Top 4 Places to Eat in Inle Lake

Written by Lorraine Aust, Min Thein
12/08/2025
Serene view of floating villages and clear skies at Inle Lake in Myanmar.
Amy Chandra, Pexels

Inle Lake's dining scene emphasizes fresh, local Shan cuisine, with diverse options primarily located in the town of Nyaungshwe.

1. Sin Yaw Restaurant

Cuisine: Traditional Shan Food

This establishment is a popular choice for experiencing traditional Shan cuisine at a reasonable cost. It consistently attracts both local diners and visitors. The menu features a wide selection, with the whole fried lake fish being a notable dish, often served with lemongrass and chili or spring onion and tomato. The service is welcoming, and complimentary pre-meal snacks and tea refills are often provided.

Price: Cheap to Mid-range (e.g., 3,000-8,000 MMK per dish / $1.50-$4 USD)

Getting There: Located on Mingalar Ashae Street, Kantar Quarter, in Nyaungshwe, this restaurant is generally within walking distance from most accommodations in the main town area.

2. Inle Heart View Restaurant

Cuisine: Local Shan, Fresh Vegetables

Positioned on a small hill just outside Nyaungshwe, this family-operated restaurant offers pleasant views of Inle Lake, especially during sunset. A key feature is its adjacent vegetable garden, from which ingredients are freshly picked upon order, ensuring a truly fresh dining experience. The focus here is on authentic, high-quality local dishes.

Price: Mid-range (e.g., 6,000-15,000 MMK per dish / $3-$7 USD)

Getting There: While situated slightly outside the town of Nyaungshwe, on the way to Main Thauk, a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride would typically be needed to reach this location.

3. The Garden

Cuisine: Western and Local Food

For those seeking a change from traditional Burmese fare, this establishment offers a popular selection of modern Western dishes, including pizza and crepes, alongside local options. It provides a relaxed atmosphere, suitable for lingering for a few hours. Its convenient location makes it an easy stop for many visitors.

Price: Mid-range (e.g., 7,000-18,000 MMK per dish / $3.50-$9 USD)

Getting There: Conveniently located next to the bus station in Nyaungshwe, it is easily accessible on foot from much of the town.

4. Paw Paw Restaurant

Cuisine: Local and International

This restaurant operates as a social enterprise, directing its profits towards supporting education for young girls and single mothers in the local community. The setting is distinctive, featuring a tree-house-like structure with appealing decor and a calm ambiance, particularly enchanting when lit up in the evening. It provides a unique dining experience that also contributes to local initiatives.

Price: Mid-range (e.g., 8,000-20,000 MMK per dish / $4-$10 USD)

Getting There: Found between Pawn Daw Side Road and Yone Gyi Road in Nyaungshwe, this restaurant is typically within walking distance from central areas of the town.

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