Spicy. Sweet. Tangy. Delicious. Houston’s Asian dining is legit awesome! From Japanese noodle bowls to authentic Thai cuisine and everything in between, Houston has it all. Join us on a culinary adventure through some of the city’s most beloved Asian restaurants.
Jun by Kim
420 E 20th St Suite A, Houston, TX 77008
Top Chef (Season 19) star and Houston native Evelyn Garcia, along with Henry Lu, opened Jun by Kin in early 2023, offering a fresh take on New Asian American cuisine. This stylish Heights establishment features dishes like Gulf shrimp prepared with aguachile, evocada, and taro, and pork ribs served with a five-spiced sweet soy glaze, celery, and peanuts—perfectly crafted to give diners a true culinary experience. The aesthetic of this charming dining spot merges subtle Asian influences with South American touches, brought to life through hand-troweled plaster walls, lush greenery, and handmade ceramics. Also, as an extra incentive to check this place out, they were semifinalists at James Beard Awards in 2024 in Best New Restaurant category.
The Blind Goat
8145 Long Point Rd, Houston, TX 77055
The Blind Goat in Spring Branch offers a modern twist on Vietnamese cuisine in a vibrant, laid-back setting. Opened in early 2023 by Christine Ha, the winner of MasterChef (Season 3), this gastropub invites diners to enjoy bold flavors in a space perfect for casual nights out or lively celebrations. The carefully curated menu features standout dishes like a whole roasted turmeric fish and Ha's version of bánh khọt—a reimagining of the traditional Vietnamese bánh xèo, made with rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk. The menu blends authentic Vietnamese street food with a touch of Ha's Texas upbringing, offering a fresh take on the dishes being enjoyed in Vietnam today, all with her personal flair.
Duck N Bao
5215 Kelvin Dr, Houston, TX 77005
Located in Rice Village, Duck N Bao specializes in masterful Peking duck, handmade dumplings, and Sichuan specialties, including nostalgic dishes inspired by the owners' childhoods in China. Combining their distinct culinary expertise, the Xias have turned Duck N Bao into a destination for its signature crispy-skinned, lacquered Peking duck and xiao long bao (soup dumplings), earning spots on numerous "Best Of" lists. A diverse selection of dim sum and Sichuan dishes, all prepared from scratch with fresh ingredients, continues to draw in diners. Highlights include crispy triple-cooked short ribs, duck fried rice, lobster tails (served stir-fried salt-and-pepper style or in XO sauce), black truffle soup dumplings, a warm octopus salad with green pepper sauce, and Sichuan-style rice-battered beef shank.
Katami
Kazzan Ramen & Bar
191 Heights Blvd, Houston, TX 77007
Kazzan Ramen & Bar, straight from Osaka, Japan, made its Texas debut in 2024 and is all about immersive dining, offering an open-kitchen concept, a full bar, and a welcoming outdoor patio. This is Kazzan’s second location in the U.S., and it’s ready to make a splash with its innovative “volcano” ramen. So, what exactly is "volcano" ramen? Picture this: a bowl of thick noodles and vegetables served in a scorching 350-degree Celsius hot stone bowl. As the hot soup is poured into a cylindrical lid at your table, steam rises dramatically, mimicking a volcanic eruption right before your eyes!
You can choose from a variety of bold ramen flavors like Shio, Shoyu, Karamiso, Sukiyaki, Curry, and Veggie Tantan. And to elevate your ramen experience, you can customize your bowl with add-ons like nitamago (marinated egg), chashu (braised pork), or extra noodles. But the deliciousness doesn’t stop with ramen. Kazzan’s menu is packed with traditional Japanese appetizers and sides that you won’t want to miss. From crispy Kushikatsu skewers to savory Yaki Gyoza and perfectly seasoned Chicken Karaage, there’s something for everyone. Kazzan takes its broth seriously, carefully crafting it the traditional Japanese way.
Ramen Moto
2320 W Alabama St, Houston, TX 77098
Ramen has definitely had its moment in recent years in the Asian dining category, and Houston has had the privilege of being home to many excellent ramen experts including Ramen Moto. If you're a ramen lover in search of the perfect bowl, look no further than Ramen Moto, where the broth is simmered for 20 hours and the noodles are made fresh by hand. Whether you’re craving their rich, savory Tonkotsu or the bold heat of their Spicy Miso Ramen, each bowl is crafted to perfection.
But Ramen Moto is more than just ramen. Their menu features a variety of small plates and sides that showcase the best of Japanese cuisine, each designed to complement the flavors of their signature ramen dishes. Whether you're sharing with friends or trying a little of everything yourself, you’re in for a treat that will elevate your dining experience. To round out your meal, Ramen Moto offers an impressive selection of drinks, including Japanese whiskey, sake, specialty cocktails, and flights.
Som Boon Thai Kitchen
1801 Durham Dr Suite 2, Houston, TX 77007
For those craving authentic Thai cuisine that feels like home, Som Boon Thai Kitchen in the Heights is the place to be. Inspired by the comforting flavors of the dishes the chefs grew up with, Som Boon creates an experience that’s both familiar and heartwarming, making each bite a reminder of home-cooked meals. Their mission is simple: to introduce Houstonians to an unforgettable and unique culinary experience that sets a new bar for Thai food in the city.
The menu is packed with mouthwatering options that showcase the bold flavors of Thailand. From crispy spicy garlic wings and honey jalapeño chicken wings to the fiery Boiling Sea of Lava, every dish offers an explosion of taste. Alongside these standout items, you’ll find a variety of traditional Thai favorites that are sure to please any palate.
Soy Pinoy at the POST Food Hall
401 Franklin St Suite 1230, Houston, TX 77201
At Soy Pinoy, the rich and diverse flavors of the Philippines come to life with a menu that celebrates the heart and soul of Filipino cuisine. From traditional dishes to creative vegan twists, Soy Pinoy is expanding Filipino identity through food, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Dive into authentic Filipino favorites like kinilawin, a zesty, fresh take on ceviche, or the Vegan Kare Kare, a plant-based version of the beloved peanut stew. The menu also features comforting classics like Fried Chicken Adobo, Chicken Inasal, crispy Lechon, and crunchy Lumpia that will transport your taste buds straight to the islands.
For an authentic Filipino start to your day, try the savory Longganisa, served with a perfectly cooked sunny-side-up egg and fluffy rice—comfort food that feels like home with every bite. Whether you’re exploring Filipino cuisine for the first time or rediscovering childhood favorites, Soy Pinoy offers a true taste of the Philippines in every dish. Come experience the vibrant flavors and culinary traditions that define Filipino identity, all in one delicious menu.
Azumi
4444 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77027
Located in the upscale River Oaks District, Azumi offers a dining experience that goes beyond the ordinary, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary Japanese cuisine. The restaurant takes pride in using only the finest ingredients, with seafood flown in fresh daily from Tokyo and premium Wagyu beef sourced from Miyazaki. Under the expert guidance of Chef Timur Fazilov, the sushi menu showcases an impressive selection of high-quality, fresh seafood. Guests seated at the sushi bar are treated to a front-row view of the culinary craftsmanship, watching as each piece is skillfully prepared.
Beyond sushi, Azumi's hot kitchen menu features innovative meat and seafood dishes that highlight bold, expertly crafted flavors. For sake lovers, Azumi boasts one of the largest sake lists in the region, with a curated selection of premium Japanese sakes that elevate the authenticity of the dining experience.
Nori Nori
9938 Bellaire Blvd Ste G Houston, TX 77036
Located on Bellaire Boulevard in Houston's vibrant Chinatown, NoriNori is a go-to destination for sushi enthusiasts seeking an authentic and delightful dining experience. As the first hand roll sushi restaurant in the area, NoriNori sets itself apart by using only the freshest ingredients and traditional techniques. Hand rolls, or temaki, are a unique type of sushi hand-rolled into a cone shape, designed to be eaten by hand. Unlike typical sushi rolls, hand rolls are loosely constructed without the use of a bamboo mat, offering a more casual and interactive experience while retaining the same delicious flavors.
Beyond hand rolls, NoriNori’s menu features a variety of standout dishes, including Edamame, Foie Gras Chawanmushi, Oyster Shooters, Big Glory Bay King Salmon Crudo, a Sashimi Flight, and Nigiri Sushi—each crafted with the same attention to detail and quality. For a truly engaging experience, grab a seat at the sushi bar where you can watch skilled chefs prepare each hand roll right before your eyes. Plus, you'll be treated to a complimentary shot of their house-made sake.
Xiaolong Dumpling
1901 Taft St, Houston, TX 77006
Tucked away in Montrose, Xiaolong Dumpling offers a true taste of Szechuan cuisine, renowned for its intricate and bold balance of flavors. Here, the heat of chili peppers, the numbing sensation of peppercorns, and the nutty richness of seeds come together with aromatic savory notes, creating dishes that are as complex as they are delicious.
Xiaolong Dumpling brings together two of China’s most beloved culinary traditions—authentic Szechuan fare and expertly crafted dumplings—making it the go-to bistro for those craving a flavorful and dynamic dining experience. From the spiciness and smokiness of chili peppers to the tingling warmth of peppercorns, every dish showcases the layered flavors that make Szechuan cuisine so special. In addition to its signature Szechuan dishes, the restaurant offers comforting favorites like General Tso's chicken, sesame chicken, Mongolian beef, and beef with broccoli, creating a menu that’s perfect for indulging in a flavorful feast.
Dak & Bop
1801 Binz St Suite 120, Houston, TX 77004
Dak & Bop is the go-to destination for Korean-style fried chicken. Fans of the restaurant can once again indulge in their famous wings and drums, which are double-fried to perfection for that extra crisp that keeps diners coming back for more. The menu features three standout sauces that take the fried chicken experience to the next level. Start with the "Plain Jane," a lightly seasoned option for those who like to keep it simple, before moving on to the flavorful "Soy Garlic." If you're feeling adventurous, the "Hot & Spicy" sauce will ignite your taste buds with its bold kick.
But it’s not just about the chicken—Dak & Bop also offers a variety of mouthwatering sides like Asian citrus slaw, cold corn salad, and creamy mac ‘n cheese, providing the perfect complement to your meal. The bar menu is equally exciting, offering unique craft cocktails with a Korean twist. Try the blackberry chili margarita, spiced with a dash of Korean chili powder for a friendly kick, or the Dak & Bop Bohemian, a refreshing mix of Campari, gin, Lillet, fennel syrup, pineapple, and sparkling wine. If you're a beer lover, you'll be delighted by the extensive selection of beers on tap, alongside a curated selection of wine and sake.
Thai Tail
1402 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006
Nestled in the vibrant Montrose area, Thai Tail brings a fresh and exciting twist to fast-casual dining with its unique fusion of Thai and American cuisine. Whether you're craving bold flavors or looking to explore new culinary combinations, Thai Tail’s inventive menu is sure to impress. Start with creative appetizers like the Crispy Wonton Pad Thai, featuring crunchy pork and shrimp wontons drizzled with a sweet and tangy pad Thai sauce. For something heartier, try the Shrimp Nuggets paired with sweet plum sauce, or dive into the Beef Drunken Chili with Spinach Tortilla Chips, a fusion dish that combines the bold Tex-Mex flavors of chili with Thai Drunken Noodle sauce.
For the main course, the Panang Chicken Club Sandwich offers a flavorful take on a classic, with juicy chicken breast, crisp lettuce, and a drizzle of Panang curry sauce. If you’re in the mood for something more adventurous, the Green Curry Pork Burger, featuring savory ground pork and a crown of Thai green curry, is sure to hit the spot. Of course, traditional favorites like Drunken Noodles and Pad Thai are also available, delivering the authentic Thai flavors you love. Save room for dessert, because the Thai Donuts—perfect for dipping in condensed milk or Thai tea custard—are a must-try.
This is just a snapshot of Asian and New Asian American cuisine in Houston! With 13,000 restaurants representing cuisine from more than 70 countries and American regions, Houston's restaurant scene is a paradise for all foodies. Explore the city's flavors!
Photos: Courtesy of restaurants mentioned in this post. Header photo: Duck N Bao. Opening photo: NoriNori.
