## Club Rangoon: A Taste of Myanmar in Singapore’s Bustling Duxton Enclave
In Myanmar, teahouses, known as laphet-yay sine, are woven into the fabric of daily life. They are vibrant social hubs, welcoming anyone seeking a space to gather, relax, and engage in lively conversation. This spirit of warmth and community is precisely what Club Rangoon, a chic new restaurant in Singapore, aims to evoke.
Founded by Nelson Htoo and Elin Fu, Club Rangoon is a celebration of modern-day Burmese cuisine and culture. The restaurant, previously a celebrated name in Hong Kong’s dining scene, has found its new home in a heritage shophouse within the bustling Duxton enclave. The space is intimate yet convivial, with a round table in the center that nods to the importance of communal dining in Burmese culture. Five black-and-white photographs adorn the walls, each a testament to the close ties the team shares with Myanmar—from snapshots of their research trips to a cherished image of Nelson and Susan’s grandmother in her kitchen. Even the bathroom adds a touch of cultural immersion, playing tracks from ’80s cassette tapes of Burmese music, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich musical heritage.
A Modern Take on Classic Flavors
While Club Rangoon embraces a modern aesthetic, the food remains deeply rooted in authenticity. Nelson Htoo, a passionate advocate for Burmese cuisine, explains, “In Burmese cuisine, every household has its own twist on a dish.” With over 130 indigenous ethnic groups across Myanmar, recipes can vary significantly from region to region, even between families. The dishes at Club Rangoon are largely based on Nelson’s family recipes, offering a contemporary take on Yangon classics.
Take, for instance, the mohinga, Myanmar’s national dish. While the Rakhine version is less soupy and relies heavily on ngapi—a fermented fish paste—Club Rangoon sticks to the classic Yangon style. This version features a light and flavorful catfish and lemongrass broth that cooks fine rice noodles to perfection. The mohinga is then adorned with tender pearl onion, banana stems, a hard-boiled egg, and a savory chickpea fritter, all topped with a grilled catfish fillet that adds a deliciously funky and flavorful punch.
Global Influences and Local Delights
Club Rangoon’s menu also reflects the global influences on Burmese cuisine. Co-founder Elin Fu explains, “Burmese cuisine is influenced by its proximity to surrounding countries like Thailand, Laos, China, and India.” This is evident in dishes like their Wagyu Beef Cheek Dan Bauk, a modern interpretation of biryani, showcasing the depth and versatility of Burmese flavors.
Of course, no exploration of Burmese cuisine would be complete without acknowledging their love for tea. Club Rangoon’s teahouse-inspired atmosphere is a testament to this, and their menu features a variety of tea-infused dishes. “In Myanmar, we love our tea so much that we eat it too,” Susan Htoo, Nelson’s sister and the restaurant’s senior marketing and business development manager, says with a laugh. Alongside laphet-yay (Burmese tea), you’ll find laphet-yay ice cream and laphet thoke—a fermented Burmese tea leaf salad. “Laphet thoke is interwoven with Burmese hospitality,” Fu explains. “When visiting other homes, people often offer a small portion of tea leaf salad, similar to how you might be offered tea in other cultures.” Club Rangoon’s version features tea leaves from Sein Palaung, a popular Burmese brand, tossed with a tangy and refreshing mix of radicchio, cabbage, and tomatoes, then topped with broad beans, garlic chips, and roasted peanuts for an extra crunch.
A Celebration of Culture and Flavor
Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Burmese cuisine or a curious newcomer, Club Rangoon offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience. “As a Burmese person, I am extremely proud of my culture and cuisine, which remain elusive to the greater public,” Nelson shares. Susan echoes his sentiment, concluding, “It’s about carving out space for Burmese cooking, ingredients, and culture in the modern dining landscape. With Club Rangoon, we’re sharing the delicious flavors of our homeland—and while appreciating their roots and traditions, we’re also having our own fun with them.”
So, step into Club Rangoon and immerse yourself in the warmth and hospitality of Burmese culture, savoring the delicious and authentic flavors that make this cuisine truly special.