Burma Love still delivers on zesty flavors more than 30 years later

When Burma Superstar established itself in 1992, it introduced a new palate to the Bay.

State of play: More than three decades later, its line of restaurants continues to offer bold, vibrant flavors while on a larger mission to spotlight Burmese culture.

I visited its Burma Love branch in the Mission last week and sampled a diverse selection from the menu, which contains plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.

• The wok-tossed Sichuan chili beef was topped with rice wine, onions and Thai basil — each bite was a mouthful of sharp aromas that paired perfectly with jasmine rice.
• The decadent red curry had chunks of tender eggplant, softened daikon and mint leaves.

Their signature dish — garlic noodles — was served with a sprinkle of fried garlic, scallions, onions and sweet and spicy sauce.

• I ordered it with five-spice tofu, and it was by far the best thing I ate all night.

Of note: There was never a point in the night when the restaurant wasn't completely packed.

Burma Superstar has locations all around the Bay — just be prepared to wait at least 30 minutes, if not longer, if you don't have a reservation.