A Taste of China in the Gateway City
Forget the Gateway Arch; for many, St. Louis’s true appeal lies in its incredibly diverse and delicious Asian food scene. From steaming bowls of pho to sizzling Korean barbecue, the city offers a culinary passport to explore the rich flavors and traditions of Asia. You don’t need a plane ticket to experience authentic Cantonese dim sum, delicately crafted sushi, or the fiery spice of Sichuan cuisine. St. Louis is a melting pot, and nowhere is that more evident than in the vibrant tapestry of its Asian restaurants. This article delves into some of the best Asian restaurants in St. Louis, highlighting must-try dishes and hidden gems to tantalize every palate, making it your ultimate guide to asian food st louis.
The Chinese culinary landscape in St. Louis is vast and varied, reflecting the diverse regional cuisines of China itself. From classic Cantonese dishes to the bold flavors of Sichuan province, there’s a Chinese restaurant to satisfy every craving. Many consider Asian food st louis a category lead by its chinese restaurant.
Yummy Inn Chinese Restaurant
One standout is “Yummy Inn Chinese Restaurant,” nestled in the heart of University City. This establishment specializes in authentic Sichuan cuisine, renowned for its complex flavors and generous use of chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns. For a truly immersive experience, try the Mapo Tofu, a classic dish featuring silken tofu simmered in a spicy, savory sauce with ground meat and fermented black beans. The Kung Pao Chicken is another must-try, offering a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes. Yummy Inn boasts a casual and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a family dinner or a casual lunch with friends. The price range is moderate, making it an accessible option for a delicious and authentic taste of Sichuan.
Wonton King
Alternatively, “Wonton King” provides an excellent exploration of Cantonese cuisine. Located in the heart of the Loop, they are famed for their meticulous approach to classic Cantonese dishes. Their wonton soup is the best in Asian food st louis. Their other famous dishes include the tender and flavorful Char Siu (barbecue pork), and the delicate steamed fish with ginger and scallions. Wonton King’s ambiance is vibrant and lively, reflecting the bustling energy of Cantonese dining. Their menu boasts a wide variety of dumplings, noodles, and stir-fried dishes.
China Royal
Finally, venture out a bit to discover “China Royal”, a hidden gem known primarily by locals. It sits quietly, tucked away on the outskirts of town. They do not specialize in a specific regional cuisine, but rather offer familiar dishes that westerners appreciate. The atmosphere is relaxed, and they boast an extensive selection of dishes. They may not be as authentic, but make up for it in flavor and comfort.
The Delicate Flavors of Vietnam
Vietnamese cuisine in St. Louis is characterized by its fresh ingredients, fragrant herbs, and delicate balance of flavors. From the iconic pho to the crispy banh mi, Vietnamese restaurants in St. Louis offer a true taste of Southeast Asia.
Pho Grand
“Pho Grand,” located on South Grand Boulevard, is a local institution renowned for its exceptional pho. This aromatic noodle soup, simmered for hours with fragrant spices and served with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a squeeze of lime, is a true comfort food classic. Pho Grand’s broth is rich and flavorful, and the generous portions of noodles and meat make it a satisfying and affordable meal. The restaurant’s atmosphere is casual and bustling, reflecting the vibrant energy of the Vietnamese community in St. Louis. Try the rare steak pho for a classic experience, or venture out with a seafood or chicken pho for something unique. The vermicelli noodles are also great, and are offered with a variety of different toppings.
Banh Mi So #1
Also on South Grand, but with a slightly different focus, is “Banh Mi So #1.” While they offer pho, the stars of the show are their banh mis. These are vietnamese sandwiches are made with a crispy baguette, filled with a variety of meats, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and a spicy mayonnaise. Banh Mi So #1 offers a variety of fillings, from classic grilled pork and pate to vegetarian options like tofu and mushrooms. The prices are incredibly reasonable, making it a perfect spot for a quick and delicious lunch. The atmosphere is casual and bustling, perfect for a grab-and-go meal.
Beyond these two main stays, the area surrounding Grand is packed with authentic restaurants that compete for the best in asian food st louis. Exploring will often lead to delicious discoveries.
Exploring Korea’s Culinary Delights
Korean food in St. Louis is gaining popularity for its bold flavors, spicy kimchi, and interactive dining experiences. From sizzling Korean barbecue to comforting stews and flavorful bibimbap, Korean restaurants in St. Louis offer a true taste of Korean culture.
Kimchi Guys
“Kimchi Guys” is a modern, fast-casual Korean restaurant offering a variety of dishes with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. They are known for their build-your-own bowls, where you can choose your base (rice, noodles, or salad), protein (bulgogi, spicy pork, tofu, etc.), and toppings (kimchi, pickled vegetables, sauces). The bibimbap, a classic Korean dish of rice topped with vegetables, meat, and a fried egg, is another must-try. Kimchi Guys offers a hip and casual atmosphere, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Seok Jae Korean Restaurant
For a more traditional Korean dining experience, visit “Seok Jae Korean Restaurant,” located in Maryland Heights. They are famous for their wide variety of traditional dishes, including Korean barbecue, stews, and pancakes. Their bulgogi, thinly sliced marinated beef, is incredibly tender and flavorful. The kimchi jjigae, a spicy kimchi stew with tofu and pork, is a comforting and warming dish perfect for a cold day. Seok Jae Korean Restaurant provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The restaurant is a staple of Asian food st louis.
Korean BBQ Spotlight
A notable element of Korean Cuisine is its Korean BBQ. While there are many Korean restaurants, few restaurants specialize in this specific area of cuisine. If you are looking to try this out, be sure to check the reviews and determine which restaurant to try based on what they offer.
Japan: Sushi, Ramen, and More
Japanese cuisine in St. Louis is diverse and sophisticated, ranging from delicate sushi and flavorful ramen to hearty tonkatsu and savory okonomiyaki. Whether you’re craving a meticulously crafted sushi roll or a comforting bowl of ramen, St. Louis has a Japanese restaurant to satisfy your cravings.
Nudo House
“Nudo House,” with several locations across the city, is a popular ramen spot known for its flavorful broths and creative toppings. Their tonkotsu ramen, featuring a rich pork broth, tender pork belly, and a perfectly soft-boiled egg, is a must-try. They also offer vegetarian ramen options, as well as other Japanese dishes like gyoza and bao buns. Nudo House offers a modern and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. Because of its popularity, Nudo has become a staple in the local Asian food st louis scene.
Drunken Fish
For sushi enthusiasts, “Drunken Fish” is a must-visit. They are known for its creative and delicious sushi rolls, as well as its fresh and high-quality ingredients. They also offer a variety of Japanese entrees, including teriyaki chicken and tempura. The atmosphere is lively and upscale, perfect for a special occasion or a night out with friends. They offer a unique experience.
Blue Ocean
To explore a wider range of Japanese cuisine, consider venturing to “Blue Ocean” located in University City. It specializes in a selection of Japanese cuisine, and boasts the largest selection of Sake in the region. They pride themselves on serving authentic Japanese food, but sometimes westernize their approach for the sake of appealing to local flavors.
The Spicy and Aromatic World of Thai Cuisine
Thai food in St. Louis is characterized by its bold flavors, fragrant herbs, and perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. From classic pad thai to flavorful curries and refreshing salads, Thai restaurants in St. Louis offer a true taste of Thailand.
King & I
“King & I” is a long-standing institution in St. Louis, renowned for its classic Thai dishes and warm hospitality. Their pad thai, stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, tofu, bean sprouts, and peanuts, is a perennial favorite. They also offer a variety of curries, including green curry, red curry, and massaman curry, all made with fresh ingredients and authentic Thai spices. King & I offers a traditional and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. It is considered by many to be the best Asian food st louis.
Fork & Stix
For a more modern take on Thai cuisine, check out “Fork & Stix,” a popular spot in the Central West End. They are known for its innovative dishes and creative cocktails, as well as its stylish and contemporary atmosphere. Their khao soi, a Northern Thai noodle curry with crispy noodles and chicken, is a must-try. They also offer a variety of small plates and appetizers, perfect for sharing. Fork & Stix provides a hip and trendy atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends.
Beyond the Classics: A Deeper Dive
While the restaurants above offer a great starting point, St. Louis’s Asian food scene extends beyond these well-known establishments. Explore the city’s many Asian markets for ingredients to try your hand at cooking at home, or discover hidden gems in unexpected neighborhoods. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and try something new.
Tips for Exploring the Asian Food Scene
Venture outside of the popular restaurant areas of South Grand and the Loop. Many excellent Asian restaurants are located in the suburbs and in less-trafficked areas of the city. Read online reviews, but don’t rely solely on them. Some of the best restaurants are those that haven’t yet garnered widespread attention. Ask locals for recommendations, especially those within the Asian community. They can often steer you towards the most authentic and delicious experiences. Finally, be adventurous and try new dishes. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and explore the diverse flavors of Asia.
Conclusion
The Asian food scene in St. Louis is a testament to the city’s rich cultural diversity. From the comforting warmth of pho to the fiery spice of Sichuan cuisine, there’s a taste of Asia for every craving. With this guide in hand, you’re ready to embark on your own culinary journey and discover the amazing flavors that St. Louis has to offer. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore the incredible Asian culinary landscape of St. Louis and share your new asian food st louis discoveries! From comforting bowls of pho to fiery Sichuan dishes, St. Louis offers a taste of Asia for every craving. Start your culinary adventure today! The diversity of the Asian offerings makes it clear that St. Louis is a true culinary gem.
