A Taste of Belonging in Brisbane’s Burmese Community

The latest addition to Brisbane’s culinary scene is Sorai, a vibrant restaurant on Old Cleveland Road in Carina that brings a slice of Myanmar culture to the city. This new venture has quickly become a hub for locals and expats alike, offering a taste of home for the many Burmese migrants who call Australia home.

Alfan Musthafa, one of Brisbane’s rising culinary stars, is behind Sorai, which he co-founded with fellow Burmese chefs Min Hein Kyaw and Su Sabai Zaw. Musthafa’s journey into Burmese cuisine began at the Global Food Markets in Woodridge, where his sous chef Laga “Bosco” Htoi’s aunt operated a food stall serving authentic Burmese dishes.

Musthafa was particularly drawn to the tofu noodles, which blew him away with its unique flavors and textures. This encounter sparked a passion for Burmese cuisine, which is surprisingly underrepresented in Brisbane’s restaurant scene despite the city’s growing Myanmar population. As of now, there are over 46,000 people of Myanmar origin living in Australia, many of whom have made Brisbane their home.

Sorai’s menu is a love letter to Burmese cuisine, with more than half of its dishes hailing from this Southeast Asian nation. The restaurant’s stars include comforting noodle dishes like kyay oh and mohinga, as well as salads and curries that are sure to delight anyone who has traveled to Myanmar.

The owners have taken care to incorporate traditional Burmese elements into the design, from the vibrant yellow tiling to the rattan lampshades and Burmese umbrellas adorning the walls. This attention to detail creates a welcoming space for both locals and the Burmese community.

Kyaw notes that while Burmese cuisine may be unfamiliar to some, its flavors and spices share commonalities with Chinese and Indian cooking, making it accessible to a wider audience. The menu is similarly thoughtful, catering to both seasoned Burmese food enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Sorai’s liquor license has recently been approved, but the drinks list promises to be an exciting addition to the restaurant’s offerings. With Felons beer on tap and a range of Asian brews by the bottle, there’s something for every palate.

The reception has been “amazing so far,” with the restaurant consistently busy since its opening in late June. The support from the local community has been overwhelming, with many patrons returning multiple times to sample Sorai’s delicious offerings.

Sorai is more than just a restaurant – it’s a symbol of the growing Burmese community in Brisbane and their efforts to share their culture with the wider world. As the city continues to grow and diversify, restaurants like Sorai will play an increasingly important role in fostering understanding and appreciation for the many cultures that call Australia home.

For those looking to experience the best of Burmese cuisine in Brisbane, Sorai is a must-visit destination. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, and commitment to community, this restaurant is sure to become a beloved institution in the city’s culinary scene.

Sorai represents a new chapter in the story of Brisbane’s Burmese community, one that is marked by resilience, determination, and a passion for sharing their culture with others. As the city looks towards its future, restaurants like Sorai will play an important role in shaping its identity and character.

In this way, food can be a powerful force for connection, understanding, and belonging – even in the most unlikely of places.