My son and I stopped in for lunch a few weeks ago. We had never tried Burmese food and wow, can’t wait to come back for more! The menu was very descriptive. The main problem was that I could not order everything! Please stop in and support this restaurant. Dare to try something new, say yes to life!
The food was good but the service was lacking. We waited a long time for the server to take our order and then brought the wrong dish to someone in our party. Once they finally got the correct order everyone else was done. Again waited way to long for our check and then it was wrong. Had asked to split it it which they didn't. Once they did it was still wrong. We finally just paid and pretty sure we paid more than we got.
This place is a wonderful find that really demands more attention. It is a combo of Chinese/Indian/Japanese that really works. The menu is large, which can be tricky, but most of the items include Asian standbys, like rice, noodles, beef and chicken, done with a twist. We took carry outs of Kat Kyi Kaik (Fried Flat Noodles with squid and prawn), Coconut Noodles (with chicken), Spring Rolls & Shrimp Tempura. Prices were reasonable and there were leftovers. The wife is very particular about her Asian cuisine, but was very impressed with all 4 items. We shall return. An instant classic!
This place was amazing. Our server Ong was extremely nice and hospitable. We got the soup with ground pork and fermented beans&chilies on top (picture is after eating some) and the bamboo leaf sampler plate (eggplant, pork belly, crispy beef, etc) on Ong's recommendation and both were perfect. We've been to popular Burmese restaurants in San Francisco and found the food here better and with more variety of dishes. Would highly recommend this to anybody!
Staff attentiveness was unacceptable. The hostess/ waitress was standing talking to cook with her back to the door. I waited 5 minutes then went to restroom to wash up. Still did not come out. Restaurant was empty at 2 pm on Friday. So I left. No service. I stood in clear view of staff . They didn't pay attention to seat me.
I enjoyed tea leaf salad at Food Festival and wanted to enjoy more.
I drove 25 minutes to see this place and enjoy full dining...disappointed.
Best restaurant in Des Moines, hands down. I moved here from the east coast. I am picky and often disappointed by the food in Des Moines but was so shocked when I ate here. This is the only place I take people to when they come to visit me and the only thing I want when I want to treat myself- birthdays, special occasions, or just a difficult work week. It is objectively good- ingredients fresh and thoughtful. Their menu is large and yet they execute it well which is very very difficult. They keep their staff small and must work incredibly hard. I really hope more people recognize how great this place is. It truly is special.
Reply from Mingalabar Burmese Kitchen
2025.09.20
Soojin,
Your heartfelt words about what makes us stand out in Des Moines genuinely moved us, especially knowing how much care you place on quality and sharing good food with others. It’s wonderful to hear that our team’s dedication and the experience we offer have made such a meaningful impact for you and your guests.
With gratitude, the crew at MinGaLaBar Burmese Kitchen
Your heartfelt words about what makes us stand out in Des Moines genuinely moved us, especially knowing how much care you place on quality and sharing good food with others. It’s wonderful to hear that our team’s dedication and the experience we offer have made such a meaningful impact for you and your guests.
With gratitude, the crew at MinGaLaBar Burmese Kitchen
MinGaLaBar is a bit of a hidden gem in the area. I had the Pork Belly Curry (#42), which was rich and flavorful, though visually a bit muted. The soup portions are massive, I almost missed them as they were listed with the appetisers, and prices are impressively fair. To be honest maybe even a bit low for the quality. If you enjoy other Asian cuisine like Thai, you'll likely appreciate the bold, Asian-rooted flavors here, though the Burmese blend is quite distinct and hard to find elsewhere locally. I do wish they included calorie info on the menu, but that's a minor gripe. Overall, a unique and satisfying spot worth discovering.
Crazy delicious food and the sweetest folks. If we lived nearby we’d be here all the time! Don’t pass on the Ah Thoke Sone and Kyet Kalar Thar.
Reply from Mingalabar Burmese Kitchen
2025.08.09
Juliet,
It’s wonderful knowing you felt so welcomed and enjoyed our flavors.
With warm wishes, MinGaLaBar Burmese Kitchen
It’s wonderful knowing you felt so welcomed and enjoyed our flavors.
With warm wishes, MinGaLaBar Burmese Kitchen
This place doesn't get enough credit!
Simply a best kept secret of the DSM metro.
Kids egg roll set is WINNER with our kids.
Sushi, curry & many other options. No reason to leave hungry or disappointed.
Reply from Mingalabar Burmese Kitchen
2025.08.09
Ashley,
Hearing your family enjoyed both the variety and those special touches truly means a lot.
With appreciation, MinGaLaBar Burmese Kitchen
Hearing your family enjoyed both the variety and those special touches truly means a lot.
With appreciation, MinGaLaBar Burmese Kitchen