Top Burmese Burma Joy is one of several locations now established in the Portland metro area. What originally began as a virtual kitchen for onlinle orders only has now expanded into brick and mortar locations that are even date night worthy, like this one.

I was a little unsure what to expect when the first welcome and waters came from a robot, but have no fear, they do have wonderful actual human servers here that will help guide you through the menu and order something you are sure to love.

I hadn't had much experience with Burmese food previously - just a couple curries - but my friend who was visiting is extremely well-travelled and insisted we must get the tea leaf salad (pictured above). What a wonderful and incredibly unique dish! I will go back anytime just for that salad!

I also really enjoyed my Papawada Coconut Beef Stew. It had decent heat with a wonderful, rich flavor.

I think it's important to note that all dishes are pretty decent-sized. My friend and I shared the tea leaf salad first and each ordered an entree. I could only eat a small portion before I had to ask for a container to take the rest to go, so do keep that in mind with ordering.

Overall an excellent value for some truly delicious, unique food, the kitschy robots, and of course a menu filled with gluten free options.

I look forward to trying food at their other locations as their menus do vary!