Burmese food is some of the best Asian cuisine you’ve likely never tried. Myanmar, positioned close to China and India, has borrowed from its famous neighbors; you’ll easily find Burmese versions of crispy golden-brown samosas, as well as Chinese-style rice noodles. Myanmar’s dishes typically feature strong savory and sour flavors, as well as mouthwatering garnishes like fresh herbs and rich sauces. Rice is the centerpiece of most all Burmese meals, and you’ll find a greater variety of salads here compared to almost any other country in the world.

While visiting Myanmar, you’ll stumble across plenty of quintessential dishes that are sure to tempt your taste buds. Mohinga, considered by many to be Myanmar’s national dish, is often eaten for breakfast. This satisfying noodle soup is thickened with chickpea flour and features a tangy fish broth and a bounty of delicious accompaniments like cilantro, hard-boiled eggs, and satisfying chickpea fritters.

Moreover, the Burmese have the ability to craft a creative salad from all kinds of ingredients, and laphet thoke is a national favorite. This popular salad is made from fresh vegetables, fermented green tea leaves, and garnished with everything from sesame seeds and fried garlic to shrimp and peanuts. Burmese tea culture is also an important part of daily life. You’ll discover scores of teahouses where locals go to enjoy relaxation, good conversations, and some of the most heavenly sweet milk tea you’ll ever taste. In Myanmar, you’ll also find plenty of curries, which tend to be much milder than those found in neighboring India and Thailand.