Steeped in Burmese culture, flavours and folklore, the newly opened Burma Burma Restaurant & Tea Room in Chandigarh is as much about storytelling as it is about food. As the much-loved chain marks its 21st outlet in just over a decade, loyal patrons and first-timers are lining up for its specialities.Founded by childhood friends Chirag Chhajer and Ankit Gupta, Burma Burma today operates 21 restaurants and a delivery kitchen across 10 cities in India, enjoying a strong run. The brand’s newest address at Elante Mall stays true to its roots, with interiors inspired by Burmese aesthetics and a thematic focus on folktales. The walls come alive with Burmese dolls, a horse and elephants, while one section is dedicated to illustrated stories — some instantly recognisable, such as The Talkative Tortoise, The Monkey and the Crocodile and The Crab and the Crane from Panchatantra.Burma Burma’s hospitality lives up to its reputation in Chandigarh as well, and the food — unsurprisingly —remains the real star. The meal begins on a refreshing note with the tangy Samosa Soup — tiny samosas swimming with spring vegetables and kala chana. A must try. Light yet flavourful starters such as the Spicy Leek Tea & Avocado Salad, crackling Lotus Stem Crisps, Edamame & Broadbean Hummus and Cream Corn Palata set the tone. The standout, however, is the Belachaung Stuffed Peppers perched atop creamy hummus. Belachaung, a punchy Burmese condiment, is a heady mix of fried onion and garlic, crushed peanuts and red chilli. Wa Potatoes, wok-tossed in a fiery Wa tribe-inspired seasoning of lemon leaf, crushed peanuts, roasted chillies and brown onion — a definite crowd-pleaser.The mains are ruled by the signature Oh No Khowsuey. This fragrant, creamy coconut milk curry infused with lemongrass and tamarind is topped with diced Asian vegetables and served with noodles of your choice along with an array of condiments, including fried garlic, fried onion, crushed peanuts, roasted chilli, lemon and spring onions.The beverage counter is rather long. Burma Burma’s extensive tea programme offers a deep dive into Burmese tea culture, with the latest additions being traditional Burmese Pulled Teas, reminiscent of the popular Meter Kaapi. A wide variety of teas jostle for space alongside refreshing coolers and kombuchas. We highly recommend Yuzu Lemonade Bubble Tea.For those who believe vegetarian food lacks variety, Burma Burma is a must-visit. An average meal for two costs around ₹1,800 plus taxes, and every bite makes a compelling case for plant-forward dining done right.