Idyllic Ngapali is becoming more than a beach lover’s paradise. Foodies from all around the country and abroad are increasingly drawn to Myanmar’s most popular coastal city for its rustic charm, friendly people, and regional seafood specialties.
If you’re a culinary adventurer, Ngapali’s stretch of white sandy beach is worth combing for delicious meals. Enjoy no-frills ‘catch of the day’ fare at the numerous seaside eateries; or make your way down to one of the fine dining restaurants serving elevated versions of local dishes.
For an authentic daung lann gyi-style meal, there’s no better place to go than the Hilton Ngapali Resort & Spa. Daung lann gyi or “royal meal” is a house specialty at the Hilton’s all-day dining restaurant Flow, and probably the only place in Ngapali that offers this spectacular set lunch served in the traditional way.
A true multi-sensory feast, Hilton’s daung lann gyi is beautifully plated in round bamboo trays lined with banana leaves. Each set for one person includes bowls of aromatic curries, succulent fried or roasted prawns, lentil soup, Rakhine salad, green chili paste, and steamed rice.
“Daung lann gyi is a hearty meal fit for royalty, which is just the kind of experience we want all our guests to enjoy. We stay true to countryside flavours and use locally-sourced ingredients,” said Chef Ernes Pandapotan.
Chef Ernes is hands on when it comes to choosing the freshest seafood for the restaurant. Every day at the crack of dawn he goes to the waterside market where local fishermen sell the day’s catch. “It’s good to be there first; wait for the boats to arrive as the sun rises, and then cook up special meals with what we’re lucky to get for the day,” he said.
If you fancy a day trip to the Jate Taw fisherman’s village, Hilton Ngapali Resort & Spa organises day trips with an experienced guide or with Chef Ernes himself. Watch wooden boats unload fish by oxen cart after an evening of fishing and join the locals as they haggle for the freshest seafood. Choose the type of fish you’d like to eat and bring it back to the resort to cook.
And if you’re missing the taste of home, fret not! Hilton Ngapali Resort & Spa has a wide selection of Western classics and regional favourites, from mouthwatering grilled meats, burgers, sandwiches, pizza, and pasta dishes as well as Asian ‘comfort food’ such as nasi goreng and pad thai, that’s sure to satisfy local and international travelers.
Hilton Ngapali Resort & Spa is located minutes from the Thandwe airport. Centered around serene gardens and lagoons, Hilton Ngapali Resort & Spa is famous for its stunning Indian Ocean views, a sunset infinity pool and villas with private pools. For more information and for reservations, visit https://www.facebook.com/hiltonngapaliresortandspa/.
