Boston’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, and Asian tapas have carved out a special niche for food enthusiasts.
These small, flavorful dishes offer a perfect way to sample a variety of tastes and textures without committing to a single entrée.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the city’s vibrant Asian tapas spots promise an unforgettable dining experience.
From sizzling Korean BBQ bites to delicate Japanese sushi rolls, Boston’s top Asian tapas restaurants showcase an impressive range of culinary traditions.
This guide will take you through the 11 best places to savor these delectable small plates, ensuring your taste buds embark on a flavorful journey.
Top 11 Best Asian Tapas in Boston
Asian tapas in Boston offer a unique and flavorful dining experience that blends the concept of small, shareable plates with the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Asia.
Here are the top 11 best places in Boston where you can enjoy Asian tapas:
1. Shōjō Boston
Shōjō Boston stands out in the city’s vibrant food scene. With a 4.4-star rating based on 1,234 reviews, this trendy gastropub offers a memorable dining experience.
Located at 9A Tyler St, Boston, MA 02111, Shōjō specializes in modern Asian fare with an offbeat twist, perfect for tapas lovers.
They feature creative dishes like their famous Shōjō Bao and Duck Fat Fries, priced between $20–30 per person.
Whether you prefer dine-in, takeout, or no-contact delivery, their diverse menu and elaborate murals create an inviting atmosphere. Check their hours or reserve a table online to explore these culinary delights.
2. Myers+Chang
Myers+Chang offers a vibrant, hip dining experience where guests savor upscale Asian-inspired small plates. Located at 1145 Washington St, Boston, MA, this restaurant has a 4.5-star rating based on 1,767 reviews.
Patrons often praise their inventive dishes like Tea-Smoked Ribs and Mama Chang’s Pork Dumplings, delivering bold flavors in every bite.
The restaurant serves dishes family-style, ensuring a communal dining experience that encourages sharing.
With prices ranging from $30 to $50 per person, Myers+Chang provides an affordable luxury. Options include dine-in, curbside pickup, and no-contact delivery for added convenience.
To secure a spot, readers can reserve a table through resy.com or visit their website at myersandchang.com.
Myers+Chang stands out for its creative and flavorful twists on traditional Asian tapas, making it a must-visit in Boston’s culinary scene.
3. The Q
The Q, located at 660 Washington St, offers an eclectic mix of Mongolian hot pots, sushi, and Chinese dishes.
With an impressive 4.6-star rating from 2,742 reviewers, it’s a must-visit for those seeking diverse Asian tapas. Patrons enjoy the hip, airy ambiance that makes it perfect for both casual and special occasions.
Priced at $30-$50 per person, The Q provides dine-in, takeout, and no-contact delivery options, catering to different dining preferences.
Reviewed positively by 518 people for its affordability and quality, it’s recommended to reserve a table via opentable.com. For a well-rounded Asian culinary experience in Boston, The Q stands out as a top choice.
4. Banyan Bar + Refuge
Banyan Bar + Refuge, a top Asian gastropub, boasts a 4.3-star rating from 675 reviews. Located at 553 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116, this trendy spot features treelike sculptures and a patio.
The menu offers unique plates, merging Asian flavors with inventive twists. Popular dishes include Pork Belly Bao and Szechuan Street Corn, with prices ranging between $30–50 per person.
Diners can choose to enjoy their meals through dine-in, takeout, or delivery options. The restaurant opens at 4 PM, providing ample opportunity for dinner reservations.
Check out their website at banyanboston.com or call (617) 556-4211 to reserve a table or order online.
5. Laughing Monk Cafe
Laughing Monk Cafe has become a go-to spot for Asian tapas lovers in Boston. With a 4.5-star rating from 806 reviews, this Thai restaurant offers a unique blend of intricate sushi rolls and inventive Thai cuisine.
Located at 737 Huntington Ave, patrons can enjoy a fashionable backdrop with a modern vibe. Prices range from $10–20 per person, making it an affordable dining option.
The restaurant is open for dine-in, takeout, and no-contact delivery. Popular dishes include the Monk Maki and Pad Thai, known for their sophisticated flavors.
Laughing Monk Cafe opens at 11 AM and accepts reservations via their website at laughingmonkcafe.com or by calling (617) 232-8000.
6. Empire
Empire, rated 4.3 stars by 1,710 reviewers, captivates guests with its blend of old-world China and sleek modernity.
Situated at 1 Marina Park Drive, Boston, this Pan-Asian restaurant offers a club-like atmosphere across several dining rooms. Diners can indulge in a variety of small dishes priced between $50–100 per person.
The menu features creative options like Peking Duck Tacos and Spicy Tuna Rolls, appealing to diverse tastes. Empire provides dine-in, takeout, and no-contact delivery options, ensuring convenience for all patrons.
Operating from 5 PM onwards, reservations and online orders can be made via their website at empireboston.com or by calling (617) 295-0001.
7. Moonshine 152
Located at 152 Dorchester Ave in the Allele Condominiums, Moonshine 152 stands out with its laid-back ambiance.
This Asian fusion restaurant, rated 4.7 stars by 890 reviewers, is perfect for those craving inventive small plates. The menu blends street foods with regional and Asian flavors, ensuring a diverse culinary experience.
Patrons praise the late-night menu, which adds to its appeal. Prices range from $30 to $50 per person, making it accessible yet upscale.
Moonshine 152 offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery options, catering to various dining preferences. Visit moonshine152.com or call (617) 752-4191 to reserve a table or order online.
8. RUKA
RUKA, at 505 Washington St inside The Godfrey Hotel Boston, offers a fusion of Peruvian, Japanese, and Chinese cuisines.
With a 4.4-star rating from 1,685 reviews, the sushi restaurant is known for its dramatic dining room with cultural motifs. Specialty dishes include Tiradito and Lomo Saltado sushi rolls.
Meals range from $50–100 per person, available through dine-in, takeout, or delivery. Opening at 5 PM, reservations are recommended and can be made at sevenrooms.com.
The unique ambiance enhances the dining experience, making RUKA a must-visit for Asian tapas with a twist. Also, don’t miss their signature cocktails, which perfectly complement the diverse flavors.
Highlighted by local food critics, RUKA promises a memorable culinary journey in the heart of Boston.
9. Little Tao
Little Tao is a must-visit for Sichuan cuisine enthusiasts in Boston. With a 4.6-star rating from 179 reviews, it’s renowned for its spicy, flavorful dishes.
Located at 1153 Commonwealth Ave, the restaurant offers a range of options, including dine-in, takeout, and no-contact delivery.
Guests can enjoy authentic Sichuan dishes in a cozy setting with prices ranging from $20-30 per person. Favorites include Dan Dan Noodles and Kung Pao Chicken.
Opening at 11:30 AM, Little Tao ensures a delightful culinary experience. For more details, visit their website at littletaoma.com or call (617) 207-2781.
10. PINOYKABAYAN Filipino Asian Cuisine
Located at 71 Broad St, Boston, MA 02109, PINOYKABAYAN offers a unique twist on Filipino Asian cuisine. This restaurant, with a 4.7-star rating from 114 reviews, is known for its affordable pricing ranging from $10–20 per person.
Diners rave about the authentic flavors in dishes like Chicken Adobo and Lumpia. Options for dine-in, takeout, and no-contact delivery make it convenient for all types of diners.
Reported by 59 people, its operational hours may vary, so it’s best to check pinoykabayan.com for the latest updates. A notable choice for anyone exploring the diverse tapas scene in Boston.
11. Pho Basil
Pho Basil offers a delightful mix of Thai and Vietnamese dishes in a bright, minimalistic setting. Located at 177 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA 02115, it boasts a 4.4-star rating from 1,913 reviews.
With prices ranging from $10–20 per person, patrons can enjoy a variety of flavorful options such as pho, pad thai, and spicy basil fried rice.
The restaurant provides dine-in, takeout, and delivery services, ensuring accessibility for all diners.
Notable for its spiced-to-order dishes, Pho Basil remains a favorite for those seeking hearty Asian tapas. Visit phobasilboston.com or call (617) 262-5377 for more details and online ordering.
History of Asian Tapas in Boston
Asian tapas in Boston has grown into a vibrant culinary trend, merging the rich traditions of small plates with the diverse flavors of Asian cuisines.
This concept, which blends the Spanish “tapas” style of dining with the culinary innovations from Asia, has evolved over time, creating a dynamic and flavorful food scene in the city. Here’s a brief look at how Asian tapas emerged and thrived in Boston.
Early Beginnings of Tapas in Boston
The idea of tapas, originally rooted in Spanish culture, became popular in Boston in the late 20th century. Tapas introduced diners to the concept of small, shareable dishes, perfect for social dining.
As global influences spread, Asian flavors began to intermingle with traditional tapas, creating a fusion that appealed to Boston’s adventurous food lovers.
Asian Culinary Influence
Boston, with its multicultural population, has long embraced a variety of global cuisines. The city’s Chinatown, along with a growing interest in Japanese, Thai, Korean, and Vietnamese food, laid the groundwork for the emergence of Asian-inspired small plates.
Restaurants started experimenting with this fusion, offering creative takes on traditional Asian street foods and appetizers.
Evolution into Asian Tapas
In the early 2000s, chefs began blending the tapas format with Asian culinary traditions, using bold spices and flavors from across the continent.
This resulted in the birth of Asian tapas restaurants. Places like Shōjō Boston and Myers+Chang became pioneers in presenting small plates with inventive flair, contributing to the growing popularity of Asian tapas in the city.
Modern Growth and Popularity
As Boston’s food scene became more global, Asian tapas continued to evolve. Chefs introduced more variety, drawing inspiration from different regions like Southeast Asia, China, and Japan.
The fusion of flavors, alongside a tapas-style dining experience, resonated with diners looking for diverse and exploratory meals.
Asian Tapas Today
Today, Asian tapas restaurants are celebrated for their creativity and boldness. The unique dining concept has become a staple of Boston’s culinary offerings, with places like The Q and Banyan Bar + Refuge drawing in crowds seeking to sample multiple dishes in one sitting.
The city continues to embrace this fusion style, contributing to the ever-evolving nature of its food culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Asian Tapas?
Asian tapas is a term that combines the concept of “tapas” from Spanish cuisine with flavors and dishes from various Asian culinary traditions.
While traditional tapas are small, shareable dishes from Spain, Asian tapas typically feature a variety of small plates or appetizers inspired by the diverse cuisines of Asia.
What makes Boston’s Asian tapas scene unique?
Boston’s Asian tapas scene is unique because it offers a blend of diverse flavors from various Asian countries, allowing diners to sample multiple dishes in one meal. This approach makes dining more vibrant and exploratory.
What is the price range for dining at Shōjō Boston?
At Shōjō Boston, the average price range for dining is between $20 and $30 per person, making it an affordable option for experiencing modern Asian fare with a creative twist.
Are there any Asian tapas restaurants in Boston with outdoor seating?
Yes, Banyan Bar + Refuge at 553 Tremont St offers patio seating alongside its innovative Asian-inspired menu. It’s a trendy spot perfect for an outdoor dining experience.
Where can I explore Filipino Asian cuisine in Boston?
PINOYKABAYAN at 71 Broad St offers authentic Filipino dishes such as Chicken Adobo and Lumpia, with prices ranging from $10 to $20 per person.
What are some must-try dishes at Pho Basil?
Pho Basil, located at 177 Massachusetts Ave, is known for its pho, pad thai, and spicy basil fried rice. The restaurant offers a delightful mix of Thai and Vietnamese dishes.
Conclusion
Boston’s culinary landscape shines with its vibrant selection of Asian tapas, offering a flavorful journey through various Asian cuisines.
From Shōjō Boston’s creative twists on modern fare to Myers+Chang’s upscale, family-style dishes, each spot provides a unique taste of Asia in a shareable format.
The Q and Banyan Bar + Refuge blend diverse influences, while Moonshine 152 and RUKA present inventive fusions that delight the palate.
Little Tao’s Sichuan heat and PINOYKABAYAN’s Filipino specialties add depth to Boston’s tapas scene. Pho Basil rounds out the experience with its comforting Thai and Vietnamese options.
Whether you’re seeking a casual meal or a more refined dining experience, these top Asian tapas restaurants ensure a memorable outing.
With options for various tastes and budgets, Boston’s Asian tapas are a testament to the city’s rich and diverse culinary heritage.
Timothy Russell Dewart