Paris is celebrated for its French cuisine, but the city’s multicultural landscape offers a vibrant array of Asian culinary experiences. From aromatic Thai dishes to sophisticated Japanese sushi, Paris has become a haven for exceptional Asian food. This guide will take you on a gastronomic tour of the best Asian food in Paris, highlighting must-visit restaurants and dishes that showcase the rich diversity of Asian cuisine.
1. Authentic Chinese Cuisine
Dim Sum Delights
Dim sum is a cornerstone of Chinese cuisine, consisting of small, flavorful dishes often enjoyed with tea. Paris has several restaurants where you can indulge in high-quality dim sum.
Yoom Dim Sum
Located in the heart of Paris, Yoom Dim Sum offers a contemporary take on traditional dim sum. The menu features a variety of steamed buns, dumplings, and spring rolls. Highlights include the fluffy pork buns and delicate shrimp dumplings. The modern, stylish setting makes it an ideal spot for both casual lunches and special occasions.
Maoz
For an authentic dim sum experience, Maoz is a must-visit. This restaurant is known for its traditional offerings, including delicious siu mai and har gow. The restaurant’s dedication to authenticity and quality is evident in every bite, making it a popular choice among dim sum enthusiasts.
Sichuan Spice
Sichuan cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and spicy dishes. Paris offers several excellent Sichuan restaurants where you can experience the heat and complexity of this regional cuisine.
Chengdu
Chengdu brings the vibrant flavors of Sichuan to Paris with its extensive menu of spicy dishes. The restaurant’s mapo tofu and kung pao chicken are particularly notable, featuring the signature numbing heat and rich, layered flavors of Sichuan peppercorns and chili. The ambiance of the restaurant complements the intensity of the food, providing an immersive dining experience.
Le Palais de Shangai
Le Palais de Shangai offers a refined Sichuan dining experience. The restaurant’s elegant decor and attentive service enhance the enjoyment of dishes like spicy hot pot and crisp-fried chicken. The balance of spices and quality ingredients makes this a top choice for Sichuan cuisine in Paris.
Peking Duck
Peking Duck is a celebrated dish known for its crispy skin and tender meat. Finding the perfect Peking Duck in Paris requires visiting restaurants that specialize in this classic Chinese dish.
Chez Janou
Chez Janou, while primarily known for its French fare, offers an impressive Peking Duck that has earned rave reviews. The restaurant’s version features perfectly crisp skin and succulent meat, served with traditional accompaniments such as hoisin sauce and thinly sliced cucumber. The elegant setting and attentive service further enhance the dining experience.
Le Doyen
Le Doyen is another excellent choice for Peking Duck. This upscale restaurant prepares the duck with meticulous care, ensuring a crispy exterior and tender interior. The dish is served with all the traditional sides, providing an authentic taste of this iconic Chinese specialty.
2. Japanese Excellence
Sushi and Sashimi
Japanese cuisine, particularly sushi and sashimi, has found a prominent place in Paris’s dining scene. The city boasts several top-notch establishments where you can enjoy fresh and beautifully crafted sushi.
Taku
Taku is a high-end sushi restaurant that excels in presenting the finest ingredients in a refined setting. The restaurant’s omakase menu allows diners to experience a curated selection of sushi and sashimi, showcasing the chef’s skill and dedication to quality. The elegant decor and attentive service create a memorable dining experience.
Jin
For sushi lovers, Jin offers an authentic taste of Japan with its expertly prepared sushi and sashimi. The restaurant’s emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients is evident in every dish. The minimalist decor and intimate atmosphere make it a great spot for a special meal.
Ramen and Udon
Japanese noodle dishes like ramen and udon are beloved for their comforting flavors and hearty ingredients. Paris has several restaurants that specialize in these noodle dishes.
Ikeda
Ikeda is renowned for its delicious ramen, featuring rich, flavorful broth and tender noodles. The restaurant’s tonkotsu ramen is particularly popular, offering a satisfying balance of flavors. The cozy, unpretentious atmosphere makes it a great spot for a casual meal.
Kintaro
Kintaro is a go-to destination for udon enthusiasts. The restaurant’s udon dishes are known for their chewy noodles and flavorful broths. Whether you prefer a classic tempura udon or a spicy version, Kintaro’s menu offers something for every palate.
Tempura and Teppanyaki
Tempura and teppanyaki are two Japanese cooking styles that offer unique dining experiences. Paris’s selection of restaurants highlights these styles with skillful preparation and presentation.
Le Temari
Le Temari specializes in tempura, featuring a variety of lightly battered and fried vegetables and seafood. The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and precise cooking techniques ensures a delightful dining experience. The elegant setting and attentive service further enhance the enjoyment of the meal.
Benkay
Benkay offers a teppanyaki dining experience, where chefs prepare dishes on an iron grill in front of diners. The restaurant’s menu includes a range of grilled meats and seafood, cooked to perfection. The interactive nature of teppanyaki adds an element of entertainment to the meal, making it a popular choice for group dining.
See also: What Is Best Food To Eat In Paris
3. Thai Temptations
Thai Curries
Thai curries are known for their complex flavors and aromatic spices. Paris has several restaurants that offer delicious renditions of these flavorful dishes.
Le Boudoir Thaï
Le Boudoir Thaï is celebrated for its rich and flavorful Thai curries. The restaurant’s green curry and massaman curry are particularly notable, featuring a perfect balance of spices and coconut milk. The chic, modern decor complements the vibrant flavors of the dishes.
Krung Thep
Krung Thep offers a range of Thai curries that showcase the depth and variety of Thai cuisine. The restaurant’s red curry and panang curry are highly recommended, with each dish offering a unique taste experience. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a great choice for enjoying a comforting meal.
Thai Street Food
For a taste of authentic Thai street food, Paris has several eateries that bring the flavors of Bangkok to the city.
Street Thai
Street Thai is known for its casual, street food-inspired menu. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including pad Thai, spring rolls, and Thai basil chicken. The vibrant flavors and informal setting provide a genuine taste of Thai street food culture.
Thai Corner
Thai Corner offers a selection of popular Thai street food dishes in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. From savory pad Thai to crispy spring rolls, the restaurant’s menu features familiar favorites with authentic flavors. The relaxed ambiance makes it a great spot for a casual meal.
Thai Desserts
Thai desserts are known for their unique ingredients and flavors. Paris has a few establishments where you can indulge in these sweet treats.
Bangkok Street
Bangkok Street offers a variety of Thai desserts, including mango sticky rice and coconut milk custard. The restaurant’s desserts are made with traditional ingredients and methods, providing an authentic taste of Thai sweetness. The casual setting is perfect for enjoying a sweet ending to your meal.
Siam Sawan
Siam Sawan is another great option for Thai desserts. The restaurant’s menu includes a range of sweet treats, from traditional sticky rice dishes to refreshing coconut-based desserts. The relaxed atmosphere and delicious desserts make it a worthwhile stop.
4. Korean Flavors
Korean BBQ
Korean BBQ is a social dining experience where diners grill their own meats at the table. Paris has several restaurants that offer this interactive and flavorful dining style.
Le Han
Le Han offers a comprehensive Korean BBQ experience, with a variety of meats and vegetables available for grilling. The restaurant’s selection of marinades and dipping sauces adds to the enjoyment of the meal. The lively atmosphere and excellent service make it a popular choice for groups.
Samgyeopsal
Samgyeopsal specializes in Korean BBQ with a focus on high-quality pork belly and other grilled meats. The restaurant’s emphasis on traditional flavors and techniques ensures an authentic Korean BBQ experience. The modern decor and attentive service enhance the overall dining experience.
Korean Stews
Korean stews, or jjigae, are hearty and flavorful dishes that are perfect for a comforting meal. Paris offers several restaurants where you can enjoy these delicious stews.
Jangwon
Jangwon is known for its flavorful Korean stews, including kimchi jjigae and sundubu jjigae. The restaurant’s rich, spicy stews are made with high-quality ingredients and traditional methods. The casual, welcoming atmosphere is ideal for enjoying a satisfying meal.
Bibim
Bibim offers a variety of Korean stews that highlight the depth and complexity of Korean cuisine. The restaurant’s menu includes classic jjigae dishes, as well as other Korean favorites. The relaxed setting and flavorful food make it a great choice for a comforting meal.
Korean Street Food
Korean street food is characterized by its bold flavors and unique ingredients. Paris has several eateries that bring these tasty snacks to the city.
K-Bop
K-Bop offers a range of Korean street food favorites, including tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes). The restaurant’s casual atmosphere and flavorful dishes provide an authentic taste of Korean street food culture.
Korea Town
Korea Town features a variety of Korean street food options, from savory skewers to crispy fried treats. The vibrant flavors and informal setting make it a great spot for enjoying a quick, delicious meal.
5. Indian Influences
Indian Curries
Indian curries are known for their rich flavors and aromatic spices. Paris has several restaurants that offer exceptional Indian curries.
Le Taj
Le Taj is a popular destination for Indian cuisine, featuring a menu full of flavorful curries and traditional dishes. The restaurant’s butter chicken and lamb curry are particularly noteworthy, offering a perfect balance of spices and creamy sauces. The elegant decor and attentive service enhance the dining experience.
Shiva
Shiva offers a range of Indian curries and dishes that highlight the complexity of Indian flavors. The restaurant’s menu includes classics like chicken tikka masala and vegetable korma, prepared with high-quality ingredients and authentic techniques. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot for enjoying a flavorful meal.
Indian Street Food
Indian street food is characterized by its bold flavors and inventive ingredients. Paris offers a few places where you can enjoy these tasty snacks.
Bombay Street Food
Bombay Street Food brings the vibrant flavors of Indian street food to Paris, with dishes like samosas, chaat, and vada pav. The casual setting and flavorful snacks provide an authentic taste of Indian street food culture.
Delhi Express
Delhi Express offers a selection of Indian street food favorites, including spicy chaats and crispy pakoras. The restaurant’s menu features familiar flavors and ingredients, providing a genuine taste of Indian street cuisine. The informal setting is perfect for enjoying a quick and delicious meal.
6. Vietnamese Vibrancy
Pho and Vietnamese Noodles
Pho, a fragrant noodle soup, is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine. Paris has several restaurants that offer delicious renditions of this classic dish.
Pho 14
Pho 14 is renowned for its flavorful pho, featuring a rich, aromatic broth and tender noodles. The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity and quality is evident in every bowl. The casual, bustling atmosphere makes it a popular spot for pho lovers.
Le Saigon
Le Saigon offers a range of Vietnamese noodle dishes, including pho and bun cha. The restaurant’s menu features rich, flavorful broths and fresh ingredients, providing an authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine. The relaxed setting is ideal for enjoying a comforting meal.
Vietnamese Street Food
Vietnamese street food is known for its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Paris has a few eateries that bring these street food favorites to the city.
Banh Mi 38
Banh Mi 38 specializes in banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich known for its crispy baguette and flavorful fillings. The restaurant’s selection of banh mi options includes traditional and inventive variations, offering a delicious taste of Vietnamese street food.
Pho Viet
Pho Viet offers a variety of Vietnamese street food dishes, including fresh spring rolls and savory banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes). The casual setting and flavorful food make it a great spot for enjoying a quick, satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Paris is not just a city of French culinary delights; it is also a vibrant hub for exceptional Asian cuisine. From the aromatic spices of Sichuan and Thai dishes to the delicate flavors of Japanese sushi and the comforting warmth of Korean stews, the city offers a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, exploring the best Asian food in Paris promises a delightful and diverse culinary adventure. Embrace the city’s multicultural dining scene and savor the best that Asian cuisine has to offer.
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