Burma Social: Journey Across Six Pan-Asian Borders

Recently, we decided to dive into something completely new – our first ever Burmese dining experience. Housed in a historic shophouse on Tras Street, Burma Social is a three-tiered multicultural bar and restaurant that presents a Feast of Six Kingdoms, drawing influences from China, Thailand, India, Bangladesh, Laos, and the heart of it all, Burma.

The welcome was something out of a travelogue – a 'Golden Hour' cocktail that shimmered with Burmese inspiration, and the traditional silk scarves gently placed around our necks made us feel like honoured guests at a Burmese festival. The space spans three meticulously designed floors, replete with Burmese cultural elements like wishing bells and rattan light fixtures, set against modern leather seats and gold cutlery.

Spearheaded by Kuisine Koncepts, with Rohan Pai and Ritesh Bansal leading the charge, Burma Social aims to give Singapore a fresh taste of Burmese cuisine. Executive Chef Omi brings authenticity to the table after spending a month in Myanmar mastering local culinary arts. The ambiance seamlessly combines contemporary design with neo-classical touches, making every dining space a unique reflection of Burmese hospitality.

Signature Dishes

Lahpet Nay Wai Thoke

We started with the Lahpet Nay Wai Thoke, a salad that pairs the earthiness of tea leaves with the crunch of green tomatoes, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. Topped with native Burmese nuts and a hint of lemon, it offers a delightful dance of sweet, sour, spicy, and umami flavour – a first taste that had us hooked.

Photo credit: middleclass.sg

Crispy Tohu Jaw

The Crispy Tohu Jaw was next, combining the comfort of tofu with the richness of Burmese gula melaka and a kick of homemade chilli. It was a delightful contrast, both familiar and novel.

Photo credit: middleclass.sg

Ngapali Salt Baked Fish

The Ngapali Salt Baked Fish was a textural delight, crispy on the outside and pillowy soft within. Dressed in a sweet sauce crafted from Burmese gula melaka and Indian sugarcane, each bite was a beautiful balance of sweetness with just a hint of spice from the homemade chilli sauce on the side. It was fusion done right – respecting the roots while embracing innovation.

Hnin Si’s Steam Puzon

For a cheeky pick, get the Hnin Si’s Steam Puzon. It's a mix of prawn and mudfish shaped like petals, wrapped in rice paper with a touch of homemade chilli in the middle. A tasty surprise worth discovering!

Photo credit: City Nomads

Cocktails and Mocktails

And of course, the cocktails and mocktails, inspired by the lush ingredients from the Six Kingdoms, were the perfect accompaniments to the meal. Fresh, fruity, and aromatic, they were the crowning touch to an already memorable meal. Don't hesitate to ask the staff for their recommendations on the best food and alcohol pairings.

As we stepped out, the lasting impression wasn't just about the new flavours we'd tried but the warmth and richness of Burmese hospitality. It was our first time trying Burmese food, but Burma Social made sure it wouldn't be the last.

Estimated Cost

$$

Store Address

34 Tras Street, Singapore 079026

Operating Hours

Monday to Friday: 11:30 am-2:30 pm, 6 pm-12 am

Saturday: 6 pm-12 am

Sunday Closed