For nearly two decades, the road to Mandalay has been the Edgware Road, but now it is officially Kilburn High Rd, as the Ally family have moved their tiny, modest restaurant into larger and better premises.
Mandalay features home-style, welcoming and informative service, and cooking that accurately reflects the staples of Bamar food. The tables are full each night with a mix of students, Burmaphiles and a few expats (best make a reservation). Burma’s food draws influence from its bordering countries (India/Bangladesh, China and Thailand) and is served at bargain prices here. Curries, noodle dishes, fried snacks and salads are put together in inventive ways, often with a hot, sour, or sweet mix of spices and herbs – there’s plenty of choice for vegetarians.