That electrifying craving for the perfect bowl of ramen, the fragrant steam rising from a plate of freshly cooked pad see ew, the satisfying sizzle of Korean barbecue – these are the siren songs of Asian cuisine. And in Columbus, Ohio, that song is sung loud and clear. Columbus, a city known for its vibrant arts scene, burgeoning tech industry, and, increasingly, its diverse culinary landscape, is a hidden gem for Asian food lovers. Gone are the days of limited options; today, Columbus boasts an impressive array of restaurants serving authentic and innovative dishes from across the Asian continent.
This article is your passport to a culinary adventure, a meticulously curated list of the very best Asian restaurants Columbus has to offer. We’ll delve into the rich tapestry of flavors, textures, and traditions that define Asian cuisine, exploring everything from family-run Chinese eateries to sleek Japanese sushi bars and bustling Korean barbecue joints. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover your new favorite spot for the best Asian food in Columbus, Ohio! Our journey will explore a variety of cuisines and price points to ensure there’s something for everyone. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable culinary exploration of Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai, and Vietnamese culinary masterpieces that are right here in Columbus, Ohio.
A Taste of China in the Heart of Ohio
The Chinese food scene in Columbus is a dynamic mix of classic comfort food and modern interpretations. You can find everything from traditional Cantonese dim sum to spicy Sichuan dishes that will set your palate ablaze. What sets Columbus apart is the dedication of many chefs to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to elevate these classic dishes.
Golden Dragon: A Culinary Dynasty
Golden Dragon is a Columbus institution, a family-owned restaurant that has been serving authentic Chinese cuisine for over three decades. Stepping inside is like stepping into a different world, with its ornate décor and bustling atmosphere. The menu is extensive, featuring everything from classic stir-fries to more adventurous dishes.
However, the real star of the show is the Peking Duck. Crispy skin, tender meat, and served with delicate pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce, it’s a culinary experience you won’t soon forget. The skilled chefs carve the duck tableside, adding to the drama and excitement. You can find Golden Dragon located on Morse Road. Call ahead for reservations, especially on weekends, to avoid a potentially long wait. Expect to pay a mid-range price for a memorable dining experience. Golden Dragon has consistently received rave reviews for its exceptional food and impeccable service, and has even won several local awards.
Fortune Cookie: A Fusion of Flavor
For a more modern take on Chinese cuisine, Fortune Cookie is a must-visit. This restaurant specializes in Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold flavors and liberal use of chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns. Prepare for a sensory overload of spice and aroma.
The Dan Dan Noodles are a must-try. These spicy noodles are tossed in a rich sesame sauce and topped with ground pork, preserved vegetables, and chili oil. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. Located downtown, Fortune Cookie offers a sleek and contemporary dining experience. The prices are reasonable, making it a great option for a casual lunch or dinner. Fortune Cookie has been featured in numerous local publications and is consistently ranked as one of the best Chinese restaurants in Columbus.
China Dynasty: The Neighborhood Favourite
Often overlooked but beloved by locals, China Dynasty is a classic, no-frills Chinese restaurant that delivers consistently delicious food at affordable prices. It’s the kind of place you go for a quick and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
While everything on the menu is good, the General Tso’s Chicken is a standout. Perfectly crispy, saucy, and just the right amount of spicy, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Found in a strip mall on the outskirts of the city, China Dynasty offers a casual and unpretentious dining experience. Don’t expect fancy décor; just expect great food at a great price.
Japanese Delights: From Sushi to Ramen and Beyond
Columbus’s Japanese food scene is just as diverse as its Chinese counterpart, with options ranging from elegant sushi bars to cozy ramen shops and lively izakayas. Whether you’re craving fresh sashimi or a comforting bowl of noodles, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your craving.
Sushi Time: A Symphony of Flavors
Sushi Time is a haven for sushi lovers, serving some of the freshest and most innovative sushi in the city. The chefs are true artists, crafting beautiful and delicious rolls that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.
The Dragon Roll is a must-try. This visually stunning roll features shrimp tempura, cucumber, avocado, and a drizzle of sweet eel sauce. The combination of textures and flavors is simply divine. Located in the Short North Arts District, Sushi Time boasts a sleek and modern atmosphere. Prices are on the higher side, but the quality and presentation are well worth the splurge.
Ramen Paradise: A Bowl of Comfort
Ramen Paradise is the perfect place to warm up on a cold day. This cozy ramen shop serves authentic Japanese ramen with rich, flavorful broths and perfectly cooked noodles.
The Tonkotsu Ramen is a must-try. This creamy pork bone broth is simmered for hours to extract maximum flavor, then topped with tender slices of pork belly, a soft-boiled egg, and a sprinkle of green onions. The prices are reasonable, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
Izakaya Echo: A Taste of Japan
For a fun and social dining experience, Izakaya Echo is the place to be. This Japanese pub serves a variety of small plates, grilled skewers, and Japanese beer and sake.
The Yakitori skewers are a must-try. Choose from a variety of meats and vegetables, all grilled to perfection and seasoned with a delicious teriyaki sauce. Located in the University District, Izakaya Echo offers a lively and authentic Japanese pub atmosphere. Prices are moderate, making it a great option for a night out with friends.
Korean Cuisine: A Fiery Fusion of Flavors
The Korean food scene in Columbus is experiencing a boom, with new restaurants opening all the time. From sizzling Korean barbecue to comforting bowls of bibimbap, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Seoul Garden: The Authentic Experience
Seoul Garden is a Columbus institution, serving authentic Korean cuisine for many years. It’s the place to go for a traditional Korean dining experience.
Korean barbecue is the must-try experience. Cook your own marinated meats right at your table, accompanied by a variety of side dishes (banchan). It’s a fun and interactive dining experience that’s perfect for groups. Located on Sawmill Road, Seoul Garden offers a casual and welcoming atmosphere. Prices are moderate to high, depending on your choice of meat.
Bibimbap Blast: A Rice Dish Revolution
For a quick and satisfying meal, Bibimbap Blast is a great option. This restaurant specializes in bibimbap, a Korean rice dish topped with a variety of vegetables, meat, and a fried egg.
The Spicy Pork Bibimbap is a must-try. The rice is topped with marinated pork, a variety of colorful vegetables, and a spicy gochujang sauce. The prices are very reasonable, making it a great option for a lunch.
Kimchi Kingdom: Fermented Flavors
Kimchi Kingdom, recently renovated and renamed, is a small, family-run restaurant that specializes in homemade kimchi and other traditional Korean dishes.
The Kimchi Jjigae (kimchi stew) is a must-try. This spicy and flavorful stew is made with aged kimchi, pork belly, tofu, and vegetables. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold day. It is located near downtown and is known for its authentic cuisine.
Thai Temptation: A Symphony of Sweet, Sour, Spicy, and Savory
Thai cuisine is known for its harmonious blend of sweet, sour, spicy, and savory flavors, and Columbus’s Thai restaurants are no exception. From classic pad Thai to flavorful curries, there’s something to please every palate.
Bangkok Bistro: Classic Thai With a Twist
Bangkok Bistro is a long-standing favourite in Columbus known for using fresh, local ingredients and creating innovative Thai dishes.
Their Pad Thai is a standout. Rice noodles are stir-fried with shrimp, chicken, tofu, bean sprouts, peanuts, and a tamarind-based sauce. They also have a large vegetarian selection. Located near Grandview Heights, Bangkok Bistro offers a trendy and modern atmosphere. Prices are reasonable, making it a great option for a casual meal.
Thai Grille: A Taste of Thailand
For a more authentic Thai experience, Thai Grille is a great option. This restaurant serves traditional Thai dishes with bold flavors and generous portions.
The Green Curry is a must-try. This fragrant curry is made with green chilies, coconut milk, bamboo shoots, bell peppers, and your choice of protein. It is available in varying degrees of spice. Located in the Clintonville neighborhood, Thai Grille offers a casual and friendly atmosphere. Prices are very reasonable, making it a great option for a family meal.
Siam Corner: The Hidden Gem
Often overlooked but highly recommended by those in the know, Siam Corner offers authentic Thai dishes in a cozy and unassuming setting.
The Massaman Curry is a standout. This rich and creamy curry is made with coconut milk, potatoes, onions, peanuts, and your choice of protein. It’s a milder curry, perfect for those who don’t like a lot of spice. They can be found along the north end of town and are known for their take-out options.
Vietnamese Voyage: A Culinary Adventure
Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and light, healthy dishes. In Columbus, you can find everything from steaming bowls of pho to crispy banh mi sandwiches.
Pho Factory: A Noodle Paradise
Pho Factory is the place to go for authentic Vietnamese pho. This restaurant serves a variety of pho options with different broths, meats, and toppings.
The Pho Tai is a must-try. This classic pho is made with a rich beef broth, rice noodles, thinly sliced rare beef, and a variety of fresh herbs. It is a very popular item for lunch.
Banh Mi Boulevard: Sandwich Sensation
For a quick and satisfying lunch, Banh Mi Boulevard is a great option. This restaurant specializes in banh mi sandwiches, a Vietnamese baguette filled with various meats, vegetables, and condiments.
The Classic Banh Mi is a must-try. This sandwich is filled with grilled pork, pate, pickled carrots and daikon, cilantro, and jalapenos.
Saigon Soul: Authentic Flavors
Saigon Soul is a new restaurant that is quickly gaining popularity for its authentic Vietnamese dishes.
Their spring rolls are a must-try. Served with peanut sauce, they are a refreshing appetizer. They are located near downtown in a revitalized area of the city.
Tips for Exploring Columbus’s Asian Food Scene
Columbus’s Asian food scene is constantly evolving, so there’s always something new to discover. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your culinary journey:
Explore different neighborhoods: Morse Road is known for its Chinese and Korean restaurants, while the Short North Arts District is home to many trendy sushi bars.
Try new dishes: Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something you’ve never had before.
Check online reviews: Before visiting a restaurant, read online reviews to get an idea of the food quality and service.
Ask for recommendations: If you’re unsure what to order, ask the staff for their recommendations.
Columbus’s Asian Food: A Culinary Oasis
Columbus, Ohio, is a city brimming with culinary surprises, and its Asian food scene is a shining example of this. The sheer diversity of cuisines, the dedication to authentic flavors, and the passion of the chefs make Columbus a true culinary oasis for Asian food lovers. From the comforting warmth of ramen to the fiery kick of Sichuan cuisine, the city offers a journey for every palate.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your appetite and embark on a culinary adventure through the best Asian restaurants in Columbus, Ohio. Discover your new favorite spot, try something new, and savor the incredible flavors that this vibrant city has to offer. The best Asian food Columbus has is waiting to be discovered!
