Advertisement

Asian Restaurants in Washington

If you’re looking for Asian food in Washington, you’re in luck. The city’s got everything from cozy mom-and-pop pho spots to trendy ramen bars you won’t find anywhere else.

Try the international flavors in the International District. Places like Tai Tung,Seattle’s oldest Chinese restaurant,still serve their classic egg rolls and beef chow fun just like they did decades ago. Around Capitol Hill, you’ll find modern takes on Korean BBQ or sushi that feel fresh but never pretentious. And if you want authentic Vietnamese, Little Saigon in South Seattle has some fantastic hidden gems where the broth is rich and the bánh mì legit.

Pro tip: avoid the lunch rush if you can. Some spots get packed, especially spots like Joule on Capitol Hill, which has a cult following for its Korean-inspired dishes. Also, don’t shy away from the food trucks and hole-in-the-wall spots,they often serve the most authentic noodles and dumplings for a steal. Seriously, some of the best meals I’ve had in Washington were from places that barely had a sign out front. So bring your appetite and let your cravings lead the way.
Part of the My Guide Network Since 2006 180+ destinations
Search by Map

Book Top Experiences and Tours in Washington:

If you're booking your trip to Washington last minute, we have you covered. Below are some of the top tours and experiences.

View All Experiences

Local Asian food tips

When you’re craving Asian food in Washington, it’s worth exploring beyond the obvious restaurants in the International District. For example, in Ballard, there’s a tiny spot called Ume Sushi that locals swear by, even though it’s easy to miss. Also, be adventurous with cash-only places and food trucks; they often serve some of the most authentic dishes at a great price.

One tip: come early to sushi spots during happy hour,you can slice a fresh salmon nigiri or a tuna roll at a fraction of the price and still get top-notch quality. And if you love spicy food, don’t skip out on trying Burmese or Laotian restaurants populating the South Seattle neighborhoods. They’ll offer flavors you probably haven’t tried before.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about Asian dining in Washington? Here’s what locals often ask.

If you want authentic Korean BBQ, check out Tanaka BBQ in Bellevue or Stone Korean Kitchen in Seattle’s Capitol Hill. The marinades are spot-on, and the staff knows how to help you order if you’re new to the style.

Absolutely! Plum Bistro in Seattle offers delicious vegan takes on Asian-inspired dishes. Plus, places like Noodle Nirvana have great veggie pho and tofu banh mi. Vegan options keep popping up around the city, so you’ve got plenty to try.

Yes, and some of the best aren’t just your typical bowls. Ichi Ramen in Seattle is a classic, but for something a little different, try Kizuki Ramen & Izakaya in Bellevue. The broths are rich and slow-cooked, and the noodles have just the right chew.

Look toward the Pike Place Market area and try Mee Sum Pastry for their BBQ pork buns. Not everyone knows about it, but it’s a simple treat that locals rave about. Also, many small Vietnamese cafes tucked away near the International District stay low-key but serve top-tier pho.

Yes! The Lunar New Year celebrations, especially in the International District, are lively and tasty with street food stalls and special menus at restaurants. Mid-autumn festival is another great time to try mooncakes and more across Washington’s Asian eateries.

Explore Restaurants Categories

American (100 places) If you’re craving good old American eats in Washington, you’re in luck. This state isn’t just about seafood or craft coffee; there’s a solid scene for straightforward, hearty dishes that hit the spot anytime. Around Capitol Hill, you’ll find places like The Wandering Goose serving up Southern-style biscuits and gravy… Explore
Brunch (66 places) Explore
Seafood (52 places) If you’re heading to Washington and craving seafood, you’re in luck. This state lives and breathes the Pacific Northwest’s ocean flavors. Think plump Dungeness crab in Seattle’s Pike Place Market or fresh smoked salmon in little cafés tucked away in Bainbridge Island. And yes, the oysters here are something else… Explore
Italian (33 places) If you’re craving Italian food while in Washington, you’re in luck. The city’s got everything from old-school red-sauce joints to sleek spots with creative takes on pasta and pizza. And here’s a little secret: some of the best Italian places aren’t downtown but in neighborhoods like Capitol Hill or Ballard, where the… Explore
Fine Dining (32 places) Fine dining in Washington isn’t just about fancy plates and white tablecloths, it’s about moments and flavors you won’t forget. One of my go-tos is Canlis, perched overlooking Lake Union. It’s been around for decades and somehow never feels stuffy. The seasonal Pacific Northwest menu always surprises me , and the wine… Explore
Mediterranean (19 places) Mediterranean food in Washington isn’t just about falafel and hummus,it’s this whole vibe of shared plates, fresh ingredients, and bold flavors that feel almost like a mini-trip to the Mediterranean itself. You’ll find spots scattered across the city, from Capitol Hill’s smoky grill joints to quieter corners in… Explore
Steakhouse (19) • Mexican (18) • Pizza (18) • Breakfast (16) •

Explore More Restaurants Guides

15 Rooftop Restaurants in Washington

The best rooftop restaurants in Washington, handpicked by our Local Expert, plus experiences to book. Plan your visit.

View guide →

Top Things To Do in Washington

See All →

Top Things To Do in Washington

Click to See All

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 2006 online since
  • 26.2M page views a month across the network
  • 14 languages

180+ destination guides, one network

Every guide covers a single destination on its own website, with events, restaurants, things to do and places to stay chosen from local recommendations.

My Guide Network Locations

Nearby Destinations

Also nearby: My Guide ChicagoMy Guide Quebec CityMy Guide Miami

See all destinations

Add to your trip
Day {[{day.day}]} {[{day.dateFormat}]}
MorningAfternoonEvening

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.

Add to day {[{trip.popover.day}]}Add to trip Cancel
Added to your trip Added to day {[{trip.toast.day}]}, MorningAfternoonEvening Saved to your trip Already in your trip Transfer saved to your trip Save your trip to get fresh suggestions Staying in {[{trip.toast.label}]} Base cleared Trip deleted Link copied Could not save your trip Something went wrong, please try again