Map of San Mateo Park

Burlingame and surrounding area, locate the restaurant called Mingalaba

Take a break from strolling the shops of Burlingame Ave., and step inside Mingalaba. This quick service hot spot has a loyal and large following, so get here early to avoid a wait. Amidst bamboo wainscoting, modern lighting, and bright walls gilded with Asian artifacts, crowds gather if only to get a whiff of the kitchen's Burmese (and Mandarin) preparations. Most locals know the drill and let cheery servers tempt with bold Burmese fare over more forgettable Mandarin menu options. Begin with a lap pat dok (tea leaf salad); move on to a Burmese-style black pepper soup with fish; break at string beans with dried shrimp; and finally, thrill your taste buds with a spicy lamb curry. Cool down at dessert with mango pudding served in a leaf-shaped bowl.