Must-Try Foods In Innwa Ancient City (Mandalay) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Innwa Ancient City, Mandalay, Myanmar (Burma)

Innwa (Ava), located near Mandalay, is an ancient city with a rich history that dates back to the 14th century. The traditional cuisine of Innwa and the surrounding Mandalay region is a reflection of Myanmar's cultural diversity, integrating influences from neighboring countries like India, China, and Thailand. The food here is characterized by its bold flavors, extensive use of herbs and spices, and a balance of sour, salty, sweet, and spicy elements. Historically, Innwa's royal kitchens were renowned for their culinary creativity, reflecting the sophistication of the ancient royal court.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Innwa Ancient City

• Mohinga (Non-Veg) - This is Myanmar's unofficial national dish, a hearty fish broth with rice noodles, usually served for breakfast.
• Tea Leaf Salad (Laphet Thohk) (Veg) - A unique salad made from fermented tea leaves and a mix of crunchy nuts and beans.
• Shan Noodles (Non-Veg) - Originating from the Shan State, these rice noodles are typically served with marinated chicken or pork and a hearty tomato-based sauce.
• Tohu Nway (Veg) - A warm salad made from Shan tofu, which is made of chickpea flour instead of soybeans, creating a unique texture and flavor.
• Burmese Curry (Non-Veg) - Unlike Indian curries, Burmese curries are less spicy and typically served with an array of side dishes, including vegetables.
• Chapati (Veg) - Influenced by Indian cuisine, these flatbreads are a staple in Myanmar and often served with dhal or other vegetarian curries.
• Samusa Thohk (Veg) - A Burmese-style salad made with samosas, cabbage, and various other ingredients in a tangy dressing.
• Mont Di (Non-Veg) - A noodle dish which can be enjoyed either in a fish-based soup or as a salad, often garnished with deep-fried fritters.
• Monhinga (Non-Veg) - A less-known variation of Mohinga that includes banana stem as an ingredient for an additional texture.
• Burmese Sweet Snacks (Mont) (Veg) - A term that covers a variety of traditional Burmese sweets, often made from coconut, rice flour, and jaggery.

Top Famous Restaurants in Innwa Ancient City and Their Specialties

• Innwa Traditional Myanmar Food
  Address: No. 3, Innwa Street, Mandalay
  Famous Dish: Mohinga (Non-Veg)
• Green Elephant Restaurant
  Address: No. 3A, 27th Street, between 74th and 75th Street, Mandalay
  Famous Dish: Tea Leaf Salad (Laphet Thohk) (Veg)
• Ko's Kitchen Shan Cuisine
  Address: 66th Street, Between 26th and 27th Street, Mandalay
  Famous Dish: Shan Noodles (Non-Veg)
• Marie Min Vegetarian Restaurant
  Address: 27th Street, Between 74th and 75th Street, Mandalay
  Famous Dish: Veggie Curry with Chapati (Veg)
• Shan Ma Ma
  Address: 81st Street, Between 29th and 30th Street, Mandalay
  Famous Dish: Tohu Nway (Veg)

Each of these restaurants offers a glimpse into the rich culinary history of Innwa and provides a diverse range of flavors from Myanmar's traditional cuisine.