Food History of Thatbyinnyu Temple, Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)
While Thatbyinnyu Temple itself, a majestic structure standing tall among the pagodas of Bagan, is not known for a unique food history, the region around it is rich with culinary traditions that stem from Myanmar's diverse cultural influences. Bagan's cuisine is characterized by flavors from various regions of Myanmar, including Shan, Rakhine, and Mon state influences. The use of local ingredients such as tamarind, ngapi (a fermented fish or shrimp paste), and a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs are notable. Traditional cooking often involves methods such as grilling, stewing, and baking in bamboo. Meals are typically served with an assortment of side dishes, condiments, and salads.
Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Thatbyinnyu Temple, Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)
- Mohinga (Non-Veg) - Often considered the national dish of Myanmar, Mohinga is a hearty fish broth with rice noodles, often garnished with sliced bananas, eggs, and fritters.
- Tea Leaf Salad (Laphet Thoke) (Veg) - A unique and traditional Burmese salad made from fermented tea leaves, mixed with a variety of nuts, sesame seeds, and peas.
- Shan Rice (Shan Khao Swè) (Non-Veg) - Cooked with turmeric and fresh fish or meat, served with aromatic rice and topped with fresh garlic oil and leeks.
- Chapatis and Vegetable Curry (Veg) - Influenced by Indian cuisine, this is a vegetarian-friendly option where soft chapatis are served with a mixed vegetable curry.
- Shan Tofu Noodle (Tohu Nway) (Veg) - A Shan dish of warm tofu served over rice noodles, garnished with a variety of condiments.
- Burmese Samosas (Veg) - A popular street food item, these samosas are typically filled with a spicy potato mixture, then deep-fried till crispy.
- Sticky Rice with Mango (Veg) - A dessert made with glutinous rice, coconut milk and sugar, served with slices of ripe mango.
- Pickled Tea Leaf Salad (Veg) - Similar to the Tea Leaf Salad but with a different preparation method that gives the leaves a pickled flavor.
- Myanmar Curry (Non-Veg) - A savory dish usually involving chicken or fish, slow-cooked with a blend of local spices and herbs.
- Burmese Sweet Snacks (Mont Lin Ma Yar) (Veg) - A typical Burmese treat made from rice flour and coconut, often found in local tea shops.
Top Famous Restaurants in Thatbyinnyu Temple, Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)
- Sanon Training Restaurant
Thiripyitsaya 5 St, Nyaung-U, Myanmar
Famous Food: Burmese Tasting Platter (Veg/Non-Veg options available)
- Be Kind to Animals The Moon
North Guni Pagoda, New Bagan, Myanmar
Famous Food: Tea Leaf Salad (Veg)
- The Green Elephant Restaurant
Near Tharabar Gate, Old Bagan, Myanmar
Famous Food: Bagan-Style Grilled Fish (Non-Veg)
- Weather Spoon’s Bagan Restaurant and Bar
Restaurant Row, Old Bagan, Myanmar
Famous Food: Burmese Style Pork Curry (Non-Veg)
- Yar Pyi Vegetarian Restaurant
Anawrahta Rd, Nyaung-U, Myanmar
Famous Food: Vegetarian Shan Noodles (Veg)
It is important to note that while Thatbyinnyu Temple itself is an archaeological site focused on heritage rather than cuisine, the surrounding city of Bagan offers an array of dining establishments that showcase the rich culinary history and flavors of Myanmar. Visitors can indulge in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options at these celebrated restaurants.