By Chloe Huang
Desperately in need of a comforting Asian meal, but not sure where to start? Navigating college life in a new city can be tough, but finding a restaurant doesn’t have to be. In this blog, we’ll be listing the top 10 Asian restaurants around Boston to satisfy your cravings!
- Naksan Korean BBQ (1414 Commonwealth Avenue)
Starting this list off with a bang, Naksan is the perfect place for authentic Korean barbecue. They serve an amazing variety of banchan, from perfectly fermented kimchi to marinated celery, and the staff cooks all the meat for you (perfect for any college students whose cooking experience stops at instant ramen).
- Cicada Coffee Bar (106 Prospect Street)
Vietnamese cafe by day, and aesthetic restaurant by night! From 8am to 3pm, Cicada serves your classic brunch items with a Vietnamese twist. However, starting at 5pm, the beautifully-decorated cafe dims its lights and turns into a reservation-only restaurant serving elegant takes on Vietnamese dishes.
- Mahaniyom (236 Washington Street)
Mahaniyom is a tapas-style restaurant serving delicious plates of pad thai, crab fried rice, and much more. Located in Brookline, it’s an easy 15 minute T ride from Boston University. Tables fill up quickly, so make sure to reserve in advance!
- Kenzoku Mazesoba (506 Park Drive)
Continuing with another fan favorite, Kenzoku Mazesoba specializes in brothless ramen noodles with flavorful toppings. Among the most popular dishes, their Tan Tan Mazesoba is my personal favorite! Additionally, this restaurant serves great portions at an affordable price, and it’s located extremely close to Boston University’s South Campus.
- Mala Town (194 Harvard Avenue)
Located in Allston (an extremely student-populated neighborhood, Mala Town is also a popular destination amongst BU students looking for an affordable and comforting bowl
of mala hot pot. You’re able to select your own variety of ingredients, and for a pro tip, load up on the light food and reduce the amount of heavy food to save money!
- Spring Shabu Shabu (304 Western Avenue)
As a hot pot connoisseur myself, Spring Shabu Shabu is one of the best places to go for hot pot around the Boston area. They have a massive selection of vegetables and other additions for you to grab yourself (perfect for those who want to try everything without breaking the bank).
- Merai (14 Harvard Street)
Although Merai is on the more expensive side, it’s a great chic, upscale restaurant perfect for a date night. They have an extremely creative take on Thai-inspired dishes, from their yukhoe to tom yum pasta.
- Tora Japanese Restaurant (20B Tyler Street)
Although it’s a bit pricier than a quick sushi spot, Tora is known for their beautifully crafted donburi bowls that are a perfect “treat yourself” meal. Located in the heart of Chinatown, their interior cozy vibe offers a much more intimate feel than other sushi restaurants in Boston.
- Mountain House (89 Brighton Avenue)
With lots of shareable plates, Mountain House is a great casual and lively place to go with friends after a late-night study session. This restaurant is famous for their authentic Sichuan-style dishes, especially spicy dry pot and grilled skewers.
10.Yume Ga Arukara (70 Pier 4 Boulevard)
Last but certainly not least, Yume Ga Arakara is my personal favorite to get good quality udon! While there is another chain located in Cambridge, the location in Seaport is a great way to explore more of Boston’s views. I would recommend their Signature Cold Niku Udon for a perfect, refreshing bite.