Boston’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and cultures, and Asian cuisine stands out as a significant thread.
From the aromatic spices of Thai dishes to the delicate artistry of Japanese sushi, the city offers a delightful array of Asian dining experiences.
Whether you’re a fan of spicy Szechuan, crave the comfort of a steaming bowl of ramen, or seek the freshness of Vietnamese pho, Boston’s Asian restaurants promise to tantalize your taste buds.
Exploring the best Asian cuisine in Boston means embarking on a culinary adventure through its diverse neighborhoods.
Each restaurant tells a story through its unique dishes, blending traditional recipes with modern twists.
For food enthusiasts and casual diners alike, discovering these hidden gems offers a chance to savor the rich and varied flavors that make Boston’s Asian food scene truly exceptional.
11 Best Restaurants to Have Asian Cuisines in Boston
Boston is a hub for diverse cuisines, and Asian food holds a special place in the city’s vibrant dining scene.
Here are 11 of the best restaurants in Boston where you can savor authentic and delicious Asian dishes:
1. Shōjō Boston
Located at 9A Tyler St in Boston, Shōjō Boston is a trendy late-night gastropub known for its offbeat takes on modern Asian fare.
With an impressive 4.4-star rating from 1,234 reviews, this locale offers a unique dining experience featuring elaborate murals and a chic ambiance. Priced at $20–30 per person, Shōjō Boston ensures an affordable yet memorable outing.
They provide a variety of options, including dine-in, takeout, and no-contact delivery, catering to different dining preferences.
Popular for its creative menu items, Shōjō Boston has become a favorite among both locals and tourists seeking innovative Asian cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to reserve a table through their website or order online for convenience.
2. Myers+Chang
Myers+Chang, located at 1145 Washington St, is known for its upscale, Asian-inspired small plates served family-style.
This highly-rated diner offers diverse dining options, including dine-in, curbside pickup, and no-contact delivery. With a price range of $30–50 per person, it’s ideal for a special night out.
Reservations can be made via resy.com, and more details are available on their website or by calling (617) 542-5200.
The restaurant opens at 4 PM, making it a perfect spot for evening dining. Another notable mention is Gourmet Dumpling House at 52 Beach St in Chinatown.
Famous for its flavorful dumplings and extensive menu, this casual eatery is perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal.
3. Pho Basil
Pho Basil, located at 177 Massachusetts Ave in Boston, stands out with a 4.4-star rating from 1,913 reviews. This bright, minimalist eatery offers a delicious mix of Thai and Vietnamese dishes, custom spiced to order.
Diners enjoy a price range of $10–20 per person, making it an affordable yet flavorful option. The restaurant caters to different dining preferences with dine-in, takeout, and delivery services.
With confirmed operating hours starting at 11:30 AM, Pho Basil ensures convenience for lunch and dinner. Reservations and orders can be made online via their website or by phone at (617) 262-5377.
4. Shun’s Kitchen
Located at 520 Columbus Ave, Shun’s Kitchen is a must-visit for anyone craving a wide array of Pan-Asian cuisine.
This comfortable eatery promises a cultural journey with its menu, blending Japanese, Thai, and Korean dishes. With a solid 4.3-star rating from 379 reviews, it’s clear that Shun’s Kitchen has captivated the taste buds of many Boston food enthusiasts.
Patrons can expect a price range of $30–50 per person, making it a great option for a special night out. Shun’s Kitchen offers flexible dining options including dine-in, takeout, and no-contact delivery services.
Although it opens at 11:30 AM, it’s advisable to check for current status as it may be temporarily closed. Reservations and online orders can be conveniently made through their website or by calling (617) 421-9588.
5. Laughing Monk Cafe
Laughing Monk Cafe, located at 737 Huntington Ave, provides an eclectic mix of intricate sushi rolls and inventive Thai cuisine.
With a 4.5-star rating from 805 reviews, this fashionable spot offers a dining experience that combines modern vibes with traditional flavors. Prices range from $10–20 per person, making it affordable for most diners.
The cafe offers flexible dining options, including dine-in, takeout, and no-contact delivery, ensuring convenience for all.
Operating hours begin at 11 AM, so it’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Reservations can be easily made online through their website or by calling (617) 232-8000. For a memorable meal in Boston, Laughing Monk Cafe is a must-visit.
6. Asian Garden Restaurant
Asian Garden Restaurant offers a delightful experience with its classic Sichuan fare and diverse seafood menu.
Located at 28 Harrison Ave in Boston’s Chinatown, this eatery provides a comfortable setting for dine-in, takeout, or delivery options.
This restaurant combines traditional Chinese flavors with an extensive list of seafood dishes, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
The price range is $30–50 per person, making it a great spot for a special occasion or a treat-yourself night out.
Asian Garden Restaurant boasts a 4.0-star rating from 347 reviews, indicating consistent customer satisfaction.
Whether you’re craving the spicy kick of Sichuan cuisine or fresh seafood delicacies, this restaurant guarantees an enjoyable dining experience. For more details or to make a reservation, visit their website or call (617) 695-1646.
7. JiangNan Boston
JiangNan Boston offers a premier Chinese dining experience in the heart of Boston. Located at 177 Tremont St, this restaurant boasts a 4.5-star rating from 426 reviews, reflecting its consistent quality and service.
Diners should expect to spend between $50 and $100 per person, making it a perfect spot for special occasions.
The menu showcases traditional flavors with modern presentations, focusing on dishes like Peking duck and mala fish.
They offer flexible dining options, including dine-in, takeout, and delivery. Diners can check wait times and order online through their website, jiangnanny.com.
The restaurant opens at 11:30 AM, making it ideal for both lunch and dinner plans. For more information or reservations, visitors can call (857) 277-0668.
8. Shabu Zen
Fans line up at Shabu Zen for its bright, bustling atmosphere and do-it-yourself tabletop hot-pot feasts. Located at 16 Tyler St in Boston’s Chinatown, this Japanese eatery boasts a 4.5-star rating from 950 reviews.
Patrons can expect to spend $30–50 per person, enjoying a variety of fresh ingredients and rich broths. Shabu Zen offers flexible dining options, including dine-in, takeout, and delivery services.
The restaurant operates from 11 AM, making it a perfect spot for lunch or dinner. Reservations can be made through their website or by calling (617) 292-8828. For an interactive and flavorful dining experience in Boston, Shabu Zen is a must-visit.
9. The Q
The Q, a hip airy eatery & lounge at 660 Washington St, Boston, offers a unique blend of Mongolian hot pots, sushi, and Chinese dishes.
With a 4.6-star rating from 2,742 reviews and a price range of $30–50 per person, it promises an upscale dining experience.
Diners can enjoy various flexible options: dine-in, takeout, and no-contact delivery. Nestled within the 660 Washington Apartments, it’s a convenient spot to reserve a table via OpenTable or order online for delivery.
Whether seeking traditional hot pots or sushi, The Q guarantees a memorable meal in a chic setting.
10. Lotus Test Kitchen
Lotus Test Kitchen, an Asian fusion gem in Boston, holds a 4.8-star rating from 161 reviews. This eatery offers contemporary Pan-Asian dishes, such as Korean BBQ and unagi, in a simple counter-serve style.
Located at 25 Chauncy St, it provides flexible dining options, including dine-in, takeout, and no-contact delivery.
With prices ranging from $10–20 per person, it’s an affordable yet delightful option. Diners can place orders online through toasttab.com or call (617) 542-7482.
Open from 11 AM, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner. Its location on the first floor of Lafayette City Center makes it easily accessible.
11. Typhoon Asian Bistro
Typhoon Asian Bistro stands out for its diverse Pan-Asian menu and modern ambiance. Located at 725 Boylston St, Boston, this casual eatery offers sushi and a variety of Asian dishes. With a 4.2-star rating from 217 reviews, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors.
Typhoon caters to various dining preferences, offering dine-in, curbside pickup, and no-contact delivery. Guests can enjoy the contemporary indoor space or unwind on the Copley Square patio. Open from 4:30 PM, it’s perfect for a relaxing dinner.
Patrons praise the fresh sushi and innovative Pan-Asian fare. For reservations or more information, visit typhoonboston.com or call (617) 859-8181.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I expect to spend at these restaurants?
Prices vary by restaurant. Affordable options like Pho Basil range between $10–20 per person, while upscale dining at Myers+Chang or JiangNan Boston can cost between $30–100 per person. Mid-range options like Shun’s Kitchen or The Q are typically $30–50 per person.
Are there any notable spots for a special occasion?
Myers+Chang, JiangNan Boston, and The Q are excellent choices for special occasions. These restaurants offer upscale dining experiences, innovative menus, and stylish settings, making them ideal for celebratory meals.
What dining options do these restaurants offer?
Most featured restaurants offer flexible dining options, including dine-in, takeout, and no-contact delivery. For instance, Shabu Zen, Laughing Monk Cafe, and Typhoon Asian Bistro provide multiple ways to enjoy their meals conveniently.
Where can I find eclectic Pan-Asian cuisine in Boston?
For an eclectic Pan-Asian experience, visit Laughing Monk Cafe, Shun’s Kitchen, or Lotus Test Kitchen, which offer a range of dishes from sushi rolls to Korean BBQ in both traditional and contemporary styles.
Can I make reservations online?
Yes, many restaurants, such as Shabu Zen, JiangNan Boston, and The Q, allow online reservations through their websites or platforms like OpenTable for added convenience.
Are these restaurants suitable for lunch and dinner?
Yes, the highlighted restaurants cater to both lunch and dinner crowds with flexible dining hours. Options like Laughing Monk Cafe and Typhoon Asian Bistro are perfect for any mealtime.
Do any of these restaurants offer unique dining experiences?
Yes, Shabu Zen offers a unique do-it-yourself hot-pot dining experience, while The Q provides an upscale environment with a mix of Mongolian hot pots, sushi, and Chinese dishes, creating memorable and interactive culinary experiences.
Conclusion
Boston’s Asian culinary scene offers an array of exceptional dining experiences. From the trendy Shōjō Boston and upscale Myers+Chang to the affordable Pho Basil, each restaurant delivers unique flavors and settings.
Shun’s Kitchen, Laughing Monk Cafe, and Asian Garden Restaurant blend traditional recipes with modern twists, catering to diverse palates.
JiangNan Boston, Shabu Zen, and The Q provide premium dining with flexible options. Lotus Test Kitchen and Typhoon Asian Bistro add to the city’s vibrant food landscape with their creative menus and convenient services.
Whether seeking fine dining or a casual meal, Boston’s Asian restaurants ensure unforgettable culinary adventures.
Timothy Russell Dewart