A Taste of Asia: Exploring the Diverse Cuisines
Lexington, Kentucky, a city known for its rolling bluegrass hills and rich equestrian heritage, is also quietly cultivating a vibrant and diverse culinary scene. While bourbon and Southern comfort food may traditionally dominate the landscape, a delicious wave of Asian flavors is sweeping through the city, offering residents and visitors a tantalizing array of options. If you’re craving something beyond the typical fare, prepare to embark on a culinary journey as we explore the best Asian food Lexington has to offer. From savory Chinese dumplings to delicate sushi rolls, and spicy Korean barbecue to fragrant Thai curries, Lexington’s Asian restaurants are ready to tantalize your taste buds. This is your ultimate guide to navigating Lexington’s burgeoning Asian food scene.
Chinese Food: A Lexington Staple
Chinese restaurants have long been a fixture in Lexington, offering a comforting and familiar taste of the East. From quick lunch specials to elaborate family-style dinners, Chinese cuisine caters to a wide range of palates and preferences. Popular dishes abound, and you’re likely familiar with many of them: General Tso’s Chicken, with its sweet and tangy sauce, is a crowd-pleaser; Kung Pao Chicken, featuring peanuts and chili peppers, offers a delightful kick; dumplings, steamed or fried, are perfect for sharing; and noodles, in countless variations, are a satisfying and versatile option. But where should you go in Lexington to enjoy these staples?
Golden Wok
Golden Wok is a local institution, known for its authentic Cantonese dishes and warm, welcoming atmosphere. They have been serving Lexington for years and offer a consistently high quality. Their Dim Sum, available on weekends, is a must-try, featuring an array of delicate dumplings, buns, and rolls. They also have a robust menu for lunch and dinner with all the classic items. The address is on Richmond Road.
Taste of China
For a more modern take on Chinese cuisine, consider trying Taste of China. They focus on fresh ingredients and flavorful sauces. Their spicy dishes are particularly noteworthy, offering a genuine heat that will satisfy those craving a bit of fire. It is located near the University of Kentucky so it is popular with college students.
Panda Cuisine
Another good choice is Panda Cuisine. They are known for their quick service, big portions, and affordable pricing. They offer both Americanized and more traditional Chinese options. The restaurant is on Nicholasville Road.
Japanese Food: Sushi and Beyond in Lexington
Japanese cuisine has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years, and Lexington is no exception. While sushi is undoubtedly the star of the show, Japanese food encompasses so much more, including comforting ramen, crispy tempura, hearty udon noodles, and flavorful teriyaki dishes. The best of Japanese is now easily found in Lexington.
Sakura Sushi
For the freshest sushi in town, many locals swear by Sakura Sushi. Their dedication to quality ingredients and skillful preparation is evident in every bite. If you’re feeling adventurous, indulge in their omakase, a chef’s selection of the day’s best offerings. This is a great way to experience a variety of flavors and textures. They also have an amazing menu of rolls, and many dinner entrees.
Kumi Japanese Restaurant
For an izakaya-style dining experience, consider spending an evening at Kumi Japanese Restaurant. They offer a wide range of small plates perfect for sharing, as well as a selection of sake and Japanese beer. This is a great spot for a casual night out with friends. The location on Southland Drive is busy but worth a visit.
Miyako Japanese Restaurant
Another great choice is Miyako Japanese Restaurant. They are know for providing great food and service, and they also offer a nice ambience for a date night or a special occasion. Their prices are mid-range, but are certainly worth the extra cost. The restaurant is located on Harrodsburg Road.
Korean Food: Bold Flavors and Shared Plates
Korean food is characterized by its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and emphasis on communal dining. Korean barbecue, where you grill marinated meats at your table, is a quintessential Korean experience. Bibimbap, a mixed rice dish with vegetables, meat, and a fried egg, is another popular choice. Kimchi, a fermented cabbage dish, is a staple of Korean cuisine, and stews offer a comforting and hearty option. Don’t forget the banchan, an array of small side dishes that accompany every Korean meal.
Arirang Restaurant
Arirang Restaurant is known for its high-quality meats and extensive selection of banchan. Grilling your own meats to perfection is a satisfying and social experience. The bibimbap is also excellent, offering a flavorful and nutritious meal. This is a great place to go with a group of friends or family. The Korean BBQ is definitely the reason you would go to this location.
Korean Kitchen
Another, slightly cheaper option is Korean Kitchen. This restaurant is more of a casual, hole-in-the-wall place, but offers some of the best Korean food you will find in Lexington. Their stews and Korean Fried Chicken are very popular and they offer a very quick service. If you are looking for cheap but tasty, this is the place.
Thai Food: A Symphony of Flavors
Thai cuisine is renowned for its harmonious blend of sweet, sour, spicy, and savory flavors. Curries, infused with fragrant herbs and spices, are a cornerstone of Thai cooking. Noodles, such as Pad Thai and Pad See Ew, are popular street food staples. Soups, like Tom Yum and Tom Kha, offer a refreshing and aromatic experience. Stir-fries, packed with vegetables and protein, provide a quick and flavorful meal. Lexington has just what you need.
Thai Orchid
Thai Orchid offers a wide range of curries, from mild to fiery, allowing you to customize your spice level. Their Pad See Ew is a must-try, featuring wide rice noodles stir-fried with Chinese broccoli and egg. The location in Palomar shopping center offers a great atmosphere.
Noodles & Company
For a more casual and affordable option, consider Noodles & Company, which also offers a nice Pad Thai. While not strictly a Thai restaurant, their Asian-inspired dishes provide a tasty and convenient option for a quick lunch or dinner.
Vietnamese Food: Fresh and Aromatic Flavors of Lexington
Vietnamese cuisine is characterized by its fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and light, flavorful sauces. Pho, a fragrant noodle soup, is a national dish of Vietnam. Banh mi, a crusty baguette filled with meat, vegetables, and pate, is a popular street food snack. Spring rolls, filled with fresh herbs and vegetables, offer a refreshing and healthy option. All of these are now readily available in Lexington.
Pho Saigon
Pho Saigon serves authentic Vietnamese pho. Their broth is simmered for hours, creating a rich and savory flavor. The noodles are perfectly cooked, and the toppings are fresh and flavorful. This is a must-try for any pho enthusiast. If you are looking for the best bowl of Pho, this is the place to get it.
Beyond the Restaurant: Exploring Asian Markets
To truly immerse yourself in the world of Asian cuisine, consider visiting one of Lexington’s Asian grocery stores. These markets offer a treasure trove of unique ingredients, from specialty sauces and noodles to fresh produce and exotic spices. You can also find a variety of snacks, drinks, and kitchenware.
Asian World Market
Asian World Market is a great place to start your exploration. You’ll find a wide selection of Asian products, including hard-to-find ingredients that you won’t find in mainstream supermarkets. They also have an impressive selection of frozen dumplings, noodles, and other prepared foods. Many of the groceries and selections are very cheap.
By exploring these markets, you can expand your culinary horizons and learn to cook your own Asian dishes at home. Experiment with different flavors and textures, and don’t be afraid to try new things. You might be surprised at what you discover.
Tips for Ordering and Exploring
Navigating the world of Asian cuisine can be daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the dishes and ingredients. Here are a few tips to help you order with confidence and explore new flavors.
Spice levels can vary greatly from restaurant to restaurant. When ordering spicy dishes, be sure to ask about the spice level and how it’s indicated on the menu. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a mild or medium option.
If you have any dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, be sure to inform the restaurant staff. Many Asian restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary needs and can recommend dishes that are suitable for you.
The best way to experience Asian cuisine is to try new things. Step outside your comfort zone and order a dish that you’ve never had before. You might discover a new favorite.
Many Asian restaurants in Lexington offer online ordering and delivery services, making it easy to enjoy your favorite dishes from the comfort of your home. Check the restaurant’s website or app to see if they offer these services.
Lexington’s Asian Food Scene: Trends and Future
Lexington’s Asian food scene is constantly evolving, with new restaurants and culinary trends emerging all the time. The rise of fusion restaurants, which blend Asian flavors with other cuisines, is one notable trend. Pop-up events and food trucks are also becoming increasingly popular, offering a unique and accessible way to experience Asian cuisine.
As Lexington continues to grow and diversify, we can expect to see even more Asian restaurants and culinary innovations. The city’s Asian food scene is poised to become an even more vibrant and exciting part of its culinary landscape.
Conclusion
Lexington, Kentucky, offers a diverse and delicious range of Asian food options, catering to a wide variety of tastes and preferences. From the comforting flavors of Chinese cuisine to the bold and aromatic dishes of Korea and Vietnam, Lexington’s Asian restaurants are ready to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned Asian food enthusiast or a curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone to discover in Lexington’s burgeoning Asian food scene. So, what are you waiting for? Start your Asian food adventure in Lexington today! Don’t be afraid to try something new, and enjoy the flavors of Asia right here in the heart of the Bluegrass.
