Kyauk Taw Gyi Pagoda, Mandalay, Myanmar: A Culinary Journey

The Kyauk Taw Gyi Pagoda in Mandalay is not just a spiritual hub but also a center where one can explore the rich culinary traditions of Myanmar. Mandalay, being the cultural capital of Myanmar, has a food history that is a blend of various local ethnic cuisines, as well as influences from neighboring countries like India, China, and Thailand. The gastronomy around the pagoda reflects the infusion of these diverse flavors, ensuring that visitors get a taste of authentic Burmese cuisine with traces of royal influences from the time when Mandalay was the country's last royal capital.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes Near Kyauk Taw Gyi Pagoda

1. Mohinga (Non-veg): A rice noodle and fish soup that is considered the national dish of Myanmar; it can be enjoyed for breakfast or lunch.
2. Tea Leaf Salad (Laphet Thoke) (Veg): A unique salad made with fermented tea leaves, mixed with a variety of nuts and seeds, offering a distinct flavor profile.
3. Shan Noodles (Non-veg): Hailing from the Shan State, this dish consists of rice noodles served with a mix of chicken or pork, cooked in a tomato-based sauce.
4. Chapatis with Bean Curry (Veg): Influenced by Indian cuisine, this simple yet savory dish is made of unleavened flatbread served with a spicy bean curry.
5. Samosa Salad (Samuza Thoke) (Veg): A deconstructed samosa mixed with fresh vegetables and tamarind sauce, creating a tangy and crunchy treat.
6. Burmese Tofu (Shan Tofu) (Veg): Unlike traditional soy tofu, Burmese tofu is made from chickpea flour, and is often served as fritters or in salads.
7. Curried Eggplant (Kha Yan Thee Hnut) (Veg): Eggplant is simmered in a rich curry made with tomatoes, garlic, and shallots, delivering a hearty vegetarian option.
8. Chicken Biryani (Danpauk) (Non-veg): Aromatic rice cooked with spices and marinated chicken, influenced by the Indian biryani but with a Burmese twist.
9. Sticky Rice with Mango (Veg): A sweet dessert featuring glutinous rice paired with ripe mango and coconut milk.
10. Burmese Sweet Snacks (Moun) (Veg): A variety of traditional sweet treats made from rice flour, coconut, jaggery, and fruits, perfect for ending the meal on a sweet note.

Top Famous Restaurants Near Kyauk Taw Gyi Pagoda

• Aye Myit Tar

  Address: 22nd St, between 66th and 67th Street, Mandalay

  Famous Food: Mohinga (Non-veg)

• Shan Ma Ma

  Address: 84th Street, between 26th and 27th Street, Mandalay

  Famous Food: Shan Noodles (Non-veg)

• Mingalabar Myanmar Restaurant

  Address: 71st Street, between 28th and 29th Street, Mandalay

  Famous Food: Chicken Biryani (Danpauk) (Non-veg)

• Marie Min

  Address: 27th St, between 74th and 75th Street, Mandalay

  Famous Food: Vegetarian Thali (Veg)

• Too Too

  Address: 27th St, Corner of 74th St, Mandalay

  Famous Food: Burmese Tofu Salad (Veg)

While exploring the Kyauk Taw Gyi Pagoda and its surroundings, tourists have the rewarding opportunity to indulge in these culinary delights at the listed restaurants and many street-side eateries scattered around the area. Whether you are a fan of spicy, sweet, tangy, or savory flavors, Mandalay’s food scene near Kyauk Taw Gyi Pagoda offers something to satisfy every palate.