Must-Try Foods In Vesali Temple (Sittwe) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Vesali Temple, Sittwe, Myanmar (Burma) Vesali Temple, located near Sittwe in the Rakhine State of Myanmar, is an ancient site with a rich history stretching back to the Vesali Kingdom that thrived between the 6th and 10th centuries. The food history in and around this region is heavily influenced by Rakhine culinary traditions, which are distinct from other Burmese cuisines. While Vesali itself is more of a historical site, the nearby city of Sittwe offers a glimpse into the traditional Rakhine fare. This cuisine is known for its emphasis on seafood and spicy flavors, reflecting the coastal geography of the region. Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Vesali Temple, Sittwe, Myanmar (Burma) When visiting Sittwe near the historic Vesali Temple, there are several traditional Rakhine and Burmese dishes that tourists should try: 1. Mohinga - Often considered the national dish of Myanmar, this savory fish-based soup with rice noodles is a breakfast favorite, but enjoyed any time of the day. (Non-Veg) 2. Rakhine Thoke - A spicy salad typically made from fresh or boiled vegetables, seasoned with Rakhine herbs and spices. (Veg) 3. Mee Shay - A Rakhine-style noodle dish usually served with pork or chicken, in a broth seasoned with bean paste. (Non-Veg) 4. Mont Di - A popular rice noodle dish often served with fried garlic, spring onions, and fish soup. (Non-Veg) 5. Buthi Kyaw - A crispy gourd fritter that makes for a tasty snack or appetizer. (Veg) 6. Ngapi Daung - A spicy Rakhine sauce made from fermented fish or shrimp that's used as a condiment or dip. (Non-Veg) 7. Htoe Mont - A traditional sweet cake that's usually steamed and served at special occasions. (Veg) 8. Nga Pi Ye - A fish paste similar to Ngapi Daung, but typically less spicy and used in cooking various dishes. (Non-Veg) 9. Laphet Thoke - A famous Burmese salad made from fermented tea leaves, often mixed with a variety of nuts and seeds. (Veg) 10. Kyay Oh - A comforting soup made with noodles, pork offal, and a mix of greens and egg. (Non-Veg) Top Famous Restaurants in Sittwe, Myanmar (Burma) with Address and Famous Food 1. Rakhine Traditional Food Restaurant Address: Main Road, Sittwe Famous Food: Rakhine Thoke, a spicy and savory salad bursting with local flavors. (Veg) 2. ViewPoint Lodge & Fine Cuisines Address: No 224, Strand Road, Sittwe Famous Food: Seafood Platter, showcasing the freshest local fish and shellfish from the Bay of Bengal. (Non-Veg) 3. Sunset View Beach Cafe & Restaurant Address: Beach Road, Sittwe Famous Food: Grilled Seafood, with a focus on sustainable and locally-sourced ingredients. (Non-Veg) 4. Golden Myanmar Restaurant Address: Pyi Taw Thar Street, Sittwe Famous Food: Mohinga, the classic Burmese breakfast soup with rice noodles and aromatic broth. (Non-Veg) 5. Shwe Zan Restaurant Address: Myoma Quarter, Sittwe Famous Food: Traditional Rakhine Curry, made with succulent pieces of chicken or fish and served with steamed rice. (Non-Veg) Please note that while the Rakhine State offers an array of traditional foods, the Vesali Temple area itself may not have dedicated restaurants, as it is primarily a historical site. Tourists are advised to explore the cuisines in the city of Sittwe and surrounding townships. Due to the variety of food in Myanmar, it's always best to check with restaurants regarding the availability of vegetarian options and to be mindful of dietary restrictions.