“There’s a scarcity of Burmese food in New York unless you know someone or have an auntie or uncle who can make it,” Saw says. “For many it’s like soul food; it’s just comforting and warm to the soul.

For those new to Burmese cuisine, the rainbow salad might be a good introduction ... with a fermented green tea leaf dressing. For herbivores and carnivores alike, the Burma Spice menu yields ...