Scrumptious Sojourns: Top 10 Asian Cuisine Restaurants in Austin

Welcome to Austin! The capital city of Texas is not only famous for its vibrant live music scene and picturesque landscapes, but it has emerged as a hot-spot for delightfully diverse culinary exploration. Asian cuisine holds a special place here, presenting a tapestry of flavors enriched by multicultural influences. Here are the top 10 Asian cuisine restaurants to visit when in this entertainment-loving city.

1. Uchi

Uchi is a culinary jewel standing proud in South Lamar, touting a blend of Japanese flavors paired effortlessly with Austin’s original taste. The restaurant promises out-of-the-world dishes aligned perfectly with superior service, making it a “must-visit” on your Austin itinerary.

  • Crowd favorites include the Machi Cure (smoked yellowtail), sashimi, and the innovative Uchiviche, a dish expressing Uchi’s flair for creativity and flavor.
  • Uchi regularly hosts ‘Sake Socials’, offering specially curated menus and sake. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy Japanese rice wine in a convivial setting.
  • The restaurant also showcases a meticulously crafted interior that exudes authentic Japanese aesthetic, contributing to a holistic dining experience.

With Uchi, prepare yourself for a sensorial journey where traditional Japanese cuisine unites with Austin’s food culture.

2. 888 Pan Asian Restaurant

Stories float from every nook and corner in Austin – some of its most delicious ones come from 888 Pan Asian Restaurant, your go-to place for Vietnamese, Thai, and Chinese delicacies.

  • What can you order? For meat lovers, nothing can beat their Kung Pao Chicken. No less appealing are their exhaustive vegetarian dishes, such as Lemongrass Tofu and the ever-popular Buddha’s Delight.
  • Make your meal more satisfying with their signature bubble tea, offered in multiple flavors.
  • One can’t miss their Pho, a Vietnamese soup consisting of broth, noodles, herbs, and meat. It’s a hearty meal all by itself.

888 Pan Asian stands out for its affordability and authenticity, transporting guests across various Asian destinations through their tastefully curated dishes.

3. Ramen Tatsu-Ya

If you want to relish the versatile and soulful ramen, Ramen Tatsu-Ya is the place to be. Traditional ramen bowls served up in an exciting, contemporary venue – it’s an inviting proposition for every food lover.

  • At the top of their menu is the Tonkotsu Original ramen, a rich, pork-bone based soup paired with delicious noodles.
  • Vegans don’t need to feel left out, as they can devour the Veggie Miso Ramen, packed with whole foods and tantalizing flavors.
  • Their Sake menu is equally impressive, presenting a chance to pair your meal with a suitable rice wine.

Ramen Tatsu-Ya portrays the true essence of Japanese cuisine in Austin, setting a high bar when it comes to authenticity and taste.

4. Thai-Kun

Thai-Kun, located at the bustling Rock Rose at Domain Northside, offers Thai street food that’s both compelling and delectable.

  • The classic Waterfall Pork and Green Curry Chicken are certain to leave your taste buds spellbound.
  • The Black Noodles (also known as “Boat Noodles”) is another standout, simmering with Asian flavors and hearty portion sizes.
  • For heat lovers, Thai-Kun offers a ‘Heat Level’ guide. Choose accordingly, but be warned – heat levels range from ‘American Spicy’ to ‘Thai Spicy’.

Thai-Kun bids you to undertake a gastronomic voyage that lies between classic Thai and Austin’s local palate.

5. Sa-Tén Coffee & Eats

Unconventional, unique, and unapologetically original, Sa-Tén Coffee & Eats merges Japanese cuisine with a casual coffee shop scene.

  • Kick-start your day with a Yakitori bowl or a Nori Tama toast. For dessert or a mid-day snack, try their Toast Plates, especially the Matcha Anko toast.
  • You can also invest some time working here, with their stimulating mix of caffeine and free Wi-Fi. Alternatively, it’s a cool spot to relax with friends, sip on a Matcha Latte, or indulge in long, engaging conversations over Iced Hojicha.

Sa-Tén is your personal haven for a comforting and quaint culinary experience, Japanese-style in the heart of Austin.

6. Wu Chow

Wu Chow brings Chinese cuisine to life, showcasing the diversity of China’s food culture, right here in downtown Austin.

  • Savor regional favorites like spicy General Tso’s Chicken, comforting Shanghai Soup Dumplings or their acclaimed Green Beans with minced pork.
  • Unique offerings extend to their impressive collection of wines and cocktails, each designed to pair perfectly with their dishes.
  • A reservation is recommended on weekends and holidays where their classic Dim Sum Brunch becomes hard to resist.

By merging traditional culinary techniques with a farm-to-table approach, Wu Chow helps you endearingly explore the depths of Chinese cuisine.

7. Sway

Sway brings you face-to-face with modern Thai flavors while ensuring a culinary event unlike any other.

  • Savor the Son-in-Law, a traditional dish of crispy pork shoulder served with chili caramel, pickled green mango, and crispy shallot. It’s a wonderful blend of sweet, sour, and spicy.
  • Enhance your dining experience with Green Curry Fried Rice or Jungle Curry featuring Texas Wagyu beef.
  • Their dessert selections are divine, particularly the acclaimed Jasmine Tea Panna Cotta.

Sway’s interpretation of modern Thai, served in a captivating atmosphere, is a feast for all senses.

8. Koriente

Healthy, scrumptious, and utterly affordable, Koriente serves up Asian cuisine for health-conscious patrons.

  • Their offerings are lean towards Vegan, Gluten-free, and low carb options that pack a flavorful punch.
  • The Japchei noodle stir-fry, Mixmix Bibimbap, and handmade Shrimp Rolls are enduring crowd pleasers.
  • If health and nutrition is on your agenda, don’t miss their Garden Handrolls and Tofu Soup.

At Koriente, you can indulge in guilt-free Asian cuisine, thoughtfully crafted with health and wellness considerations.

9. Pho Saigon Noodle House

Your search for Austin’s best Pho ends at Pho Saigon Noodle House – where the nostalgic and comforting feel of Vietnamese cuisine comes alive.

  • The Pho is perfectly seasoned, with a rich, aromatic broth that warms you from the inside.
  • Banh mi sandwiches are equally popular, boasting freshly baked bread and flavorful fillings.
  • The relaxed and soothing ambiance found at Pho Saigon makes it an ideal spot for casual hangouts or family dinners.

Pho Saigon hooks you right away with its home-grown authenticity and simplicity, ensuring your affection for Vietnamese cuisine only grows stronger.

10. Cho Sushi Japanese Fusion

At Cho Sushi, tradition meets artistry, resulting in an impressive array of Sushi Rolls, Sashimi, and other Japanese specialties.

  • The Seven Samurai Roll and Rock n’ Roll offer a culinary ballet of taste and texture.
  • Continue your exploration with tempura-fried Brussels sprouts paired with a citrus aioli dip and sumptuous Beef Bulgogi.
  • Cho Sushi is also a treat to the eyes, their beautifully plated food complemented by an intricately designed modern-meets-traditional interior.

Ending your top 10 Asian restaurant round-up in Cho Sushi, you’ll be left applauding the successful marriage of Japanese authenticity with culinary fusion.

Exploring Austin isn’t just about its kicky live music and picturesque running trails – it paints an extraordinary culinary landscape. Awaiting you is a flavorful journey that folds in a zingy surprise at each stop – these top 10 Asian Cuisine Restaurants are just the beginning. As you begin your journey, remember that the unique culinary story Austin tells is the one that sets it apart. Make sure these restaurants are a part of your itinerary and allow your taste buds to join you in creating those unforgettable Austin memories.

This list, promising to guide you through your gastronomic adventures in Austin, is just the appetizer. Share your experiences and drop your recommendations because Austin is a treasure trove waiting to be explored – one taste at a time. So ready your cutlery and adventurous palette because Austin’s delicacies are too good to miss. Happy eating!

This guide is intended to provide general information only. Please ensure to check the respective websites for the latest updates, opening hours, and safety guidelines considering the ongoing COVID-19 situation.

Lauren Critzer

I was born in Charlottesville, Virginia and after college, I moved to San Francisco to explore new opportunities and broaden my horizons. I fell in love with the city's vibrant culture and unique atmosphere, but eventually, I moved again, this time to Austin, Texas.

As much as I loved living in different parts of the country, having a baby boy brought me back to my hometown in Charlottesville, where I now live with my husband, our little one, and two furry friends. I enjoy going to wineries, taking my pups everywhere, and spending quality time with my family.

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