food is served freshly-fried, you can be reasonably sure to have a solid stomach.

Credit: Mo Mo

Aung Mingalar Shan Noodles ?? 34 Bo Yar Nyunt Road (corner with Nawaday Road), Yaw Min Gyi Quarter, Dagon Township, Yangon

This place is always bustling with locals and rightly so. You can get Burmese food for as low as a $1 and variety of curries to choose from. A great value for money!

01385185 PP 11 am to 10 pm $1 - $3

Cafe Tykhe ?? No. 125, Anwrahta Road, 49th Street & Bo Myat Tun Street, Pazundaung

Set in Yaw Min Gyi, Aung Mingalar offers Shan and local dishes for a very reasonable price. Try their fried dumplings!

Township,Yangon 095188017 PP 10 am to 8pm $1 - $3

Aung Thu Ka ?? 17 (KA) 1st Street | West Shwegondaing, Bahan Township, Yangon 01525194, 095005296, 095100683 PP 9 am to 9 pm $1 - $5

Cafe Tykhe is a small, local food place located in between shops that serves a quick meal of hamburgers and sandwiches, fresh juices, Chinese and Burmese dishes. They are open for breakfast.

Golden City Chetty Restaurant ?? 115-117 Sule Paya Road, Kyauktada Township,

MICT Park Canteen ?? MICT Park,Hlaing University Campus,Thamine

Yangon

Colleage Street,Yanogn.

01246953

PP Opening Hour: 8am to 6pm

PP 6 am to 9 pm

$ 0.3 - $ 3

Khaing Khaing Kyaw PP 6:30 am to 9 pm $2 - $10

Main branch

MICT (Myanmar Information and Communication Technology) hosts expos and events, and houses corporate offices. Their canteen consists of a food court that offers Chinese dishes and Burmese foods, of which their curry is most popular.

New Delhi Restaurant ?? 274 Corner of Anawrahta Road and 28th Street, Downtown, Yangon 01373 334, 0973201518, 09450041222 PP 5:30 am to 9:30 pm $1 - $5

Read to feast in a great selection of South Indian dishes as well as a good selection of vegetarian dishes for a very reasonable price.

The place is always busy with locals and their downtown setting is a plus.

?? 617/A, Pyay Road, 5 ½ Mile, Beside KBZ Bank, Kamaryut Township, Yangon

Shwe Pa Lin Tea House

0973006422, 0973000707, 01524208

$0.5 - $3 BB

South Okkalapa Branch ?? 42(A), Waizayandar Road, Corner of Parami Road, South Okkalapa Township, Yangon 095159084

Main branch ?? No.37, Hantharwaddy Road, Kamaryut Township, Yangon 01538736, 01527850

For an authentic Myanmar dish, without having to take a risk on street foods, xxx is the place locals go to for local food. The process goes something like this: go in, pick a table, then go straight to the counter where you can select from a large buffet style dishes. Pick any dishes you want and the waiter will bring them to your table. You can choose from various curry dishes of different prices for a very reasonable price. Each curry entitles you to a plate of steamed rice, bowl of hot soup and a side dish of fish paste dipped with partially boiled vegetables.

PP 8 pm to 8 pm

Junction Mawtin branch ?? Corner of Anawrahta and Lan Thit Road, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon.

PP 9am to 9pm

Shwe Palin is a local tea, coffee and noodle shop serving all types of Burmese foods for breakfast. Their popular dish is Nan Gyi Thok, which is a famous traditional noodle dish.

EnjoyIt / February 2015

Most locals know this place as Shwe Myo Taw. With many chains around the city, their gold-plated sign is hard to miss. Always crowded with both locals and foreigners alike, many come here to get a fix of authentic Indian thali for a price that is hard to pass.

For less than $2, you can get all-you-can-eat thali set with a choice of rice or for a few cents more, additional servings of puri, dosa or chapati. Like most Indian dishes, it’s vegetarian friendly too.

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$1.5 - $4

24 EnjoyIt / February 2015

Credit: Noosa Food Wine, Noosa International Food & Wine Festival

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restaurants 25

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26

local Myanmar's local cuisine is a mix of all types of foods that comes from its neighbors, India, China, and Southeast Asia. In Shan state, where I come from, noodles are very popular. In Rakhine state, crabs are popular. My mother always told me that local food must have different types of flavours: sweet, salty, spicy, bitter and astringent. My favorite time at home is helping my mother cook in the kitchen and learning about dishes from our area. But when I'm too lazy to cook, I like to go out to eat local foods like mohinga, which is my favorite, along with Shan noodles.

Hsai Ngam Dein Student, Kaw Dai Organization Feel Myanmar

  winner!

?? 124 Pyihtaungsu Avenue, Dagon Township, Yangon 0973048783, 0973208132 PP 6 am to 8:30 pm (inside), 11 pm (outside) BB $3 - $8

Feel Myanmar has many branches all over town. A great restaurant to get acquainted with for local cuisine, it is popular with visitors from abroad and locals. There is a great selection of local cuisine and the seating area outside is always busy, giving a lively atmosphere to your dining experience.

Credit: Feel Myanmar, Tea Salad

01525194, 095005296, 095100683

Credit: Htet Myint Aung, Nan Gyi Thok

Danu Phyu Daw Saw Yee ?? No. 175/177, 29th Street, Pabedan Township,

999 Shan Noodle House ?? No. 130 B 34th Street | Kyauktada Township, Yangon

Yangon.

01248977 PP 8 am to 9 pm

01389363, 09450061616

$1- $5

PP 6 am to 7 pm $1 - $5

This local restaurant hidden in the small streets behind the city hall serves some of the freshest and tastiest noodles and soups in town. The pork rib noodles are particularly delectable.

The owner is very friendly and is always happy to give advice about local foods. A perfect place for a cheap and yummy food-stop downtown.

This local restaurant is well-known for its tasty Burmese-type curries that are full of flavour with spices that dance with every bite. The staff are helpful and accommodating. Dishes include plenty of meat, fish and vegetarian dishes. Air-conditioned rooms are available upstairs.

Friendship Restaurant ?? No 95, Shwe Gone Daing Street, West Shwe Gone

Aung Mingalar Shan Noodle Restaurant ?? 34 Bo Yar Nyunt Road (corner with Nawaday Road), Yaw Min Gyi Quarter, Dagon Township, Yangon

Daing, Bahan Township, Yangon 09253222204~06, 0973237010 PP 10:30 am to 11 pm B

Visa/Master $2 - $20

01385185 PP 11 am to 10 pm $1 - $3

A lively spot in the trendy Yaw Min Gyi Quarter, Aung Mingalar offers a terrific mix of Shan and local dishes. Also highly recommended are the fried dumplings. It is a pleasant venue with open doors that gets a cool breeze.

As always, this bar/restaurant is bustling with both locals and foreigners. It serves a great selection of local-style foods and is busy practically every night of the week. While the service is not always the greatest, this is an ideal place for good, cheap food.

Green Elephant Restaurant PP 10 am to 10 pm

Aung Thukha ?? 17 (KA) 1st Street | West Shwegondaing, Bahan Township, Yango

Visa Starting at $2

27

Some may either hesitate a little before entering the restaurant if it’s their first time eating Burmese food since it’s bustling with locals.

This authentic Myanmar restaurant has many different curries to offer, which you choose at the counter. Although quite oily depending on the dish, the food is tasty with an incredible value. If available, try the mutton curry.

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$1 - $5

LOCAL

PP 9 am to 9 pm

Bahan branch

LOCAL

?? 37 University Avenue, Shwe Taung Kyar 1st Quarter, Bahan Township, Yangon 0931304353, 0973152300, 01536498

Mayangone branch New branch!

of 2014 at South Okkalapa township. Seeing the popularity of hot pot dining amongst the locals, it is not surprising that Hot Spot BBQ is doing well, especially for big groups. Meats are served in small portions to ensure freshness and many kinds of sauces to suit all palates.

?? No.2, Aung Thukha Street, 9 Mile, between Ocean Centre and A1, Mayangone Township,

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Yangon.

House of Memories RUNNER-UP! ?? 290 U Wisara Road, after the junction with

01661887, 09450060065

Dhammazedi Road (up a narrow side street),

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Kamayut Township, Yangon

Long-standing in Yangon’s food industry, Green Elephant remains popular for tourist groups. The restaurant offers a vast array of different dishes, and are a great introduction to Asian cuisine for those not willing to risk street food. The restaurant is pleasantly decorated; the servers are attentive and efficient.

Highly recommended are their sweet desserts but bear in mind that the restaurant is quite expensive compared to many other Asian-style restaurants in Yangon.

Happy Cafe & Noodles ?? 104(B), Inya Road, Kamaryut Township, Yangon

0152519, 01534242 PP 11 am to 11 pm B

Visa/Master/MPU $5 - $20

A great selection of mostly Thai and Myanmar food set in an attractive colonial home, House of Memories is a well-designed restaurant that includes a balcony and a garden. The dishes are particularly tasty, especially when you consider the price. The main draw for many is that this was once the office of the country’s independence hero, Aung San and upstairs, you will find a few artifacts from his time.

01536985, 01705620 PP 7 am - 11 pm

Khaing Khaing Kyaw PP 6:30 am to 9 pm

B $3 - $10

$2 - $10

Happy is located down a small side street, just off Inya Road (look for the yellow happy face sign about 10 metres down the lane). The menu, also available in English, focuses on rice and noodles but offers Western options too. It is a lively place with all types of crowds who enjoy sharing their dishes, in typical Burmese style. Try getting seats on their very popular patio—that’s where the action is.

Main branch

HOT SPOT BBQ & HOTPOT New!

Khaing Khaing Kyaw offers a good array of Myanmar dishes with their speciality being different types of curries. Choose dishes of your liking from a large buffet-style dishes and the cook will bring them to you. Try the sweet pork curry or the Hilsa fish eggs with myin khwar ywat thoke (pennywort salad) or ching paung kyaw (fried roselle leaves).

?? No.87, Yadanar Road,Near Wai Zayan Dar Road,South Okkalapa Township Yangon 095213259, 09252692764, 09252692765 PP 3:00 pm to 11:00 pm Starting from $3

Hot Spot BBQ & Hot pot just opened near the end

?? 617/A, Pyay Road, 5 ½ Mile, Beside KBZ Bank, Kamaryut Township, Yangon 0973006422, 0973000707, 01524208

South Okkalapa branch ?? 42(A), Waizayandar Road, Corner of Parami Road, South Okkalapa Township, Yangon 095159084

LOCAL 29 Lucky 7 Cafe

side and enjoy the relaxed vibe of the restaurant as you sip tea, or savour the unofficial national dish, mohinga. All of their food is worth trying and it’s incredibly cheap.

PP 7 am to 9 pm $1 - $4

Main branch ?? 138/140,Corner of 49th Street and Mahabandoola Road, Pazundaung Township, Yangon 01292382, 095142810

Minn Lan Rakhine Seafood RUNNER-UP! PP 11 am to 10 pm Starting from $1

Ahlone branch ?? No.115, Lower Kyiimyinndaing Road, Ahlone Township, Yangon.

Baho branch ?? Corner of Baho Road and Khattar Street, (Near

01223379, 0973002863

Asia Royal Hospital), Sanchaung township.

01510 285; 0943125152

This is a perfect place to sample some local dishes in an authentic setting. Take a seat out-

Parami branch ?? 16 Parami Road and West of Maykha Road, Mayangone township 01656941

Inya Lake branch ?? Near Thada Phyu Bus Stop, Kamayut township 012304484; 0973118696

Credit: Feel Myanmar

One of Myanmar’s most famous cuisines is the seafood from western Rakhine state, and rightly so. Come here for prawns, squid, lobsters—

EnjoyIt / February 2015

Credit: Feel Myanmar

LOCAL

pretty much every seafood you can imagine— all at a very reasonable price. The lobsters go quickly, so get there early if that’s what you have in mind (and you should). The restaurant is mostly outdoor seating.

Padonmar Restaurant RUNNER-UP!

30

?? 105/107, Kha Yae Pin Road, Dagon Township, Yangon

Credit: Feel Myanmar

01-538 895, 0973242410, 095409409 PP 11 am to 11 pm B

Master/Visa

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Starting from $2

Popular amongst tourists, Padonmar has an eclectic mix of dishes from across Asia. Portions are well-sized, true to local form and there’s a great selection of side dishes. The restaurant is set in an attractive, air-conditioned building.

varieties, inspired by the traditional tea houses, and local foods with the best ingredients.

Shan Yoe Yar RUNNER-UP! ?? No.169, War Tan Street, Near corner with Bogyoke Aung San Road, Lanmadaw Township.

01221524, 09250566695 PP 7 am to 10 pm B

Visa/MPU $2 - $15

Perfect Restaurant ?? Building 25/2, Thumingalar Housing, Lay Daunt Kan Road, Thingangyun Township,Yangon 01573701, 01573505 PP 9 am to Midnight $2 - $10

It’s always good to know that Chinese food and noodles are available at all times, somewhere in the city. Relax restaurant is situated at the north east of Yankin, which makes it quite far from downtown, but it's still worth the effort.

Shan Yoe Yar is the very first Shan-style fine dining restaurant in the city. Set in an attractive, air-conditioned restaurant with renovated wood, there is a fine selection of well-known and lesserknown Shan dishes. To add to the Shan vibes, the staff are dressed in traditional Shan outfits.

Taing Yin Thar ?? No. 5A, Corner of May Kha Road and Parami Road, Mayangone Township, Yangon.

01660792, 09420126002, 0973221717 PP 10 am to 12 pm

Rangoon Tea House New! RUNNER-UP!

BB $4 -$15

?? 77 Pansodan Road, (Lower Middle Block, Above T-Land Phone Shop), Second Floor, Kyauktada Township, Yangon 095178329 PP 8:00 am to 10:00 pm BB $2 - $10

Rangoon Tea House draws inspiration from the heritage and tradition of the old city, the wonderful food and vibrant atmosphere of downtown. Prepare to drink tea of different

Set at the top of Inya Lake, it is a very good option for those wanting an overall experience of Myanmar cuisine. The cooks master the signature dishes of each region and use fresh, locally grown produce only. The result is a wonderful culinary experience, enhanced by the charming hospitality of the staff, who are proud and happy to serve their guests. Really good value for money.

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Myanmar Culture Valley Opened 6 months ago, Myanmar Culture Valley consists of stores that sell Myanmar-made products, like fashionable clothes, gems and jewelry. They also feature local eateries and restaurants from around the world­­­—China, Thailand, Europe, Japan and other Asian restaurants. Located in front of Shwe Dagon Pagoda, western gate inside People’s Park, this one-stop center for foodies boasts convenient amenities like ATMs, wide-car parking and its own central wifi all around the Valley (although, still lacks quality, like most of Yangon). Note that some of the restaurants have their own WIFI connection available.

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Chatime ?? G-41, Ground Floor[Opposite Daiso], Building

Freshness Burger ?? Ground Floor, Myanmar Culture Valley,

of U Wisara Entrance, People's Park, Dagon Township, Yangon.

People’s Park, Dagon Township, Yangon 0932316061

01556651

PP 9 am to 9 pm

PP 9:00 am to 9:00 pm

BB

BB

$2 - $8 $2-$4

It’s not surprising that Chatime is here at Myanmar Culture Valley. Available all around the world, 25 to be exact, Chatime is no stranger to locals here. You can choose a drinks from the 70 varieties available customized to your liking. You can ask them to add different types of toppings like pudding, coconut jelly, coffee jelly, red beans, grass jelly and more! They are popular for their unique combination of drinks like lychee yoghurt jelly, oolong tea mouse and matcha red bean milk tea, among others.

Dailycious II, Thai Food ?? Ground Floor, Myanmar Culture Valley, People’s Park, Dagon Township, Yangon 09420033110 PP 9 am to 9 pm $3 - $12

Popular for its delicious glass noodle with seafood and pad thai, remember to ask for less spicy if you can’t handle the heat! Affordable, clean and great for family get togethers or with meeting with friends, enjoy their ambience and excellent Thai food.

Freshness Burger is a Japanese fast food chain that was created to replicate the classic Amerian experience. They have another branch near Shwe Dagone pagoda, with the same, popular menus: teriyaki burger, a karaage chicken burger, prawn burger and more.

Frolick ?? G.34, Myanmar Culture Valley, People’s Park, Dagon Township, Yangon 098621950, 0949208005, 095407477 PP 9 am to 9 pm $2 - $6

If you’re looking for a dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth without packing on the pounds, this is it. Frolick brings to you cool, frosty frozen yogurt that’s zero percent in fat but high in flavour, piled high with a myriad of toppings that run the gamut from fresh fruits and nuts to crunchy cereals and chocolate chips. Made from the freshest ingredients, their frozen yogurt is all natural.

Happy Cafe ?? G-1, Myamar Culture Valley,Building of U Wisara Entrance, People's Park, Dagon Township, Yangon.

The only cafe that opens early morning for breakfast, they are famous for their breakfasts like Nan Gyi Thok (noodles with chicken curry). Great for business meetings and events.

0973002717, 095106883

Sushi Yangon ?? Ground Floor, Myanmar Culture Valley, People’s Park, Dagon Township, Yangon

The menu, also available in English, focuses on rice and noodles but offers Western options too. It is a lively place with all types of crowds who enjoy sharing their dishes, in typical Burmese style.

Pan Swel Taw ?? Ground Floor, Myanmar Culture Valley,

095030471, 095005613 PP 9 am to 9 pm $2 - $20

Sushi Yangon only uses imported meats and fish to make fresh sushi, sashimi and other authentic Japanese dishes. Sushi and sushi rolls come in rotating conveyors.

People’s Park, Dagon Township, Yangon 0973099114 PP 9 am to 10 pm BB Starting from $5

Pan Swe Taw offers Thai food, Chinese food, kay-oh, cocktail, ice-cream and coffee. With a good customer service, they have great curries to choose from.

BESPOKE INTERIORS | UNIQUE HOMEWARES

Potato Break New! ?? Ground Floor, Myanmar Culture Valley, People’s Park, Dagon Township, Yangon 09795386944 PP 9 am to 10 pm BB $1 - $5

A fast food restaurant specializing in french fries, Wasabi fries are memorable. They also offer chicken sticks, chicken rolls and chicken hotdog.

Royal Cafe ?? G-31, Ground Floor,Building of U Wisara Entrance, People's Park, Dagon Township, Yangon.

09730888444 PP 7:00 am to 9 pm $2 - $20

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$ 2.5 - $ 7

facebook.com/hamiltonyangon hamiltonyangon@gmail.com +95 (0) 9 2500 42311

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

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PP 9 am to 9 pm

Pearl Condo

Tip: Locals refer to this building as “Paley condo” so when hailing a cab, make sure you ask for “Paley condo” and not “Pearl condo.”

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Pearl Condo, located at the corner of Kaba Aye Pagoda and Saya San Road in Bahan township, is an apartment and business complex that has been growing in the last few years with many additional restaurants and cafes. Whether you want a family day out or time out alone or with friends, you’ll find an array of selection to satisfy your appetite.

Credit: Yangon Bakehouse

Chatime ?? G. Floor, Tower D,(Between Lotteria and

jelly, oolong tea mouse and matcha red bean milk tea, among others.

Yoogane), Peal Condo, Bahan Township, Yangon 01556651

La Tartine French Bakery ?? Block A, Ground Floor, (Next to American

PP 9 am to 9 pm $2 - $5

vision), Pearl Condo, Bahan Township,Yangon 01557448 Ext. 858 PP 7 am to 8 pm

Recently launched in Pearl Condo, Chatime is sandwiched between Yoogane and Lotteria, right when you enter the main building of Pearl Condo. Already very well known in Myanmar and 25 other countries, you can choose a drink from 70 varieties available (from milk teas to fruit teas) customized to your liking. You can ask for more or less sugar, more or less ice, more or less toppings...and voilà! They are popular for their unique combination of drinks like lychee yoghurt

BB Starting from $5

La Tartine is a French bakery—a first in Yangon—that serves good quality pastries, baguettes, croissants made with real French butter, desserts, sandwiches, paninis and more. Try their almond croissant and the three-chocolate crisp tart. Oo la la!

Lotteria ?? No(G-07),Building E,(Next to Chatime), Pearl

WTC Café new! ?? Building E, Pearl Condo, follow the sign

Condo, Bahan Township, Yangon

that says WTC Café after entering the main

0931571555

entrance (next to Lotteria and Yoogane), Bahan

PP 8:30 am to 10:30 pm $ 2 - $12

Township, Yangon 0930609951~2

PaPa Pizza

Yangon Bakehouse

?? Block C, Pearl Condo, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road,

Starting from $ 2

?? Block C, Ground Floor, Pearl Condominium,

Bahan Township, Yangon

Bahan Township, Yangon

095134476

01557448 Ext;818, 09250178879

PP 10:30 am to 9:00 pm

PP (Monday to Saturday) 7 am to 7 pm, Sunday Closed

$ 7.5 - $ 15 BB

Papa Pizza has one of the best pizzas in Yangon, for takeaway and delivery, but not so much for eat-ins. Great options include margherita pizza with extra cheesy goodness and the pepperoni pizza with its seeright mix and balance of pepperoni, meat, cheese and dough.

This is a social enterprise that hires disadvantaged women and trains them to make bread. Not a great seating space, but if you are craving good bakery with decent coffee, you’ve found your match.

Snow Factory new!

Yoogane new!

?? Building-C, Entrance on the side of Lotteria

Starting from $ 5

?? Pearl Condominium, Kabar Aye Pagoda Road,

and Yoogane, past Chatime and to the right, Pearl Condo, Bahan Township, Yangon

Bahan Township, Yangon 09421176800

0930609951~2

PP 11:00 am to 10:00 pm

PP 9:00 am to 9:00 pm

BB

BB

$3 - $25 Starting from $ 2

If you’re craving shaved ice on a hot, Yangon day, this is the place to go. Their "snowflake inspired" shaved ice-cream consists of strawberry, mango, melon, red bean and more.

With another branch in Junction Mawtin, Yoogane is a popular Korean restaurant, first for its chicken galbi in Yangon. Meals are cooked right in front of you, your choice of meat sizzling, as you pick from side dishes of vegetables and condiments. This spot is very popular among locals and couples.

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Newly opened, you’ll find gourmet coffee, from drip to Dutch coffee here. They are also a barista training school and sells both local and imported coffee beans.

BB

35

PP 9 am to 8:30 pm

Located near the entrance of Pearl Condo, Lotteria is a very well-known fast food chain.

Many locals frequent here, and is a great alternative for those craving McDonald’s type of fastfood. Their bulgogi burger is highly recommended as well as their soft-serve icecream.

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Arpit Pareek Owner, Indian Tadka Corriander LeaF

winner

?? Building 12, Yangon International Hotel Compound, Ahlone Road, Dagon Township, Yangon 012302069, 09431 85008 PP 11 am to 3 pm , 6 pm to 11 pm B

MPU/Visa/Master $4 - $20

Often billed as Yangon’s best Indian restaurant, Corriander Leaf offers an authentic taste of Indian cuisines, including peshwari, mughlai and tandoori delicacies. There is also an impressive list of cocktails (and mocktails). Private rooms can be hired out.

BAWARCHI INDIAN RESTAURANT New! ?? No 37, Ground,Floor 1, La Pyayt Wun Plaza, Alan Pya Pagoda Road, Dagon Township, Yangon.

09253500002, 09253500003 PP 11 am to 12pm B $3.5 - $24

The authenticity of North Indian Cuisine and Indian Chinese fusion food combines all time favourites like murg malai kebab, chicken tikka, tandoori prawns, and mutton rogan josh.

For vegetarians, there are also many choices

Credit: Bawarchi, Bawarchi Specials Veg Khazana

including bharwa paneer tikka, paneer butter masala, palak kofta, vegetable jalfrezi and lots more to try.

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Food in my home country, India, is just not food, but food infused with the endless and immeasurable ingredient called love, which makes it special. In the past few years, there has been a huge difference between the ethnic food available in Myanmar compared to the food available in India because of the scarcity of ingredients and a qualified cook. As an Indian and an obsessed Indian food lover, I would say that it’s my passion that makes it pleasurable to cook Indian food. India shaped my mind, anchored my identity, influenced my beliefs and made me who I am today. Indian food, which we have left far away in our hometown, is now more available here in Myanmar, promising the same flavors.

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indian

indian

GOLDEN CITY CHETTY RESTAURANT RUNNER-UP! ?? 115-117 Sule Paya Road, Kyauktada Township, Yangon 01-246953 PP 6 am to 9 pm

If you are looking for a tasty masala dosa with a basic setting and friendly service, this (very) cheap eat next to Sule Pagoda is it. Ingyin serves South Indian food, with fresh sambar and the usual daily-changing Thali which they refill until you are full.

$1.5 - $4

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Nepali Food House RUNNER-UP! Well known among both locals and expats, Golden City Chetty Restaurant is always bustling with customers who enjoy good, authentic Indian food without having to sacrifice their wallet. For less than $2, you can get allyou-can-eat thali set with a choice of rice or for a few cents more, additional servings of puri, dosa or chapati.

INDIAN TADKA New! ?? 7A Pyay Road, Opposite of Inya Lake, Hlaing

?? 63 Bon Sun Pet Street, Lower Block, Downtown, Yangon 0973142386 PP 9 am to 9 pm, closed on Sundays $2 - $10

This tiny restaurant in the heart of downtown serves what is regarded as some of the best Indian and Nepalese food in the city. The vegetarian Thali set is particularly popular. Alcohol is not sold in the restaurant.

Township, Yangon

New Delhi Restaurant

09420187010 PP 11 am to 11 pm

?? 274 Corner of Anawrahta Road and 28th Street, Downtown, Yangon

$2 - $6

01373 334, 0973201518, 09450041222

Walk into Indian Tadka and it’s a different gastronomic world altogether. If you are a connoisseur of fine-cooked comfort food and love to tease your taste buds, then Indian Tadka would probably be the one to take you on that journey.

Ingyin Restaurant RUNNER-UP!

PP 5:30 am to 9:30 pm $1 - $5

A busy, no-nonsense Indian restaurant in the heart of downtown, New Delhi is popular among the locals. They serve a selection of South Indian dishes as well as a good selection of vegetarian foods.

?? 30th St and Anawrahta Rd, Yangon

Titu’s Indian Banana Leaf Restaurant RUNNER-UP!

PP 9:00 am to 9:00 pm $1 - $4

?? No.235, Ground Floor, 32nd Street, Behind Sule Shangri-La Hotel, Downtown, Yangon 09-31285439, 0930258377 PP 11 am to 10 pm $3 - $15

Specialising in South Indian cuisine, rice is their main staple with the dishes infused in spices, soup and yoghurt-based dishes that usually form a complete meal. Located just behind Sule Shangri-la Hotel, Titu’s is a simple, unpretentious family restaurant .

Credit: Titu's

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Saori Fujimoto, Freelance Consultant

Credit: Kohaku, Kamo Nabe( Duck Hot Pot)

Kohaku Japanese Restaurant @ Chatrium Hotel WINNER! ?? Chatrium Hotel, 40 Natmauk Road, Tamwe Township, Yangon.

01544500 Ext: 6231 PP 11:30 am to 2 pm and 6 pm to 10 pm B

Visa and Master $3 - $90

Authentic Japanese food with a pleasant setting, Kohaku is a popular venue for business meetings. It offers business lunch set with a 3-course menu starting with an appetizer, main dish and fresh fruits or ice cream to finish it off. At $10 a person, it’s a steal; not to mention the quality of the food, prompt service and a cozy environment.

EnjoyIt / February 2015

I think the quality of Japanese restaurants depends on the expertise of Japanese chefs.

There are many good Japanese restaurants now, but some details are still missing. For example, they may use the wrong flour for tempura and they may not be using the right ingredients. With shochu (Japanese wine), most restaurants don’t know how to mix the right amount of hot water. They stir when they shouldn’t and the sake is too hot to taste sometimes. My favorite Japanese restaurants combine friendly service with great taste, lots of volume and reasonable price. A definite plus is restaurants that serve food like the ones in Japan, especially when I was growing up there.

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japanese

japanese

Anaimo ?? No.300, Mahabandoola Park Street, Kyauktada Township, Yangon 01378022 PP 11:30 am to 2:00 pm and 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm

Despite the growing number of Japanese restaurants in Yangon, this restaurant has gained a strong reputation in the city. Their set menus are good and reasonably priced, with one pleasant point: good food presentation.

BBWifi Available

Fuji Japanese Restaurant

$2 - $12

EnjoyIt / February 2015

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?? No.37, Hanthawaddy Road, Kamayut Township,

Immensely popular among the Japanese locals, Anaimo serves a balanced and healthy meal.

Situated in the center of downtown, lunch delivery is also available without any delivery charge. Lunch box entries included fried chicken, grilled salmon lunch, grilled ginger pork lunch, curry rice with pork cutlet and pork cutlet with fried egg lunch.

BONSAI SUSHI & JAPANESE RESTAURANT ?? No. 30, Ma Hlwa Kone Street, Kyaut Myaung, Tarmwe Township, Yangon 09315 53456

Yangon (Brunch also available at Marketplace on Dhammazedi Road) 01514 776, 097302 2338 PP 11 am to 10 pm $4 - $50

Popular, particularly among the young local crowd, Fuji is the Yangon branch of a Thai chain of Japanese restaurants. They get rave reviews for many of its dishes, particularly the salmon. Meanwhile, the sushi and sashimi are made fresh and are a delight. The staff are friendly, efficient and attentive.

PP 10:00 am to 10 pm

Gekko

starting from US$4

?? 535, Merchant Road, Kyauktada Township,

There are many Japanese restaurants that offer sushi, but there is none other like the one served at this restaurant. Fresh and cut in precise detail, Japanese expats come here for sushi. Staff is friendly, atmosphere is inviting and it’s an ideal place for business gatherings.

Yangon.

01386 986, 0943190232 PP 10 am to 2 am Daily B

Visa and Master $5 - $15

Gekko is a trendy, tastefully designed place to go to for a fun evening with friends in downtown Yangon. Located on the ground floor of the famous Sofaer building, they offer food from Japan, Korea and Vietnam as well as an Asian inspired cocktail menu fashioned by the famous 28 Hong Kong St. bar in Singapore.

Their yakitori and ramen are exquisite, just like their cocktails.

Credit: Bonsai, Sushi

Horn Japanese Beef Steakhouse Dining Fukurou

?? No 36 (A), Golden Valley Street, Quarter (2), Bahan Township, Yangon,Myanmar

?? 81C, New University Avenue Road, Yankin Township, Yangon.

09- 542 871; 09 420 231 330 PP 11 am to 10 pm (3 pm to 5 pm - Closed)

01513404, 09420003996 PP 11:30 am - 10:00 pm B $2 - $45

B $2 - $10

JAPANESE 43 EnjoyIt / February 2015

Credit: Ilee_wu, Japanese sashimi platter

Most newcomers may first find it difficult to find this restaurant, but don’t give up (remember to carry their phone number in case you get lost). Their tasty beef imported from Japan and Australia is their specialty. Private rooms are available as well as special meals for business or private parties.

Ichiban- Kan RUNNER-UP! ?? G18, Aung San Stadium (North Wing), Gyoe Phyu Street, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, Yangon 01394824 PP 11:30 am to 2:00 pm and 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm Only JCB

Japan Japan ?? 239 Pansodan St, Kyauktada Township, Yangon 09-5130016 , 09-49577448 PP 11 am to 10 pm BB $4 - $28

From the street, you would not imagine how cosy and colorful this little restaurant really is.

They have several seating options, depending if you prefer a comfy bench by the entrance or if you want to sit at a low table directly on the mat in a more private corner at the back of the restaurant.

$4 - $65

One of the oldest Japanese restaurants in Yangon, Ichiban-Kan is loved by Japanese locals for providing meals that feel home-cooked. In addition to well-known Japanese foods such as tempura and soba, you can enjoy a variety of dishes that maintain their high quality due to the vigilant watch by its owner who is always present at the restaurant. Reservation is recommended.

KATSU JAPANESE RESTAURANT RUNNER-UP! ?? B-2, Near Aung San Stadium, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, Yangon 01381233, 09420088068, 09250402200 PP Lunch 11:30 am to 2:00 pm, Dinner 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm BB $2.5 - $18

japanese 44 EnjoyIt / February 2015

Credit: Wejie, Zhang, Yakitori

A casual Japanese restaurant suitable for those who want to eat both solo or with a group.

Saraudon (crispy yellow noodle with thick starchy sauce) is recommended for its volume and superb taste.

Maru Restaurant & Grill RUNNER-UP! ?? 130/13, Shwe Taung Tan Street (just north of

well-priced. The restaurant attracts a mix of locals, expats and Japanese looking to sample some of their home cuisine. Take-aways are available.

Shiki-Tei @ PARKROYAL Hotel RUNNER-UP! ?? 33, PARKROYAL Hotel, Alan Pya Pagoda Road,

Anawrahta Road), Latha Township, Yangon 09420308350 PP 11:30 am to 1:30 pm and 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm B

Dagon Township, Yangon.

01250388 Ext. 8103/8119 PP 11 am to 2:30 pm and 6 pm to 10:30 pm B

$3 - $25

Visa and Master Starting from US $4

This well-hidden Japanese restaurant has an interesting café-esque atmosphere to it. Drink options are plentiful (cocktails, wine and even Prosecco Sparkling Wine) and complement the refined grilled dishes with style. Ideal for a date.

With a newly-refurbished setting and a unique decor, guests now have an option of dining at the counter or in one of the booths for a more private surrounding. Chef Hongu Kaneo has over 43 years of experience.

Samurai Sushi

Teke Teke Yakitori Bar & Restaurant NEW!

?? 4E/F, Ground Floor, Wingabar Street, Bahan Township, Yangon.

?? No. 12, Bo Gyoke Museum Street, Bo Cho-2 Ward,

097308 1871, 095123 240 PP 11 am to 10 pm $1 - $10

Bahan Township, Yangon.

018604434 PP 11 am to 11 pm B

A no-frills, locally-run Japanese restaurant, the portions are a good size, tasty and very

Visa and Master Starting from $4

TEKKAN BUNGO-STYLE JAPANESE TEPPANYAKI & CUISINE NEW! ?? No,20,Rm 01, City Channel Complex, Pearl Street,

PP 11:00am - 3:00pm & 6:00pm - 10:00pm (Mon-Fri), 11:00 - 10:00pm (Sat-Sun) Starting from US$4

Started by Mr. Masatoshi Ogata, this ramen store serves its own unique ramen, perfected

by Mr. Ogata himself. With 150 outlets in Japan and now a branch in Yangon, Yamagoya serves a delicious selection of ramen in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Definitely a place to go for a quick, tasty ramen.

JAPANESE

01224122

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Teke Teke is a Japanese chicken cuisine restaurant. Although it opened very recently, the restaurant attracts crowds of people with high dining standards. The atmosphere and the decor are refined and relaxing and the service is pleasantly efficient. Advanced reservation is recommended, especially if you are taking your date or want to impress your clients.

PP 6 pm to 11 pm (Order Closed at 8:30 pm)

Yhet’s Sushi & Soba RUNNER-UP! ?? No-57, 37th Street (Lower Block), Kyauktada Township, Yangon

B $20 - $150

01377 212 PP 11:00 am to 10:30 pm

Tekkan is a Japanese teppanyaki (method of cooking on an iron grill), shabu shabu (method of cooking in boiling water), and sukiyaki (stew prepared and served hotpot style) restaurant.

Its main features are premium Bungo beef, sake, and shochu from Oita prefecture. Bungo beef is tender and flavorful, similar to wagyu beef.

Yamagoya Ramen RUNNER-UP! ?? No.(520), Oo Yin Street, Sayar San Quarter, Bahan Township, Yangon

$3 -$50

Hidden in a side street off Merchant St, Ytet’s Sushi & Soba is a nice venue for a relaxed and friendly lunch with a friend or two. The menu is somewhat confusing at first, but the staff is very kind and will go out of their way to help you out. The food is tasty and the chilled green tea complements it perfectly. The decoration has been tastefully executed, and the curtains between the tables give a sense of privacy which is appreciated when talking business.

Credit: Kohaku, Oysters_Clams Special

EnjoyIt / February 2015

Bahan Township.

0931062647

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Best Teppanyaki, Yakitori or Yakiniku Restaurant

Kobe Ya RUNNER-UP! ?? 615B, Marlar Street (near Pyay Road), Kamayut Township, Yangon 01535 072, 09420015401

Yakitori, a Japanese-style of skewered chicken, is flavored with soy sauce and sake, and commonly enjoyed as quick snack with chilled beer.

Yakiniku literally means “grilled meat”.

Teppanyaki is a Japanese-style cuisine that uses an iron griddle to cook food. Teppan means iron plate and yaki means grilled, broiled or pan-fried.

Kobe refers to cuts of beef, which is one of this restaurant’s specialties. Their beef is imported from Japan’s Hyogo Prefecture. These thinly-sliced meats, served cold, are often considered a delicacy.

HARU

Manpuku RUNNER-UP!

Township, Yangon.

?? No.(30), Sagawar St, Dagon Township, Yangon 01214284, 098300426, 095046736

09421149721

PP 3:00 pm to 11:00 pm (Order Closed at 10 pm)

PP 11:00 am to 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm

BB $1.5 - $39

B $3 - $82

Haru, meaning “spring season” in Japanese, offers open seating downstairs and a series of private dining rooms upstairs, centered around a charcoal grill that warms the room and fills the air with the aroma of freshly cooked meat and seafood. The menu is presented by waitresses dressed in traditional uniform, fluent in English and happy to explain the origins of each dish.

With branches in Los Angeles, Tokyo and now Yangon, this Japanese restaurant specializes in high-end barbecue dining. Suitable for all types of events and gatherings from corporate to birthday parties, enjoy Japanese sauce flavored barbecued meat served with your choice of salad and soup in a warm-lit atmosphere. The supervising chef is a 20year veteran of the Tokyo branch.

Nagasaki Tei RUNNER-UP!

Hokkaido RUNNER-UP! ?? S-4, U Chit Maung Housing, Tarmwe Township, Yangon 09254191597 PP 7 pm to 12 am

?? No.56(B), Thiri Marlar Street, 7 ½ Mile, Pyay Road, Mayangone Township, Yangon 01661350, 095133506 PP 11:30 am to 2:30 pm and 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm (Closed on Tuesday)

BB $4 - $46

Hokkaido has a great reputation for serving the best ramen in Yangon. The restaurant has four floors--1st floor serving ramen, 2nd floor serving Japanese and Western cuisine and the 3rd floor with a private room for meetings and conferences and the 4th for karaoke.

$59 - $79

Known for its top-notch quality of beef, Nagasaki Tei serves hand-picked premium cuts of beef, known as Miyazaki Beef Grade A5.

Other dishes include variety of seafood, chicken and pork dishes, which can all be self-grilled or eaten shabu shabu style.

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$9 - $48

EnjoyIt / February 2015

WINNER!

?? No.81, Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan

PP 11 am to 2 pm and 5 pm to 11 pm

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korean Just a few years ago, it was difficult to enjoy Korean food. The only thing available was kimchi, which was and is still available in Yangon as most of restaurants in Korea imports kimchi from China. But recently, there are better Korean restaurants in Yangon.

I am especially happy that famous Korean franchise restaurants have opened up in Yangon, with their famous chicken and modern-style Korean traditional foods; not to mention Korean-style Ice-creams and good, tasty coffee. I expect more Korean restaurants to open up in Yangon in 2015.

Arirang

  Winner!

?? No. 8, Thiri Mingalar St, Hledan, Kamaryut Township, Yangon.

0949335172, 01536508 PP 8:00 am - 11:00 pm B $3 - $20

Justin Jeon Korean Association in Myanmar

Arirang is a family-run business serving delicious home-cooked Korean food. The dakgalbi grilled spicy chicken is especially good, but anything down to the side dishes is worth a try. You can find fine Shouju in this restaurant, which can be a good thing for both a business lunch or a family gathering. Quality does not come cheap though!

Credit: Alpha, Tteokki

Tower, Nar Nat Taw Str, Kamayut Township,

$9 - $40

Yangon 09796307127, 0973038899 PP 10 am to 9 pm $5 - $30

Bulgogi Brothers is a casual dining restaurant most renowned for its tasty bulgogi. You will first be served with a complimentary dish and tea with six side dishes (banchan). From there, you can choose from a variety of dishes including bibimbap, hot kimchi tofu soup and succulent variety of meat.

Han Kook Kwan separates itself from other Korean restaurants with a different outdoor concept—Korean barbecue in Tiki huts. Those sitting outside are treated to the sight of cooks doing their work. Various meats come with assorted kimchi sides and are served as soon as they are grilled.

Han Il Kwan RUNNER-UP! ?? 9.5 miles, Okkalar Road, Mayangone Tsp, Yangon.

01662475, 09448010594 PP Opening Hours : 10 am to 10 pm

Dae Won Gak RUNNER-UP!

$7 - $40

?? No. 17, Saya San Road,Bahan Township, Yangon 01401229, 0973239626 PP 11 am - 10:30 pm BB $6 - $30

Known as one of the best Korean restaurants in Yangon, Dae Won Gak serves authentic Korean food in a Korean traditional style decor. A good place to go with family and friends, enjoy their bibimbap seafood soup and side dishes, along with traditional Korean style barbecue.

Although Hanil Kwan has changed location from its Pyay Road branch, it continues to hold a good reputation in Yangon, being one of the first restaurants to introduce Korean cuisine to local people. Their secret ingredient in the kimchi , which remains a secret, comes highly recommended.

Her’s Korean Restaurant ?? 33-B1, Ayeyeiknyein, Parami Road, Mayangone Township, Yangon.

01663636, 01504161

Green Mile ?? No.1, Bawga Lane, Pyay road, 9 mile, Mayangone

PP 10 am to 9 pm BB

Township, Yangon.

$3 - $15

01 661336, 09 448005694 PP 11 am - 10 pm B $2 - $10

This small, 2-story restaurant is perfect if you want to have nice, simple Korean food at a reasonable price. It is a go-to place with friends for a casual meal and Shouju or just alone (perhaps, also with Shouju!). The service is fast and efficient.

Her’s Korean Restaurant has gone from strength to strength since they open. The restaurant is well-known for its pork products, which are sliced into bite-sized pieces, and are at their tastiest when dipped into the Korean soy paste, mixed with chilli and garlic.

KPC Korean Food RUNNER-UP! ?? No 49, Nagar Yone St, Mayangone Township, Yangon.

Han Kook Kwan RUNNER-UP! ?? 24B, Pyi Thu Street, 7 Miles, Pyay Road, Mayangone Township, Yangon.

01662757, 0943154726

KOREAN

PP 11 am to 3 pm and 5 pm to 10 pm BB

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?? G136,Ground Floor,Building 1, SOHO Diamond

0932237833, 0973139053 PP 9 am to 10 pm BB $2 - $20

EnjoyIt / February 2015

BULGOGI BROTHERS New!

KOREAN

KPC is a small restaurant, particularly renowned for the freshness of its food—the owner raises his own chickens and pigs! Try the samgyetang-chicken ginseng soup to get an idea of how tasty fresh ingredients really are. It’s a place to go with family and friends to have a delicious time out.

many accompanying side dishes. Dishes include kimchi, hot pots, soups and curries. There is also a North Korean cultural performance.

The Seoul ?? 142 Parami Road, Opposite of Parami Bus Station, South Okkalapa Township,Yangon

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01579624, 0949284 888, 09421177524

Pyongyang Koryo

PP 10 am - 11 pm

?? A5, Saya San Road, Bahan Township, Yangon.

BB

0943110809, 0973104544

Starting from $7

PP 5 pm to 11 pm EnjoyIt / February 2015

Starting from $5

One of Yangon’s quirkiest Korean restaurants, it is also the city’s only place to sample North Korean cuisine. The food is not to be confused with that from the South, where there are

At The Seoul, you will enjoy dining in a quiet atmosphere as well as a friendly and professional service. English-speaking staff are very efficient. This venue is in fact very good for business meetings (VIP rooms are available) but can also be a good option for a family or birthday gathering. The bulgogi is one of their best dishes.

YOOGANE MYANMAR New! RUNNER-UP! 0942117 6800 PP 11:00 am to 10:00 pm BB $3 - $25

Main branch ?? Pearl Condominium, Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar

Yoogane Junction Mawtin branch New! ?? 4th Floor,Mawtin Junction Centre, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon

Credit: Chloe Lim Korea Fish cake soup (Eomuk-Tang)

Established in 1981, Yoogane was one of the most popular chicken galbi restaurants in Busan, Korea. In Korean language, Guests are seated to a table with a huge hot plate in the middle, provided with individual bib/apron and upon choosing your menu, have the staff do the cooking for you. It is a family restaurant, and with a concept of sharing your food and so it naturally attracts couples and big groups. The prices are very reasonable compared to other established Korean restaurants.

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chinese Having a father who is Chinese and a mother who is Indian, I am exposed to all types of Southeast Asian and South Asian cuisine. Although, I love all types of food from different countries, Chinese is my favorite. I like to cook and mix Chinese species and condiments to enhance the taste of my dishes. My favorite Chinese dishes are szechuan noodles with spicy beef sauce and sesame chicken, and I can't get enough of dim sum— it's definitely my all-time favorite, especially when going out for it with my friends and family.

Boey Zhi Chung Events Wizard Sdn Bhd Golden Duck

Winner!

?? Kan Taw Mingalar Garden Compound, U Wisara Road, Dagon Township, Yangon 01240216, 01706488, 097322 9233

The standard of the food varies but the roast duck seems to be a dish which consistently satisfies customers. Reservation is highly recommended.

PP 10:30 am to 9:30 pm $3 - $40

Inya 1 First House RUNNER-UP! ?? 1, Inya Road, Kamaryut Township, Yangon

This restaurant has several branches. The one near Cousins Grill is the most popular for the food, while the one near Shwedagon Pagoda is most reputed for its view. The restaurants are big, which make them ideal for big gatherings.

01527506 PP 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm BB $3 - $32

Credit: Michael Saechang, BBQ Pork

chinese 53 First house specializes in Hunan and Sichuan cuisine. Expect well-prepared regional Chinese cuisine, attentive service and a relaxing atmosphere. Popular dishes include mutton and duck hot pot, steamed sea fish, chilli chicken and different varieties of lobster.

ably priced. Popular dishes are steamed wontons and noodle soups.

Royal Garden RUNNER-UP! ?? Kandawgyi Natural Park, Natmauk Street, Central Forest Zone, Bahan Township, Yangon 01546923, 01546202

Fook Mun Lau RUNNER-UP! ?? 102, corner of Kaba Aye Pagoda and Oak Pone Seik Roads, Mayangone Township, Yangon.

PP 6:30 am to 2:15 pm and 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm BB Starting from $1 for dimsum to $107 for 10 people

01656878, 01656789, 01661839 PP 9 am to 2:30 pm and 5 pm to 10 pm (Weekdays) 8:30 am to 2:30 pm and 5 pm to 10 pm(Weekends) $10 - $60

It is the epitome of grandeur in a Chinese restaurant—the classy decor matches the opulent interior. It has gained popularity particularly due to its fresh seafood cuisine. The seafood is sold according to the current market price, so there isn’t a set price. Be sure to enquire for a rough estimate before you order.

Widely known as a popular venue for wedding reception, this place is great for all occasions from business meetings to get together with families and friends. They serve dim sum in the afternoon and only accept group reservations for dinner. Dishes include Beijing-style roast duck, gui lin gao (a herbal black jelly dessert), tofu in clay pot, mango pudding and one of the best dim sums available in Yangon.

Shwe Kaung Hot Pot PP 10 am to 10 pm

Kou Fu RUNNER-UP!

$1 - $18

?? 24 Baho Road, Corner of Pyihtaungsu Yeik Thar St, Ahlon Township, Yangon 01222998, 0949311122 PP 9:30 am to 9:30 pm $5 - $15

Kou Fu is very popular with both Myanmar locals and Chinese expats in Myanmar. The venue is always buzzing with customers, perhaps because of its extensive menu that is reason-

Main branch ?? 18 Ko Min Ko Chin Road, Shwegondine, Bahan Township, Yangon.

01559339, 0973559339

Kamaryut branch ?? Nar Nat Taw Street, Kamaryut Township, Yangon 01-537731

EnjoyIt / February 2015

Credit: Michael Stern, Dumplings

chinese

food, including dim sum lunches. They offer an a la carte buffet lunch menu and multi-course banquet dinners.

The Muses RUNNER-UP! ?? Ground Floor, Tower E, Diamond Condo(Behind BMW Car Showroom), Pyay Road, Corner of Narnattaw Street, Kamaryut Township, Yangon

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Credit: Jason Lam, wonton with sesame sauce

0973145470 PP 10:00 am to 10:30 pm $ 2 - $6

Lanmadaw branch EnjoyIt / February 2015

?? Level 3, Junction Mawtin, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon 01218155 Ext. 1306

Where hot pots are concerned, they are popular among the local clientele. Shwe Kaung offers a lively atmosphere every night of the week. Those who haven’t tried the unique dining experience of hot pot will not be disappointed.

This restaurant is unique in that it’s a fusion of many international dishes—from China, Taiwan, Mexico, Japan and Myanmar—with many of the Chinese dishes being the most popular including pork-based dishes with a touch of Sichuan.

Western Park New location! ?? 6th Floor, Beside Sky Star Hotel, Corner of East Myinn Pyaing Kwinn and Lay Daunt Kan Rd, Thingangyun Township, Yangon.

Si Chuan Dou Hua @ PARKROYAL Hotel RUNNER-UP! ?? 33, Alan Pya Pagoda Road, Dagon Township,

018604622, 018604633 PP 10 am to 10 pm BB

Yangon

Starting from $7.5

01250388 PP 11 am to 2:30 pm and 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm B

Visa and Master Starting from $25

The restaurant offers authentic spicy Sichuan and Cantonese delicacies paired with premium Eight Treasure teas. The well-designed restaurant has a pleasant setting and is great for business meetings and more casual meals.

It seems the town of Yangon and its visitors cannot get enough of this restaurant, which specialises in its peking duck. Besides the food being a good price point, they also have a showing of duck-carving at your table, which gives an added visual bonus.

White Rice Restaurant ?? Kandawgyi Royal Lake Park, Natmauk Lane Opposite of Eye Hospital, Yangon.

Summer Palace @ Sule Shangri-La RUNNER-UP! ?? 223 Sule Pagoda Road, Downtown, Yangon 01242828 Ext. 6428/6429

01556 837, 556838 PP 6 am to 10 pm BB

$4 - $50

PP 11:30 am to 2 pm and 5:30 pm to 11 pm B

MasterCard and Visa Starting from $ 22

Summer Palace restaurant, on the second floor of Sule Shangri-La, offers authentic Cantonese

This restaurant, well situated by Kandawgyi lake, serves tasty Chinese dishes in a simple atmosphere. Service is fast and professional. It can hold up to 300 guests and provides entertainment for those planning to organise big gatherings.

EnjoyIt / February 2015

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Natty Tangmeesang Wired Media

Credit: Thai 47. Steamed fish with spicy lime, garlic and chili sauce

EnjoyIt / February 2015

Born and bred in Thailand where food is ubiquitous and available 24 hours a day, I grew up surrounded by good Thai food on the streets and restaurants. Having moved to Myanmar two months ago, I have been on a quest of finding good Thai restaurants in the country, particularly Yangon. There are various types of Thai restaurants here, for example, street foods, traditional cuisines, fine dining and even chain restaurants from Thailand. I have yet tried almost all Thai restaurants in Yangon, but my favourites are the traditional Thai meals and home-cooked types of food. My favorite dishes are tom yum goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup), tom kha gai (chicken coconut soup), pad kra prow (minced meat with basil), tod mun (fish/prawn cake) and more!

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thai

Sabai

Winner!

thai

PP 10:00 am to 2:30 pm & 5:00 am to 9:30 pm $ 3.5 - $ 9

Inya Branch ?? No 30, Kabaaye Pagoda Road, near Golden Hill Tower, Bahan Township, Yangon

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09252051784

Kaba Aye Pagoda Road Branch (near Sedona Hotel) ?? Kabaaye Pagoda Road, Inside Mya Kyun Thar

EnjoyIt / February 2015

Compound, Yankin Township, Yangon

Credit: Thai 47, Phad Kapaw Kai

018605178 BB

Sabai Sabai’s Inya Road branch, now located in front of Sedona hotel, continues with their high standards. The food is presentable, midmarket and in a western-friendly restaurant.

Popular among expats and locals, it serves Thai dishes such as tom yum, tom kha and seafood.

The sunset view is remarkable.

shell crab to hard shell crab. Thai-style fish barbecue, eel cooked with oyster sauce, bamboo shell in sour and spicy sauce and white pomfret naturally steamed are also popular here.

Green Elephant Restaurant PP 10 am to 10 pm starting at $2

Chew Q RUNNER-UP! ?? 11(A), Kan Yeiktha Street, Mayangone Township, Yangon 0936174447~8 PP 10:00 am to 11:30 pm

Main branch ?? 37 University Avenue, Shwe Taung Kyar 1st Quarter, Bahan Township, Yangon 0931304353, 0973152300, 01536498

BB $3 - $15

Mayangone branch New branch! ?? No.2, Aung Thukha Street, 9 Mile, Between

Chew Q is a bar and restaurant with a chic decoration overlooking an outside terrace with a small pond. It serves a variety of Thai foods and is great for couples who would like to dine outdoors with candle lights and ambient lighting.

Golden Crab ?? No 28/GF, South Horse Race Course Road (Street

Ocean Centre and A1, Mayangone Township, Yangon. 01661887, 09450060065

Green Elephant is a popular restaurant for both locals and Thais. They offer a variety of dishes, although they’re not the most affordable among other Asian restaurants, their Thai dishes are worth trying, especially for those who want a taste of authentic Thai cuisine.

beside Da Nu Phyu Daw Saw Yee Restaurant), Tarmwe Township, Yangon 0973139172 $1.5 - $8

Green Gallery Restaurant RUNNER-UP! ?? No.58, 52nd Street (Mahabandoola), Botahtaung Township, Yangon.

Famous for its Thai-style chili crab, prepare yourself to feast on all types of crab—from soft

0931315131 PP Tuesday to Friday - 12 pm to 9 pm

09253512904, 09253512903

This small family restaurant offers healthy Thai dishes at a very reasonable prices. The setting is basic and relaxed, and the owner is as welcoming as the food is tasty. Located in the eastern part of the city, it is a nice place to go for a quiet lunch or a casual dinner. Besides, there is no need to stick to the menu—tell the owner what’s on your mind and she’ll whip up the perfect customised dish just for you.

Hidden away down a narrow alley of Dhammazedi Road (close to the junction with U Wisara), Legacy may not look much from the outside but it’s terrific selection of dishes as well as its fresh ingredients make it a mustvisit for foodies looking for some Thai cuisine in Myanmar. Prices are very reasonable too.

LE Nacha RUNNER-UP! ?? 85, Shin Saw Pu Street, Sanchaung Township,

Legacy Thai Restaurant RUNNER-UP! PP 10 am to 10 pm $3 - $20

Main Branch ?? 99 Dhammazedi Road (down an alley to the left

Yangon 09450013761, 0921038225 PP 10 am to 10 pm BB $2 - $12

as you come from U Wisara Road, near Coffee Circle), Bahan Township, Yangon 01709 748, 0973012890

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?? Mhyaw Sin Island, Kandawgyi Park

$2 - $15

thai

Kandawgyi Branch

(Monday Closed)

Perhaps one of the things that sets Le Nacha apart from other Thai restaurants is that it serves authentic Northern Thai food, where

EnjoyIt / February 2015

PP Saturday and Sunday - 1 pm to 9 pm

thai

their cuisine is generally not as spicy. It has a cosmopolitan vibe situated in a refurbished house. The other plus point is that it's right next to their Nacha Spa offering Thai massages and facials—double the pleasure.

Mai Thai Restaurant RUNNER-UP!

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?? 197/1-3 West Shwegonedine 5th Street, Bahan Township, Yangon.

01383662, 01375158

Credit: Thai kitchen

PP 10 am to 10 pm $4 - $20 EnjoyIt / February 2015

Thai 47 Bar & Restaurant NEW! Mai Thai has been put to the taste-test time and time again by folks from different walks of life and has passed most times with flying colours. Thai dishes are served with a dash of Chinese fusion, and servings come in hearty portions, making them perfect for sharing. Service can sometimes be a little slow, and, just as a warning, the food is sometimes quite spicy.

Pattaya Thai Restaurant RUNNER-UP! ?? 21, Malikha Lane, 7 Mile, Mayangone Township, Yangon 01663109, 09420002633 PP 10 am to 9:30 pm BB

?? No. 153, Corner of 47th Street & Anawyahta Road, Botahtaung Township., Yangon 095169215, 095112116, 018610556~557 PP 11 am to 11 pm BB $ 2.5 - $ 8

Thai 47 is a new comer serving all types of Thai dishes including deep-fried wrapped marinated chicken in pandanus leave, charcoal-grilled pork neck served with spicy lime dipping sauce and Thai satay served with peanut sauce and cucumber sauce. Enjoy their cozy decorations and private rooms where you can celebrate birthday parties, company meetings and have family gatherings.

$5.5 - $30

Thai Kitchen RUNNER-UP! Mostly popular amongst Thais, the food quality and taste make it worth the price, which is a bit on the pricey side. Favorites are Thai omelette, papaya salad, sweet and sour egg and soup dishes.

?? 126/A-1, Dhammazedi Road, Inya Traffic, Bahan Township, Yangon 097303779, 098613400 PP 10 am to 10 pm $2 - $20

Suzuki ?? 182, (G/F), Sule Pagoda Road, Upper Block., Kyauktada Township, Yangon 01392686, 095502793, 0973139180 PP 10 am 9 pm starting at $2

Located next to Sule, Suzuki has no frivolous pretentions. They serve good food at a reasonable price, in a clean environment. Food options are mainly Thai, but Chinese and some Western dishes can be ordered too.

Exotic flavours, aromatic essences and abundant texture make dishes at Thai Kitchen very authentically Thai. Start with deep-fried prawn cakes or stir-fried fresh beef with sesame as an appetizer and work yourself up by selecting from an abundance of noodles, salads, fried rice or any of their grilled varieties.

Cafe Thiripyitsaya at Sakura Residence ?? Sakura Residence, No.9 Inya Road, Kamayut Township, Yangon 01525-001 ext 8401 PP 7 am to 12 am

This cafe at the Sakura Residence not only serves one of the best wifi for both its residence and visitors, it also provides a wide variety of food from sandwiches and burgers, to pizza, pasta and Korean, Malaysian and Burmese cuisines.

Has two locations—across Sule Shangril Hotel behind the E-City Phone. The other location at 11th and Maha Bandoola Street and has a better ambience. They have a wide selection of gourmet coffee and you can enjoy wifi to your heart's content without worrying about the time limit.

House of Singapura ?? Union Business Centre, Annex B, 40 Nat Nauk Road, Bahan Township, Yangon.

0930258388 PP 12 pm to 10 pm $4 - $10

Chatrium Hotel ?? 40, Natmauk Road, Tamwe Township, Yangon 01544500 PP 24 Hours

Open 24 hours a day, Chatrium Hotel boasts a newly-renovated lobby lounge called Sunset Terrace, with indoor and outdoor seating options and daily promotions.

Coffee Club

Enjoy their fast wifi in the patio outside or inside, where a see-through glass in the restaurant shows the culinary experts at work. The place is fit for those who want to work solo or for group meetings. Singapore-based menu at your disposal, the atmosphere is high-end, yet the prices are affordable.

Orchid Restaurant @ Inya Lake Hotel ?? 37 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Yankin Tsp, Yangon

0943207764, 01224360 Ext. 201

01662866

PP 8:30 am to 7 pm

PP 11:30 am to 2:30 pm

$1.5 - $6 $32 free flow drinks

Branches ?? 809, 1st Floor, Corner of 11th Street and Mahabandoola Road, Lanmadaw ?? No.232, Sule Pagoda Road, Pabedan Township, Yangon. (Inside E-City Phone Shop)Township, Yangon

All day dining restaurant serving a wide range of Asian & Western cuisine.With an outdoor terrace, The Orchid Restaurant at Inya Lake Hotel has a great bar with window seating as well as a lawn with view of Inya Lake.

EnjoyIt / February 2015

Getting reliable, fast wifi is still a challenge in Yangon. However, many venues have now opened up to accommodate those who are looking for a place where they can work or simply chat with their friends back home. Although Yangon still lacks wifi that matches international standards, here is a list of places that are popular among Yangonites for the go-to places for good wifi, combined with comfort and snacks/ drinks to satiate your appetite.

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Best Places for wifi

Peperoni Pizzeria ?? Union Business Centre, Annex B, 40 Nat Nauk Road, Bahan Township, Yangon.

0930258388, 093025839 PP 12 pm to 3 pm and 6 pm to 10 pm

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$6 -$20

Peperoni Pizzeria, located above House of Singapure has a view of the Shwe Gone Daing pagoda from their patio. Enjoy good internet, wood-fired pizzas and punchbowl cocktails with the wifi.

Definitely the most reliable and fast wifi experience in town, this 5-start hotel boasts comfortable sofa seats in low-lit eye. A popular spot for Yangonites looking for better wifi, you will see many working here, either solo or with a group of co-workers, for hours on end. The downside and the upside is that you pay for what you get. Expect to pay premium dollars, starting from $4 and up for a drink, for an hour of wifi.

Strand Hotel bar ?? 92 Strand Road, Yangon

Savoy Hotel ?? 129, Dhammazedi Road, Yangon

01243377 PP 24 Hours

01526289 PP 24 hours

A silent oasis in the middle of the busy streets, Savoy Hotel is not the no. 1 choice among 4-star hotels for internet usage since its location is on a busy street in Dhammazedi. However, it still has one of the best internet connections in Yangon and many opt to go there if they live nearby.

With an order, you get a voucher good for an hour of seamless wifi., along with scrumptious short bread cookies and almond biscotti that is best when dipped in hot coffee or tea.

You have a choice of sitting either in the cafe or the bar, which have a lot of windows, letting in natural light with comfortable seats and spacious leg room. Plus point is that it’s hardly crowded, except for tourists who come in and out of the cafe/bar.

Sedona Hotel ?? 1 Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Yangon 01666900 PP 24 Hours

WTC Cafe  new! ?? Building E, Room No. Ga(30)A, Pearl Condo Centre, Bahan Township, Yangon 09300609951~2 PP 9 am to 5pm

Sedona hotel boasts a comfortable lobby lounge area, from the cushy sofas to the bar area with high stools. Their wifi connection is fast, efficient and is available free by the hour. Try their extensive range of fruit and flower-infused premium teas for company.

Shangril-la Hotel ?? Sule Shangri-La Hotel(Traders Hotel), Sule Pagoda Road,Pabedan Township, Yangon.

01242828, 01242800 PP 24 hours

Recently opened, this cafe has excellent selection of gourmet coffee along with fast wifi.

With warm-lit soft lights, the sitting area is arranged in a way that you can work solo or with a group of co-workers. The seats are a bit uncomfortable for those who prefer cushioned seats to wooden ones. You may come across napkins from Snow Factory because they share the same owner.

Chua Tianhao Instagram - www.thnomad.com Ang’s Restaurant: Malaysian ?? No.76/A, Aung Zay Ya Road(Also known as Yadanar Road), Ward 13, Yankin Township, Yangon.

09402585423, 09250535180 PP 6 pm to 10 pm (Monday) 10 am to 10 pm (Tuesday to Sunday) B $2 - $5

Credit: House of Singapura

House of Singapura

winner!

?? Union Business Centre, Annex B, 40 Nat Mauk Road, Bahan Township, Yangon.

0930258388 PP 12 pm to 10 pm

With an array of Malaysian dishes to choose from, Ang’s Restaurant is a haven for those wanting to experience authentic Malaysian food as well as first-timers who want to sample one. The latest addition in Southeast Asian fare, their dishes include popular Malaysian cuisines such as kam liang chicken, sambal fish, mutton kurma, fried kangkung belacan with squid and mutton rendang.

B $4 - $10

Crustacean Restaurant RUNNER-UP! ?? No. 52 (A), Myint Zu St., Parami, Yankin Tsp.

There’s a burgeoning number of restaurants offering Singaporean dishes including House of Singapura. Great location with a veranda, it offers diners Singaporean favourites such as chicken rice, char kway teow, satay and sweet desserts that are not easily available like ice kachang.

Yangon,Myanmar 0931278643, 0943033522 PP 10:30 am to 11 pm B $ 2 - $10

EnjoyIt / February 2015

As a bonafide glutton having grown up in Singapore, the top criterion for my relocation to a city is certainly her ability to satisfy my insatiable taste buds. For a country emerging from years of isolations, Myanmar rates surprisingly well on this. In my first month in Yangon, I was struck by the similarity of cuisines between here and Singapore. Both cities’ cuisines carry distinct traces of Chinese and India and this is best reflected at breakfast. For instance, Chinese bao xi (steam bun with meat) and Indian naan (baked bread) are common choices in the morning. With the rapid increase in Southeast Asian eateries, I am not surprised if Yangon became the next food haven in this region.

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Southeast Asian

southeast asian 64 EnjoyIt / February 2015

Credit: House of Singapura

Crustacean is a family-run seafood restaurant managed by 26 year-old Myint Myat. Thanks to her family’s main business in seafood processing and export, it’s not surprising that they have one of the freshest seafood on offer you can find in Yangon. Along with the wide choices on the menu, self-service BBQ and other meats are also available.

Eliq Restaurant ?? 64 (G) Kyitwine Pagoda Road, 8 mile, Mayangone Township, Yangon.

01656 912 ~ 9 PP 11 am to 11 pm B $7 - $25

Located at the back of Avenue 64 Hotel, Eliq is for the most part a hidden gem and arguably underrated. Started since 2012, it have been serving a medley of healthy Asian and fusion dishes from Burmese and Chinese to European cuisines. It also boasts a well-equipped bar.

0949583618, 0943052916, 01389893, 09421064187 PP Opening Hours : 11 am to 9 pm $1.5 - $8

This quaint little restaurant that sits on the first floor of a traditional Burmese building also doubles up as an art gallery. Serving Chinese and Burmese food, it’s run by a non-governmental volunteer group that helps street kids by giving them training in food and beverage.

There’s a small table (it only seats two people) that sits on the balcony and it offers a great view of the bustling street life below. There are only half a dozen tables but the art on the walls make it an enjoyable place.

Monsoon RUNNER-UP! ?? 85-87 Theinbyu Road, Botahtaung Township, Yangon.

01295224, 0943121431 PP 10 am to 11 pm B $6 - $20

Linkage ?? No.221, 1st Floor, Maha Bandoola Garden Street, Kyauktada Township, Yangon.

Monsoon diners have an array of choice with their extensive list of cuisine from Myanmar,

Mom’s Kitchen ?? 65, Super One Compound, Lay Daunt Kan Road,

A recent addition to the Yaw Min Gyi area is a 24 hour restaurant TOBA. Serving Indonesian and Indo-Chinese inspired dishes, the restaurant imports ingredients directly from Singapore and Indonesia. It is run by two Indonesian chefs to give you the right authentic flavours anytime of the day.

southeast asian

Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand. Set in an attractive colonial building in the downtown area, photos of old Yangon line the wall with a soft-lighting, chilled-out vibe.

PP 10 am to 9:30 pm

Vietnam Kitchen RUNNER-UP! ?? 1A Phosein Road, Yangon (Rangoon), Myanmar

BB

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Tamwe Township, Yangon 01542371, 095019128

Sanchaung Street,Sanchaung Township $4 - $20

09254463602

Tucked away on a small street to the side of the Chatrium Hotel, the staff at this cozy restaurant is friendly and attentive. Delicious dishes include their beef pho, traditional spring rolls and squid balls. For vegetarians, the lemongrass tofu is recommended. They also serve authentic pho noodles.

Singapore Kitchen RUNNER-UP!

Ya Kun Coffee & Toast RUNNER-UP!

?? 330 Ahlone Road, International Hotel Compound, Dagon Township, Yangon.

0973016788, 0949271866 PP 10 am to 3 am

starting at $3

No phone number available PP 9 am to 9 pm BB $6 - $20

BB $4 - $50

Main branch ?? Parkson Mall, Bogyoke Aung San Road, next to

Now at a new venue just next door to their previous one, SIngapore Kitchen continues to be a favourite place to go for seafood, albeit a tad pricey for some. It is also a familiar place for those looking for food after-hours. Be warned, they are close to one of the busiest roads in Yangon; depending on the time of the day, the noise from traffic outside may limit your conversation.

Toba RUNNER-UP! ?? 15 Nawaday Street, Dagon Township, Yangon 09254095451, 01393443 PP 24 Hours $1 - $10

Bogyoke Aung San Market, Dagon Township, Yangon.

Ya Kun Coffee & Toast branches ?? 3rd Floor, Junction Square, Kamaryut Township, Yangon ?? No. 823, Ground Floor, Near Lotteria, Maharbandoola Rd, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon

A franchise that started in 1944 in a small shop in SIngapore is now in the downtown area of Yangon. Their signature kaya toasts are popular, as are the mee Siam, nasi lemak and laksa.

Enjoy their Happy Hour deals on Mondays and free wifi.

EnjoyIt / February 2015

PP 2pm - 7pm; Sunday to Tuesday

With a name as ubiquitous as this, understandably there are many Mom’s Kitchen around the world, albeit unrelated to one another.

The Yangon version, located next to Super One shopping centre, serves Asean favourites, snacks and beverages. Regardless of whose mom this kitchen belongs to, it remains a popular pit-stop for a much needed coffee break before the shopping spree next door.

EnjoyIt / February 2015

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western I still remember my first meal here because it was so unique−a foie gras burger. I was absolutely delighted. It was relief to many that we could now find Western (ahem, American) comforts like jalapeno mac and cheese and French dip sandwiches. Over the last two years, Yangon’s Western-focused restaurant scene has exploded: no less than three new pizza restaurants have opened and fast food chains are finding their place among finer establishments. What’s exciting is that Yangon is still a relatively blank canvas, so virtually every restaurant has been a pioneer in shaping the city’s food scene. Restaurants are not only reclaiming classic dishes, but they also boast edge, fresh options, and fascinating cocktails. Yangon is undergoing a culinary experiment; bring your fork and knife.

Mimi Wu

Credit: Daniel Roca, 50th Street Cafe

Sharky’s

WINNER!

?? 117 Dhammazedi Road, Bahan Township, Yangon.

01524 677, 01373009 PP 9 am to 10 pm $10 - $50

Sharky’s is an institution. With ‘Food and Passion’ as their tagline, Sharky’s has won the hearts and stomachs of Yangon’s dwellers with its slow-cooked treats. Passionate about making their ingredients in-house, owner Ye Htut Win is always willing to share his experience about the food that is grown and prepared incountry.

?? 9/13 50th Street, Botahtaung Township, Yangon

After Work Bistro & Bar NEW! ?? 38A1 Shan Kone Street, (Between U Wisara and

01397060

Pyay roads) Myaynigone, Sanchaung Township,

PP 11 am to 2 am B

Visa and Master

Yangon.

09250400753, 095005990, 09420239822

western

50th Street cafe RUNNER-UP!

PP 11 am to 3 pm and 5 pm to 11 pm

$5 - $35

?? 52 Saya San Road, Bahan Township, Yangon.

Alamanda Inn

01554739 PP 10 am to 10 pm

?? Shwe Taung Gyar Road (Golden Valley Road),

BB

Golden Valley, Bahan Township, Yangon.

01534513

$4 - $70

PP 7 am to 10 pm

More a restaurant than a cafe, Acacia remains a pleasant spot to sit, relax and taste some of their delicious pastries and hi-tea sets. The Moroccan room upstairs is an easy place to sit and relax with some food and drink. It offers a varied selection of teas including Chamomile, Jasmine and Peppermint.

BB $6.5 - $25

An attractive French-style restaurant set in beautiful surroundings in leafy Golden Valley.

The restaurant has a great selection of wines.

Their meat and fish dishes are amongst the best in town—a personal recommendation is the Steak Tartare.

BBQ Chicken ?? No.(359,363), Corner of Bogyoke Aung San Road and 31st St (Near Central Hotel), Pabedan Township, Yangon (Brunches also available in Junction Mawtin & Sein Gay Har Super Center) 01388981 PP 10 am – 1 am B $4 - $20

This chain of restaurants is popular and has made its presence in Yangon in a big way. Fancy decor and menu, although you know what you’re having is really chicken done in a fancy way. The prices reflect that too and service is rather slow.

Credit: Daniel Roca, 50th Street Cafe

EnjoyIt / February 2015

Acacia Tea Salon RUNNER-UP!

As the name suggests, it is mainly targeted towards the after-work crowd. This Swiss/ Burmese-owned restaurant sits in the very middle of bustling Myaynigone and offers a mix of local and European food. The menu is a little limited at the moment, but it’s a nice, small restaurant with incredibly friendly staff.

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$2 - $15

One of the mainstays of Yangon’s expat scene and also popular amongst locals, 50th Street continues to salivate the tastebuds of the city.

With comfortable sofas, a pool table and sports on the TV, it’s a great place to go if you’re in need of a few home comforts.

western

Cafe Sule @ Sule Shangri La ?? No.223 Sule Pagoda Road, Pabedan Township, Yangon 01242828 PP 6 am to 10 am and 11:30 am to 2:30 pm and 6:30 pm and 10 pm B

Cousins Grill is an American-Mexican restaurant that opened in 2012. Situated off Sayar San Road, it has built itself a strong reputation for quality Tex-Mex food. The decor is hardly the most enlightening in town, but that hardly matters when the food is this good. Highly recommended are their fajitas and tacos.

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starting from $5

Fatman Steak A casual, yet elegant dining experience, Cafe Sule bring to Yangon Asian and international flavors presented by a team of international chefs. Enjoy the comfortable, lounge seating in a relaxed atmosphere.

?? 26 A, Corner of Bo Yar Nyunt and Nawaday Roads, Dagon Township, Yangon.

09420305666 PP 7:30 am to 11 pm BB US $3 - $15

Cousins Grill  RUNNER-UP! ?? 28(A) Kokine Swimming Pool Road, Sayar San (near YKKO), Bahan Township, Yangon.

01546633 PP 8 am to 11 pm BBWifi Available $1 - $15

Fatman Steak is a pleasant, roadside restaurant in the Yaw Min Gyi Quarter that offers an excellent selection of meaty goods. Their burgers taste delicious, although they fall apart a little too easily. Despite being a small restaurant, it’s pleasantly laid out.

western 69 EnjoyIt / February 2015

Credit: Daniel Roca

La Maison 20 ?? 20 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Yankin Township, Yangon.

01667504 , 01664204 PP 10 am -11 pm BB $4 - $20

Located close to Sedona Hotel is a quaint colonial-style building with a cosy, simple and classic European character. The food here is custom-made according to the preferences and the mood of the customer. Service is excellent and guests always seem to leave the restaurant with a smile, sign that their meal was delectable and the evening a success.

This international franchise recently opened its Yangon branch on Strand Road, next to Union Bar. It is getting rave reviews for its great variety of seafood dishes. The place gets full quickly, especially during the lunch hours, so reservations are recommended. While waiting for your food to arrive, take advantage of photo opportunities with the fun props available.

Onyx  RUNNER-UP! New Location! ?? No.19, Min Ye Kyaw Swar Road, Yankin Township, Yangon 095071847, onyxmartin@gmail.com PP 11 am to 11 pm BB

Manhattan Fish Market Yangon

$4 - $32

?? 44/56 Strand Road, Ground Floor, MMG Tower, Between 41st and 42nd Streets, Botahtaung Township, Yangon 01375064 PP 10 am to 11 pm B $3 - $40

A no-fuss, Korean-owned steak house set in a rustic, albeit attractive building. Popular every night, they have succulent steaks and ribs, all at a very, very reasonable rate. Come here for a great selection of wines too. Its charm is added too by the laidback nature of the owner, Martin.

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western

Port Autonomy, located adjacent to the TS1 Gallery at Lanthit Jetty is a fusion of Myanmar flavors with a Western touch in a casual open air environment. It brings to Yangon something genuinely new without an over-designed pretense. The open-air setting means no air conditioning, only standing and ceiling fans, but the food is worth it.

Salud Restaurant ?? 7C Ground Floor, Wingabar Road (next to Clover Hotel), Bahan Township, Yangon

EnjoyIt / February 2015

0973113601 PP 6 pm to 11 pm (Closed on every Mondays) $4 - $15

Credit: Tim Sackton, Bruschetta

Salud Restaurant is a Latin American restaurant run by a Japanese lady. It has an older sibling— the original Salud Restaurant in Japan, run by the same family. Salud serves a selection of Latin cuisine, from Argentina, to Peru, to Mexico. Once a month, Salud comes alive with a Latin-themed event, the Argentine Tango.

Peppers Diner RUNNER-UP! ?? No.612, Corner of Sayar San Road and New University Avenue, Yankin Township, Yangon 01548046

Signature Restaurant (The Garden Bistro) ?? Corner of Bahan Street & Kan Yeik Thar Street,

PP 9:30 am to 9:30 pm

Near U Htaung Bo Round, Kandawgyi Relaxation Zone, Bahan Township, Yangon

$4 - $12

Peppers focus mainly Asian and Western food, with their motto being “Great place for eating out with the family”. With a friendly and lively atmosphere. Prices are reasonable and the favorite is the pepper-stuffed chicken (large chicken fillet in breadcrumbs with a creamy sauce inside, served with carbonara and a cauliflower-potato bake) and like most other dishes, it is a very generous portion that will definitely fill you up.

01546488, 01543387 PP 7:00 am to 11:00 pm B

The Garden Bistro is set in a peaceful outdoor setting by Kandawgyi Lake. It’ an excellent place to come for breakfast and coffee for a reasonable price.

Sprouts ?? 68A Yaw Min Gyi Street, Dagon Township,

PORT AUTONOMY New! ?? Between Lanthit Jetty Kaing Dan No(1) Jetty, Oo Pa Sa Street. Saik Ken Township, Yangon 09253710651

Yangon.

09 4211 02223 PP 8 am to 8 pm $2 - $7

PP Tuesday to Saturday - 11:00 am to 11:00 pm Sunday - 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday Closed B $5 - $15

Here you will find something different, a welcome break from most meals in Myanmar that consists of rice, noodles, oil and more oil.

The Strand Grill @ The Strand Hotel The House Bar & Grill  NEW! ?? Kanbawza Road (near the junction with Kabar Aye Pagoda road, close to Pearl Condominium),

?? 92, Strand Road, Yangon 01243377 PP 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm (Closed for lunch unless special request for groups)

Golden Valley, Bahan Township, Yangon.

01554212, 098634400 PP 4 pm to midnight

western

East, to Mexico, Italy and many more. Essentially a restaurant set in a large, lavish home but it is the garden area that is likely to attract the visitors. Highly recommended.

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Sprouts, opened up last year as the first salad bar in Yangon. You pick your greens, your toppings, your vinaigrette and there you have your salad. Other items on the menu include soups, sandwiches yogurt and smoothies.

B starting from $5

$4 - $15

A hidden gem in Yangon at the time of writing, it won’t be long before this restaurant/bar gets the attention it deserves. Set in beautifullyconstructed gardens that feature palm trees, a fish pond and a tiki bar, the restaurant serves dishes from across the globe, from the Middle

The Strand Grill is definitely one of the top fine dining places in Yangon, with a 1901 colonial architectural elements to its high vaulted ceiling with museum quality black and gold lacquer panels from Bagan. While you dine on a variety of international dishes, enjoy the tunes of a classically trained guitarist.

EnjoyIt / February 2015

BB

western

The Thiripyitsaya Sky Bistro ?? 20th Floor Sakura Tower, 339 Bogyoke Aung San Road, Downtown, Yangon.

01255277 PP 9 am to 10:30 pm B

Visa and Master

EnjoyIt / February 2015

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$8 - $40

Perched atop the 20th floor of the Sakura Tower downtown in Yangon, the Thiripyitsaya Sky Bistro offers one of the best views in the city-northwards beyond the Shwedagon Pagoda and south over the other side of the Yangon River. It’s a particularly pleasant place to take in the view after dark Tony Roma’s Steak House NEW! ?? No. 42-1 , Sayar San Road (in front of Cafe SS), Bahan Township, Yangon 01558924 PP 10:30 am to 1:00 am BB $7 ~ $26

With over 150 family restaurant locations on six continents, Tony Roma’s is one of the most widely recognized names in the industry. Now in Yangon, Tony Roma's is casual dining family restaurant that serve premier BBQ ribs and steaks, chicken and seafood entries and their world famous onion loaf.

Union Bar & Grill RUNNER-UP! ?? Corner of 42nd Street and Strand Road, Botahtaung Township, Yangon 09 420 101 854, 09 420 101 854 PP 10 am to late B $4 - $40

The Union Bar & Grill serves an array of western foods, ala carte and breakfast to satisfy your cravings. In a relaxed atmosphere, enjoy their main dishes such as herb-roasted chicken, seared Atlantic salmon, Myanmar beer battered fish & chips and pork loin. Their executive chef has over 25 years of international experience in high-end restaurants.

BEST TAPAS

B

The Lab Wine & Tapas Bar Winner!

Escape Gastro Bar's menu is always evolving with tapas selection that brings together the ingredients of East and West. Your taste buds will thank you for an adventurous journey of new flavours and taste. Enjoy their nachos, spring rolls, grilled salmon skewers, patatas bravas, dumplings and banana spring rolls.

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Starting from $5

Tapas is a big part of culture and social scene in Spain, where it originated. But you don't have to go far to enjoy these delicious finger foods because they're just a cab ride away.

?? 70A West Shwegondine Road (east of the Township, Yangon.

Gekko RUNNER-UP! ?? 535 Merchant Street, Kyauktada Township,

09 250675289 PP 5:30 pm to 1:00 am BB

Yangon.

09 431 90232, 01386 986 PP 9 am to 1 am

$3 - $10

B

Visa and Master $1 - $40

Best known for their selection of tapas and cheese platters, The Lab is the no. 1 go-to place for those who want to enjoy a night out. Their well-lit comfortable space is busy on most nights and their bar serves excellent cocktails, wines and hard liquors.

BONANZA GASTRO BAR RUNNER-UP!

Gekko is a modern restaurant with an open kitchen serving mainly Japanese dishes and some Korean and Vietnamese dishes. It’s a perfect place to come in after work to chill with a beer or shochu. Perfect for getting together with friends for a beer and Japanese tapas or relax and use their fast wifi.

No.66 A, Sayar San Road, Bahan Township, Yangon 09254004679

THE BLIND TIGER RUNNER-UP! new! ?? 111 United Condominium, Corner Nawaday St

PP 3:00 pm to 3:00 am

& Alain Pyar Pagoda Road, Dagon Township,

BB

Yangon Starting from $4

01388488 PP Saturday 5pm till late. (Closed Sunday)

Bonanza, now known as Bonanza Gastro Bar, had just given itself a make-over recently with a new location in Sayar San Road, complete with a rooftop space. Their new tapas menu is gaining popularity among the local crowd uptown, especially when paired with shisha.

Escape Gastro Bar RUNNER-UP! ?? 31D Kan Yeik Tha Street, Yankin Township, Yangon.

01660 737,09254357499 PP 11 am to 3 am

PP Open for lunch soon BB Starting from US $4.5

The Blind Tiger is a new comer that is quickly gaining popularity. Known for their cocktails, tapas and interior where they hold regular art exhibitions, it’s a great place for a quality night out with friends.

EnjoyIt / February 2015

junction with Kabar Aye Pagoda Road), Bahan

FASTFOOD JOINTS Can’t find the time to cook or too lazy to go grocery shopping? Don’t fret! There’s always a fast food joint in the city to satisfy your cravings.

BBQ Chicken

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PP 10 am to 1 am

?? 154/156, Maha Bandoola Garden St., Kyauktada Township

B $4 - $20

Main branch ?? No.(359, 363), Corner of Bogyoke Aung San EnjoyIt / February 2015

Kyauktada branch

Road and 31st St (Near Central Hotel), Pabedan Township, Yangon 01388981

Junction Mawtin branch ?? Junction Mawtin, No(119), Ground Floor, Anawrahta road and corner of Lan Thit Street, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon.

01218152 Ext;1119 , 09254106354

Sein Gay Har Super Center branch ?? Sein Gay Har Super Center, No(44), Ground Floor, Pyay Road, Dagon Township, Yangon 09250613329

This chain of restaurants is popular and has made its presence in Yangon in a big way.

Fancy decor and menu, although you know what you’re having is really chicken done in a fancy way. The prices reflect that too, and service is rather slow and not the place to take.

0973181611

Cafe KSS is a pleasant place where you can relax after a visit to Sule Pagoda. With a free Wi- Fi and an helpful staff, they offer a wide variety of international cuisines including European, Chinese and Thai dishes. The cafe is ideal for those who want to relax, grab a cup of coffee, or a fast lunch during break.

They have a variety of menu you can choose from: fastfood, fusion food, many types of Asian soups and their specialty roasted chicken.

Freshness Burger PP 9 am to 9 pm BB $2 - $8

Main branch ?? Ground Floor, Myanmar Culture Valley, People’s Park, Dagon Township, Yangon 0932316061

Dagon branch New! ?? No.18/D, Nawaday Street, Dagon Township, Yangon

Cafe KSS

01375900, 0931444015

PP 9 am to 10 pm B Starting from $1.5

Main branch ?? No. 470/472, Mahabandoola Road, Pabedan Township, Yangon 01253126, 0973255565

Japan’s second largest fast food chain makes its debut at a location near the Shwedagon Pagoda. Its creator wanted to replicate the classic American burger experience, because aren’t things just so wonderful over there.

Their menu isn’t devoid of Asian influence, however. They have a Teriyaki Burger, a Karaage Chicken Burger, a Prawn Burger (nope), and a Hotdog option as well.

Harley’s

Wine Pagoda Road, Mayangone Township, Yangon

PP 24 hours

01650771~2 Ext; 109

B $1 - $8

Ocean Shwe Gone Daing branch ?? No.148-151,Ground Floor, Corner of Shwe Gone Daing Street and Banyar Dala Street,

?? No.(285), Ground Floor, corner of 6th street

Bahan Township, Yangon

& Anawrahta Road, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon

01525947

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6th Street branch

0943096674, 0943096674

Central Tower branch New! ?? No.79/81, Room 001-002, Anawrahta Road, Between 39th and 40th Street, Kyauktada

?? No.360, Ground Floor, Corner of 37th Street

Township, Yangon

and Mahabandoola Rd, Kyauktada Township, Yangon.

PP 09258521385

01376745 Located near the entrance of Pearl Condo, Lotteria

Harley's is an all-time favorite for those looking for an American fastfood joint. Their chicken rice with options of sauce: sweet and spicy sauce and sambai sauce is a hit, along iwth their home-made ice lemon tea and ginger lemon grass.

is a very well-known fast food chain. Many locals frequent here, and is a great alternative for those craving McDonald’s type of fastfood. Their bulgogi burger is highly recommended as well as their softserve ice-cream.

Marry Brown Lotteria PP 9:00 am to 10:30 pm BB

PP 9 am to 9 pm BB $1 - $18

$ 2 - $15

Main branch Junction Square branch ?? Junction Square shopping centre, Kamayut Township, Yangon.

?? No.220, Shwe Gone Daing Road, Bahan Township, Yangon 018603215

01527242 Ext; 3053, 012305798

Kyauktada branch Pearl Condo branch ?? No.G-07, Pearl Condo, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township, Yangon

?? No.180/182, Mahabandoola Park Street(Middle Block), Kyauktada Township, Yangon.

01384780

01548188, 0931571555

China Town branch ?? No.817, Corner of Hledan Street and Mahabandoola Road, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon 01211147, 012303097

Junction 8 branch ?? G21 to G24, Junction 8 Shopping Mall, Kyaik

Marrybrown already has restaurants in China, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and the Middle East, and Myanmar is the 16th country with Marrybrown operations.Good place for family meals. Kids get to play at the kids area.

There is a special room for birthday parties too n special Malaysia menu. Nasi lemak and curry noodles. Better than Lotteria for fried chicken!

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37th Street branch New!

Potato Break new! ?? Ground Floor, Myanmar Culture Valley, People’s Park, Dagon Township, Yangon PP 09795386944

Smoothee Foodee provides fast food with healthier food and drink options for their customers. They serve fresh fruits drinks and MSG free foods.

PP 9 am to 10 pm

Waffle Ace new!

BB

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$1 - $5

?? On the way to entrance of Junction Square from Pyay Road, Kamaryut Township, Yangon

Potato break is just that—a break for those who want to enjoy fast food instead of the usual local cuisine. They specialize in french fries and even offer pizzas. Their most popular drink is their matcha ice-cream.

Shake Bubble Tea PP 8 am to 9:30 pm $1 - $6

Main branch ?? No.209/211, Corner of 12th street and Anawrahta Street, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon

09260010164, 0943043454, 09420766642 PP 10 am to 8:30 pm $1 - $5

Some people in yangon mistake a waffles with wafers as Myanmar people are only familiar with wafers. Waffle Ace started their shop with a mobile truck moving all over the famous and crowded places in Yangon and it has now settled with a small shop at the entrance from Pyay Road to Junction Square.

They serve various waffles, hamburgers, snacks, fresh fruit juices and desserts.

01224423, 095007202

Ya Kun Kaya Toast Capital branch ?? No 431,14/E,Min Nandar Street, Daw Bon Township, Yangon.

PP 9 am to 9 pm BB $2 - $15

09421076163

Main branch Hleden branch ?? No.9/2A, U Htun Linn Garden Street,Kamayut Township,Yangon.

09423743196

Taiwanese style drinks, milk shakes, Faluda, ice-cream and freshly baked various kind of bread and cakes are available here. Their cheese bread is also very popular, along with their kaw yay noodle, which is a mixed fishy paste and starchy chicken soup.

?? Parkson Mall, Bogyoke Aung San Road, next to Bogyoke Aung San Market, Dagon Township, Yangon.

09422218480, 0973099383

Junction square branch ?? 3rd Floor, Junction Square, Kamaryut Township, Yangon

Lanmadaw branch ?? No. 823, Ground Floor, Near Lotteria, Mahabandoola Road, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon

Smoothee FoodEe New! ?? 276 , Anawrahta Road, Lanmadaw Tsp, Yangon 0933377155, 01223875 PP 10:00 am to 10:00 pm B $1 - $4

Yakun is a fast food joint not quite like the other. With a popular toast called the Kaya, many locals and foreigners come here to enjoy their iMee Siam, Nasi Lemak and Laksa.

RANGOON BAR

HOUSE OF SINGAPURA

THREE CONCEPTS, ONE DESTINATION

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PEPERONI PIZZERIA

LES AMIS GROUP FROM SINGAPORE

IT’S THE PERFECT PLACE FOR A QUIET AFTERNOON READ, A ROMANTIC MEAL AT NIGHT, OR FOR FRIENDS TO SHARE AN ICY COLD PUNCHBOWL OVER WARM CONVERSATIONS.

UNION BUSINESS CENTRE (UBC) ANNEX B, NAT MAUK ROAD, BO CHO QUARTER, BAHAN TOWNSHIP, YANGON

Web: www.peperoni.com.mm Tel: 0930258399

Web: www.therangoonbar.com.mm Tel: 0930258399

Web: www.hos.com.mm Tel: 0930258388

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BY THE AWARD WINNING

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french Growing up partly in France and Vietnam, I'm familiar with both western and eastern cuisine. I have to say that I consider French food my home because my mother is a great cook. So naturally, living in Yangon, I crave French food sometimes, but I don't have to look far because there are so many good French restaurants here. My favorite French dishes are cheese souffle and foie gras, both a bit hard to find here, but I'm still happy because I can go out with my friends and enjoy above average food at French restaurants. It's also nice to be able to take girls on a date!

Antoine Drogoul Myanmar Goodlink Event Management

Credit: Katrin Morenz, French Salade nicoise

Le Planteur  New Location!

Winner!

?? No.80, University Road, Bahan Township, Yangon 01514230, 01532124 PP 12 pm to 2 pm and 6 pm to 11 pm BB Starting from $10

Le Planteur has been around since 1998 and their standard of quality has not changed.

Guaranteed to have the finest dining experience with authentic French cuisine and a unique wine bar where you can sip wine by the sample, glass or bottle through a self-service card swipe or served by a waiter. Enjoy their indoor lounge, outdoor garden area, or a scenic

french

veranda where you can enjoy high tea.

Agnes@Kandawgyi Palace Hotel RUNNER-UP! ?? The Kandawgyi Palace Hotel, Kan Yeik Tha Road, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, Yangon 012492559, 013948379 PP 11 am to 2:30 pm and 6 pm to 10 pm $ 5 - $40

White table setting, complete with white roses, against an open view of the Kandawgyi Lake and the gentle breeze makes this a great way to spend a relaxing day. Their Sunday brunch is French-inspired snf make up this visuallyattractive smorgasbord such as marinated tuna with green apple pistachio, shell scallop with tomato salsa and lobster jelly. There are also familiar offerings but ones that are not normally found at Sunday brunch like duck liver terrine, ratatouille and quiche.

Credit: Alpha, Beef Tenderloin

romantic evening. The highlight is of course, the French cuisine. Top notch!

Le Bistrot @ Savoy Hotel RUNNER-UP! ?? 129 Dhammazedi Road, Yangon 01526289 PP 11 am to 2:30 pm and 7 pm to 11:30 pm B

L’Alchimiste RUNNER-UP!

Starting from $33

?? No.5, U Tun Nyein Street, Mayangone Township, Yangon.

01660612, 01657928, 01221014 PP 11 am - 10 pm B $15 -$35

You won’t be that far off if, looking back towards L’Alchimiste from the lake, you’d thought that you were looking at the White House. Dining in the well-manicured garden, with music serenading from the air, and a glass of wine in hand—that’s just the beginning of a

Le Bistrot offers traditional French bistro made from predominantly local ingredients and offer a great selection of wines to compliment the food. Overlooking the pool, guests are welcome to dine inside or outside on the pool deck in a tranquil atmosphere.

Shwe Sa Bwe RUNNER-UP! ?? Malikha Road, Near American Club, Mayangone Township, Yangon, Myanmar (Burma) 01661983 PP 12 am to 3 pm and 6:30 pm to 9 pm (Closed on Mondays) (Sunday Lunch Closed) BB $15 - $35

Shwe Sa Bwe is essentially a training school for underprivileged local kids. The trainees, under the watchful eyes of master Chefs, learn all aspects of a fine dining restaurant. The cuisine they whip up is phenomenal.

Credit: Mark Mitchell, Steak Tartare, french

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B

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Selling satisfaction and memories Originally from Switzerland, Boris Granges is a chef and owner of Le Planteur, MYANMORE'S winner of Best French restaurant, and one of the first fine dining restaurants in Yangon. Along with a Master’s in Tourist and Hotel Managements, he has worked in 2-3 Michelin-rated restaurants. Boris talks to Yuko Maskay about his passion for food, hospitality and his love for Myanmar.

How did you end up in Asia and Yangon?

During my Master's program 21 years ago, I applied to Acapulco for an internship, but I ended up in Bangkok, in contradiction to my initial plan. During my last day in Southeast Asia, I went for dinner at L ’Opera in Bangkok and I met the owner who wanted me to open L' Opera in Yangon. After leaving L 'Opera, a year later in 1998, I started Le Planteur.

What does Le Planteur mean?

Historically, I chose that name because here in 1998, I couldn’t find a good leaf of salad, capsiCredit: Le Planteur, Boris Granges cum, a proper carrot or a zucchini, so we had our own plantation outside of Yangon. It was the only place where you could eat french fries, steaks and salad.

Do you come from a family of hotelier or restaurant owners?

I was born in a hotel. My family comes from a long line of hotelier, but now I’m the only one left.

My life was always associated with hotel life and hospitality life. My ancestors were very successful, but they never adapted themselves well to the times and had to sell.

Is it challenging to be a chef?

Yes it is. I really had to fight for that because my family was against it. Because if you are a chef, it’s not an easy life, you know. Your family life may be at risk. You dedicate 100% to your place.

You’re a slave of your own thing. But it’s a wanted slavery.

What keeps you here despite all the challenges?

I have seen a lot of what I call "lime-juice investment" types in Myanmar. They would buy a lime, cheapest lime possible. They will press the lime, and as quickly as possible, sell the juice, and try to sell the lime with no more juice to a stupider guy than them and run. So, there is no beneficiary but themselves because these bandits leave behind them an empty shell. I took a lot of risk, putting

What do you like about Myanmar?

I feel free. I don’t feel free in Switzerland. In Myanmar you can build. In Switzerland, you can only maintain. Also I feel good here because the people are extraordinary. They have sometimes this kind of naivety that I find beautiful. Naive but not in a stupid way, do not misunderstand me!

How does the inspiration to create a new menu come about?

My menu is a constant evolution. First, when I think of a dish, I work with paper and color pencil and when I draw, I have the flavour in my mind. I have to concentrate. I don’t need to taste. I know what will come out. I go to the kitchen with my drawing. I say: this you broil, this you poach and they make the dish. I look at it. If it’s interesting, we use it. If not, I change it again and again.

What makes a good chef?

A good chef should never be satisfied and work hard to remain humble. Food is about passion, sensitivity, you need to be emotional. I believe there is a kind of artistic touch to the job. If you have an artist who can’t feel, he can’t paint right?

With passion, you need also sensitivity. This I flatter myself, but you need awareness. You need to be aware about what other people like because you can’t cook only for yourself. So you need to observe. I have a good sense of observation. When you serve food, it’s all about perception and sensitivity of other people. Sometimes you are very badly valued because you’ve non-intentionally hurt the sensitivity of someone; then everything turns wrong and it is super difficult to correct it.

How do you keep the experience at Le Planteur top-notch?

I tell my employees that if you think we are here to sell drinks and food, then change your job. You can get food and drinks at Mcdonald’s. We sell satisfaction and good memories, not food. Good food is a must get. Good service is a must get. Good drinks is a must get. It is nothing special. It is not an accomplishment. Customers give us two hours of their time to get satisfaction and good memories in return. We should cherish that, We should always keep that in mind.

Contact Le Planteur at 01 514 230 or info@leplanteur.net.

Yuko Maskay is an editor at MYANMORE. She identifies herself as a cultural stew of Nepali, Japanese and American. She loves experiencing new cultures, good food and reading the back label of products. On most days, she can be found contemplating on the meaning of life, scrutinizing billboard ads or attempting a new yoga move.

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all my eggs in the same basket, You really want to leave because you’ve had more than enough, but you keep on going because you have responsibilities towards your employees. But the main reasons why ’m still here is because I love it here, because I’m happy here.

LE PLANTEUR: SHINY AND NEW

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Not that we were complaining about how it was before, no siree! The new Le Planteur Restaurant and Lounge now boasts four different outlets.

Credit: Le Planteur

LE PLANTEUR RESTAURANT PP Open for lunch and dinner daily

Gourmet restaurant that continues to offer a fine dining and their signature French cuisine with regular menu changes.

LE WINE BAR PP Open for lunch and dinner daily

A wine bar, wine cellar and a cigar lounge.

Offers 32 kinds of wine by the glass displayed from machines, allowing guests to self-serve or have table service. Food pairing – Shan tapas.

LE BISTRO PP Open for lunch and dinner

LE HIGH TEA PP Operates from 3pm – 6pm daily

Located on the ground floor of the main building and under their veranda, facing the lake. Serves traditional Mediterranean and European cuisine. Food served in cast iron cookware. Specialty in quick business lunches.

Same location as Le Bistro with different operating hours. Extensive variety of fine teas, champagne or juice. Traditional High Tea with sweet and savoury pastries. Lake view with good breeze.

Giorgio Fedeli L ’Opera Italian Restaurant & Bar L ’Opera

WINNER!

?? 62D Kan Yeik Thar, U Htun Nyein Street (next to Inya Lake Hotel), Mayangone Township, Yangon.

01665516, 01660976, 0973030755 PP 11 am to 2 pm and 6 pm to 10:30pm B

Visa and Master Starting from $9

From the Tuscany kitchen to your table, L ’Opera offers an array of dishes, with something new to look forward to with the Chef’s selection dishes that changes every time. Ingredients such as buffalo mozzarella cheese and other assorted cheese are imported, as well as cured hams, olives, capers, fish and seafood, so you can get a taste of real Italy.

Aux Saisons RUNNER-UP! ?? 31A Kan Yeik Tha Road, Yankin Township,

Credit: Peperoni Pizzeria, Pasta Lasagna

to its customers daily. The spacious upstairs room is decorated with impressive sculptures, while there is also a pleasant balcony and some private booths. A selection of meat dishes are available with an attractive bar area downstairs.

Yangon.

01 661 125 PP 10 am to 2:30 pm; 5:30 pm to 10 pm

Cafe Dibar ?? No.9, Corner of Kabar Aye Pagoda Road and Thit Sar Road (Kan Pat Road), Yangon

B $4 -$25

095114932, 095006143 PP 10 am to 10 pm

Aux Saisons, a two-storey restaurant, is tucked away down the quiet Yeiktha Street (close to the Escape Bar). Equipped with classy contemporary furnishings, it serves fine dining

$5 - $20

Cafe Dibar prices are reasonable and food portions are generous with a great service. Popular

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When I arrived in Yangon 15 years ago, to say that there were few Italian restaurants was an understatement. The same could be said about Italian citizens. In the last three to four years, a lot has changed. Even though it's not always easy to get the right ingredients, they can be found, even fresh Italian vegetables. New Italian restaurants are opening in Yangon with increasing variety of products. My favourite Italian food is Spaghetti al Pomodoro (tomato sauce and fresh basil). It's basically the simplest form of bliss available on earth.I cook at home as much as I can because I need to keep myself trained for when I want to impress someone. The easiest way to a woman's heart is offer her a delicious Italian dish!

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italian

italian

dishes include their seafood sardegna which is composed of calamari, prawns and anchovies.

cafe. A second branch recently opened at Inya Myaing Road.

Cafe Napoli  RUNNER-UP!

Orzo @ Sedona Hotel  RUNNER-UP!

PP 10 am to 10 pm

?? No. 1 Kaba Aye Pagoda Road | Yankin Township,

BB

Yangon $5 - $50

01666911, 01666900

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PP 11:00 am to 2:30 pm and 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm

Main branch ?? 287 East Shwe Gone Dine Road, Bahan

B Starting from $10

Township, Yangon.

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09420207233, 01554957

Bahan Township branch ?? Corner Inya Myaing Rd and Aung Taw Mu St, Bahan Township,Yangon 01538557, info@napoli-cafe.com

Cafe Napoli generally gets positive reviews for their above-average and extensive Italian menu, at down-to-earth prices. The decor is nothing to scream about, with checkerboard floors and cans of tomatoes littered around the

Also known as pasta in Italian, Orzo serves Italian and Mediterranean favourites in cosy home-style surroundings, with refreshing views of the freeform pool. On Pasta Night every Wednesday, guests can savour an array of pastas, complemented by a selection of appetisers, carvings, live cooking stations and desserts.

Parami Pizza ?? No (11/C), Corner of Malikha Street and Parami Road, 7th Quarter, Mayangone Township, Yangon

$4 - $35

57 Below, the team behind Union Bar & Grill & Gekkõ now brings you Parami Pizza, which is spread over 3,000 square feet of a newly restored building with plenty of al fresco dining space on the corner of Parami and Malikha road. It serves wood fired pizzas made by our expert chef from Napoli in Italy, antipasti, and daily specials in buzzing, modern surroundings. Italian cured meats and cheeses are also available to buy from their Deli.

VINO DI ZANOTTI NEW! RUNNER-UP! ?? No. 61, University Avenue Road, Bahan Township, Yangon 01525935 PP 6 pm to 10:30 pm B

Peperoni Pizzeria NEW!

$10 - $65

?? Union Business Centre, Annex B, 40 Nat Nauk Road, Bahan Township, Yangon.

0930258388 , 093025839 PP 12 pm to 3 pm and 6 pm to 10 pm B $6 -$20

italian

B

Peperoni, brought in by the same people who gave you House of Singapura, is a franchise from SIngapore. Their main draw is the woodfired thin-crusted pizzas. The Half and Half Pizzas are popular and good for sharing. The open kitchen concept gives you a view of the chefs at work. If you ask nicely, we’re sure they won’t mind showing you their pizza-twirling skills.

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PP 11:00 am to 11:00 pm

Located just opposite Aung San Suu Kyi’s house, this stunning villa boasts quite a selection of Italian and French wines in a sophisticated environment. Wood-oven pizzas and an array of Italian dishes are available .

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01667449

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Credit: Mimi Wu

Finding a Taste of Home in Foreign Grocery Aisles Moving to a new country is daunting. And when confronted with foreign foods, ingredients, and flavors, eating is far from routine. While Myanmar food is good, readily available, and generally cheap, the longing for home fare never ceases. Don’t panic! We’ve scoped out a few stores for your staples and find that with a basic kitchen, adjusting local items to expat palates isn’t as difficult as it seems.

Marketplace CityMart on Dhamazedi Road has instantly put many expats at ease. The substantial range of ingredients and produce available is impressive, fairly complete, and affordable. From whole nutmeg to taco kits, lemons to muesli, to cheese that actually tastes like cheese, the store has got you covered. Even when my favorite ready-to-eat hummus isn’t stocked, CityMart has canned chickpeas and tahini to make it at home.

Over my two years in Yangon, CityMart’s variety has grown, albeit slowly, to cater to expat palates. It’s recently introduced pre-packaged salad, alfalfa sprouts, apple cider vinegar, and more McCormick spices.

Another institution is Sharky’s, which specializes in everything tasty. This is the one place

with a consistent supply of pesto (long absent from CityMart), salad mixes, and bagels. Sharky’s has recently added chia seeds and dried fruit (5000 Ks each) to its line-up.

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Looking for octopus? Quietly hidden off Inya Road, Jyanko Mart sells it frozen (30 Ks/g), along with almond oil (2,800 Ks/175mL), frozen edamame, and soybean and rice milks (1,950 Ks/bottle).

Finally, Korea Store is another recent addition on the corner of Pyay Road and Kyaik Wine Pagoda Road, and there you can also find soymilk (3,500 Ks), frozen anchovies from Korea, and almonds and walnuts (9,500 Ks/1.386kg). It’s a tiny mini mart run by Koreans and only worth visiting if you’re nearby or desperately need spam (starting at 4,500 Ks/200g).

Despite a small expansion of common expat products, we always maintain a love-hate relationship, particularly when stores stop stocking a favorite find or dramatically increase prices.

What to do?

As a lazy cook but ardent food lover, I’ve successfully cooked global cuisines using locally found ingredients. The key has been cooking from scratch – a simple and generally fast process – and finding substitutions and alternatives. For example, the expensive store-bought pesto can be easily made at home. Try substituting basil/pine nuts with arugula/pistachios, cilantro/pumpkin seeds, tomato/almonds, or ricotta/walnuts. Strain yogurt for Greek-style yogurt, substitute mascarpone for sour cream on tacos, try your hand at chicken liver pate, and roast pork shoulder to make pulled pork sandwiches. You can even make your own almond milk from raw nuts.

Being far from home doesn’t mean you have to eat Myanmar cuisine exclusively. Play scientist and experiment with Yangon’s diverse and evolving ingredients to keep your homesickness at bay.

Mimi Wu originally hails from the Washington, DC area. Having lived on four continents, she recently moved from Uganda to Myanmar to work as an entrepreneur, consultant, zumba instructor, education trainer, and editor. A dangerously excitable foodie, Mimi also loves dancing and has a debilitating weakness for (black) cats.

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Credit: Mimi Wu

New to the scene is ProMart. Located across from Pearl Condo, it carries Japanese and Korean items and surprise! Corndogs?! Go for their good quality meat that stayed fresh for several days and the only grocer with Japanese rice (3,500 Ks/1kg). ProMart also sells grape seed oil (6,600 Ks/500mL); pomegranate, lemon, and apple vinegars (starting at 1,450 Ks/500mL); canned salmon (starting at 5,370 Ks/135g); frozen anchovies; and dumplings galore (starting at 2,640 Ks/180g). Kimchi lovers will rejoice over freshly pickled cabbage.

BEST PIZZA

B

Visa and Master

Pizza is becoming more popular in Yangon with venues popping with all types of pizzas, from the thick-style crusts to the thinly-sliced ones, woodoven fired to extra-cheesy goodness.

Whichever you fancy, here's a pick of the best pizzas that Yangon has to offer.

One of the oldest western restaurant and bar in Yangon, 50th Street Cafe offers a thicksliced pizza that comes with a second layer of cheese and a thin-sliced pizza, if you prefer less crust. Choose from different selections from seafood pizza, meat-lover’s pizza to Hawaiian pizza.

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$5 - $35

?? 38-40, Bo Yar Nyut Street, Dagon Township,Yangon 098551383 PP 10am to 9pm B $ 5 - $ 12

Credit: Peperoni Pizzeria, Prosciutto Crudo di Parma

Peperoni Pizzeria

WINNER!

?? Union Business Centre, Annex B, 40 Nat Nauk

Their unique seafood-wasabi pizza can be delivered. It’s generously garnished, surprisingly not spicy and interestingly different.

L ’Opera RUNNER-UP! ?? 62D Kan Yeik Thar, U Htun Nyein Street (next

Road, Bahan Township, Yangon.

to Inya Lake Hotel), Mayangone Township,

0930258388, 093025839 PP 12 pm to 3 pm and 6 pm to 10 pm

Yangon.

01665516, 01660976, 0973030755 PP 11 am to 2 pm and 6 pm to 10:30pm

B $6 -$20

B

Visa and Master Starting from $9

With a bonus view of Shwedagone Pagoda, Peperoni Pizzeria offers a taste of old-fashioned Italian pizza. Brought to you by the same owners from House of Singapura, for pizza lovers, this place is a haven. They even serve tiramisu, chocolate-flavoured cheese cake with rum and coffee to finish it all off.

Try their Diavola and Supreme pizza with Aglio Olio.

50th street cafe RUNNER-UP! ?? 9/13, 50th Street, Botahtaung Township, Yangon

If you want a taste of old Italy, L ’Opera offers the wood-fried oven baked pizza. Authentically thin and crispy, they select the finest high quality imported ingredients with no preservatives. Bon appetite!

PaPa Pizza $ 7.5 - $ 15

Pearl Condo branch ?? Block C, Pearl Condo, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township, Yangon

01397060

095134476

PP 11 am to 2 am

PP 10:30 am to 9:00 pm

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Heaven Pizza

Dagon branch ?? 9B ,Na Wa Day Road,Dagon Township,Yangon 01-376907 PP 10:30 am to 10:00 pm

Hlaing branch

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?? No.008, Hlaing Thiri Housing, Hlaing Township,Yangon 09253223530 PP 10:30 am to 10:00 pm Delivery Number: 09421124373 EnjoyIt / February 2015

Credit: Peperoni Pizzeria, Pizza Funghi

Papa Pizza has undeniably one of the best pizzas in Yangon. They specialize in New York style, thin crust pizzas. Baked in a fire oven, choose from their wide selection of pizzas: spicy beef, anchovy shrimp, New York slice, three cheese and more!

Union Bar & Grill RUNNER-UP! ?? Corner of 42nd Street and Strand Road, Botahtaung Township, Yangon 09 420 101 854, 09 420 101 854 PP 10 am to late

Parami Pizza RUNNER-UP!

B

?? No (11/C), Corner of Malikha Street and

$4 - $40

Parami Road, 7th Quarter, Mayangone Township,Yangon 01667449 PP 11 am to 11 pm B $ 11 - $ 16

Parami Pizza, spread over 3,000 square feet, serves wood-fired pizza made by a chef from Napoli in Italy. Also enjoy their antipasti and daily specials in their outdoor setting, in addition to their Italian cured meats and cheese available at their Deli.

With a relaxed atmosphere where you sit with a cup of coffee, Union Bar & Grill provides an extensive menu, with pizza being one of their popular offerings. Enjoy a buffalo pizza with tomato, sweet basil and buffalo mozzarella, caramelized onion with blue cheese, tomato and mozzarella or their sweet pepper with feta, zucchini, tomato, olive pesto and mozzarella and more!

VINO DI ZANOTTI NEW! RUNNER-UP! ?? No. 61, University Avenue Road, Bahan Township, Yangon

The Pizza Company ?? Dagon Centre 1 Shopping Mall, Sanchaung Tsp, Yangon 01534 036, 097306 9724

01525935 PP 6 pm to 10:30 pm B $10 - $65

PP 10am - 10pm $ 5 - $ 20

For extreme pizza cravings, try their extreme pizza, with its crust stuffed with sausage and cheese, and then more toppings. It is, most definitely, EXTREME.

Vino offers delicious and special wood oven baked pizza throughout the night. Enjoy their wide selection of a la carte Italian dishes along with a selection of wines by the glass straight from Italy.

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We are happy to see that, as the community expands, so does the demand for better dining standards, including the fine dining restaurants. Its no longer enough to have crisp white linen tablecloths; every aspect counts—from the welcoming personnel to the servers, the quality of food to the exclusive ambience, all makes a fine dining restaurant stand out against the rest.

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Fine Dining

Credit: L ’Opera

L ’Opera

WINNER!

?? 62D Kan Yeik Thar, U Htun Nyein Street (next to Inya Lake Hotel), Mayangone Township, Yangon.

01665516, 01660976, 0973030755 PP 11 am to 2 pm and 6 pm to 10:30pm B

Visa and Master

Acacia Tea Salon runner-up! ?? 52 Saya San Road, Bahan Township, Yangon.

01 554 739 PP 10 am to 10 pm B $4 - $70

Starting from $9

As the city’s no. 1 Italian restaurant, L ’Opera not only offers a great atmosphere and location overlooking Inya Lake, they offer homemade pastas, authentic wood-fired pizzas, Italian cold cuts and cheese, fresh salads and many other local and imported ingredients to give you the taste of Italy right to your plate. Ingredients such as tomato, basil, rosemary and garlic, as well as dairy, imported meat products and even extra virgin olive oil is ensured to be fresh.

A tea house, patisserie and restaurant combined in one, Acacia Tea Salon is one of the most pleasant spots in Yangon for a bite to eat, or somewhere to relax. The restaurant’s menu is a combination of different European dishes, ranging from Norwegian Salmon to Frois Gras to Italian dishes. Settle into one of their Moroccan-inspired rooms upstairs, or be amongst the balmy breezy outdoors. There is a great selection of pastries and cakes.

fine dining

Aux Saisons ?? 31A Kan Yeik Tha Road, Yankin Township,

ing food in the city. It is expensive, but for those willing to splurge, it is totally worth it.

Yangon.

01 661 125 PP 10 am to 2:30 pm; 5:30 pm to 10 pm

Kipling’s Restaurant @ Savoy Hotel ?? 129 Dhammazedi Road (on corner with Inya Road), Bahan Township, Yangon.

B $4 -$25

01526 289, 01526 298

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PP 11:30 am to 2:30 pm and 6 pm to 10:30 pm

Aux Saisons is a modern European restaurant located close to the Escape Bar. Classy and contemporary, it serves authentic Italian cuisine to its customers daily. Their upstairs room is spacious and luxuriously decorated with impressive sculptures, along with a balcony and some private booths. A selection of meat dishes are available with an attractive bar area downstairs.

Belmond Governor’s Residence Runner-up! ?? 35 Taw Win Road, Dagon Township, Yangon.

01 229 860

B $8 - $40

A place to wine and dine in style, the Kipling’s Restaurant, which overlooks the attractive pool area of the Savoy Hotel, offers a fusion of Asian and Western cuisine, with a heavy French influence from its French chef. For meat lovers, one hot tip is the HUGE sirloin steak on offer that surely can only be finished by those with the biggest appetite.

L’Alchimiste Runner-up! ?? No.5, U Tun Nyein Street, Mayangone Township,

PP 10 am til late B

Visa and Master $15 -$60

Yangon.

01660612, 01657928, 01221014 PP 11 am - 10 pm B

Set in beautiful surroundings, the Mandalay Restaurant at the charming Governor’s Residence Hotel offers some of the mouth-water-

$15 -$35

L’Alchimiste is definitely the no. 1 choice for

Credit: Alpha, Osso Bucco with Pappardelle

Le Planteur runner-up!

New Location! ?? No.80, University Road, Bahan Township,

special request for groups) B Starting from $5

The Strand Grill is definitely one of the top fine dining places in Yangon, with a 1901 colonial architectural elements to its high vaulted ceiling with museum quality black and gold lacquer panels from Bagan. While you dine on a variety of international dishes, enjoy the tunes of a classically trained guitarist.

fine dining

PP 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm (Closed for lunch unless

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fine dining in Yangon. From their unique old colonial setting overlooking the Inya Lake to their exquisite French cuisine, this is the place to go to if you’re looking for a romantic night out or want a taste of authentic French dishes.

They provide lunch set menu as well as ala carte, and their main dinner cuisines are the finest in town.

PP 12 pm to 2 pm and 6 pm to 11 pm

Water Library runner-up! ?? 83/95 Pyay Road (on corner with Manawharri

BB

Road), Dagon Township, Yangon Starting from $10

01221721, 01214361.

PP 11 am to 2:30pm and 6 pm to 10:30 pm

Le Planteur is set in a beautiful colonial mansion overlooking Inya Lake. One of the best fine dining experience since 1998, Le Planter been has moved to a new location providing their loyal patrons with more quality, service and luxurious dining experience. Their wine bar is something to look forward to. You can sample wine in their automated wine bar at a touch of a button. If you fancy high tea, their scenic veranda is the perfect setting.

Shwe Sa Bwe runner-up! ?? Malikha Road, Near American Club, Mayangone Township, Yangon, Myanmar (Burma)

B

This 100-year-old British colonial building sits close to the Thai Embassy on Pyay Road. The house was recently converted into an elegant restaurant and bar with a spacious terrace. Surrounded by a beautifully manicured landscape, its soft-coloured interior makes it the perfect setting for an intimate dining experience.

VINO DI ZANOTTI runner-up!

NEW! ?? No. 61, University Avenue Road, Bahan

01661983 PP 12 am to 3 pm and 6:30 pm to 9 pm (Closed on Mondays) (Sunday Lunch Closed) BB

Visa and Master $45 and above

Township, Yangon 01525935 PP 6 pm to 10:30 pm B

$15 - $35

Shwe Sa Bwe is essentially a training school for underprivileged local kids. The trainees, under the watchful eyes of master Chefs, learn all aspects of a fine dining restaurant. The cuisine they whip up is phenomenal.

The Strand Grill @ The Strand Hotel runner-up! ?? 92, Strand Road, Yangon 01243377

$10 - $65

Vino Di Zanotti is a new kid on the block and already making a splash with its special Italian wine bar boasting a fine selection of Italian and French wines. With a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere, it is an ideal place for a romantic dinner or to unwind after work.

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Yangon 01514230, 01532124

BEST OUTDOOR DINING L ’Opera Italian Restaurant & Bar WINNER! ?? 62D Kan Yeik Thar, U Htun Nyein Street (next to Inya Lake Hotel), Mayangone Township,

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Yangon.

01665516, 01660976, 0973030755 PP 11 am to 2 pm and 6 pm to 10:30pm B

Visa and Master Starting from $9

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Credit: L ’Opera

Idyllically situated in an old colonial-era building overlooking the romantic Inya Lake, guests are ensured to have the best outdoor dining experience. Highly recommended for couples looking for a memorable romantic night out in one of the best Italian restaurants Yangon has to offer.

L'Alchimiste RUNNER-UP! ?? No.5, U Tun Nyein Street, Mayangone Township, Yangon.

01660612, 01657928, 01221014 PP 11 am - 10 pm B

Overlooking the beautiful Inya Lake, Le Planteur has relocated into a new location with a higher quality, service and atmosphere. higher standard, service and ambience overlooking Inya Lake. Set in a colonial mansion, their outdoor setting is magnificient and a must for those looking for one of the finest dining experience with a natural view. They have a unique wine bar, where you can sip wine by the sample, glass or bottle through a self-service card swipe or served by a waiter. Enjoy their indoor lounge, outdoor garden area, or a scenic veranda where you can enjoy high tea.

$15 -$35

Set in an old colonial house at the bank of Inya Lake, L’Alchimiste is the top-tiered place to go for French cuisine and a view that will leave you feeling relaxed. Recommended for an intimate night out or as a family for those celebrating a special occasion or event, this venue surpasses its expectations.

Agnes @ Kandawgyi Palace Hotel RUNNER-UP! ?? The Kandawgyi Palace Hotel, Kan Yeik Tha Road, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, Yangon 012492559, 013948379 PP 11 am to 2:30 pm and 6 pm to 10 pm B $ 5 - $40

Le Planteur New Location! ?? No.80, University Road, Bahan Township, Yangon 01514230, 01532124 12 pm to 2 pm and 6 pm to 11 pm BB Starting from $10

It’s not surprising that Agnes was nominated for this category with their magnificent view of the Kandawgyi Lake. To add to that their romantic white rose decoration calls for a romantic night out or an afternoon date. Enjoy their attractive smorgasbord such as marinated tuna with green apple pistachio, shell scallop with tomato salsa and lobster jelly.

Alamanda Inn RUNNER-UP! ?? Shwe Taung Gyar Road (Golden Valley Road),

Shwe Sa Bwe RUNNER-UP! ?? Malikha Road, Near American Club, Mayan-

Golden Valley, Bahan Township, Yangon.

gone Township, Yangon, Myanmar (Burma)

01534513

01661983

PP 7 am to 10 pm

PP 12 am to 3 pm and 6:30 pm to 9 pm (Closed on

BB

Mondays) (Sunday Lunch Closed) $15 - $35

An attractive French-style restaurant set in beautiful surroundings in leafy Golden Valley. The restaurant has a great selection of wines. Their meat and fish dishes are amongst the best in town—a personal recommendation is the Steak Tartare.

Belmond Governor’s Restaurant RUNNER-UP!

Shwe Sa Bwe is essentially a training school for underprivileged local kids. The trainees, under the watchful eyes of master Chefs, learn all aspects of a fine dining restaurant. The cuisine they whip up is phenomenal. For lunch or dinner, guests have a choice of sitting indoors or outdoors. When weather permits, dining outdoors in the garden is most recommended.

?? 35 Taw Win Road, Dagon Township, Yangon.

01 229 860 PP 10 am til late

Signature Restaurant RUNNER-UP! (The Garden Bistro) ?? Corner of Bahan Street & Kan Yeik Thar

B

Street, Near U Htaung Bo Round, Kandawgyi

US $15 -$60

Relaxation Zone, Bahan Township, Yangon

Luxiously decorated with outdoor verandas and teak armcharis, you can enjoy their swimming pool by the lounge or dine in style at the Mandalay Restaurant inside the Governor’s Residence Hotel.

Padonmar Restaurant RUNNER-UP! ?? 105/107, Kha Yae Pin Road, Dagon Township,

01546488, 01543387 PP 7:00 am to 11:00 pm B

The Garden Bistro is set in a peaceful outdoor setting by Kandawgyi Lake. It’ an excellent place to come for breakfast and coffee for a reasonable price.

Yangon 01-538 895, 0973242410, 095409409 PP 11 am to 11 pm B

Vino Di Zanotti RUNNER-UP! ?? No. 61, University Avenue Road, Bahan Township, Yangon

Visa and Master Starting from $2

01525935 PP 6 pm to 10:30 pm

Pandomar offer authentic local cuisine in a fine dining setting that opens to an outside garden. They are known for using less oil and no MSG. Popular menus include their chicken curry with coconut milk, mutton curry with spring potatoes and mutton kabarb with onion rings. They also serve all varieties of salads and soups.

B $10 - $65

Vino Di Zanotti offers a choice for their outdoor dining experience, from their open-air garden, main dining area, a huge first floor suitable for any kind of events or entertainment. This stunning villa is also popular for their location, which is just opposite Aung San Suu Kyi’s house.

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BB

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$6.5 - $25

DELIVERY

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Too lazy to go out? You’re in luck! Yangon now has a few more delivery options.

Yangon Door2Door Yangon Door2Door is part of a new concept to Yangon - an online food ordering and delivery service. Their website (yangond2d. com) hosts menus from a broad range of restaurants in Yangon. Customers can place orders for delivery either to their home or office. Service is available 12 hours, 7 days a week.

Ygnfood Despite being a lesser-known food delivery company, Ygnfood is gaining a reputation for its delicious and healthy sandwiches. Their menu includes BLT, Sweet Chilli Chicken and

Chicken and Bacon Salad sandwiches that are freshly-prepared each morning.

Free deliveries are available on orders over $30 to Bahan, Ahlone, Dagon, Sanchaung, Kyeemindaing and the majority of the downtown area.

Order online at www.ygnfood.com, or call 09 530 2167 Dailymart Dailymart delivers to 24 townships, with same day delivery service. You can get anything from food, drinks, healthy & beauty products, household goods and baby foods.

Order at 09 799 246 163 or online at www.dailymart.com.mm.

Open 24 hours!

37th Street branch New! ?? No.360, Ground Floor, Corner of 37th Street

365

and Mahabandoola Rd, Kyauktada Township, Yangon.

?? No.5 Thamada Hotel, Alan Pya Pagoda Road, Dagon Township, Yangon

01376745

01-243047, 01-243639-41 Ext.32 ?? S27 U Chit Maung Road, Yangon, Myanmar 0931567719

Conveniently located on the ground floor of Thamada Hotel, it is just as much a stopspot for an ice-cream on a hot day as it is for a sooo-needed late-night juicy cheeseburger.

The menu has something for everyone, anyday, anytime.

Café SS

BB 6 - $20

Not the best burger in town, but certainly good enough for a 4am food emergency. Wifi is super fast there, which is perfect to upload photos of your friends falling asleep, face flat on the table.

?? No 60 Sayar San Road, Bahan Township, Yangon 0973000099 PP 6 am to 4 am

Pwint Thit San Food Centre & Family KTV ?? 520/A, Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, KohMinn KohChin Ward, Bahan Township, Yangon.

B

01553644 Ext. 111, 018603044, 0973040040,

A local place, in the center of the city. Nothing fancy, just an address to remember when in need of food at late - or very early- hours of the night.

Interestingly enough, they are famous for their yogurt! Perhaps the new hangover cure?

Local Cafe / food centre on the ground level & KTV facility in the basement.

Harley’s

Toba

098575655 $2 - $10

?? 15 Nawaday Street, Dagon Township, Yangon

B $1 - $7

09254095451, 01393443 $2 - $10

Main branch ?? No.(285), Ground Floor, The Corner of 6th Street & Anaw Ya Htar Road, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon 0943096674 0943096674

Sometimes all you want after a late night out is just some good ol’ fried chicken, a burger with chips on the side, coleslaw and a milkshake. No big menus, no difficult decisions.

And you want it to be available anytime of the day - is that too much to ask? Thanks to Harleys, it’s not!

A recent addition to the Yaw Min Gyi area is a 24 hour restaurant TOBA. Serving Indonesian and Indo-Chinese inspired dishes, the restaurant imports ingredients directly from Singapore and Indonesia. It is run by two Indonesian chefs to give you the right authentic flavours anytime of the day.

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$2 - $40

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New Burger

BB

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Credit:Virtual Wolf, Flat White

cafes & bakeries EnjoyIt / February 2015

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It is good to see more and more cafes popping up on a monthly basis and coming up with world class standards. Plus point—some of are so comfy with a relatively good internet connection, you almost want to move in.

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cafes

Credit: Hiroyuki Takeda, Strawberry Tart

Easy Cafe

Winner!

?? 30A/C1 Bo Yar Nyunt Road, Dagon Township, Yangon.

01220722, 01246755 PP 10am to 9:30pm BB

relaxing vibe and well-designed decor. Billed as your “home away from home”, Easy is an oasis of comfort with style and an open invitation to indulge in Taiwanese Asian-Western fusion gourmet delights. The food is getting good reviews too, particularly its Taiwanese Rice.

$3 - $10

365 Café Nar Nat Taw Street Branch

?? 5 Thamada Hotel, Alan Pya Pagoda Road, Dagon Township, Yangon.

?? 24D Nar Nat Taw Street (oppo Diamond Condo and BMW Showroom) 09250141098

01243047 PP 24 Hours BB

Nar Nat Taw recently opened a second branch at Nar Nat Taw street and is still popular among Yangon’s “digital nomads” for its quick internet,

$2 - $40

Particularly popular due to its 24-hour status,

perfect recovery spot after plodding through the market or downtown Yangon’s streets.

On a typically hot day, the air-conditioning indoors and misting fans are a huge welcome.

Bar Boon runner-up!

PP 8 am to 9 pm (closes 7pm on Saturdays) BB

Cafe Bellagio

cafes

365 Café has a varied menu, offering everything from rice dishes to cheeseburgers to ice cream.

?? 81 New University Avenue, Bahan Township, 01544930

Main branch ?? 380 Bogyoke Aung San Road, Downtown,

PP 10 am to 11 pm

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Yangon.

$6 - $20

BB

$1- $15

Yangon.

Golden branch ?? Bar Boon (Golden Valley) 10K Shwe Taung Kyar Road, Bahan Township, Yangon

A cozy spot with a varied selection of drinks and food. With many Cafe Bellagio outlets around the world, the Yangon version is set in pleasant surroundings, making it a relaxing place to visit.

Mercedes branch ?? 51 Pyay Road (inside the Mercedes Branch showroom) Mayangone Township, Yangon

Chatime 01556651 (Office) PP 9 am to 6 pm

Bar Boon has everything you need from a western menu: freshly-made gourmet meals, thirst-quenching drinks and fast wifi. Located alongside Bogyoke Aung San Market, it’s the

BB Starting from $2

Chatime has many branches, but these are their three most popular branches: Lanmadaw branch ?? No 791/44, Corner of Mahabandoola Rd & Phone Gyi Rd, Lanmadaw Tsp. [ Opposite Citymart Chinatown] PP 9.00 AM - 10.30 PM

OCSGD branch ?? OCSGD, Corner of Shwe Gone Daing St. & Banyardala St., Bahan Tsp., YGN [Opposite SeasonsBakery] PP 9.00 AM - 10.00 PM

38th St. Pansoedan branch ?? No.354 G. Floor, Mahabandoola Rd, 7th Quarter, Kyauktada Tsp., YGN.[ Between Seikkanthar Rd & 39th St.] PP 9.00 AM - 10.30 PM

Credit: Matt Czarnocki, Oreo Iced Coffee

Chatime is an international bubble tea brand present in 25 countries. They are so popular in

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0943185144, 09250001392

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Myanmar that even more outlets are opening up soon. The way it works is pretty simple and all based on customization: you choose a drink from the 70 varieties available (from milk teas to fruit teas), ask for more or less sugar, more or less ice, more or less toppings...and voilà! if you don’t know what to pick, go for pearl milk tea.

PP 10:30 am to 10:30 pm BB $2 - $7

Frozee Gelato Creamery is a chill-out place in Yangon serving freshly made gelato. They also make delicious ice-cream cakes of all varieties, suitable for occasions and parties.

Coffee Club runner-up! ?? 809, 1st Floor, Corner of 11th Street and Mahabandoola Road, Lanmadaw Township,

Gusto Cafe ?? 150 Dhammazedi Road (next to Monument

Yangon EnjoyIt / February 2015

0943207764, 01224360 Ext. 201 PP 8:30 am to 7 pm BB

Bookstore), Bahan Township, Yangon.

0936214523, 01537805 PP 8 am to 9 pm B

$1 - $6

Sule branch New! ?? No.232, Sule Pagoda Road, Pabedan Township, Yangon. (Inside E-City Phone Shop)

A new, trendy café that sits above a phone shop in downtown Yangon, Coffee Club is the first café in Yangon that offers authentic European coffee as well as a range of sandwiches and cookies from Yangon Bakehouse. There’s even a vintage selection of magazines on offer and a nice balcony where you can watch the streetlife below.

$2 - $15

A pleasant, relaxing coffee house on Dhammazedi Road. With Illy Coffee available, there are plenty of options and the internet is pretty good by Myanmar standards. A good spot to spend the day working out of the office. Next door to Monument Bookshop.

Ice Berry ?? 29, Yangon-Insein Rd,Kamayut Township, Yangon 01525958 PP 9 am 10 pm $1 - $6

Coffee Circles runner-up! ?? 107 (A) Dhammazedi Road, Bahan Township, Yangon 01525 157 PP 7 am to Midnight BB $4 - $20

One of the longer- standing cafes in Yangon, Coffee Circles has fallen a bit behind as other rivals have opened up. There’s a reasonable selection of western and Asian food—some good, some less so.

A local popular local cafe that serves quite a tasty array of manu from pastas to cakes, western to local - all at very affordable prices. The have a bakery section where you can buy localstyle bread and pastries to take away. Ice Berry can be found in a few other locations too.

Kosan Café PP 9 am to 11 pm $2 - $10

Main branch ?? 18 U Tun Lin Chan Street (off Insein Road, by the

FROZEE GELATO CREAMERY New! ?? 172 Sule Pagoda Road, Pabedan Township, Yangon 01388726

Giordano store), Hledan, Kamayut township 01706 437, 09421146740

cafes 103 Kosan Cafe (2 shops), 19th Street branch 09428038032 PP 12 pm to midnight

Park, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, Yangon.

09250291535, 01541188 PP 10 am to 10 pm BB

A trendy café-cum-bar down a quiet street on Insein Road, Kosan Café has local, western and some Korean eating options. It’s a great place to chill and surprisingly has some of the best music in town. There is another branch in Chinatown, but that is more of a bar than the one in Hledan.

Moon Bakery

$2 - $20

Inside the Karaweik Park, Nervin Café sits pleasantly on a hill overlooking Kandawgyi Lake. It’s a calm pleasant spot to spend the day and usually offers a pleasant breeze from the lake. There is also a very good and reasonablypriced casual menu with a selections of pizzas, pastas, paninis and gelato.

?? Insein Road (shortly after the junction with Pyay Road), Kamayut Township, Yangon 01554404

Off The Beaten Track Myanmar ?? Near Mhyaw Sin Kyun gate entrance,

PP 7 am to 7 pm

Kandawgyi Park, Kandawgyi Lake, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, Yangon.

$1 - $15

095416437, 09254018889

With over 10 locations, Moon Bakery is lively every day of the week and popular among Yangon’s younger crowd, . They do a reasonable selection of cakes and pastries too, and some of their stores offer Asian dishes such as Fried rice and Korean sushi. There are a few locations dotted around town but the liveliest branch is on Insein Road.

Nervin Café & Bistro runner-up! ?? Karaweik Oo-Yin Kabar, Kandawgyi Nature Park

PP 11 am to 11 pm BB $1 - $10

The newest addition to Yangon’s café culture comes in the form of a trendy “travel-style” café located in pleasant surroundings near to Kandawgyi Lake. It aims to provide travellers with useful information they need for their trip around Myanmar. They are also a restaurant and a bar.

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Credit: Alexis Fam, Ruth's Chris Steak House

Shwe Pu Zun Bakery and Cafeteria

cafes

PP 8 am to 8 pm $1 - $6

Main branch ?? No 79, 9th Street, Anawrahta Road, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon.

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01222305, 01227171, 01211709

Dawbon branch ?? No.14-A, Minnandar Road, Dawbon Township, Yangon.

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01553062, 01553063, 01553064

The cafe has been around for some time now (1978!) and is famous for its desserts, so you might need to wait a little before you can get a table. The place is friendly and clean, and serves quality coffee, pastries and ice-creams.

The faluda, domino and kulfi are must tries...oh go on, have all three!

SMOOTHEE FOODEE New! ?? 276 ,Anawrahta Road, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon

Credit: Ken Hawkins, City Java smoothies

Yangon day, go their for lunch and enjoy their sandwiches and cupcakes and finish off with their shaved-ice dessert.

0933377155, 01223875 PP 10:00 am to 10:00 pm

Ya Kun Coffee & Toast runner-up!

PP 9 am to 9 pm

B $1 - $4

BB $6 - $20

Smoothee Foodee is a smoothie and juice bar that offers food without any MSG. Their popular offerings include their Vietnamese rice noodle salad and pad thai.

Main branch ?? Parkson Mall, Bogyoke Aung San Road, next to Bogyoke Aung San Market, Dagon Township, Yangon.

SNOW FACTORY New! ?? (C) Pearl Condo, Kabaraye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township, Yangon 0930609951~2 PP 9:00 am to 9:00 pm BB

Ya Kun Coffee & Toast branches ?? 3rd Floor, Junction Square, Kamaryut Township, Yangon ?? No. 823, Ground Floor, Near Lotteria, Mahabandoola Road, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon.

Starting from $3

Snow Factory serves shaved-ice desserts from lychee, strawberry to Japanese favorite, red beans. Popular among locals and expats alike, this new venue is great for dates, family outings or time out with friends. On a hot, sunny

Yakun Coffeee & Toast offers their signature kaya toasts along with Singaporean coffee.

Kaya means egg and coconut jam made from coconut milk, sugar, eggs and pandan.

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TOP Places for gourmet coffee Just a few years ago, it was hard to get good coffee in Yangon. As more cafes and coffee speciality places pop up, Yagonites are demanding better coffee that meets international standards. Good coffee takes a lot of effort and time. Many factors affect the taste of the coffee—the quality of coffee planted, the altitude where the coffee is grown (the higher altitude, the better), the blend, how it’s grown (organically grows packs in more flavors than ones grown with chemicals), the roast and the freshness. In Yangon, you can be best assured that you will get gourmet coffee from these cafes that will not disappoint.

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Ananda Coffee and Cocoa

comfort of your home.

?? Shop No.G-06,Market Place by City Mart (Dhamazedi Road), Yangon 01523840 Ext;106

Barista Lavazza ?? No.16, Kyaik Ka San Road (In front of labour

PP 9:00 am – 10:00 pm Daily $1.5 - $6

hospital), Tamwe Township, Yangon 018604415 PP 8:30 am – 11:30 pm

Ananda Coffee and Cocoa is a café/restaurant that offers organic, Arabica coffee harvested from their own plantation near Pwin Oo Lwin in Myanmar. You can also buy whole or ground coffee beans to brew in the

BB $1.5 - $7

Barista Lavazza is the exclusive seller of Lavazza brand coffee in Myanmar. Prepare to

Credit: trophygeek

sip on finely ground espresso and excellent capuccino and coffee brewed to perfection.

Coffee Circles ?? 107 (A) Dhammazedi Road (near Savoy Hotel), Kamaryut Township, Yangon 01525 157

107

PP 7 am - Midnight Daily BB

Coffee Circles is one of the first cafes in Yangon. It’s a good place to chill out with friends with its modern design, stylish furniture and serves western, Asian meals and coffee.

Genius Coffee new! ?? No.220, 31st Street(Upper Block)(Street directly

Credit: GoToVan

Yangon Bake House ?? Pearl Condominium, Block C, Ground Floor,

behind Sule Shangril La Hotel), Pabedan Township, Yangon 01373375, 09421068935

Bahan Township, Yangon.

01557448 Ext;818 , 09250178879 PP 7 am to 7 pm (Monday to Saturday)

PP 9 am - 9 pm

PP 7 am to 2 pm (Wednesday), Sunday Closed!

BB

BB $1.5 - $5

A coffee for a good cause, Genius Coffee has its own plantation in the Shan highlands and supports the Danu community by providing them with training on how to harvest coffee that meets international standards.

$ 1 - $6

Yangon Bakehouse is a social enterprise that supports disadvantaged women by providing them with the skills necessary in to sustain their livelihood. In addition to a freshly brewed coffee, they also serve sandwiches, cakes and bakeries.

La Tartine ?? Pearl Condo A, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Bahan Township, Yangon

Bar Boon Coffee ?? (near Bogyoke Aung San Market, just outside

01557448 Ext. 858, 09421061465 (Owner’s

FMI Center) - No.380, Bo Gyoke Aung San

Number) PP 7 am – 8 pm (Monday through Friday)

Road, Yangon.

09420321058

PP 8 am – 8 pm (Saturday and Sunday)

PP 8 am to 9 pm (8 am to 7 pm on Saturday)

BBWifi Available

BB

$1 - $7.5 (Coffee Pack price is more than $10)

La Tartine is a French bakery and coffee place. They serve high-end coffee as well as baguettes, real French croissants with real French butter, desserts, sandwiches and hot paninis.

Starting from $1

Bar Boon is a Dutch espresso bar with a outdoor patio that looks out to the busy streets. Their speciality is Illy coffee and they also serve croissants, muffins, cookies and smoothies

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$2 - $20

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Socially conscious coffee beans Born and raised in Yangon, Ngwe Tun is the founder of Genius Coffee, a specialty coffee cafe located not far from Sule Shangrila Hotel. Recently opened 6 months ago, its Arabica coffee beans are harvested by the Danu Hill tribe from in Southern Shan State.

Yuko Maskay talks to Ngwe Tun about coffee and his dream of becoming fair-trade certified.

How did the idea to start a coffee place happen?

I spent a lot of time drinking coffee and wanted good coffee where I lived. So, I started researching about coffee on the internet, especially how to harvest and roast. Then two years ago, we bought a 20 acre land in Ywar Ngan township in the Taunggyi District of Southern Shan State and started harvesting coffee.

Credit: Yuko Maskay, Ngwe Tun Then we decided to open a cafe this year after we were happy with the results. Then my wife joined. She does the packaging, logo and design.

Why Southern Shan State?

This area is very good for Arabica beans, which is the only beans we use. These beans grow very well in 4,000 feet altitude because all year the temperature is cool.

How is your business a social enterprise?

Our philosophy is that since we are doing business in the area where the Danu hill tribe lives, we should contribute income in that area. We contribute 10% of the income to Danu Hilltribe development, education, the healthcare sector and youth development. We maintain relationship with the community by training the farmers and their families.

What is special about your coffee?

After taste is very good. Our coffee, it will be bitter and sour in the beginning, then it will be sweet.

We only use Arabica, which is a mild coffee and the aroma are very nice. We also process our coffee with clean water. If the Ph of the water is high and if we use water directly, it will be a problem because there will be chemical in the water.

How do you maintain your standards?

We train our farmers and continuously make sure that they understand the guidelines for quality coffee processing. We make sure that they are international standard. We SCAA certified from America and received an 81 out of 100. We also use ripened cherry (coffee bean) only so it will not to sour. We also measure the moisture content from nursery to roasting.

I heard that you are trying to get fair trade certification?

We are studying the standard for fair trade certification. In 2015, we will start fair trade. Our goad is to be fair trade certified and also get group organic certificate.

How do you ensure that you are environmentally conscious? We don't cut down trees since. we need the shade to grow the coffee., which will increase the lifespan of the coffee. We use recycled packaging. We try to use water resources very well with least amount of water for washing coffee beans. Customers get 10% discount if they bring their own bags to buy our roasted coffee. We promote the environment by putting small billboards on the countryside to encourage farmers to maintain forest and trees.

Could you tell me a bit about your Coffee Tour?

Starting this December, we introduced a 3-day package iwhere anyone can visit our coffee farms, pick the coffee, and process them in our factory. You can learn how coffee processing works. The price is $400 and it includes air ticket, lodging, food, transportation, actually everything. We decided to start this so that you can trust our coffee process.

What is your philosophy?

We are not trying to make big business or be rich. We try to do things that are value-added. If we sell mango, we make 100 kyat but if we sell dried mango, we make 1,000 kyat, that is what I mean by value-added and the farmer will make more profit. That will be a good system.

Anyone you look up to?

Warren Buffet. I read a lot about his profile and articles all the time. Some oft his inside story is very bad, but I don’t want to become investor in all areas; I want to do it for benefit of the people.

Anything you would like to add?

Life is very short, as you know, and if we were alone and working just for money, that will be very, very lonely and very meaningless. If we help other people, there will be something coming in return.

Genius Coffee also caters. For more information, contact info@geniuscoffee.info or go to www.geniuscoffee.info or its Facebook page.

Yuko Maskay is an editor at MYANMORE. She identifies herself as a cultural stew of Nepali, Japanese and American. She loves experiencing new cultures, good food and reading the back label of products. On most days, she can be found contemplating on the meaning of life, scrutinizing billboard ads or attempting a new yoga move.

109 EnjoyIt / February 2015

Your coffee is more reasonably priced than elsewhere. How do you keep your costs low?

We want to be affordable and reasonable. Other places import coffee from other countries. We are locally produced and roasted so our prices are low.

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Evolution of Tea House Culture Take a stroll down any street in Myanmar, and you are bound to find a smoky corner jam-packed with kindergarten stools and pitchers of tea, customers waited by a small army of working youths, delivering snacks, milk tea, and loose cigarettes.

This institution, even more than the noodle shop or beer station, is the sticky sweet heart of urban life in Myanmar.

Credit: Yuko Maskay

As far as anyone can tell, tea was originally grown in northern Myanmar, Southwest China, and India's northeastern states. It’s path to the ubiquitous tea houses, along the streets of Yangon, however, has been a long and complicated path.

Almost 2,000 years ago, tea spread out of it’s mountainous womb into China. From there, it first became a staple of daily life, spreading throughout the empire, and eventually into the rest of East Asia, the Middle East, and later to the The Chinese still held a virtual monopoly on the tea sold to Europe, with their vast plantations and strict export controls.

The British, never ones to kowtow, broke the Chinese monopoly by setting up plantations in their newly conquered colonial territories in India, where the drink took on new characteristics. Instead of the meticulously cultivated green tea leaves, crushed black leaves were brewed, typically with milk. Bombay, now Mumbai, was a hotspot for tea culture, and the tea house, franchised by ethnic Persians, spread throughout the British raj, by then including the Burmese When tea came home to British Burma, it filled a social niche in the urbanizing culture. By the early 1900s, it became a nexus of social life, where men would discuss politics, read papers, and relax. They are an opportunity to eat an international array of snacks, from Indian samosas to Chinese Youtiao. Since then, they have gone from a working man’s retreat to a truly egalitarian institution; where women and families, rich and poor, have become increasingly welcome.

Still, one has to be careful where one drinks their lapae yea, with the lack of food quality controls in Myanmar leading to many cut corners.

Here is a list of tea houses that will be reliably safe and delicious.

Acacia Tea Salon ?? 52 Saya San Road, Bahan Township, Yangon.

01-554074, 095002039 PP 8 am to 10 pm

01554739

$1 - $4

PP 10 am to 10 pm

Rangoon Tea House

BB $4 - $70

?? 77 Pansodan Road, (Lower Middle Block,

PP 10am to 9:30pm

Kyauktada Township, Yangon 095178329

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Above T-Land Phone Shop), Second Floor,

Easy CafĂŠ

PP 8:00 am to 10:00 pm

BB $3 - $10

BB

?? 30A/C1 Bo Yar Nyunt Road, Dagon Township, Yangon.

Shwe Pa Lin Tea House ?? No.37, Hantharwaddy Road, Kamaryut

01220722, 01246755

Township, Yangon 01538736, 01527850

Nar Nat Taw Street branch

PP 8 pm to 8 pm

24D Nar Nat Taw Street (oppo Diamond Condo

$1 - $5

and BMW Showroom)

Ya Kun Kaya Toast Lucky 7 PP 7 am to 9 pm

PP 9 am to 9 pm BB

$1 - $4

$2 - $15

Main branch

Main branch

?? 138/140,Corner of 49th Street and Mahabandoola Road, Pazundaung Township,

?? Parkson Mall, Bogyoke Aung San Road, next to Bogyoke Aung San Market, Dagon Tsp, Yangon.

Yangon 01292382, 095142810

Kamaryut branch ?? 3rd Floor, Junction Square, Kamaryut

Ahlone branch

Township, Yangon

?? No.115, Lower Kyiimyinndaing Road, Ahlone Township, Yangon.

01223379, 0973002863

Lanmadaw branch ?? No. 823, Ground Floor, Near Lotteria, Mahabandoola Road, Lanmadaw Tsp, Yangon.

Modern Tea Shop ?? No.91, Banyardala Road, Bahan Township, Yangon 095159240, 095112010 PP 8 am to 11 pm $1 - $6

Morning Star ?? Building S-6, U Chit Maung Housing, West Race Course Road, Tarmwe Township, Yangon

Credit: Yuko Maskay

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$2 - $10

Main branch

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bakeries Although the bakeries in Yangon had not grown as strong as that of the cafe scene, we have high hopes that one day we will soon be able to smell the delish aroma of freshlybaked croissants greeting us every morning in the near future.

Acacia Tea Salon

Winner!

EnjoyIt / February 2015

?? 52 Saya San Road, Bahan Township, Yangon.

01554739 PP 10 am to 10 pm BB $4 - $70

Acacia Tea Salon offers one of the most unique bakeries in Myanmar, offering delicious snacks such as pastries, puffs, pains and breads and sweets, such as cakes, crème pies and creambased desserts. Coffee is also available.

DAREN BREAD New! ?? No.57,Yaw Min Gyi Street, Dagon Township Yangon 09253522048 PP 9:00 am to 10:00 pm $1 - $9

Authentic Taiwanese and a unique-to-Yangon Style of bread,that includes a vast range of flavored buns, such as 'rose yogurt' and 'green-tea' ; as well more standard and traditional loaves and flavors, that include chocolate and the more healthy whole grain and raisin. The ovens and kitchen are located behind glass,giving customers the opportunity to watch and observe the busy but brilliant bakers at work. The staff are friendly and attentive; and the breads affordable.

II Fornaio Bakery @ L ’Opera runner-up! ?? 62D Kan Yeik Thar, U Htun Nyein Street (next to Inya Lake Hotel), Mayangone Township, Yangon.

01665516, 01660976, 0973030755

Credit: Steven Depolo, Tiramisu Dessert PP 9 am to 5:30 pm B

Visa and Master $1 - $8

Il Fornaio, located at the entrance of L ’Opera Italian Restaurant, is an old timer and one of the bakery shops that started providing quality baked goods and sandwiches. Enjoy their enjoy their array of freshly-baked bread, pastries and cakes, either at the bakery itself or as a take away.

?? No. 37/39, 94th Street(Lower), Kantawkalay, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, Yangon.

095014630 PP 9:00 am to 8:00 pm

La Tartine serves good quality croissants, pastries, macaroons and have recently added sandwiches to their menu. Our hot tip is their Almost Croissant and the Three-chocolate crisp tart. Oo la la!

bakeries

FROSTING CAT New!

$0.6 - $ 10

Parisian Cake & Coffee runner-up!

PP 7:00 am to 10:00 pm

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BB $1 - $15

Main branch ?? No.446-466, Lower Kyeemyin Daing Road, Kyeemyin Daing Township, Yangon(Opposite

La Tartine French Bakery runner-up!

West Yangon Hospital) 01223361, 01214568, 012301512, 01211451

?? Pearl Condominium, Block A, Ground Floor, Bahan Township, Yangon.

01 557 448 Ext; 858 PP 7 am to 8 pm

Kyauttada branch ?? No.(132), Sule Pagoda Road, Kyauttada Township, Yangon. 01327298

BB $3 - $30

Credit: John Shepherd, Meringue porn

EnjoyIt / February 2015

Frosting Cat is a much-welcomed addition to the bakery scene in Yangon. Their focus seems to be cupcakes, and the dress them up very attractively with frosting too. They also seem to be getting a lot of orders for specially-designed celebratory cakes.

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Hledan branch ?? Near Hledan Centre, Hledan Road, Kamaryut Township, Yangon. 012306143

Parisian provides the community with nicelypresented and packages pastries, sweet treats and have made their bakery a pleasant pit stop for a quick fix for cake and coffee. Now into their fifth branch, it is not hard to spot one of their branches across Yangon.

Sharky’s runner-up!

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?? 117 Dhamazedi Road, Kamaryut Township, Yangon.

01524 677 PP 9 am -10 pm $ 2 - $ 3 per scoop

Sharky’s is not only well-known for their icecream, it’s also known for their bakery. Their multi-grain bread is very popular as well as their pizzas and appetizers.

Yangon Bakehouse runner-up! ?? Pearl Condominium, Block C, Ground Floor, Bahan Township, Yangon.

01 557 448 Ext;818, 09 2501 78879

Credit: La Tartine

PP (Monday to Saturday) 7 am to 7 pm, Sunday Closed BB $2 - $ 14

Main branch ?? G12, Marketplace by City Mart, Dhamazeddi

There are two wonderful things about the Yangon Bakehouse. The first is that they are a terrific social enterprise that train and educate disadvantaged women, the second is their food, which is utterly fantastic. There’s a terrific variety of baked goods; all made to quite wonderful standards.

Yangon Paris Bakery PP 9 am to 9 pm BB $1 - $9

Road, Bahan Township, Yangon.

01655861

Lanmadaw township branch ?? Junction Mawtin, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon.

01523840, 01655861

Come here for a delicious selection of snacks, bread, cakes, pastries, puffs and sandwiches.

The local staff make quality products. They can also organise special parties, meetings and catering services.

We all Scream for Ice-cream!

PP 9 am to 12 pm B

Feel PreGel (Feel Myanmar)

$1.4 for one scoop

B

Main branch

PINK PINK PINK! This ice-cream parlour is clearly designed with teenage girls in mind.

LIke OMG! xoxo

?? 124, Pyihtaungsu Avenue Street, Dagon Township

Ice-Manias

098612071

?? Padonmar Street, Sanchaung Township, Yangon

PP 6 am to 9 pm

09420222288

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$1.3 for one scoop

$2 per cup

?? N770, 5th Floor Lucky Condo (KBZ building) Bogyoke Road, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon 09420029595 PP 10 am to 11 pm

Enjoy the chocolate-chip mint ice- cream, a great way to cut down the fire of the spicy dish you just enjoyed in the adjacent Feel Myanmar.

Ice-Manias is a brand from Thailand famous for its freshly fried ice-cream. Sounds weird, but it’s delicious.

Sharky’s ?? 117 Dhamazedi Road, Kamaryut Township 01524677 PP 9 am -10pm

FROZEE GELATO CREAMERY New!

$2~$3 for one scoop

?? 172 Sule Pagoda Road, Pabedan Township 01388726 PP 10:30 am to 10:30 pm BB $2 - $7

Frozee Gelato Creamery serves variety of freshly made gelato, including ice-cream cakes for all types of events.

Sharky’s is one of the oldies in town, but their home-made Italian gelato ice-cream is still divine. Made fresh, choose from all types of flavors: chocolate, strawberry, passion fruit and more!’

Swensen’s PP Daily 10am to 10pm $1.6 for one scoop

Gekko ?? 535 Merchant Street, Kyauktada Tsp, Yangon 0943190232, 01386986 PP 9 am to 1 am

Main branch ?? Ground Floor, Dagon Center, Pyay road, San Chaung Township, Yangon 01504 932

B $3 for one scoop

Lanmadaw branch The creamy scoops come in a well decorated plate, with wonderful home-baked biscuits.

?? Junction Mawtin, Corner of Lann Thit st and Anawyahtar road, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon 0973181758

Ice Cream Bar ?? No.135 Inya Road, Yangon 01511141

They have a wide selection of flavors, iced drinks and sundaes. Waffles are made fresh everyday.

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PP 9 am to 9:30 pm

Lanmadaw branch

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Credit: Bert Heymans

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Ask anyone who's been here in the past year, they will most likely say the same thing—Yangon's nightlife scene has changed, and ​for the better. ​No longer do we ask "when are you going?" but "where are you going?" ​We are nowhere near the scene in New York​where the city doesn't sleep of course​, but we are slowly but surely, on our way​.

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nightlife

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LIVING IN THE MOMENT Jean Curci is a French entrepreneur based in Myanmar who is one of the owners of the popular nightclub Mojo, 2015 MYANMORE Award winner of Best Bar, Best Nightclub and Best Weekly/Monthly Social Event. He is also one of the owners of two ventures, Tori, a Japanese restaurant and Stork, an event management agency.

Originally from Marseilles, France, Jean has been traveling around Asia for the last few years, finally settling down in Yangon a year and a half ago, with his partner. Fluent in Mandarin and a bit of Japanese, Jean talks to Yuko Maskay about his love of Asia, Mojo and never giving up.

How did you get your start in night life events management?

Credit: Mojo, Jean Curci I met this French guy by chance. We become best friends and I started working for French Tuesday, a big event company based in New York.

The company went from 50 to 500 people in 3 months and they expanded. They did events for high-end nightclubs with dress codes. It was a very good teaching for event management and networking.

Wasn’t it scary venturing out into the unknown?

I quit my job, my girlfriend, my life, in France, and shortened my life by 20 kilos. It’s a good learning to detach yourself from physical things, from apartments, all the little things you collect because it starts to own you. It’s a very good learning; like a spiritual path. Many times I told myself “you are crazy, you are nuts.” People around me told me the same. I thought it was the mistake of my life.

Why Mojo?

For two months after moving to Yangon, I partied everywhere but there was not one place I like.

Party for me is have fun with friends with a bottle of wine and at that point, the music gets so good that you end up dancing on the table. That’s my style.

Why do you think Mojo is so popular?

I believe that only thing you can do well in your life is with passion. I think Mojo is successful

How do you think your upbringing shaped who you are now?

I’ve been told to have a stable life, that you need security. But then my grandma she was an immigrant.

She slept in a kitchen for five years, and from that kind of life, became a finance manager of the water society of Marseilles There was a bombing during World War II in Marseilles, but she was attending night courses. So you know, it skips a generation. My mom saw her mother, thought it’s crazy and she thought she needed stability. Then I saw stability and I thought I want to be like my grandma and have a career. Maybe my ideology came from my grandmother. She is 94 years old and we still exchange books.

Any suggestions for entrepreneurs who are starting out here?

I think Myanmar is quite tough as a entrepreneur. The human resources issue is very difficult.

There is no culture of signing contract. The healthcare system is not good. But we train and take care of our staff. They are eager to learn and it’s a win-win situation. So, I guess for entrepreneurs starting out, keep going. If you fall seven times, get up eight times. That’s the only way to do it.

What is your philosophy in life?

I almost died a few times in my life. Diving, for example. I was a diving instructor. I’m an avid motorbike driver. I used to race, so facing those almost moments, you know, oo lala, and then oo lala! All these oo lala moments made me realize that life is super short. I lost my share of friends on motorbike accidents. You know how we say “see you tomorrow”, but who knows, we may not see that person tomorrow. You have to give love every day.

For more information about Mojo, check out www.facebook.com/mojoinnya.

Yuko Maskay is an editor at MYANMORE. She identifies herself as a cultural stew of Nepali, Japanese and American. She loves experiencing new cultures, good food and reading the back label of products. On most days, she can be found contemplating on the meaning of life, scrutinizing billboard ads or attempting a new yoga move.

EnjoyIt / February 2015

How do you keep with the competition or being the best?

Competition is picking up. The rule of entrepreneurship is you learn from your failures. I have failed in many businesses. I did import/export business in China and it fell catastrophically. You always speak about your success, but not your failures. I did the first restaurant here and it closed down in two and a half months. I don’t even want to speak about it. Best to move forward, that’s the past. Failure is what builds you as an entrepreneur.

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because I love what I do. I love to have fun. I love nightlife. I love to party.

Credit: Escape Gastro Bar

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bars EnjoyIt / February 2015

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2014 has seen a definite increase in the number of new bar openings. What's more interesting is that most of these new bars have a unique concept from a molecular rooftop bar, a speakeasy bar to an exclusive Thai bar—it's all here in Yangon

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bars

Credit: Mojo

MOJO

Winner!

?? 135 Inya Road, close to junction with Dhammazedi Road, Bahan Township, Yangon 01511418 PP 2 pm to midnight BB $5 - $25

With the recent opening of their space upstairs and a permanent DJ on board, MOJO has elevated itself to be the new party joint in town with their weekly events. The bar is decorated with mostly recycled and an eclectic mix of wellthought- out stuff, which just seems to go well.

The only reggae bar in Myanmar, 7th Joint Bar and Grill strives to deliver a unique reggae experience with an atmosphere that takes you back to the Caribbean. Try their signature jerk chicken, one of our many great cocktails, and don’t forget to take along your own playlist on Wednesdays. Whether you want a late night out, a few lazy drinks or to jam to some reggae music, come down and chill with 7th Joint.

50th Street Café RUNNER-UP! ?? 9/13, 50th St., Botahtaung Township, Yangon 01397 060 PP 10 am to 11 pm BB

7th Joint Bar & Grill new!

$4 - $35

?? G-A10, Shwe Asia Building, Corner of 48th Street and Mahabandula Road, Botataung Township,Yangon 09260600552 PP Sunday to Thursday, 5pm - 1am PP Friday and Saturday, 5pm - until B Coming soon Coming soon Starting at $ 3

One of Yangon’s most popular expat haunts, 50th Street Bar is a little slice of home for many foreigners living in the city. With comfortable seating, western food and live sports matches, it often offers some much needed sanctity when Yangon-life can become a bit too much.

?? 14A, Kanbawza Road, Bahan Township, Yangon.

0973029342, 01555067

Check out their variety of sake at the Sake Bar and specially flown-in Cuban cigars. Karaoke rooms available.

PP 10 pm to 10 pm

Cocoon Cafe and Bar

BB $2 - $5

bars

Bar One 4

?? 22/24 Shinsawpu Road (corner of Shan Lan Road), 9th floor, Ahlone Township, Yangon.

Captain’s Bar ?? Captain’s Bar, Savoy Hotel, 129 Dhamazeddi

PP 10 am to 11 pm BB

A new, unique lounge-restaurant which appears popular with Yangon’s local social elite. It offers great views, is a pleasant spot to wine and dine and offers an assortment of Shisha flavours.

Road, Bahan Township, Yangon 01526289 PP 8 am to 11 pm

Escape Gastro Bar RUNNER-UP! ?? 31D Kan Yeik Tha Street, Yankin Township, Yangon.

B $5 - $20

01660737 PP 11 am to 3 am

This bar, within the Savoy Hotel, is a quaint, friendly place for a beer or cocktail. Nautically themed, it also offers a fine selection of cigars.

Cask 81 RUNNER-UP! ?? 81 Kabar Aye Pagoda Road (opposite Pearl Condominium), Bahan Township, Yangon 09254083981 PP 6 pm to 1 am BB

Yangon’s first genuine whisky bar, this classy place offers tipples from across the world and, more importantly, an incredible choice of Single Malt Scotch Whiskies. Take note though, it’s one of the city’s most expensive places for a drink.

CLUB RIZZOLI (The Ritz) @ Chatrium ?? Chatrium Hotel, 40 Natmauk Road, Tamwe Township, Yangon.

01544500 Ext. 6243 PP 7 pm to 1:30 am B

Visa and Master

Club Rizzoli, re-branded from The Ritz offer a fancy decor and more private party scene.

BB

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01500863

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This place has a mish-mash of people--from the young and hip, to the casual t-shirt and jeans type. All can be seen at their tables, usually sipping on bottles of Johnny Walker whisky. Shisa available.

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The venue to go if you’re interested in Myanmar-celeb-spotting. This trendy bar is located in the far north of the city. The music is loud, the women are scantily-clad – particularly by Myanmar standards – and their artisan cocktails are popular.

Gallery Bar, Sule Shangri-la Hotel

Friendship bar

Located on the second floor of the hotel, this bar offers one of the few classy pub experiences in Yangon with impressively-decorated walls and a large pool table. The happy hour is easily one of the best in Yangon with a daily 2-for-1 special from 5 pm to 8 pm.

?? 135 Dhammazedi Road, Bahan Township, Yangon.

0973237010, 01511532 PP 10 am to 11 pm

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BB5pm to 11 pm

?? Sule Shangri La Hotel, Sule Pagoda Road, Downtown, Yangon.

01242 828 Ext. 6430, 6431 PP 1 pm to 1 am B

Gekko RUNNER-UP! Friendship Bar just moved to a new location and is still a popular hangout choice for expats in the area. Service is friendly, quick and effective, food is plentiful and tasty and beer is icecold. The terrasse -on a somewhat noisy street corner- is usually quite animated and is a good place to get started, if you’re in a mood to go out later on! Prices are reasonable.

?? 535 Merchant Street, Kyauktada Township, Yangon.

0943190232, 01386986 PP 9 am to 1 am B

Visa and Master $1 - $40

Located downtown in a old Sofaer build-

mind drift away from everyday life. The sunset upon the pools and vast garden area is a nice treat after a long hot and sweaty day. The restaurant provides Italian as well as local foods to match your wine, cocktail or long drink.

Ginki Kids

Maru Wine Bar ?? 130/134 Shwe Taung Tan Street, Lanmadaw

01527256, 0943119972, 0973041320 PP 10:30 am to 11:30 pm BB

Township, Yangon 09420308350, 01241814 Ext; 001

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?? 18 Kanbawza Road, Bahan Township, Yangon

bars

ing, Gekko is two-story venue with a cocktail lounge and two private rooms, seating up to 12 people. The cocktail is Japanese inspired, courtesy of Singapore’s "famously discreet 28 Hong Kong Street”.

PP 11:30 am to 2 pm and 5:30 pm to midnight $3 - $15

B

A trendy and nicely-designed wine bar in Yangon’s downtown, Maru Wine Bar - which is part of the Maru Grill next door - is great to chill out and have a few drinks. It also has a great area upstairs to relax. Drinks are expensive, but good.

Ice Bar

Off The Beaten Track Myanmar

?? Sedona Hotel, 1 Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Yangon 01666900 PP 5 pm to midnight

?? Near Mah Din Kyun gate entrance, Kandawgyi Park, Kandawgyi Lake, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, Yangon

B

095102657 , 0925401 8889

Sedona Hotel’s Paddy’s Irish Bar went through a makeover recently to a swanky Ice Bar. It is different from the ‘ice bars’ concepts that we know around the world though; there are barrels placed around the bar filled with ice to give it the ‘smoky’ feel and the staff are in thick winter jackets. Their resident band plays mostly familiar Top 40 hits. Entry charge applies.

BBWIFI Available

PP 11 am to 11 pm

Kokine Bar & Restaurant @ Kokine Swimming Club ?? 34 Sayar san Lane, (Kokine Swimming Pool St) Bahan Township, Yangon.

094 541 1253,094 210 60505

$1 - $10

This brand new, trendy “travel-style” café and bar is located in pleasant surroundings near Kandawgyi Lake. It’s the place to go if you are a traveller in need of information. The menu has a selection of Western and Burmese dishes and their bar offers a variety of drinks. The seating areas are done up as gazebos with flowing curtains.

Roof Alchemy New! ?? No.(330), Yangon International Hotel Compound, Ahlone Road, Dagon Township, Yangon

PP 9 am to 5 pm (Unplugged on Friday and Saturday)

095020073​

PP Weekly Happy Hour: Every Friday 5pm to 11 pm

PP 5:00 pm to Midnight

BB $5 -$20

This self-proclaimed ‘Oasis in the City’ does have something about it which makes you

Roof Alchemy offers a variety of themed cocktails and known for its molecular cocktails, using molecular mixology technique to bring about new flavors and textures.

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$7 - $30

Pictures of Kurt Cobain line the wall and there’s some quirky furniture in this mainstay of Yangon’s drinking scene. It was once one of Yangon’s most popular hangouts but has since lost out to some of the more centrally located bars. This being said, it remains popular some nights of the week, particularly for the local crowd.

THE BLIND TIGER RUNNER-UP! NEW!

bars

?? 111 United Condominium, Corner Nawaday St & Alain Pyar Pagoda Road, Dagon Township, Yangon PP Saturday 5pm till late. (Closed Sunday) BB

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PP 5:30 pm to 1 am everyday BB $3 - $10

01388488 PP Open for lunch soon

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09250675289

Starting from US $4.5

Follow the tiger paw prints to this hidden speakeasy-style drinking lounge, tapas bar, and restaurant. While speakeasies were once illicit drinking dens in 1920s America, there is nothing illegal about The Blind Tiger. Rather, it evokes the allure, mystery, and privacy of yesteryears with modern bar food.

The owners of this new addition to Yangon’s drinking scene have provided a well-lit, comfortable space that is busy most nights of the week. Not just a bar, they also serve a good selection of tapas and cheese platters. The bar staff are efficient and make excellent cocktails.

They provide an extensive list of wines and hard liquors.

THE RANGOON BAR New! ?? Union Business Center (UBC) Annex B, Nat Mauk Road, Bo Cho Quarter Bahan Township, Yangon 0930258399

The Lab Wine & Tapas Bar RUNNER-UP! ?? 70A West Shwegondine Road (east of the junction with Kabar Aye Pagoda Road), Bahan Township, Yangon.

PP 6:00 pm to 12:00 am BB $1.5 - $50

Rangoon Bar shares the same location as Pep-

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Credit: The Blind Tiger

eroni Pizzeria. Keeping in line with the latter's concept of eating pizzas, which is about sharing, Rangoon Bar's specialty are their Punchbowl cocktails. The cocktails are concocted in a huge punch bowl and good for sharing and best enjoyed in their newly-opened patio. Check out Kilping's Last Toast for a champagne-infused beverage.

with a big screen. Shisha available. A favourite of the local, young crowd.

Turbo de Bar & Restaurant ?? 3/A 13 Taw Win Road , 9 mile , Mayangone T/S ( Near Ocean and Victoria Hospital), Yangon 09254633778 Opening Hours : 10:30 am to 12 am BB

The Space Bar

Starting from $4

?? 126 Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township, Yangon.

09430344 PP 4 pm to 1 am BB $3 - $10

A little far away from Shwedagon to offer too great a view, but you can just make out the golden glow against a jet-black backdrop.

Decked with contemporary modern decor, it’s a pleasant spot for a drink, except when the rains begin and you’re forced into a jet-black room

Turbo de Bar is a car-themed bar/restaurant. It attracts car lovers from all regions who arrive for the exciting range of cocktails, comprehensive Western and Asian menu and friendly atmosphere.

The central attraction is a 1960’s VW Camper Van sliced in half long-ways and transformed into a stylish bar. Cocktail selection feature old classics such as Singapore Sling and Mojito alongside original creations such as self-named Turbo De’Bar for tequila lovers and Seven Speed for speed freaks.

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Union Bar & Grill runner-up! ?? Corner of 42nd Street and Strand Road,

bars

Botahtaung Township, Yangon 09420101854, 09420101854 PP 10 am to late B

Vista Bar ?? 168 West Shwegonedine Road, Bahan Township,

Credit: Sai Lone Kyauk, Turbo De Bar

view it offers of nearby Shwedagon. The layout could do with a little work, the service is hardly excellent and there are times when the music doesn’t entirely fit the otherwise laidback feel, but you’ll be hard pressed to find a better view elsewhere in the city. Also provides shisha.

Yangon 01559481, 0973228586 PP 5:30 pm to 1 am

Water Library ?? 83/95 Corner of Manohari and Pyay Roads (next to Thai Embassy), Dagon Township, Yangon

B $0 - $6

01221721, 01214361 PP 5 pm to 11 pm

This rooftop bar is quickly emerging as a popular late-night spot, if only for the breathtaking

B $45 and above

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Located just a stone’s throw from The Strand Hotel, this trendy bar attracts some of the city’s more “high-so” clients with its impressive collection of cocktails; it is arguably, one of Yangon’s more well-known venues.

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The bar is adjacent to the Water Library restaurant. It has a large outdoor patio partly covered by a beautiful tree. For the dry season there will be chairs and tables spread under the evening sky. Choose from a wide selection of drinks such as the wasabi-infused vodka, gummy bear-infused gin or maybe the signature cocktail, dubbed the “Yangon Cocktail” served over ice in a lowball glass.

Yangon Sailing Club

Bonanza Gastro Bar Formerly called Bonanza 573, this is a twostory bar with a rooftop. Recently relocated to a new location at Saya San Road, they just added Magner irish soda to their menu!

BB

Cocoon Cafe and Bar Located on the 9th floor (yes, they have a lift!) this bar is decorated with traditional puppets on the walls. A unique configuration for space mean you get some justyou-and-me corner. Hint Hint!

You must be a member to enjoy the club facilities, except on Fridays where folks just fill up the area very quickly. There’s usually a live band playing outdoors. The only thing missing is a BBQ pit to compliment the lake, we reckon.

Hotel Milanoa Rooftop Mini Restaurant Opened very recently, this rooftop bar boasts great service with a personal touch that is wallet-friendly.

?? 132 Inya Rd, Kamaryut Township, Yangon 01535298, 01513899 EnjoyIt / February 2015

ROOFTOP BARS

PP 5 pm to 11 pm (For non-members on Friday) PP Members everyday from 9am - 9pm

Hotel Parami Relax in the only rooftop pool in Yangon with a drink while enjoying the stunning view.

Roof Alchemy Roof Alchemy offers a variety of themed cocktails and known for its molecular cocktails, using molecular mixology technique to bring about new flavours and textures.

The Space Bar One of the more popular rooftop bars.

Usually filled with a local crowd.

Vista Bar Known to be very popular amongst the expat crowd, Vista Bar fills up pretty quickly most night. Good cocktails and bad an even better view. But oh those stairs!

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Leena Salim chats with Mario Ebanks in between mouthfuls of 7th Joint’s Jerk Chicken and copious amounts of his very own whiskey and coconut juice.

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RIGHT PLACE, RIGHT TIME

Credit: 7th Joint Bar & Grill, Mario Ebanks

Tell us about you.

I am an entrepreneur from Jamaica.

My background is in telecoms, an industry that I’ve been associated with for more than ten (10) years. 7th Joint Bar & Grill is my first serious attempt in the Food and Beverage industry.

My personal mantra is that everything happens exactly when it’s supposed to – no coincidences.

I am into music, traveling, hanging out with family and friends, and chatting to anyone who is up for a good conversation (especially if we are both thirsty).

What brought you to Yangon?

Came to Myanmar in January 2013 as a Project Manager for one of the Telecoms company What is the concept of your bar and why do you think this concept will work?

It’s a Reggae bar. This concept is quite popular globally but has picked up significantly in this re-

What does 7th Joint mean?

We didn’t choose the name, the name chose us, and we couldn’t get away from that name even if we tried.

The initial plan involved seven (7) partners. In addition to that, one of our partners has Chinese roots and the number seven (7) or q¯1 for him symbolizes “togetherness” which is exactly how we needed to be to get the bar up and running. Also, whenever we spoke to anyone about our plans in the setup stages, the typical response was that we are operating a business that is new to us in a foreign country and it’s a big gamble, hence lucky number 7 in the mix again. For Joint, let’s just say that “Joint” is a really popular word in Jamaica.

What kind of changes have you seen in terms of the nightlife in Yangon?

Over my 2 years here, I’ve seen a lot changes in the nightlife that I would describe as positive.

There are numerous options that offer a wide variety where dining is concerned. As it relates to music and entertainment, the rate of change is slow but still positive, salsa and reggae is now available, the DJ’s at some of the more popular places have expanded their scope and are now selecting from a wider genre, and there is live music on selected nights at different venues.

What do you think will change in 2015?

For Myanmar, I think we will continue to see more businesses opening in the F&B industry with some of the more popular food franchises entering the market. Also, there is definitely a chance that there will be more music festivals and concerts with performances from foreign groups or bands. I really hope to see a sharp increase in the number of people listening reggae music and eating Jerk Chicken.

The 7th Joint Bar & Grill is the one and only Reggae bar in Myanmar. When in doubt about lyrics to any of the songs played there, it’s highly likely that Mario knows them. Despite being so, they also play music from other genres.

Leena Salim is a managing editor at MYANMORE. She comes from the overcrowded city island of Singapore. She has traveled to and lived in many other overcrowded cities around the world through her work as a singer, actor, emcee and now, a writer. She now resides in yet another overcrowded city that is Yangon with her imaginary cat, Miss Muffinface.

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gion. There are many reggae bars in Thailand and Malaysia and now the first in Myanmar. The atmosphere at our bar can be described as easy, chilled, relaxed, and some people say plain lazy.

We think that this type of setting will appeal to tourist, hardworking expats seeking a place to unwind and nationals alike.

As many nightclubs and pubs crawl up, so does our appetite for exploring the nightlife scene in Yangon. There are many ways to have a blast while taking yourself and your friends on a night out, from places to eat before you bar hop to where you can stop for snacks after some well-deserved drinks. Whether you are on a short vacation or you live here, we have put together a list of fresh venues that have popped up recently to the old timers still worth revisiting.

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pub crawl

Credit: The Pictureman

NEW VENUES - UPTOWN For starters, you probably want some dinner before you go on a pub crawl. Starting from Myint Zu Street on Parami Road, Epic is a new dining venue, which offers a mix of both Western and Asian cuisine, from sandwiches and burgers, to green curry and tempura. If you are into Japanese-style shabu/hotpot like the locals, O-Shabu, next o Min Lann restaurant on Parami Road serves all-you-can-eat buffet at only 15,000 kyats. Moving down the road to Ice Bar on the ground floor of Sedona Hotel, they have recently transformed from live band to hip hop bar. Entrance ticket is required for outsiders, but it’s free if you stay at the hotel. Two minutes by taxi from Sedona to Kanbawza Street, on the second floor of Adamas restaurant, The Cave is the one and only Thai bar in Yangon. It is also foreigner-friendly with a live band that plays every night. Food can be ordered from the restaurant and the drinks are pretty reasonable. If you go a bit further down the same street, you will see Gravity Gastro bar, a perfect place for talking and catching up with friends in a quiet and relaxing atmosphere downstairs on its basement level. As you walk from Gastro bar to Executive Bar, you will see Hide Out, which is located on the basement of Mya

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Credit: The Pictureman

Yeik Nyo Royal Hotel in Golden Valley, best known for its cocktails. To end the night and for after hours clubbing, Brave Bar on Kanyeiktar Street is open till 3 am.

OLD TIME SAKES - DOWNTOWN The best place for happy hour downtown is definitely Gallery Bar at Sule-Shagri-la Hotel where drinks are two for the price of one, starting 5-8pm on any nights. Before the sunset, you just have to cross the road to Sky Bar Bistro at Sakura Tower to get the bird’s eye view of the whole downtown Yangon. Moving a little bit further down to Pansodan Street, Rangoon Tea House is currently one of the IT restaurants in town, offering traditional local teashop food with western decoration and food at an international standard. Walking down the block to Sofaer building, Gekko has sashimi, sushi, ramen and barbecue with good cocktails and lively atmosphere. Taking taxi to 48th Street will take about 10 minutes to 48 Street where you will find 7 Joint, a rare Jamaican reggae bar in Yangon.

Just two blocks away is the one and only 50th Street CafĂŠ, one of the early nightlife venues in the city. Traveling a bit up to United Condo Nawaday Street, look for an orange tiger paw painted on a generator and follow the paws to the Blind Tiger, a new and hip drinking venue in town.

Signature cocktails are spicy and tasty. Within walking distance, you can stretch your muscles by dancing at Club 5 on the basement of PARKROYAL Hotel.

NIGHT THAT COVERS EVERYTHING For those living in Yangon, if you have only two nights to show your friend what a night out is like in Yangon, we recommend you start with the breathtaking view of Schwedagon Pagoda from the Vista Bar on Shwe Gon Dine Road. Then on to China town to 19th Street for a local nightlife with a pick of skewers and vegetables that you want barbecued and beer stations long side of

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the street. Walk a bit further down the busy beer stations and to the left, you will find the New Ko San, good for chilling in peaceful atmosphere with cheap drinks. After that, a change of scenery at the “unseen” hi-class locals at the Escape Gastro Bar on Kanyeiktha Road may amuse you. For nice tapas and cocktail, you cannot miss The Lab on Shwe Gon Dine Road. GTR, Brave Bar and Café Liberal are perfect for late Credit: The Pictureman night clubbing local style. For international atmosphere, it has to be Mojo. Hungry after hours? Several new restaurants such as Toba, Harleys, and New Burger are open 24 hours.

TGIF It’s Friday! How to make it more special? Right out of long week at work, head to Botataung Jetty for dinner along on the river cruise, which starts around 5 pm. Advanced booking may be required. Enjoy the sunset and scenery along the Yangon River until 9 pm when the cruise ends.

Then, you can sit back and relax—enjoy couple of drinks in a vibrant environment at the Union Bar. Since it’s not far from the jetty, you won’t be stuck in traffic. Give it a couple of hours and move on to Mojo, which is usually packed by midnight, for night of music and dancing. After spending all your energy on the dance floor, it’s time to boost it up at 365 Café and New Burger, which are ready to serve you all night, into the wee hours of the morning.

THE MYANMAR PUB CRAWL 2014 has been a crazy year in terms of new openings. The nightlife scene in Yangon has never been so vibrant. Let’s start with Port Autonomy, a waterfront venue by the jetty around sundown. They change their menu weekly and their hot fried chicken are heavenly. Try their homemade cocktail. Next move to Yangon’s only Reggae bar, 7th Joint, at the corner of Mahabandoola and 48th street. It’s kinda hard to find but once there, ask for their very own Whiskey and fresh coconut juice concoction. We guarantee you will be addicted. Once you’re all relaxed to reggae music, change the scene and hop into a cab to Roof Alchemy at Yangon International Hotel for some molecular drinks, cocktails on a plate and shisha. End the night and follow the trail of red paw prints at Yaw Min Gyi area to the front door of The Blind Tiger. You won’t be able to go in until someone opens the door from the inside. After all that sweet stuff, try TBT’s Spiked Tiger – chilli-infused margarita. Talk about hawt stuff! When hunger strikes, Toba is just around the corner. They’re open 24 hours and serve Indonesian food.

Natty is a bubbly personality lady who has fallen in love with Myanmar three years ago and recently decided to move here. She loves meeting new people, discovering new places, restaurants, bars and interesting stories in Myanmar. She is a true social butterfly and her friends usually say “Natty is everywhere”.

KnowIt is a survival guide on where to go and what to do, for both new comers and old timers EnjoyIt is a dining & nightlife guide InDepth is a monthly lifestyle magazine Yangon map gives you detailed information on how to navigate Yangon MYANMORE Card entitles you to up to 50% off on 70 restaurants, cafes, bars, spas, travel agencies, bookstores and gyms throughout Yangon.

To sign up, go to www.myanmore.com/yangon/card

3rd EDITION Feb 2015 - June 2015

EnjoyIt / February 2015

MYANMORE Weekly Guide brings you up-to-date information about weekly happenings around Yangon

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MYANMORE is committing to creating great content and experiences

street bars Beer Stations ?? Any Beer Station, Anywhere

01503232 PP 9:00am to 10pm

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PP 11am to 11pm

With their plastic chairs, rickety tables and rustic fans, it’s hard to differentiate between the local versions of pubs. Some personal favourites include the one located at Shwegondine junction, which offers a Shwedagon view; and Zaw’s Bar, located shortly after the Hledan Bridge on Baho Road. Just look for the distinctive green and red logo of Myanmar Beer and groups of local men sitting around sipping their beers and whiskeys - sometimes mixed together.

19th Street

The little brother of the venue on 19th Street, this is a bigger venue which offers sports on TV, the perfect people-watching hangout, as well as the same great, cheap cocktails that are offered downtown. There’s good food too.

New Kosan ?? Follow 19th Street down to the end of the street PP till late

If you go a bit further on 19th Street, you will come upon New Kosan, where you can buy drinks for very cheap, as low as 800 kyat for a mojito.

?? 19th Street (between Mahabandoola and Anawratha Roads), Downtown.

PP 11am to late

Off the beaten track ?? Kandawgyi Park, Kandawgyi Lake, Mingalar Taung Nyunt township.

There may be a day when this bustling street in Chinatown becomes Yangon’s answer to Bangkok’s Khao San Road, but for now it remains a lively place for food and drinks, as well as a place to experience genuine Asian street-life. A popular spot is the Kosan Bar, which is famed for its cheap cocktails.

Kandawgyi Park ?? Karaweik Park, Kan Yeik Thar Road, Mingalar Taung Nyunt township

095416437 PP 11am to 11pm BB

OTBT started as a casual, "travel-style" cafe and bar - a place where folks can come in and chill, have food and drinks and exchange info about ways to travel to the off-the-beaten roads around Myanmar. Seatings are gazebo-style and outdoors. On occasions, OTBT hosts outdoor concerts.

PP 7am to 9pm

Sports Bar Outdoor seating, lake views and many different restaurants and beer stations. It’s popular every night of the week, particularly for inlove couples. Foreigners are charged 300Ks to enter the park area.

Kosan Bar, Hledan ?? 18 U Tin Lin Chan Street (off Insein Road just after Hledan junction), Hledan, Kamayut township.

?? 20 Pearl St, Mya Yeik Nyo Royal Hotel, Shwe Taung Gyar Ward PP 6pm to late

From the name, you would think this place only shows sports but it actually also doubles as a restaurant and bar. All outdoor. Very popular in evenings amongst the local crowd.

7th JOINT Cocktail: 7th Joint Breeze Bacardi / Peach liqueur / Cranberry juice / Sweet and sour mix served over ice Perfect for: a reggae night RANGOON BAR Cocktail: Kipling’s Last Toast Champagne / Lychee / Brandy ​Perfect for: lounging out in the patio ​with good mates ROOF ALCHEMY Cocktail: The Cold Mist Smirnoff vodka / Mango liqueur /Hazelnut syrup / Passion fruit puree/ Fresh lime juice/ Dash of Angostura Bitter Perfect for: chilling with friends

THE BLIND TIGER Cocktail: The Spiked Tiger Tequila / Fresh lime juice / Chilli / Coriander Perfect for: feline fine under the moon’s shine.

THE LAB Cocktail: Yangon Night Bourbon / Lemon juice / Bitter, egg, topped with red wine and cinnamon.

Perfect fo: adventurous taste buds and sexy escapades TURBO BAR Cocktail: Bloody Shirley Temple Absolute vodka Malibu / Grenadine Perfect for: when you need a shot of adrenalin UNION BAR Cocktail: Fig & Vanilla Smash Bourbon / Fresh lemon juice/ Vanilla & fig syrup / Mint leaves Perfect for: a date night

EnjoyIt / February 2015

We love cocktails. We can't sing enough praises for them. We love them so much we want to move the entire office within a cocktail bar. A good cocktail is subjective to one's liking and preference. It doesn't always have to be about sweetness, and a good mixologist knows this. It has to have the right balance and the right ingredients, so that when combined and then dressed up, makes you go, "You had me at hello".

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cocktail guide

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The nightclub scene in Yangon has seen a significant increase in the number of crossovers from the bar/pubgoers to club-goers despite them being pretty much about the same in terms of music, space, laser lights, drinks and concept. They are usually the last stop on a night out, when one is slightly inebriated and wants to dance and absorb the atmosphere of Yangon's club culture.

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nightclubs

Credit: The Pictureman

nightclubs

MOJO

Winner!

?? 135 Inya Road, close to junction with Dhammazedi Road, Bahan Township, Yangon 01511418

Open till the wee hours, it tends to be a place where people go as a last stop before the night closes in. Expect to see your fair share of ladies of the night.

PP 2 pm to midnight

DJ Bar runner-up!

BB $5 - $25

?? U Tun Nyein Street, Yankin Township (near Inya

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Lake Hotel), Yangon.

Undeniably known as one of the best nightclubs in town, MOJO has elevated themselves by hosting weekly events and sending DJs from abroad for their dance music. Attracting both expats and locals, the place is always buzzing with old and new faces enjoying the night out.

With loud music, protective bouncers and a rickety dancefloor, it can be fun – but make sure you’re suitably inebriated first.

Cafe Liberal runner-up!

GTR runner-up!

?? Natmauk Road, (Next to the Chatrium hotel)

095116767 PP 9 pm to 3 am Starting at $3

?? 37, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road (near DJ Bar and Inya

Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, Yangon.

096420930

Lake Hotel), Yangon 0973090680

PP 11 pm to 5 am

PP 10 pm to 3 am BB

Starting at $2.5

Starting at $3

Playing dance music interspersed with the latest hits, it attracts the hip Yangoners. There’s a nice seating area where you can chill and chat.

The “most modern club in Yangon; a must to go to when you are looking for a good time,” so the club says about itself. Caters for the young and hip. It’s one big room, the music’s not too loud which allows for some conversation in the seating area. Music is latest hits, r&b, hip hop.

Pioneer runner-up! ?? Yangon International Hotel Compound, 330 Ahlone Road, Dagon Township, Yangon 01248944 PP 10 pm to 3 am BB $7 entry gets you one beer. Beer cans for $3

Probably Yangon’s most genuine club, it’s an animated place which plays some mildly questionable music, but unlike some of the city’s other late-night venues, the crowd appears to be here to enjoy themselves without any ulterior motives.

Credit: The Pictureman

BEST KARAOKE

Credit: John Liu

Pwint Thit San Food Centre & Family KTV Runner-Up! ?? 520/A, Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, KohMinn KohChin Ward,Bahan Township, Yangon

Music Box WINNER! ?? Yangon International Hotel Compound, 330

01553644 Ext;111, 018603045, 0973040040 PP 8 am to 5 am

Ahlone Road, Dagon Township, Yangon

For food $1.5 to $8.5

0973036433

For KTV $6 - $15 for a session

PP 11 am to 2 pm and 6 pm to 2 am.

BB

Local Cafe / food centre on the ground level & KTV $8 - $25

G6 Karaoke Resort Runner-Up! ?? No.69/D, 6 ½ Mile, Bo Lat Lane, Hlaing

facility in the basement.

Relax Karaoke Runner-Up! ?? No.75, Kyaikkasan Road, Tarmwe Township,

Township, Yangon

Yangon

09422208183, 0973117812

01542682, 0973081896

PP 2 pm to 2 am

PP 8pm to 2am

Starting from $25 - $80

Happy KTV Karaoke ?? 1-A4, Ywar Ma Kyaung Street, Hlaing

Starting at $10 per hour

Utopia Family KTV Runner-Up! ?? Kan Daw Gyi Natural Park (Bogyoke Park),

Township, Yangon.

09254022231 $15 per hour

Bahan Township, Yangon.

09422540774 PP 9 am to 11 pm BB

M3 Runner-Up!

$5 - $15 for a session

?? Shwe Gon Daing Road, Bahan Sports Ground, Shwe Gon Daing (West) Ward, Bahan Township, Yangon 01375700 PP 9:00 am to 11:00 pm $6.5 - $12

Winner II KTV ?? 105/A, Hnin Si Gone Street, Ahlone Township, Yangon 01704166, 08610573 $15 per hour

EnjoyIt / February 2015

If you enjoy singing along to old or new melodies, Karaoke is for you. Like most Asian cities, Yangon has plenty of options for those looking for a different kind of night out. We asked our readers for their pick of best karaoke places in town.

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Karaoke is enjoyed by many people all over the world and here, singing is part of the tradition and culture. Many Karaoke venues have opened up recently and it's enjoyed by both locals and foreigners.

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MYANMORE is the leading entertainment and lifestyle guide to Yangon. We are available all over town to give you tips and advice! The VISITOR MAP you are holding right now is intended for you to easily get around and enjoy our wonderful city.

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Pearl Cousins Grill Chatime Condo La Tartine Mai Thai Lotteria Yangon Bakehouse HA SI TH Yoogane ATHA NA

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Our DINING AND NIGHTLIFE GUIDE takes you out to the best food, drink and party venues around town.

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25th st 26th st

23rd st 24th st

21st st 22ndst

19th st 20th st

17th st 18th st

15th st 16th st

Kheng Hock Keong (Chinese Temple)

Theingyi Market

KON ZAY DAN ST

Markets

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Hospitals

Sri Kali (Hindu Temple)

BO YWE ST

Shopping

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Activities

LAN MA LAN MA DAW DAW ST ST

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11th st 12th st

9th st 10th st

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Yangon General Hospital

SHWE TAUNG TAN ST

Residential Buidlings

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Office Buildings

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Restaurants, Cafes, Bars, Clubs

KAING DAN ST

Hotels

Junction Mawtin 5th st 6th st

Point of Interest

WAR TAN ST

Tourist Attractions and Landmarks

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YMCA Cathedral of Holy Trinity (Anglican)

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BO TA HTAUNG PAGODA RD

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Orchid Hotel

Thar Thar Transportation

49th st 50th st 51st st

46th st 47th st 48th st

THElN BYU ST

43rd st

BO GALAY ZAY ST

41st st 42nd st

39th st 40th st

BO AUNG KYAW ST

SEIK KAN THA ST

37th st 38th st

35th st 36th st

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BO SON PAT ST

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FIRE 191 AMBULANCE 192, 500005 POLICE 199 TOURIST POLICE 01- 378479 TOURIST INFORMATION 01- 371910, 374281 INTERNATIONAL SOS CLINIC 01-667877, 667879 THANLYET SOON RD Inya Lake Hotel 37 Kabar Aye Pagoda Road

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Myanmore awards We would like to congratulate the winners of the 2015 Myanmore Awards, along with the runner-ups. Looking forward to a year of savory dishes and scrumptious appetite!

Best Myanmar Restaurant - Feel Myanmar Food - Minn Lan Rakhine Seafood - Padonmar Restaurant - Shan Yoe Yar - Green Elephant - Rangoon Teahouse - House of Memories Best Thai Restaurant - Sabai Sabai - Chew Q - Green Gallery - Legacy Thai Restaurant - Le Nacha - Mai Thai - Pattaya Thai Restaurant - Thai Kitchen Best Indian Restaurant - Coriander Leaf - Nepali Food House - Ingyin Restaurant - Titu’s Indian Banana Leaf Restaurant - Golden City Chetty Restaurant Best Chinese Restaurant - Golden Duck - Golden Crab - Summer Palace @ Sule Shangri-La - Si Chuan Dou Hua @ Parkroyal - Kou Fu - First House - Fook Mun Lau

- Royal Garden Restaurant - The Muses Best Korean Restaurant - Arirang Restaurant - Dae Won Gak - KPC Korean Food - Yoogane - Hanil Kwan, Mr. Kim Korean Restaurant - Han Kook Kwan Korean BBQ Best General Japanese Restaurant - Kohaku Japanese Restaurant @ Chatrium - Yhet’s Sushi & Soba - Maru - Anaimo - Yamagoya Ramen - Katsu - Shiki-Tei @ Parkroyal - Ichiban Kan Best Teppanyaki, Yakitori, or Yakiniku Restaurant - Haru Yakiniku - Kobeya - Nagasaki Tei - Manpuku - Hokaido Best Southeast Asian Restaurant - House of Singapura - Monsoon Restaurant - Toba Restaurant & Café

- Vietnam Kitchen - Ya Kun Coffee & Toast - Singapore Kitchen - Crustacean Best Western Restaurant - Sharky’s - Cousins Grill - 50th Street Café Restaurant Bar - Union Bar & Grill - Peppers Diner - Onyx - Acacia Tea Salon Best Italian Restaurant - L ’Opera Italian Restaurant & Bar - Vino di Zanotti - Orzo @ Sedona - Aux Saisons - Café Dibar - Café Napoli Best French Restaurant - Le Planteur - L’Alchimiste - Le Bistrot @ Savoy - Agnes @ Kandawgyi Palace Hotel - Shwe Sa Bwe Best Fine Dining - L ’Opera Italian Restaurant & Bar - Vino di Zanotti - Le Planteur - Shwe Sa Bwe

Best Bakery - Acacia Tea Salon - Parisian Cake & Coffee - Il Fornaio Bakery @ L ’Opera - Sharky’s - Yangon Bake House - La Tartine Best Tapas - The Lab - Bonanza - The Blind Tiger - Gekko - Escape Gastro Bar Best Burger - Savoy Hotel - Union Bar & Grill - The Strand Grill @ The Strand Hotel - The Blind Tiger - 50th Street Café Restaurant Bar - Fatman Steak & Bistro Best Pizza - Peperoni Pizzeria - Parami Pizza - 50th Street Café Restaurant Bar - Union Bar & Grill - Vino di Zanotti

Best Outdoor Dining - L ’Opera Italian Restaurant & Bar - Padonmar Restaurant - L’Alchimiste - Belmond Governor’s Residence - Vino Di Zanotti - Shwe Sa Bwe - Signature Restaurant - Alamanda Inn - Agnes @ Kandawgyi Palace Hotel Best Sunday Brunch - Café Sule @ Sule Shangri La - Port Autonomy - Kipling’s Restaurant @ Savoy Hotel - Sedona Hotel - Orchid Restaurant @ Inya Lake Hotel - Union Bar & Grill - Agnes @ Kandawgyi Palace Hotel - Spice Brasserie @ Park Royal Hotel - Acacia Tea Salon Best Service - L ’Opera Italian Restaurant &Bar - Vino di Zanotti - Belmond Governor’s Residence (Restaurants) - Le Planteur - L’Alchimiste - Sule Shangri La (Restaurants) - The Strand Hotel (Grill & Bar)

Best Hotel Nightlife - Club Rizzoli @ Chatrium - Gallery Bar @ Sule Shangri La - Club 5 @ Park Royal - The Strand Bar - Ice Bar @ Sedona Best Bar - MOJO - 50th Street Café Restaurant Bar - Union Bar & Grill - Escape Gastro Bar - The Lab - Cask 81 - The Blind Tiger - Gekko Best Nightclub - MOJO - Pioneer Club - Café Liberal - GTR - DJ Bar Best Karaoke - Music Box - M3 - Family KTV - Relax Karaoke - Utopia Family KTV - G6 Best Weekly/ Monthly Social Event - Monday Blues @ MOJO - Pansodan Tuesdays @ Pansodan Art Gallery - Fab Party by YG Events - French Love Friday @ Institut Français de Birmanie - Monday Pub Quiz @ 50th Street Café Restaurant Bar - Boat Party by Yangon Boat Party - Jam It! - Mojito Night @ The Lab

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Best Café - Easy Café - Ya Kun Coffee & Toast - Bar Boon - Coffee Club - Coffee Circles - Nervin Café & Bistro

- L ’Opera Italian Restaurant & Bar

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- Water Library - L’Alchimiste - Acacia Tea Salon - The Strand Grill @ Strand Hotel - Belmond Governor’s Residence

myanmore card deals

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RESTAURANT 50TH STREET BAR - 20% off on total bill between 11am to 3pm every day at this institution amongst locals, expats and tourists. You will also get 10% on main course for dinner servings.

999 SHAN NOODLE HOUSE - Enjoy 10% off of total bill and Get one dish of myanmar salad or seasonal fruit for 4 people and above.

CHATRIUM HOTEL @ KOHAKU JAPANESE RESTAURANT - 15% saving on A La Carte Menu at Chatrium Hotel’s Japanese Restaurant - Minimum 2 people - Mon to Thu - Booking required.

CHATRIUM LOBBY LOUNGE - 20% saving on Hi Tea Special from 3pm to 5pm at Chatrium Lobby lounge.

Mon to Sun CHATRIUM HOTEL @ THE EMPORIA RESTAURANT AT - 15% saving on international buffet dinner at The Emporia Restaurant in Chatrium hotel.

- Advance Booking Required/ Monday to Sundays/4 persons per card.

CHATRIUM HOTEL @ TIGER HILL CHINESE RESTAURANT AT - 15% saving on A La Carte Menu at Chatrium Hills Chinese Restaurant, Tiger Hill Chinese Restaurant.

- Minimum order 2 person.

- Mon – Thurs - Advance Booking required - 4 people / card EDO ZUSHI JAPANESE RESTAURANT - Enjoy 20% Off on total bill between 11 AM to 5 PM Every day at Edo Zushi Japanese Restaurant & You can get 5% off on dinner seating.

ELIQ RESTAURANT - 10% discount on total bill anytime.

- Cannot be used with other promotions.

- Unlimited number of people.

- Booking required.

ESCAPE GASTRO BAR - Enjoy 40% off the total food bill and 10% on the drinks between 11am and 6pm during the whole week.

- This offer can be used together with the 2-4-1 beer

offer on Sundays.

GEKKO - Enjoy 20% off on Lunch 11 to 4pm Monday to Saturday and Sunday’s all day at Gekko.

GINZA TEPPAN-YAKI @ OCEAN SHWE GONE DINE - Enjoy 20% off your total bill on Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

GOLDEN KITCHEN TORI - Enjoy 2 for 1 drinks from 6 to 8, every day.

HOUSE OF SINGAPURA - Enjoy 10% off on total bill Monday-Friday dinner (from 5pm) and 20% off on food Saturday-Sunday all day.

KOKINE BAR & RESTAURANT - 1 free cocktail or long drink from the menu for at least 1 european main dish ordered at this bright restaurant and bar with outdoor seating by the pool.

- Deal is valid everyday.

- Only valid for cardholder.

L’ALCHIMISTE FRENCH RESTAURANT - Enjoy discounts every day at this French dining res-

LA MAISON 20 - Enjoy 20% off your total bill @ La Maison 20 - This deal is valid for the cardholder and up to 8 pax only.

L ’Opera ITALIAN RESTAURANT AND BAR - Enjoy 10% discount on the a la carte bill (not valid for set menu, business lunch, and promotions), valid only for cash payments.

- Maximum of 8 pax - Valid Monday – Sunday, for Lunch or Dinner MONSOON RESTAURANT AND BAR YANGON - Enjoy multiple discounts at this south-east asian restaurant located in a colonial building.

- Food & Drink: Total Bill 10% off (Mon – Fri: 10am – 5pm) - Afternoon Tea Set: 9,000ks ++ , 15% off, 2pm – 5 pm, 4 pax - Cooking Class: 50,000ks / person, 15% off, 2 days advance booking (everyday except Tuesday) PADONMAR RESTAURANT - Free glass of wine or beer with lunch or dinner.

PEPERONI PIZZERIA - 10% off on total bill. Everyday.

PORT AUTONOMY - 20% off on your food bill.

Free alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink when ordering food.

- (Small print) Limited to one drink per person.Excludes wine. Minimum of one dish per person.

SEDONA HOTEL @ BRASSERIE - Enjoy 15% off in all outlets (restaurants, lobby and icebar) excluding cover charge and deli + festive promotion.

SEDONA HOTEL @ DUFU CHINESE RESTAURANT - Enjoy 15% off in all outlets (restaurants, lobby and icebar) excluding cover charge and deli + festive promotion.

SEDONA HOTEL @ LOBBY LOUNGE - Enjoy 15% off in all outlets (restaurants, lobby and icebar) excluding cover charge and deli + festive promotion.

SEDONA HOTEL @ ORZO ITALIAN RESTAURANT

- Enjoy 15% off in all outlets (restaurants, lobby and icebar) excluding cover charge and deli + festive promotion.

SUMMIT PARKVIEW HOTEL @ PARKVIEW CAFE’ - Enjoy 5% discount on Food and Beverage @ Parkview Cafe'.

- Not including outside catering.

- Not valid for promotions and set lunch/dinner.

- No discount for cakes.

SUMMIT PARKVIEW HOTEL @ DAGON LOUNGE - Enjoy 5% discount on Food and Beverage @ Dagon Lounge.

- Not including outside catering.

- Not valid for promotions and set lunch/dinner.

- No discount for cakes.

Thai 47 - Enjoy 30% Off total bill (Mon to Thu) - Enjoy 15% Off total bill (Fri,Sat & Sun) - Enjoy 2 for 1 drinks from 7pm onwards - Note: Advanced booking require on Fri,Sat & Sun THE MANHATTAN FISH MARKET - Enjoy Free serving of “Garlic Herb Mussels” with minimum spending of 50,000 Kyats.Maximum party size of 4. Not valid on Saturdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays.

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- Must order a minimum of two main dishes per person. Not valid on Set Menu.

- Two person per card.

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taurant which is located at the bank of Inya lake. It’s a great place to eat and celebrate birthday party and dinner party.

Mon, Tue: 25% Wed, Thu: 15% Fri to Sun: 10% *All discounts on total bill 4 people / card

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TITUS INDIAN BANANA LEAF - Enjoy a free dessert upon presentation of the card.

No conditions. 1 card per person per day. Choose among desserts like Gulab Jamun, Kulfi and Halwa.

TOBA RESTAURANT & CAFE - Night Birds Promotion!!!

- 30% discount on normal menu price of total bill - Offer is valid from 12 am to 5 am - Monday to Thursday Only!

UNION BAR AND GRILL - Get 20% off lunch time, 11am to 4pm, at Union Bar & Grill, a popular and relaxed spot in downtown.

VINO DE ZANOTTI - Enjoy 15% off total bill for lunch A la carte, food and beverage.

1 on all food items on Sunday, all day.

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK - 10% off all drinks anytime at this Café/Bar in downtown Yangon, created for independent travelers to meet and exchange updated information on traveling in Myanmar - One person per card.

- No booking required.

ICE BAR @ SEDONA HOTEL - Enjoy 15% off in all outlets (restaurants, lobby and icebar) excluding cover charge and deli + festive promotion.

CAFE BARISTA LAVAZZA - 10% off of total bill at the exclusive seller of Lavazza brand coffee in Myanmar.

Available every day.

BAR & CLUB

-

BELMOND GOVERNORS RESIDENCE @ KIPLING BAR 2 for 1 on drinks at the Bar from 18:00 – 22:00 during the week.

CLUB RIZZOLI - 20% saving on total bill from 10pm onwards in the bar of Chatrium Hotel.

- Saturday and Sunday. Up to six people.

MOJO BAR - Enjoy 2 for 1 drinks from 2 to 7, every day and 2 for

EASY CAFE & RESTAURANT - 10% off total bill with a minimum spending of 6,000 Kyats in a single receipt.

- Only applicable from 5 pm onwards.

NERVIN CAFE AND BISTRO - 15% off total bill at this pioneering Cafe & Bistro Chain with outlet at Kandawgyi Lake.

- Cannot be combined with other discounts or promos.

- Monday to Friday. No booking required.

- Up to four people on each card

DESSERT FROZEE - Monday - Friday (Opening Till 6 pm) - Buy 1 Get 1 Free (80g gelato cup/160g gelato cup)

SPA CALIFORNIA SKIN SPA - Enjoy 20% off any treatment and services. Max 3 persons per card.

D'LAX SPA - 10% discount for 1 person and 15% discount for 2 person visit (at least 1 card holder) on Weekdays happy hours ( 1100-1500 on Mon-Thu) - For Weekends: Fri-Sun – 5% discount for 1 person and 10% discount for 2 person visit (at least 1 card holder) - Advance Booking required.

INYA DAY SPA - 15% off SPA SERVICES or 10% off THAI FULL BODY MASSAGE. - Mon – Fri.1 person / card Sense Spa - 20% discount for all available spa services - Mondays - Sundays - Advance Booking Required : Advanced booking preferred - 1 person per card PHOENIX SPA - 10% Discount for one person. 20% Discount for two person for facial treatment only.

THAYA DAY SPA - 15% off SPA SERVICES or 10% off THAI FULL BODY MASSAGE. - Mon – Fri, 1 person / card

SEVEN FRIDAY SWISS WATCHES - For each purchase of a watch you get a Food voucher worth 20,000 ks to be used at House of Singapura, Peperoni and Ya Kun.

GYM BALANCE FITNESS - 15% discount for: - 6 months or a one year membership contract - Monthly package for classes of $120 for 10 classes - Discount apply to Silver, Gold or Platinum membership - Discount cannot be added with other promotions CHATRIUM HEALTH CLUB - 10% saving on daily rate/ Mon – Sun

SHOPPING ELEGANT GEMS JEWELLERY & SOUVENIR - 15% off on selected items Excluding Pearl, Jade, Loose gems and 18 K Gold

VESTIGE MERCANTILE & RELICS - Get 10% discount on total bill.

- Discounts can only be claimed at: - Vestige Flagship Store, Yangon - Vestige Flagship Store, Nay Pyi Taw - Vestige Kiosk, Avenue 64 Hotel.

ACTIVITY HOLA - Enjoy 15% discount on F&B when doing a private event at Hola Bar & 15 min private lesson sampling or 1 hour group lesson trial

TRAINING MONUMENT BOOKS - 10% discount on any purchased superior to 50,000 ks,Mon – Fri,1 people / card

EDUCATION MWS BEVERAGE ACADEMY - Enjoy 10% discount on any WSET wine courses

HOTEL BUSINESS ALLIANCE HOTEL - 15% off on any room type at this hotel, strategically located in the heart of Yangon City and the ideal place for your business and leisure needs.

ORCHID HOTEL - 15% off on all published room rates - Applicable from Sundays to Thursday Only - Advance booking required - One person per card THAHARA A. 5% off the published rates (www.thahara.com) for all package booking in high season ( Oct to April) B. 10% off the published rates (www.thahara.com) for all package booking in Green season (May to September), please note that all the properties are closed in annual renovation and maintenance.

SERVICES HINTHA BUSINESS CENTRES - One hour free wifi + a cup of coffee once a month per card.

K & H TRAVELS CO.,LTD - Buy one get 10$ off second guest on any mini getaway tour.

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PATRICK ROBERT THE GALLERY - Enjoy 10% discount on any product

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- Wednesday & Tuesday a week & 2 person per card - Please kindly book the session.

BUY YOUR MYANMORE CARD

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HERE! MYANMORE Office - 1st Floor, Annex Bld, Strand Hotel, 92 Strand Rd, Kyauktada Tsp - 01-375680 50TH STREET BAR - 9/13, 50th Street, tahtaung Township - 1-397 060

Bo-

Balance Fitness (Avenue 64 Hotel) - 64 (G), Kyaik Wine Pagoda Road,Yangon - 01 656 916

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Monument Bookstore - 150, Dhamazedi Road, Bahan Township, Yangon Inya Day Spa - 16/2, Inya Rd, Yangon - 1 537 907 Padonmar Restaurant - No.105/107, Kha-Yae-Bin Road, Dagon Township, Yangon

- Between Pyin Daung Su Yeik Tha (Halpin Road) and - Manawhari Road/Ahlone Road.

- Tel/Fax : +95 1 538895, +95 9 73029973, 73108606 Orchid Hotel - 91, Anawrahta Road, Pazundaung Township, Yangon - 01-399930, 01-704740

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