In Myanmar, teahouses—or laphet-yay sine— sit along almost every street. They are the foundation on which Burmese social life is built, always ready to welcome anyone looking for a space to gather, relax or chat. Hours can be whiled away here, in casual conversation or deep discussion.
This is the feeling that Club Rangoon seeks to evoke. A chic showcase of modern-day Burmese cuisine and culture, Club Rangoon puts a fresh spin on classic Yangon dishes. Started by co-founders Nelson Htoo and Elin Fu, it was previously a celebrated name in the Hong Kong dining scene, until it shut its doors nine months ago when its lease ended.
Nelson’s sister, Susan Htoo, also acts as the restaurant’s senior marketing and business development manager. Now, Club Rangoon finds its new home in a heritage shophouse along the bustling Duxton enclave. Step in, and you’ll find a space that is intimate yet convivial.
In the centre, a round table serves as a nod toward the integral role that communal dining plays in Burmese culture. Five black-and-white framed photographs hang on the walls, each a reflection of the close ties the team shares with Myanmar—from a snapshot of them on one of their research trips, to an image of Nelson and Susan’s grandmother in her kitchen. In the bathroom, tracks from ‘80s cassette tapes of Burmese music play, offering a glimpse into Myanmar’s music culture.
The food, while modern, remains wholly authentic. “In Burmese cuisine, every household has its .