A Big Guide to Memphis’ Best Asian Restaurants

EAST MEMPHIS:

East Memphis is spoiled for choice when it comes to delicious Asian dishes! You can’t go wrong with any of these delightful spots:

• Sakura: Arguably one of the best sushi restaurants in the entire city, Sakura is located in Germantown and Collierville as well as East Memphis. Their sushi rolls are fresh, filling, and always picture-worthy. The Sexy Lady roll is simply to die for! Tempura shrimp, fresh salmon, fresh tuna, snow crab mix, avocado, Sriracha, Cajun tuna… (Yes, I’m still describing that one roll!!) Honorable mention is the Sunset Roll, but don’t just take it from me, check out these pictures. For an extra treat, sit at the sushi bar when you dine in and watch the chefs work their magic.
• Panda Garden: Located on Summer Avenue, Panda Garden is not on any of the delivery apps, and they don’t have to be! Their sesame chicken comes in a box… in a bag because it is always overflowing! It’s rare to get Chinese take out where food that is meant to be crispy is still crispy by the time it gets to your house, but they never miss here. For something new, try the Singapore Street Noodles, hot, fragrant, and packed with veggies, meat, and flavor.
• Kami Ramen Bar: When you walk into Kami you don’t feel like you’re in Memphis anymore! The dimly lit, warm atmosphere feels like a hug. Comfortable and authentic, it’s the perfect place to enjoy your meal with company. Kami offers a colorful variety of ramen bowls, with plenty of vegetarian options. I always add extra garlic in mine. Their Tonkotsu broth is rich and flavorful; you can tell the kitchen staff knows what they are doing.
• Ryu: Three words. Kimchi. Dumpling. Soup. A perfect warm-me-up, this soup changed my life for the better. I am a firm believer that this soup could turn anyone into a kimchi lover. Known for fresh fish and unique dishes, Ryu has a way of combining tradition and innovation all across their menu.
• Lotus: Located on Summer Avenue, this Vietnamese spot is truly a hidden treasure of Memphis. The broth in their phos will heal you from the inside out. You can tell the dishes are cooked with love, and the authentic recipes taste like they have been passed down from generation to generation. The restaurant is  currently take-out only, but the food is so, so worth it.
• Nagasaki Inn: Steeped in nostalgia, Nagasaki is an absolute Memphis staple. From the classic Nagaskai Coupons your mom used to clip from the newspaper, to the menu whose prices seemingly haven’t changed since they opened, the best part of this restaurant experience is Harold Do, who has  been manning the Hibachi grill for as long as anyone can remember. He’s hilarious, cooks excellent food, and makes you want to come back for more.
• Pho Saigon: This family owned restaurant could easily fall under the radar, but the quality of food here has kept them as a popular Vietnamese destination in the city for years. Their pho is aromatic, hot, and served in generous portions. Their Bahn Mi is authentic, and the steamed buns are fresh every time. Not only do they serve some of the most soul-warming Vietnamese food in Memphis, but they also have a large selection of fruit smoothies. I had my first Taro smoothie here, so delicious!
• Mayuri: Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of India at Mayuri Indian Restaurant! Their dishes are a symphony of authentic flavors, from aromatic curries to perfectly spiced tandoori creations. The eggplant coconut curry here is an absolute dream. Mayuri  is the perfect place to discover the true essence of India in the heart of Memphis.

MIDTOWN:

• Takashi Bistro: Let me start by saying that the Rainbow Sashimi here is as beautiful as it sounds, and tastes even better. Thinly sliced assorted sashimi, jalapeno, asparagus with yuzu sauce. Did that sound like a wedding vow to you too? The food here is exciting, different, and travels well to-go! This fusion restaurant combines Thai and Japanese favorites. You gotta love a menu that makes you rack your brain over what to choose. Everything here is great, but seriously…The Rainbow Sashimi.
• Salt | Soy: The sister restaurant to the beloved Alchemy has now joined forces to become one big, beautiful kitchen! Salt | Soy was a breath of fresh air to the sushi scene in Memphis. The dishes are carefully curated, the fish is fresh, and the ambiance is modern, comfortable, and romantic. From mouthwatering sushi rolls to expertly crafted small plates, this restaurant invites you to embark on a delightful journey for your taste buds. And do NOT skip out on the brown butter Hamachi Sashimi. Just don’t.
• Flame Ramen: An exciting addition to the Midtown food scene, Flame Ramen’s menu of buns, rice bowls, ramen, and more is bursting with flavor and texture, infused with rich broths, fresh ingredients, and a touch of culinary magic. Whether you're a ramen connoisseur or new to the cuisine, they’ve got the perfect bowl to ignite your taste buds.
• Golden India: While you will love  the classics like Butter Chicken, Tikka Masala, and Garlicky Naan, try something new like Golden India’s Lamb Vindaloo. This restaurant is small and quaint and occasionally has a small buffet. White linens, two tops, and a quiet atmosphere make this restaurant a great date night destination.
• Kwik Chek: Year after year, this convenience store-style counter-service restaurant is hailed for offering  some of the best sandwiches in Memphis. When you make it past your obsession with the Ninja sandwich, try the Bibimbap Bowl, the homemade cucumber kimchi, and the gyros. The family run business has nailed consistency and flavor, so don’t let the appearance deter you from sampling this hidden gem!
• Tuyen’s Asian Bistro: Many, many, MANY of you pointed out this spot missing from the list and all of you are right! This beloved Vietnamese restaurant in the Crosstown neighborhood is an absolute must-visit. The menu is packed full of good eats but tofu lemongrass is one of the most popular items to try. The legacy of Saigon Le is alive and well here!

DOWNTOWN:

• South Main Sushi: South Main Sushi… all the cool kids eat here; you should too. This hip new(er) sushi spot has been a hit since they opened. The sushi presentation is always on point here, basically begging you to post it to Instagram. If you’re into Sake bombs, this is the place to do it, as they bring out a gong to your table.
• Stix: If you need a quick sushi fix for your downtown working day, might we suggest Stix. Counter service gets you through in no time, but no fear, their product tastes just as fresh and well-prepped as you could want.
• Good Fortune Co.: Good Fortune Co. brought a freshness to South Main that Memphians love. The fried chicken is so crispy and delicious, you just might find that your new favorite chicken in the city is at an Asian restaurant! The drinks are well-thought-out, and served in quirky glasses. This destination raised the bar for new restaurants coming to the 901, and if you haven’t been yet, what are you waiting for?
• The Nine Thai Sushi: In the old Bangkok Alley space on Union, it is just as cozy as it was then and oh so good. You can’t go wrong with a standard sushi roll, sashimi, or pad Thai.

Downtown has plenty of other tasty options so make sure to check out:

• Momoya
• Big Hong Kong

BARTLETT/CORDOVA:

• Green Bamboo Noodle House: This Cordova spot gives all the other Pho restaurants in town a run for their money. First of all, who doesn’t love noodles? This restaurant has so many options to choose from. The best part? They deliver! Even Midtowners can get Green Bamboo’s  culinary treats delivered to your doorstep through your favorite apps!
• Petals of a Peony: The new kid on the block and a Szechuan one at that! Beautiful space. Beautiful dishes. The discreet outside is misleading with a large dining area. Great for large parties. Rumor has it, it is the first Szechuan place in the city. While they do serve the more traditional fare (Curry Goat and Mao Xue Wang), they also  serve Dandan noodles and spicy dumplings. It is a must try if you are in the area, just keep an eye out for it.
• Rock n Roll Sushi: Love Fleetwood Mac? Maybe Led Zeppelin? Take your fandom to the next level and order mouthwatering sushi named after your favorite bands! Don’t skip out on the starters though; the gyoza is a home run every time.

LAKELAND/COLLIERVILLE:

• Redfish: Delicious sushi in the heart of the suburbs! Redfish has been a rolling success in Lakeland for years. You won’t regret taking your family, your date, or just yourself here. Expect excellent service, fresh fish, and hot delicious dishes when you dine here.
• Bangkok Alley: Now under the same ownership as SOB, this Collierville location is like a familiar friend. The food is just as fabulous as it has been for 15+ years. Be sure to order their authentic Thai tea to go with your meal. This spot also does a great job with their to-go for when you want restaurant quality at home!

When you’re making the drive, make sure to try out these other delicious Asian options:

• Emerald Thai Restaurant
• Stix
• Asian Fusion Cuisine