Best Budget Eats in Mandalay, Burma

1. Shwe Pyi Gyi Mohinga

Authentic Burmese noodle soup with a blend of fish broth and rice vermicelli. Enjoy the mix of flavors from various spices and toppings like fish paste and garlic oil.

Affordability: One of the cheapest meals in Mandalay with a price range of $0.5 - $1.5
Authenticity: A true Burmese culinary experience that is hard to find elsewhere
Location: Located in the heart of Mandalay downtown, near key attractions like Mahamuni Pagoda

2. Kyauk Taw Gyi Monastery Food Stalls

A variety of Burmese street food options in the courtyard of Kyauk Taw Gyi monastery, including fried rice, noodles, and sweets.

Cultural Experience: Enjoy local cuisine while interacting with monks and locals in a traditional setting
Affordability: Reasonably priced meals, typically $1 - $2 per dish
Location: Conveniently located near the famous Kyauk Taw Gyi Buddha statue and Mandalay Palace

3. Mandalay Fry Kwee Teow

Fried rice noodles with a variety of toppings like seafood, vegetables, and boiled eggs. A must-try Burmese street food.

Taste: A unique blend of flavors that are not easily found elsewhere
Affordability: Budget-friendly with a price range of $0.5 - $2 per serving
Availability: Found throughout Mandalay, especially in bustling markets and street food stalls

4. Myanmar Bake House

Bakery offering a variety of affordable pastries, breads, and Burmese snacks. Ideal for breakfast or as a quick snack.

Variety: Wide range of options to cater to different tastes
Affordability: Prices start from as low as $0.25, making it an affordable choice for budget travelers
Location: Multiple locations across Mandalay, including near key attractions like Kuthodaw Pagoda

5. Mandalay Dosa Corner

South Indian cuisine restaurant offering affordable dosas and thalis in Mandalay. Enjoy a unique taste of India in Burma.

Unique Cuisine: A rare find in Burmese cuisine, offering a taste of South Indian food
Affordability: Meals start from $2, making it an affordable dining option
Location: Located near key attractions like Mandalay Hill and the Royal Palace

6. Mingalaba Garden Restaurant

Affordable Burmese restaurant with a beautiful garden setting. Enjoy traditional dishes like Mohinga and Shan Noodles.

Ambiance: Beautiful garden setting, perfect for a peaceful meal
Affordability: Reasonably priced meals, typically $1 - $3 per dish
Location: Located near key attractions like Sagaing Hill and U Bein Bridge

7. Hope Cafe

Social enterprise cafe offering a variety of affordable meals and drinks. Proceeds go towards supporting marginalized communities.

Social Impact: Supporting local communities through your dining choices
Affordability: Prices start from $1, making it an affordable choice for budget travelers
Location: Located in Mandalay downtown, near key attractions like Maha Myat Muni Pagoda

8. Myanmar Tea House

Traditional Burmese tea house serving a variety of teas, snacks, and small meals. Ideal for a relaxing break.

Authentic Experience: Experience traditional Burmese tea house culture
Affordability: Prices start from $0.5, making it an affordable choice for budget travelers
Location: Found throughout Mandalay, especially in bustling markets and street corners

9. Mandalay Street Food Tour

Guided tour of Mandalay's best street food spots. Learn about Burmese cuisine while enjoying affordable and delicious meals.

Cultural Experience: Experience the local culture through its food
Affordability: Tour prices start from $10, including multiple food stops and a guide
Location: Covers various locations across Mandalay, allowing you to explore different areas

10. Golden Bagan Restaurant

Affordable Burmese restaurant offering a variety of traditional dishes, including Mohinga and Shan Noodles.

Variety: Wide range of traditional Burmese dishes to choose from
Affordability: Reasonably priced meals, typically $1 - $3 per dish
Location: Located near the Mandalay bus station, perfect for travelers on a tight budget

11. Little Yangon Cafe

Cafe offering affordable Burmese and Indian dishes. Enjoy a unique blend of cuisines in a cozy setting.

Unique Cuisine: A rare fusion of Burmese and Indian flavors
Affordability: Meals start from $2, making it an affordable dining option
Location: Located near key attractions like Kuthodaw Pagoda and Shwenandaw Monastery

12. Mandalay Night Market

Night market offering a variety of street food options, including snacks, sweets, and local dishes.

Variety: Wide range of street food options to choose from
Affordability: Prices start from $0.5, making it an affordable choice for budget travelers
Location: Located in the heart of Mandalay downtown, open in the evenings

13. Mandalay Cooking Class

Cooking class teaching traditional Burmese recipes. Learn to cook local dishes and enjoy a homemade meal.

Cultural Experience: Learn about Burmese culture through its cuisine
Affordability: Class prices start from $20, including ingredients and a homemade meal
Location: Classes held in local homes, providing an authentic experience

14. Yadanabon Night Market

Night market offering a variety of street food options, including snacks, sweets, and local dishes.

Variety: Wide range of street food options to choose from
Affordability: Prices start from $0.5, making it an affordable choice for budget travelers
Location: Located near key attractions like Mandalay Hill and the Royal Palace

15. Mandalay Vegan Cafe

Vegan cafe offering a variety of affordable dishes. Ideal for vegetarian and vegan travelers.

Dietary Restrictions: Catering to vegetarian and vegan diets
Affordability: Prices start from $1, making it an affordable choice for budget travelers
Location: Located near key attractions like the Royal Palace and Mandalay Hill