The 10 Best Restaurants in Bagan, Myanmar

The Sanon Training Restaurant in Bagan is a non-profit social enterprise organization aiming to train and assist local students in gaining employment within the growing hospitality industry of Myanmar. Not only does every bite taste good, it feels good to enjoy supporting such an initiative. Sanon’s inviting open interior and delightful outdoor garden area pair well with its excellent service. Definitely try the caramelized pork stir fry or the giant Irrawaddy prawn and catfish curry.

Bibo Restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere provides a great locale to wind down for the night. Friendly staff and a happy hour with cocktails such as a gin and basil concoction keep travelers coming back again and again to this simple yet tasty establishment found just off the main restaurant drag in Nyaung-U, Bagan. Bibo’s avocado salad is a must (Burmese-style guacamole), as are the Thai curries.

7 Sisters Restaurant is a spacious, open venue with a clean and comfortable setting run by seven sisters, as the name suggests. Built like an authentic Buddhist adoration hall, the framework of this striking structure is made up of massive teak pillars and beams. Situated on a corner near the Eight-Faces Pagoda in New Bagan, 7 Sisters serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner in a serene setting. Choose from a variety of Asian and European dishes – the roasted duck with steamed whole fish and lemon sauce is a popular choice.

Sharky’s now brings its farm to table/nose to tail culinary concept to Bagan. The popularity of its two Yangon locations has allowed this locally owned and operated restaurant to branch out. Set within an old theater near the famous Shwezigon Pagoda in Nyaung-U, Sharky’s Bagan Deli and Café offers a spacious and delicious dining experience with a garden growing many of the ingredients featured in its dishes. Sharky’s hummus platter, pizzas and gelato are musts. Additionally, Sharky’s partners with Balloons over Bagan to bring made-in-Myanmar deliciousness to the skies – topped off with wine upon landing, of course.

Located on a dirt path near Ananda Paya, The Moon Vegetarian Restaurant (Be Kind to Animals) comes with a lovely garden area complete with beautiful Burmese umbrellas for shade. This popular hub has an extensive menu of vegetarian options, including flavorful tamarind leaf curry, classic Burmese salads and a wide range of fruit juices. Patrons often go back to The Moon for seconds because the reasonably priced food served alongside an authentic, local vibe is very inviting. Check out The Moon’s second location in New Bagan as well.

Nanda Restaurant in Bagan is mostly known for its traditional puppet shows. Expect colorful and lively environment since this place caters to touristy groups pouring in for the unusual performances. Make reservations and arrive early to avoid a long wait, especially for evening showings. Burmese cuisine served in lacquerware adds to the overall adventure, but focus on the puppeteers and the handmade wooden puppets in action – not necessarily the food.

La Terrazza is ideal for travelers looking for a filling Italian meal after a full day of exploring Bagan’s stunning sights. Specializing in homemade pastas, wood oven pizzas and garden-fresh ingredients, La Terrazza is perfectly situated in Nyaung-U, Bagan, along the popular Restaurant Row (Thiri Pyitsaya 4 Street). Get the pumpkin ravioli served with cream sauce or the baked eggplant special in tomato sauce with parmigiano-reggiano cheese. Service is good, and the ambiance is a mix of traditional Burmese with an Italian twist.

If dining at a joint tucked slightly off the beaten path sounds appetizing, give Kyaw Kitchen in New Bagan a try. Natural scenery complemented by Myanmar-inspired décor sets the tone for a delectable meal even before the first taste. Staff members at Kyaw Kitchen are attentive and conversational. A mouthwatering array of options are available on the menu parmigiano-reggiano cheese from fusion to hints of French. The risotto, butter fish curry or grilled river prawns won’t disappoint. Kyaw Kitchen also hosts Burmese cooking classes, sunset cocktails near the Irrawaddy River and village home lunches. Sign up for an added dash of cultural fun!

Weather Spoon’s Bagan Restaurant is a bustling little place with an eclectic feel right off of “restaurant row” in Nyaung-U. By far one of the more affordable touristy eateries in Bagan, the writing on the wall says it all. People from far and wide have come for Weather Spoon’s beef burger – tantalizing with its big juicy bite of familiarity. Sip on a Myanmar Mule or two for a sweet cocktail with a kick; the extremely friendly and accommodating staff will make you feel like old friends in no time.

Sunset Garden Restaurant in New Bagan isn’t necessarily recognized for impeccable service or noteworthy Burmese, Chinese and Thai dishes. The real draw to Sunset Garden is its incredible view of the Irrawaddy River complete with a mountainous backdrop. Arrive just before the evening dinner rush to get a table overlooking the Irrawaddy for a truly memorable sunset or go in the late afternoon to beat the lunch crowds (as well as heat) and have a refreshingly crisp Myanmar beer to re-energize after sightseeing.