Tulsa’s culinary scene is blossoming, and no category reflects that growth more vibrantly than the Asian food available in our city. When people think of ‘Asian food’ they may not immediately realize what a vast and nuanced world they are entering. It’s more than just your average takeout; it’s an exploration of centuries-old traditions, innovative fusion, and a dedication to flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. From the rich broths of Vietnamese pho to the fiery spices of Sichuan cuisine and the delicate artistry of Japanese sushi, Tulsa offers a delicious tapestry of Asian flavors waiting to be discovered. This article is dedicated to exploring some of the very best Asian culinary experiences Tulsa has to offer, giving you a guide to finding your next favorite dish and supporting local businesses.
Chinese Cuisine: A Culinary Cornerstone
Chinese cuisine is undeniably one of the most influential and widely enjoyed Asian food categories globally, and Tulsa is no exception. The sheer variety within Chinese food is staggering, from the spicy and numbing sensations of Sichuan dishes to the savory and subtly sweet Cantonese classics. Here are a few places in Tulsa you can experience the best Chinese food.
Taste of China
Taste of China is a local favorite, located right off of South Memorial Drive. With a menu that spans across a multitude of popular dishes, it is hard to choose just one thing to order. This restaurant is known for their authentic flavors and generous portions. Taste of China offers a comfortable, welcoming environment that allows for a perfect dining experience. Customers especially love their Orange Chicken and Mongolian Beef.
Sichuan Bistro
For those seeking a more modern take on Chinese cuisine, consider Sichuan Bistro. Their innovative menu features both traditional Sichuan favorites and contemporary creations that highlight the bold flavors of the region. Located on Brookside, Sichuan Bistro is the perfect spot to grab dinner on a Friday or Saturday night. Customers boast about the friendly service and authentic taste.
Don’t forget to explore Tulsa’s local Asian markets, like Dong Phuong, where you can find a vast array of Chinese ingredients and specialty items to try your hand at recreating your favorite dishes at home.
Vietnamese Cuisine: Flavors of the Mekong Delta
Vietnamese cuisine has steadily gained popularity for its fresh, flavorful dishes that balance savory, sweet, sour, and spicy elements with incredible finesse. Tulsa boasts several excellent Vietnamese restaurants that showcase the best of this culinary tradition.
Pho Da Cao
Pho Da Cao is a must-try for any pho enthusiast. Located in the heart of Tulsa, this cozy restaurant serves up steaming bowls of aromatic pho with tender slices of beef or chicken, fresh herbs, and flavorful broth simmered for hours. Their banh mi sandwiches are also incredibly popular, featuring crispy baguettes filled with marinated meats, pickled vegetables, and fragrant cilantro. The restaurant has a casual, inviting atmosphere, perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner.
Linh’s Vietnamese Cuisine
For a slightly more upscale experience, consider Linh’s Vietnamese Cuisine. Linh’s offers a more refined take on Vietnamese classics, with elegant presentations and an emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their vermicelli bowls are a particular standout, offering a light and refreshing alternative to heavier dishes. With plenty of options, even picky eaters can find something they enjoy.
Korean Cuisine: A Symphony of Bold Flavors
Korean cuisine is known for its bold, complex flavors, thanks in part to its reliance on fermented ingredients like kimchi and gochujang. Tulsa has a growing number of Korean restaurants that are delighting diners with authentic and innovative dishes.
Korean BBQ House
For a truly immersive experience, head to Korean BBQ House. This restaurant features individual grills at each table, allowing you to cook your own meats to perfection. Choose from a selection of marinated beef, pork, and chicken, and enjoy the interactive and delicious process of grilling your own meal. The side dishes, or “banchan,” are also a highlight, featuring an array of pickled vegetables, kimchi, and other flavorful condiments.
Kimchi Korean Restaurant
Kimchi Korean Restaurant offers a more traditional Korean dining experience, with a menu that features classic dishes like bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi jjigae. Their bibimbap is a particular standout, featuring a colorful array of vegetables, rice, and a fried egg, all topped with a spicy gochujang sauce.
Don’t forget to visit local Korean markets to stock up on essential ingredients and snacks for your own culinary adventures.
Thai Cuisine: A Dance of Sweet, Sour, and Spicy
Thai cuisine is beloved for its vibrant flavors, aromatic herbs, and perfect balance of sweet, sour, spicy, and savory elements. Tulsa’s Thai restaurants offer a wide range of dishes, from the familiar Pad Thai to more adventurous curries and soups.
Yok Thai Cuisine
Yok Thai Cuisine is a long-time Tulsa favorite, known for its consistently delicious food and friendly service. Their Pad Thai is a classic, featuring stir-fried noodles, shrimp or chicken, peanuts, bean sprouts, and a tangy tamarind sauce. Their curries are also excellent, with options ranging from mild and creamy to fiery and intense. Diners can customize the spice level, so even the most sensitive palates can enjoy a delicious Thai meal.
Lanna Thai
Lanna Thai offers a more modern and stylish dining experience, with a menu that features both traditional Thai dishes and innovative creations. Their Green Curry is a particular standout, featuring a rich and creamy coconut milk base, tender vegetables, and your choice of protein.
Japanese Cuisine: Artistry on a Plate
Japanese cuisine is renowned for its precision, elegance, and emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Tulsa’s Japanese restaurants offer a wide range of options, from sushi and sashimi to ramen and tempura.
Yokozuna
Yokozuna is a popular sushi destination in Tulsa, known for its creative rolls and impeccable presentation. Their chefs use only the freshest fish, and their rolls are both beautiful and delicious. In addition to sushi, Yokozuna also offers a selection of cooked dishes, including ramen, tempura, and teriyaki.
Jinya Ramen Bar
For a truly authentic ramen experience, head to Jinya Ramen Bar. This restaurant specializes in tonkotsu ramen, a rich and creamy pork broth that is simmered for hours. The ramen is topped with tender slices of pork belly, green onions, and a soft-boiled egg. Jinya also offers a selection of other Japanese dishes, including gyoza and edamame.
Don’t forget to explore local Japanese markets like Asian World Market where you can find specialty ingredients and snacks.
Beyond the Usual Suspects
While Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Thai, and Japanese cuisines dominate the Asian food scene, Tulsa also offers a few gems representing other Asian cultures.
Manila Oriental Store
Manila Oriental Store is located on Southwest Boulevard, and has become a hotspot in Tulsa for Filipino cuisine. With authentic flavors and ingredients, it is easy to understand why locals love visiting the small shop. Manila Oriental Store is the perfect place to get Filipino food in Tulsa.
Tips for Embarking on Your Asian Food Adventure in Tulsa
Exploring Tulsa’s diverse Asian food scene can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your culinary journey:
- Be adventurous: Don’t be afraid to try new dishes and step outside your comfort zone. Ask your server for recommendations or try a dish that you’ve never heard of before.
- Learn a few basic phrases: Knowing a few words in the language of the cuisine you’re exploring can enhance your experience and show respect for the culture.
- Understand spice levels: Many Asian dishes are spicy, so be sure to ask about the spice level before you order. Some restaurants can adjust the spice level to your liking.
- Take advantage of lunch specials and happy hour deals: Many Asian restaurants offer affordable lunch specials and happy hour deals, making it a great way to try new dishes without breaking the bank.
- Read online reviews: Before you visit a restaurant, check online reviews to see what other diners have to say. This can help you get a sense of the food quality, atmosphere, and service.
- Consider dietary restrictions: Many Asian restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Be sure to inform your server of any dietary restrictions you may have.
A Culinary Tapestry Unveiled
Tulsa’s Asian food scene is a vibrant and diverse reflection of the city’s growing culinary landscape. From the comforting warmth of a bowl of pho to the fiery flavors of Sichuan cuisine and the delicate artistry of sushi, Tulsa offers a wealth of Asian flavors waiting to be discovered. By exploring the restaurants mentioned in this article and venturing beyond your usual favorites, you can embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and broaden your horizons. The richness and depth of Asian food cannot be understated. Each dish tells a story, connecting you to the traditions and cultures of the Asian continent. So, embrace the diversity, be open to new experiences, and savor every bite. What are your favorite Asian restaurants in Tulsa? Share your recommendations in the comments below and let’s continue to celebrate the incredible Asian food scene that Tulsa has to offer!
