As a Chinese-American born and bred in New York, trust me when I say I know exactly where to go for the best Asian restaurants in the city. I’m sure it’s one for discussion and debate, but I stand by the fact that New York has the best Asian food scene, hands down. I’m talking small bites and big flavors via skewers, spicy yet light Thai food, a solid masala chai, and a hearty Cantonese feast teaching you the might of wok-hei. Keep reading, for a tried and true list of the best Asian cuisines New York City has to offer.
Her Name is Han (Korean)
If you’re looking for a place to catch up with friends over a good, filling meal, Her Name is Han is the best place to go to. Everything is sharable from the Corn & Cream Croquettes to the Crispy Kimchi Pancake and a plate of Slow-cooked Porkbelly. A cheers with a signature cocktail and my personal favorite, a Yuzu Beer.
Lungi (Sri Lanka)
Highlighted by the Michelin Guide just months after opening its doors, Lungi makes a mark for Sri Lankan cuisine in the Big Apple. Dishes like this Black Short Rib Kari, cooked low and slow, are packed with warming flavors. Order a Hopper, savory pancakes perfect to mop up karis and chutneys. But if you’re looking for a proper feast, head to the restaurant on a Sunday for Virundhu. This meal is popular in South India, and is served to the guests on a banana leaf during religious festivals at home and also at weddings.
Raku (Japanese)
As an homage to his home cooking, Chef Norihiro Ishizuka crafts a menu centered around this iconic noodle, which is a classic comfort food in Japan. Cold udon and hot udon, it’s perfect all year round if you’re looking to warm up or cool down.
Somtum Dur (Thai)
Som Tum, translating to Green Papaya Salad, the restaurant offers multiple versions for patrons to try. Centering on Isan, located in Northeastern Thailand, the restaurant cooks up the bold, fiery flavors Thailand is well known for. My favorite here was the Tum Kor Moo Yang, a green mango salad topped with grilled port neck.
Uncle Lou’s (Chinese)
Uncle Lou’s is the best Cantonese spot Chinatown has to offer. Every dish is blessed with the might of wok-hei, the deep umami flavor only achieved by a sturdy wok and a giant blazing fire. My go-to, tried and true is the Fried Salt & Pepper Flounder Filets, the Braised Chenpi Duck, Sauteed Pea Shoots, and a Shitake Mushroom Yee Mein is perfect to close out the meal.
Lysée (Pastries)
This dessert gallery merges French techniques with Korean flavors. Chef Eunji Lee, led by the chef, created desserts that are pretty to chow down on. The namesake dessert, Lysee, is a mousse cake with a Korean toasted brown rice mousse, caramel, and praline. And the new seasonal treat, a Strawberry Tart made with Harry’s Berries strawberries and compote, honey cream, and a rhubarb gelée, then dusted with a bit of gold leaf.
Chalong (Thai)
Chef Nate Limwong is celebrating her southern Thai roots by bringing local flavors, highlighting fresh seafood, and mouthwatering curries. And don’t miss out on their cocktail menu either! The Goat Curry and those who love oysters must try the Lumpu Salad!
Nargis Cafe (Uzbek)
If you’re looking for a firework of flavors, seek out some Uzbek food at Nargis Cafe in Brooklyn. Homemade manti, skewers of juicy kebabs, and a flavor pack Plov is the most warming meal to try. And definitely bring a hungry friend, or four, because family style is the only way to go.
Nha Trang One (Vietnamese)
This classic Viet favorite in Chinatown has a cult following, serving up warm Pho perfect for the cold or Bún Tôm Nướng, BBQ shrimp with rice vermicelli, refreshing and filling for warmer seasons.
Kopitiam (Malaysian)
This small, popular spot, where my favorite thing to grab is located on their breakfast menu. A Nasi Lemak, the country’s national dish, comes with coconut rice, fried anchovies & peanuts, hard-boiled eggs, and a scoop of house sambal, and add on a sweet kaya toast.
Lai Rai (Wine Bar)
On the edge of Chinatown, Lai Rai is pouring guests natural wines and serving homemade ice cream. As the cool little sister of Mắm, just a few doors down, the bar serves up some of the best ice cream flavors to try, from chrysanthemum tea to avocado. And for drinks, take your pick from Vietnamese wines from Hanoi to silky Korean rice wines.
Kolkata Chai Co (Chai)
Get your fix of a warming masala chai, chai lattes, and oat milk chai at Kolkata. And do yourself a favor and grab a Samosa!
Coffee Project NYC (Cafe)
With seven locations all over the city, Coffee Project is led by Chi Sum Ngai and Kaleena Teoh, meant to be an independent coffee retailer, roaster, and education hub. The franchise offers a nitro tasting flight, cold brews served up a few different ways, to see how you like your caffeine taken. Seasonal drinks like Pandan Latte, made with fragrant pandan leaves, and a Strawberry Matcha is a sweet refreshing treat to try.
There are too many to count, but walk into any Chinese bakery in Chinatown for freshly made buns, rich milk teas, and endless egg tarts– which you’ll need to try a cookie crust and puff pastry crust.
