Forget the Stereotypical Bagel
Forget the stereotypical Brooklyn bagel. Sure, they’re iconic, but beneath the surface of pizza and pastrami lies a vibrant, diverse, and utterly delicious Asian food scene just waiting to be explored. From steaming bowls of pho in Sunset Park to innovative sushi creations in Williamsburg, Brooklyn offers a culinary journey through Asia without ever leaving the borough. This is a delicious exploration of Brooklyn’s best Asian eats.
Brooklyn’s Asian culinary landscape is a testament to the borough’s rich immigrant history and its enduring reputation as a melting pot. You’ll find generations-old family businesses serving up traditional recipes alongside trendy restaurants pushing the boundaries of Asian-inspired cuisine. Whether you’re craving the comfort of classic dim sum, the fiery kick of Korean BBQ, or the exotic flavors of Southeast Asian street food, Brooklyn has something to satisfy every palate and budget. Get ready to discover the best of what Brooklyn Asian food has to offer.
Sunset Park: A Chinese Culinary Wonderland
Sunset Park, with its thriving Chinatown, is arguably the epicenter of Chinese food in Brooklyn. Stepping into this neighborhood is like being transported to a bustling street in Guangzhou or Hong Kong. Forget fancy decor; here, the focus is squarely on the food. This Brooklyn neighborhood is home to some of the best Chinese food on the east coast.
The aroma of roasted meats hangs heavy in the air, beckoning you into unassuming storefronts. Be sure to try the expertly crafted dim sum. Consider Pacificana Restaurant (Eighth Avenue). Here you’ll find steaming baskets overflowing with har gow (shrimp dumplings), siu mai (pork dumplings), and char siu bao (barbecue pork buns). The lively atmosphere and the sheer variety of options make it a perfect place for a group outing.
For something heartier, look for the hand-pulled noodle shops that dot Eighth Avenue. Biang Biang Noodles offers thick, chewy noodles tossed with savory sauces and toppings. It’s a satisfying and incredibly flavorful meal that won’t break the bank. Also, if you want something more authentic, check out a roast meat shop where you’ll see ducks hanging in the window.
Don’t miss out on the Peking duck at East Harbor Seafood Palace. The crispy skin and tender meat are expertly carved and served with delicate pancakes and scallions.
Bensonhurst: A Southeast Asian Feast
Bensonhurst, known for its Italian-American heritage, also boasts a growing and vibrant Southeast Asian community. Here, you’ll find a diverse array of Vietnamese, Thai, Malaysian, and Indonesian restaurants, each offering a unique taste of their respective culinary traditions.
Pho is a staple, and several restaurants in Bensonhurst serve up excellent renditions of this classic Vietnamese noodle soup. Try Pho Hoai (Bay Parkway). The broth is rich and flavorful, the noodles perfectly cooked, and the toppings fresh and abundant.
For a taste of Malaysia, explore the options on 86th Street. You may find dishes such as Laksa, a spicy coconut curry noodle soup. Thai food is also available. Consider trying a Pad Thai.
Don’t overlook the Indonesian restaurants in the area. Many restaurants have dishes such as Nasi Goreng (fried rice) or Gado-Gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce). It’s a culinary journey you won’t regret.
Williamsburg: Trendsetting Asian Flavors
Williamsburg, Brooklyn’s hip and trendy neighborhood, offers a more modern and experimental take on Asian cuisine. Here, you’ll find stylish restaurants serving up innovative sushi, inventive ramen, and contemporary Korean dishes.
Ramen has become a staple in Williamsburg, and several restaurants are pushing the boundaries of this classic Japanese noodle soup. Check out Samurai Mama for options. Their broth is rich and flavorful, and they offer a variety of creative toppings and variations.
For sushi with a twist, visit Bozu. Their unconventional rolls and playful presentation make for a memorable dining experience. They are a favorite spot. If you’re craving Korean BBQ, try a restaurant with modern décor and delicious meat.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Beyond the well-known neighborhoods and popular restaurants, Brooklyn is full of hidden gems and local favorites that offer unique and authentic Asian food experiences.
Seek out small, family-run restaurants tucked away on side streets or in unassuming storefronts. These places often offer the most authentic and flavorful food at incredibly reasonable prices. Ask around. Locals are often a great source of recommendations.
Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and try something new. You might discover your next favorite dish in a place you least expect. These gems are often the best.
Beyond Restaurants: Asian Markets and Food Shops
To truly immerse yourself in Brooklyn’s Asian food scene, take a trip to one of the borough’s many Asian markets. These markets are treasure troves of exotic ingredients, spices, and snacks that you won’t find anywhere else.
Explore the aisles of Fei Long Market (Eighth Avenue) for unique sauces, dried noodles, and a wide variety of Asian produce. You can also find specialty items like mochi, Japanese rice cakes, or boba for making bubble tea at home. Many other markets are in the neighborhood.
Don’t forget to check out the Asian bakeries. Pick up some pandan cake. These shops offer a delicious array of pastries, buns, and cakes that are perfect for a sweet treat.
Tips for Exploring Brooklyn’s Asian Food Scene
Navigating Brooklyn’s diverse Asian culinary landscape can be overwhelming, but with a few simple tips, you can make the most of your culinary adventure.
Read online reviews, but don’t rely solely on them. Use them as a starting point, but also be open to trying places that may not have a lot of reviews. The best places are often the most unexpected.
Ask locals for recommendations. Talk to people who live in the neighborhoods you’re exploring and ask them for their favorite spots.
Be open to trying new things. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and order something you’ve never had before. Part of the fun of exploring Asian food is discovering new flavors and dishes.
It is also important to be respectful of the culture and traditions of the people whose food you are enjoying. Learn a few basic phrases in the language of the country whose cuisine you are exploring, and be mindful of any cultural etiquette or dining customs.
Getting around Brooklyn is easy, but be sure to plan your route in advance, especially if you’re traveling to neighborhoods that are far from the subway. The subway is often the fastest way to get around, but buses can also be a good option, especially for reaching neighborhoods that are not directly served by the subway.
A Culinary Conclusion
Brooklyn has truly become a must-visit destination for Asian food lovers. Its diverse neighborhoods, authentic restaurants, and innovative chefs offer a culinary experience unlike any other. The opportunity for discovery of new dishes is around every corner. From steaming bowls of pho to savory dumplings and innovative sushi creations, there’s something for everyone. So, come explore Brooklyn’s Asian food scene and discover your own favorite spots. The possibilities are endless. What are some of your favorite Asian restaurants in Brooklyn? Share them in the comments below! Let’s continue this delicious journey together.
