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The first Burmese restaurant was Nan Yang, located in Oakland’s Chinatown in 1983. Although it closed down in 2013, it was the "first full-fledged Burmese restaurant on the West Coast" . Right after, Mandalay opened its doors in the summer of 1984. Located on a serene stretch of California Street in the Inner Richmond—a neighborhood rich with Asian American heritage and often dubbed the city's second Chinatown—Mandalay continues to be a cornerstone of Burmese cuisine in San Francisco.
The restaurant, that really got Burmese into the spotlight though, was Burma Superstar. The restaurant, on Clement Street in Inner Richmond, opened in 1992 but became a viral success after Joycelyn Lee bought it in 2000 with her husband at the time. Lee told me that when her family assumed ownership, Burmese food still felt like an uncomfortable novelty to many Americans. So she rebranded the dishes, pumped up the advertising, worked to attract American palates and sensibilities and spawned a new generation of Burmese restaurants in the Bay. Burma Superstar itself now has several spinoffs.
According to me, here are the top 5 Burmese restaurants in SF
1. Yamo
Address: 3406 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94110
It astounds me how many people don't know about this place. Great food, great ambience, great prices! if you haven't been here, dont read further. Close this tab, go right now.
2. Mandalay
Address: 4348 California St, San Francisco, CA 94118
The following behind Mandalay is almost cult like. Get the fish chowder and the Balada. You won't regret it!
3. Ar Har Ya
Address: 357 Kearny St, San Francisco, CA 94108
Owners are really kind. One of the best tea leaf salads I've had! The coconut noodles were insanely good too! Opened recently and they're killing it :)
4. Burma Love
Address: 211 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94103
Almost a bit touristy but still really really worth it! Don't go to Teakwood, dont go downtown, Burma love in the mission is the SPOT! Awesome tea lead salad and khao soi!!!
Address: 309 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118
This is the OG spot. These guys popularized Burmese food in SF!!
PS. If you want your own tea leaf salad kit, check out New May Wah in Richmond
