Burmese Imperial Cuisine

A Tribute to Myanmar’s Royal Culinary Heritage

Café Salween proudly presents the Burmese Imperial Menu — a curated journey into the grandeur of Myanmar’s royal dining traditions. This collection of palace-inspired dishes is the result of meticulous research and close collaboration with Nga Kyan Thin, author of The Minister of Imperial Kitchen (မဟာစားတော်ဝန်), along with advisors descended from royal lineages.

Rooted in the splendor of the Yadanapon court and enriched by the ceremonial customs of Shan Saophas, the menu revives flavors once served to kings, queens, and nobles. It highlights the deep cultural and culinary exchanges between the Burmese monarchs and Shan chiefs, offering a rare blend of traditions passed down through generations.

Each dish reflects our dedication to historical integrity and culinary refinement. We source premium, rare ingredients from across Myanmar and carefully balance ancient techniques with contemporary presentation. This menu not only preserves royal recipes but also adapts them thoughtfully for today’s discerning palate.

A centerpiece of the experience is the Imperial Laphet Set — a royal interpretation of Myanmar’s iconic fermented tea leaf dish. Traditionally served with up to 20 accompaniments, our version features 15 carefully arranged pairings drawn from palace records and courtly customs, offering nuance, contrast, and a visual tribute to the art of royal dining.

Café Salween’s approach to imperial cuisine is guided by both tradition and sustainability. Every element — from sourcing and preparation to service — is crafted with reverence for Myanmar’s culinary legacy and a commitment to supporting local producers.

We invite you to savor the sophistication, explore the symbolism, and experience the timeless beauty of Burmese imperial and Shan royal cuisine — thoughtfully revived for the modern table.