Burma Love review by Cook Foodie

Item: Burma Love
Rating: 4
Author: Christian Van Der Henst

📝 The Full Story

Has many locations, but the one that I recommend is the one in the Mission. You have to try the tea leaf salad because those fermented tea leaves are amazing and it has a great umami magic. The combination of fermented tea leaves with nuts, seeds, and fresh vegetables creates a complex flavor profile that's both refreshing and deeply satisfying. Also, the coconut rice is great and I always include at least a curry, a soup with noodles, and some chicken. Bring a big group so you can try it all. This place introduced Burmese cuisine to many Americans, and the Mission location captures that authentic spirit while being accessible to newcomers. Expect a wait, but it's worth it for the unique flavors you won't find anywhere else.

🍴 What to Order

🥇

Tea Leaf Salad

Fermented tea leaves with crunchy nuts, seeds, and fresh vegetables—umami magic

fermentedcrunchyumamisignatureunique

🥈

Coconut Rice

Fragrant jasmine rice cooked in creamy coconut milk

fragrantcreamycomfortingaromatic

🥉

Curry Dishes

Rich, aromatic curries with Southeast Asian spice profiles

aromaticspicedflavorfulwarming

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Noodle Soup

Hearty Burmese noodle soups with complex, layered broths

heartywarmingcomplexsatisfying

❓ Common Questions

What is special about Burmese tea leaf salad?

The tea leaf salad uses fermented tea leaves (lahpet) that create a unique umami-rich, slightly bitter, tangy flavor. Mixed with fried garlic, peanuts, sesame seeds, and fresh vegetables, it's unlike anything else you'll find.

Which Burma Love location is best?

The Mission location on Valencia Street is the original and captures the most authentic atmosphere. It's the one I recommend visiting first.