Have you ever found yourself wandering the streets of Cincinnati, craving that perfect bite of umami, the fragrant spice of Southeast Asia, or the comforting warmth of a steaming bowl of noodles? Cincinnati’s culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry, and woven intricately into that fabric is a diverse and delectable array of Asian cuisine. From hole-in-the-wall gems serving authentic family recipes to upscale restaurants pushing the boundaries of Asian-inspired gastronomy, the Queen City offers a veritable culinary adventure for those seeking the best Asian food.
This isn’t just another list of restaurants. This is a curated guide to some of Cincinnati’s hidden gems and established favorites, a passport to the best Asian dining experiences the city has to offer. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey as we uncover where to find the most authentic, innovative, and downright delicious Asian food in Cincinnati.
Delving into Delicious Chinese Cuisine
Chinese cuisine is a cornerstone of Cincinnati’s Asian food scene. From classic Cantonese dishes to the spicier flavors of Sichuan, the city offers a range of regional Chinese culinary experiences. It’s about more than just takeout; it’s about discovering the nuances of regional cooking and the dedication of chefs who bring their family traditions to the table.
Sichuan Bistro: A Fiery Feast
Tucked away in Mason, Sichuan Bistro offers an authentic taste of Sichuan cuisine. Forget your typical sweet and sour chicken; here, you’ll find dishes bursting with the signature “ma la” (numbing and spicy) flavor that defines Sichuan cooking. The restaurant’s unpretentious ambiance puts the focus squarely on the food, making it a favorite among those in the know.
One dish you absolutely must try is the Dan Dan Noodles. These aren’t your average noodles; they’re swimming in a rich, sesame-peanut sauce, infused with chili oil and Sichuan peppercorns. The combination of textures and flavors is truly addictive. Another standout is the Mapo Tofu, a silken tofu dish braised in a fermented black bean sauce with ground pork and chili oil. The balance of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet is a symphony on your palate. Expect to spend around $15-$25 per person. Sichuan Bistro is considered one of the best because of its uncompromising commitment to authentic Sichuan flavors and its use of high-quality ingredients.
Uncle Yip’s: Dim Sum Delights
Located in Evendale, Uncle Yip’s is Cincinnati’s go-to destination for dim sum. This bustling restaurant offers a wide selection of bite-sized delicacies, from steamed dumplings and savory buns to crispy spring rolls and flavorful rice noodle rolls. The atmosphere is lively and convivial, perfect for sharing a meal with friends and family.
Don’t miss the classic Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings), filled with a savory broth and pork filling. The Har Gow (shrimp dumplings) are also a must-try, showcasing delicate, translucent wrappers and plump, juicy shrimp. Prices range from $10-$20 per person, depending on how much you order. Uncle Yip’s is consistently praised for its authentic dim sum experience and its fresh, flavorful ingredients.
Fortune Noodle House: Hand-Pulled Perfection
Fortune Noodle House in Clifton is a hidden gem for noodle lovers. Here, you can watch the chefs expertly hand-pull noodles to order, creating a texture that’s unmatched by machine-made varieties. The menu features a variety of noodle soups and stir-fries, all made with fresh, flavorful ingredients.
The signature dish is the Lanzhou Beef Noodle Soup, a comforting bowl of hand-pulled noodles in a rich beef broth, topped with thinly sliced beef, radish, chili oil, and cilantro. The noodles have a perfect chewiness, and the broth is deeply flavorful. The price point is incredibly reasonable, with most dishes costing under $15. Fortune Noodle House is recognized for its authentic hand-pulled noodles and its commitment to quality and affordability.
Vietnamese Cuisine: A Fragrant Journey
Vietnamese food is renowned for its fresh herbs, delicate flavors, and aromatic broths. Cincinnati boasts a growing number of Vietnamese restaurants, each offering its own unique take on classic dishes.
Pho Lang Thang: A Taste of Vietnam in Findlay Market
Pho Lang Thang, nestled within Findlay Market, is a Cincinnati institution. This bustling eatery serves up steaming bowls of pho, banh mi, and other Vietnamese specialties, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The atmosphere is casual and vibrant, reflecting the energy of the market.
The pho is the star of the show, with a rich, flavorful broth simmered for hours. You can choose from a variety of protein options, including rare beef, chicken, and tofu. The banh mi sandwiches are also a must-try, featuring crusty baguettes filled with marinated meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Expect to spend around $10-$15 per person. Pho Lang Thang is beloved for its authentic Vietnamese flavors, its commitment to using fresh ingredients, and its convenient location.
Quan Hapa: Modern Vietnamese Fusion
Quan Hapa in Over-the-Rhine offers a modern take on Vietnamese cuisine. The menu features innovative dishes that blend traditional Vietnamese flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. The atmosphere is hip and stylish, making it a popular spot for a night out.
The okonomiyaki fries are a unique and delicious appetizer, featuring crispy fries topped with Japanese mayonnaise, hoisin sauce, and seaweed flakes. The pho is also excellent, with a flavorful broth and a variety of creative toppings. Prices range from $15-$25 per person. Quan Hapa is praised for its creative menu, its stylish atmosphere, and its commitment to using high-quality ingredients.
Japanese Sensations: From Sushi to Ramen
Japanese cuisine is celebrated for its precision, artistry, and emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Cincinnati’s Japanese restaurants offer a diverse range of experiences, from elegant sushi bars to cozy ramen shops.
Kiki: A Modern Izakaya Experience
Located in College Hill, Kiki is a modern izakaya that offers a playful and innovative take on Japanese small plates. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, making it a perfect spot for sharing a meal with friends.
The menu features a variety of creative dishes, from crispy karaage chicken to flavorful ramen bowls. The cocktails are also excellent, featuring Japanese-inspired flavors and ingredients. Expect to spend around $20-$30 per person. Kiki is known for its innovative menu, its lively atmosphere, and its commitment to using high-quality ingredients.
Yoshi’s Japanese Restaurant: Sushi Excellence
Yoshi’s Japanese Restaurant in Kenwood is a longstanding favorite for sushi lovers. The restaurant is known for its fresh, high-quality fish and its expertly crafted sushi rolls. The atmosphere is elegant and refined, making it a perfect spot for a special occasion.
The omakase experience is a must-try, allowing the chef to create a personalized tasting menu based on the freshest seasonal ingredients. The sushi rolls are also excellent, featuring a variety of creative combinations. Prices can range from $30-$50+ per person, depending on your order. Yoshi’s is revered for its impeccable sushi, its elegant atmosphere, and its exceptional service.
Ramen Misoya: Miso Ramen Mastery
Ramen Misoya is a chain restaurant, but don’t let that scare you off; this place does miso ramen incredibly well. Located in downtown Cincinnati, Ramen Misoya specializes in miso ramen, offering a variety of regional variations of this classic dish.
The signature miso ramen features a rich, flavorful broth made with fermented soybean paste, topped with pork belly, vegetables, and a soft-boiled egg. The noodles are perfectly cooked, and the overall experience is incredibly satisfying. Prices are quite affordable, with most bowls around $15. Ramen Misoya is the place to go for a truly authentic miso ramen experience.
Korean Flavors: A Spicy and Savory Adventure
Korean cuisine is characterized by its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and emphasis on fermented ingredients. Cincinnati’s Korean restaurants offer a range of experiences, from traditional Korean barbecue to modern fusion dishes.
Riverside Korean Restaurant: Authentic Korean BBQ
Riverside Korean Restaurant in Covington, KY, which is right across the river from Cincinnati, offers a quintessential Korean barbecue experience. Diners can grill their own meats at the table, accompanied by a variety of traditional side dishes (banchan). The atmosphere is lively and convivial, perfect for sharing a meal with friends and family.
The marinated short ribs (galbi) are a must-try, along with the spicy pork belly (samgyeopsal). The banchan are also excellent, offering a variety of pickled vegetables, kimchi, and other flavorful accompaniments. Expect to spend around $25-$35 per person. Riverside Korean Restaurant is celebrated for its authentic Korean barbecue experience and its generous portions.
Thai Temptations: A Symphony of Flavors
Thai cuisine is known for its balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, creating a truly harmonious culinary experience. Cincinnati’s Thai restaurants offer a range of experiences, from casual eateries to upscale dining destinations.
Bangkok Bistro: A Taste of Thailand on Vine Street
Bangkok Bistro in Over-the-Rhine is a longtime favorite for Thai food lovers. The restaurant offers a wide selection of classic Thai dishes, all made with fresh, flavorful ingredients. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner.
The pad thai is a classic choice, featuring stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, chicken, tofu, and peanuts in a tangy tamarind sauce. The green curry is also excellent, with a creamy coconut milk broth infused with green chilies, basil, and eggplant. Expect to spend around $15-$25 per person. Bangkok Bistro is renowned for its authentic Thai flavors and its consistently high-quality dishes.
Tips for Exploring Cincinnati’s Best Asian Food
To truly immerse yourself in Cincinnati’s diverse Asian food scene, venture beyond the well-trodden paths of downtown. Explore neighborhoods like Over-the-Rhine, Clifton, and Montgomery, where you’ll discover hidden gems and authentic family-run restaurants. Don’t hesitate to consult online reviews and ask locals for their recommendations. And most importantly, be adventurous! Step outside your comfort zone and try new dishes. You might just discover your new favorite Asian culinary experience. Finally, many Asian restaurants offer fantastic lunch specials. This is an economical way to sample a variety of dishes without breaking the bank.
Cincinnati’s Asian Food: A Culinary Treasure
Cincinnati’s Asian food scene is a vibrant and ever-evolving culinary treasure. From the fiery flavors of Sichuan cuisine to the delicate artistry of Japanese sushi, the Queen City offers a diverse range of experiences for every palate. So, grab your chopsticks, prepare your taste buds, and embark on a delicious adventure through the best Asian food in Cincinnati. We encourage you to explore the restaurants highlighted and share your own favorite Asian food finds in the city. Cincinnati’s culinary landscape is waiting to be discovered, one flavorful bite at a time.
