What is Ohn No Khauk Swe?

Ohn No Khauk Swe is a Burmese coconut chicken noodle soup: egg noodles in a rich coconut-milk broth with spiced chicken, topped with boiled egg, crispy wonton chips, cilantro, onions, and lime. 'Ohn no' means coconut milk and 'khauk swe' means noodles.

Is Ohn No Khauk Swe the same as khao soi?

They're related. Northern Thailand's khao soi and Burmese khauk swe share roots and are both coconut curry noodle soups, but they're seasoned differently. Ohn No Khauk Swe is typically milder and is thickened with a little chickpea or rice flour.

Which Burmese soup is the least spicy?

All three of Road To Burma's soups are mild as served. Chili comes on the side for the coconut and beef soups, so you choose the heat. Kyay Oh is a light, clear chicken broth.

How much are the noodle soups at Road To Burma?

Each noodle soup is $13 plus tax.

Burmese Noodle Soups in Birmingham

Noodle soup is everyday comfort food in Myanmar, eaten for breakfast, lunch, or a late dinner. Road To Burma serves three, each with its own personality. Here's how to choose.

1. Coconut Chicken Noodle Soup (Ohn No Khauk Swe)

Say it: OHN-no kow-SWAY · $13

"Ohn no" means coconut milk and "khauk swe" means noodles. This is egg noodles in a rich, creamy coconut-milk broth simmered with spiced chicken, finished with boiled egg, crispy fried wonton chips, cilantro, onions, green onions, and fresh lime.

Order it if: you like chicken curry, Thai khao soi, or anything creamy and golden. It's a beloved comfort food in Myanmar and the most popular first bowl for newcomers.

2. Beef Meatball Noodle Soup

$13

A Burmese-style beef noodle soup with rice noodles, beef meatballs, and tender beef slices in a savory, aromatic broth, topped with cilantro, green onions, and plenty of fried garlic.

Order it if: you love pho or a good beef broth and want something hearty but not heavy.

3. Burmese Chicken Noodle Soup (Kyay Oh)

Say it: chay-OH · $13

Kyay Oh takes its name from the pot it's traditionally cooked and served in. Ours is a light, savory chicken broth loaded with rice noodles, tender chicken meatballs, fish balls, dumplings (vegetable, chicken, or pork), tofu, and fresh greens.

Order it if: you want something clean and comforting, like the best chicken noodle soup you've had, with more in the bowl.

How to dress your soup

Chili is provided on the side so you can set your own heat level. Squeeze in the lime, stir the crispy toppings through, and add chili a little at a time.

Where to get Burmese noodle soup in Birmingham

All three soups are on the menu daily at Road To Burma inside The Pizitz Food Hall, 1821 2nd Ave N, a short trip from UAB and anywhere downtown. Open Monday to Saturday 11 AM to 8 PM and Sunday 11 AM to 3 PM, with delivery on DoorDash and Uber Eats.

New to Burmese food? Start with our beginner's guide, or pair your soup with a tea leaf salad.

Order on DoorDash Order on Uber Eats Call (205) 844-1279

A Guide to Burmese Noodle Soups