Food History of Sittwe, Myanmar (Burma)
Sittwe, the capital city of the Rakhine State in Myanmar, boasts a rich culinary history that is influenced by the geographical location and cultural interactions throughout history. Being a coastal city, Sittwe has a unique blend of flavors that are centered around seafood. The local Rakhine cuisine is known for its emphasis on spicy flavors, fish-based broths, and use of fresh herbs. Throughout the years, the city has also had influences from Indian, Bangladeshi, and other Southeast Asian cuisines, given its strategic position on the Bay of Bengal. Rakhine Mo:Ti is a notable traditional dish, a rice congee mixed with fish or shrimp, which has been passed down through generations in Sittwe. Due to its proximity to the sea, dried fish and ngapi (fermented seafood paste) are often used as a staple in many dishes. Moreover, Sittwe's markets are filled with a variety of fresh produce that also contributes to its diverse food scene.
Top 10 Food Dishes in Sittwe, Myanmar (Burma)
- Mohinga - A rich and savory fish broth soup served over vermicelli noodles, decorated with banana stem, boiled eggs, and fritters. It's considered one of Myanmar's national dishes and is a non-veg staple.
- Rakhine Mo:Ti - A spicy Rakhine style rice congee with lemongrass, fish or shrimp that provides a burst of traditional flavors. This non-veg dish is a unique Rakhine experience.
- Mont Di - A non-veg dish of rice noodles served with fish soup, it’s similar to Mohinga but with a distinct Rakhine twist.
- Thoke - Salads (thoke) can vary in ingredients, with options like tomato salad which is vegetarian, or the non-veg pennywort salad that sometimes includes shrimp.
- Ngapi Daung - A spicy condiment made from ngapi (fermented seafood paste), commonly used in various dishes or served as a side. Non-veg by nature.
- Grilled Fish - As a seaside city, grilled fish are found in abundance. Delicacies like grilled mackerel or snapper are non-veg and often enjoyed with local sauces.
- Rakhine Noodles - A spicy noodle dish served with a side of fish soup, creating a mouthwatering non-veg option that’s unique to Rakhine State.
- Fried Tofu - A vegetarian snack made from yellow bean powder, which is very popular across Myanmar, including Sittwe. It's served with a tangy tamarind dip.
- Burmese Curry - Typically non-veg, curries in Myanmar generally involve fish or seafood, simmered with vegetables and traditional spices.
- Tea Leaf Salad - Known as Lahpet Thoke, it is a vegetarian dish that features fermented tea leaves, various seeds and nuts, and diced tomatoes.
Top Famous Restaurants in Sittwe, Myanmar (Burma)
- Golden Island Restaurant
Address: Strand Road, Sittwe
Famous Food: Rakhine Traditional Foods, particularly their non-veg Rakhine Mo:Ti.
- Ah Kaw Thar
Address: Main Road, Sittwe
Famous Food: Mohinga and other traditional Myanmar non-veg dishes.
- View Point Restaurant
Address: Point Road, near the Point Beach, Sittwe
Famous Food: Variety of seafood dishes, predominantly non-veg, but also offers some vegetarian options with a great view.
Always check with individual places for the latest operating times and whether they have vegetarian options before visiting. Worth mentioning, many restaurants in Myanmar, including those in Sittwe, can be flexible and may cater to special dietary requests when informed in advance.
