Filipina expat Alexis Joson founded the phenomenally popular Yangon Foodies Facebook group almost exactly one year ago. It now has more than 12,000 members and is planning its first anniversary bash, with food stalls from some of the city’s most popular spots, for Saturday. Here, she tells us what her top five dishes are in Yangon:
1. Assorted Mezzes Platter from La Taverna
Photo: TripAdvisor
I like having a little of everything and this huge platter for two at La Taverna is something I get everytime I visit the restaurant. It’s a quartet of flavours and freshness. Make sure to get the ultimate combination of falafel, labneh, hummus with mushrooms and babaganoush.
La Taverna is located at #330 Ahlone Road, Dagon Township.
2. Myanmex Meda Quesadilla from Mañana
Photo: TripAdvisor
This dish is the perfect marriage of Mexico and Myanmar in a bite and I get it every single time I am at this place. Though I stay away from the chilli, the beef is excellently marinated, reminiscent of the osso bucco [braised veal shanks with vegetables] I used to have growing up, topped with generous amounts of homemade cheese, salsa, lime and love.
Mañana is located at Pearl Condo, Kabar Aye Pagoda Road.
3. Red Curry with Prawns at Green Gallery
Photo: TripAdvisor
I grew up in an archipelago and my most favorite in the world are prawns with anything. Throw them in the richest and most inviting of curries, this dish cures everything.
Green Gallery is located at #58 Street 52, near the corner with Mahabandoola Road.
4. Shahi Mutton Quorma from Bawarchi
Photo: Bawarchi
I’m a huge fan of thick, buttery dishes and this one doesn’t disappoint. Bawarchi has more gentle flavors to satisfy the Western palate – but it’s still amazing I think. The meat is tender and the sauce, irresistible. Pair it with their paratha or garlic naan, you don’t need anything else.
Bawarchi is located on the ground floor of La Pyayt Wun Plaza, beside Park Royal Hotel, on Alan Pya Pagoda Road.
5. Grilled Zucchini Roulade from Parami Pizza
There are a few things I like about Parami Pizza and this dish prevails over the spinach gnocchi with four cheeses. It’s simple yet pleasurable. This was highly recommended to me by the group and I haven’t gotten it out of my head since!
Parami Pizza I is located at Shwegonedine Junction. Parami II is on the corner of Mahlika Street and Parami Road. Parami II is located at #56, Sayar San Road.
