Are you seeking a culinary adventure beyond the craft breweries and breathtaking mountain views that Asheville, North Carolina, is famous for? Prepare to be surprised! Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville boasts a surprisingly vibrant and diverse Asian food scene just waiting to be explored. From comforting bowls of ramen to fragrant curries and sizzling Korean barbecue, Asheville’s Asian restaurants offer a passport to flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
This guide will take you on a delicious journey through Asheville’s best Asian food, highlighting the authentic flavors, innovative dishes, and unique culinary experiences that await. Whether you’re a seasoned Asian food connoisseur or a curious newcomer, prepare to discover hidden gems and local favorites that will redefine your perception of Asheville’s culinary landscape. So, forget the predictable and prepare for a taste of Asia, right here in the mountains!
The Allure of Chinese Cuisine in Asheville
Chinese cuisine, with its rich history and diverse regional variations, is a cornerstone of the Asian food scene worldwide, and Asheville is no exception. From the classic Cantonese dishes to the spicy flavors of Sichuan, Asheville’s Chinese restaurants offer something to satisfy every palate. When considering the best Asian food Asheville, Chinese food options should not be left out.
Red Ginger
One establishment that consistently impresses is Red Ginger. Located in the heart of downtown, Red Ginger boasts a sleek and modern atmosphere, perfect for a casual lunch or a special dinner. Their menu features a wide range of classic Chinese dishes, but their signature dish, the Peking Duck, is an absolute must-try. The crispy skin and succulent meat are expertly prepared and served with traditional pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. While slightly on the pricier side, the quality and attention to detail at Red Ginger make it worth the splurge. Red Ginger is considered among the best asian food Asheville for a good reason. It is renowned for its authentic flavor, careful plating and ambiance.
China King
Another local favorite, China King, offers a more casual and budget-friendly experience. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up delicious and authentic Chinese food to Asheville residents for years. Their menu is extensive, featuring everything from General Tso’s chicken to Kung Pao shrimp. However, their standout dish is undoubtedly the Dan Dan Noodles. These spicy and flavorful noodles are made with a rich sesame sauce, ground pork, and chili oil. The perfect blend of heat and savory goodness makes them incredibly addictive. China King is a great place to go for a quick and satisfying meal, and it’s easy on the wallet. Many consider China King to have some of the best asian food Asheville has to offer. They offer comfort food that reminds many of the dishes that their family or friends might cook.
A Journey Through Japanese Flavors in Asheville
Japanese cuisine, known for its precision, artistry, and focus on fresh ingredients, is another highlight of Asheville’s Asian food scene. From delicate sushi and sashimi to comforting bowls of ramen and savory izakaya dishes, Asheville’s Japanese restaurants offer a diverse range of culinary experiences. The best Asian food Asheville offers includes exquisite Japanese dining.
Wasabi Sushi Bar
For sushi lovers, Wasabi Sushi Bar is an absolute must-visit. Located in a trendy neighborhood, Wasabi boasts a stylish and modern atmosphere. Their sushi is impeccably fresh and expertly prepared, with a wide variety of classic and creative rolls to choose from. The Rainbow Roll is a perennial favorite, featuring a colorful assortment of tuna, salmon, yellowtail, and avocado. However, for a truly unique experience, try the Chef’s Special Roll, which changes daily and showcases the chef’s creativity and skill. While Wasabi can be a bit pricey, the quality of the sushi and the overall dining experience make it well worth the investment. Sushi is an art form, and many claim that Wasabi’s sushi is some of the best asian food Asheville locals can find.
Heiwa Shokudo
For those craving a comforting bowl of ramen, Heiwa Shokudo is the place to go. This cozy and unassuming restaurant specializes in authentic Japanese ramen. Their broth is rich and flavorful, simmered for hours to extract maximum depth of flavor. The noodles are perfectly cooked, with just the right amount of chewiness. And the toppings are fresh and plentiful, including pork belly, bamboo shoots, and a soft-boiled egg. Heiwa Shokudo offers several different types of ramen, from the classic tonkotsu to the spicy miso ramen. No matter which you choose, you’re sure to be impressed. Heiwa Shokudo is a testament that Asheville has the best asian food Asheville could ask for.
Korean Cuisine: A Spicy and Savory Adventure in Asheville
Korean cuisine, with its bold flavors, spicy dishes, and emphasis on communal dining, is gaining popularity in Asheville. From sizzling Korean barbecue to comforting stews and flavorful rice bowls, Asheville’s Korean restaurants offer a delicious and authentic taste of Korea. For a truly unforgettable dining experience that features the best asian food Asheville offers, seek out these hidden gems.
Stone Bowl Korean Restaurant
Stone Bowl Korean Restaurant is one of the most popular options for authentic Korean fare. Located on Merrimon Avenue, this casual and bustling restaurant offers a wide array of Korean dishes. Their signature dish, the bibimbap, is a must-try. Served in a hot stone bowl, this colorful rice bowl is topped with a variety of vegetables, meat, and a fried egg. The heat from the stone bowl crisps the rice at the bottom, adding a delightful texture to the dish. Stone Bowl also offers a variety of other Korean favorites, such as bulgogi, kimchi jjigae, and japchae. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, making Stone Bowl a great value. Stone Bowl has helped shaped the landscape of what the best asian food Asheville can be.
Asheville Korean House
Another excellent choice for Korean food is Asheville Korean House. This family-owned restaurant is known for its friendly service and authentic Korean dishes. Their Korean barbecue is a particular highlight, allowing you to grill your own meat at your table. They offer a variety of marinated meats, including bulgogi, galbi, and spicy pork. The banchan, or side dishes, are also excellent, featuring a variety of pickled vegetables, kimchi, and other Korean specialties. Asheville Korean House is a great place to go with a group of friends or family, and it’s a fun and interactive dining experience. They are a solid contender for the best asian food Asheville can be proud of.
Aromatic Adventures: Exploring Vietnamese Cuisine in Asheville
Vietnamese cuisine, with its fresh herbs, light sauces, and fragrant broths, is a refreshing and flavorful option in Asheville. From comforting bowls of pho to crispy banh mi sandwiches and delicate spring rolls, Asheville’s Vietnamese restaurants offer a taste of Vietnam that is both authentic and delicious. Seek the most authentic options when thinking about the best Asian food Asheville has.
Pho Vietnam
Pho Vietnam is a local institution, known for its authentic pho and friendly service. This unassuming restaurant has been serving up delicious Vietnamese food to Asheville residents for years. Their pho is made with a rich and flavorful broth, simmered for hours to extract maximum depth of flavor. The noodles are perfectly cooked, and the toppings are fresh and plentiful, including bean sprouts, basil, and lime. Pho Vietnam offers several different types of pho, from the classic pho ga (chicken pho) to the pho bo (beef pho). No matter which you choose, you’re sure to be impressed. This restaurant offers great Vietnamese options as part of what it means to say Asheville has the best asian food Asheville has to offer.
Banh Mi Sai Gon
For a quick and satisfying lunch, Banh Mi Sai Gon is the perfect choice. This small sandwich shop specializes in banh mi, the classic Vietnamese sandwich. Their banh mi are made with crispy baguettes, filled with a variety of meats, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and jalapenos. The result is a sandwich that is both flavorful and satisfying. Banh Mi Sai Gon also offers a variety of other Vietnamese dishes, such as spring rolls and rice noodle bowls. Banh Mi Sai Gon’s sandwiches help solidify Asheville as a city where one can find the best asian food Asheville wide.
The Exotic Spices of Thailand in Asheville
Thai cuisine, with its vibrant flavors, aromatic spices, and balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy, is a popular choice for those seeking an exotic culinary experience in Asheville. From creamy curries to flavorful noodle dishes and tangy soups, Asheville’s Thai restaurants offer a taste of Thailand that is both authentic and delicious. Don’t forget the Thai options when considering what the best asian food Asheville has is.
Siam Thai Restaurant
Siam Thai Restaurant is a long-standing favorite, known for its consistently excellent food and friendly service. This elegant restaurant offers a wide range of classic Thai dishes, including pad thai, green curry, and tom yum soup. Their ingredients are fresh and flavorful, and their dishes are expertly prepared. Siam Thai Restaurant is a great place to go for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. They are a cornerstone in the culinary landscape of the best asian food Asheville patrons can find.
Thai Basil
For a more casual and budget-friendly option, Thai Basil is an excellent choice. This popular restaurant offers a wide range of Thai dishes at reasonable prices. Their pad thai is a perennial favorite, featuring stir-fried noodles with shrimp, chicken, or tofu, and a sweet and savory sauce. Thai Basil also offers a variety of other Thai favorites, such as red curry, massaman curry, and mango sticky rice. This place has help cultivate an image where Asheville has the best asian food Asheville could have.
Beyond the Familiar: Expanding Your Asian Food Horizons in Asheville
While Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Thai cuisines dominate Asheville’s Asian food scene, there are also a few other hidden gems worth exploring.
If you are looking for something else you might be able to try Indian food or explore the culinary scene of other places in the Asian continent. Do research beforehand to explore what you like.
Conclusion: Asheville’s Asian Food Scene: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
As you can see, Asheville’s Asian food scene is far more diverse and exciting than many might expect. From classic dishes to innovative creations, the Asian restaurants in Asheville offer a delicious and authentic taste of Asia that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
So, the next time you’re in Asheville, don’t just stick to the breweries and brunch spots. Embark on a culinary adventure and discover the incredible Asian flavors that await! Explore the restaurants mentioned in this guide, and don’t be afraid to try something new. You might just discover your new favorite restaurant or dish. Asheville is a city that truly has something for everyone, and its Asian food scene is just one more reason to love this vibrant and unique mountain town. What it means to say that Asheville offers the best asian food Asheville diners can find is not an overstatement, so explore what it has to offer and find your new favorite spot!
