Best Asian Food in Columbia, SC: Top Restaurants to Try

If you’re craving Asian cuisine in Columbia, SC, you’re in luck. The city offers a diverse range of restaurants that cater to different tastes and budgets. From Chinese to Japanese, Thai to Korean, and fusion to seafood, there is something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top-rated Asian restaurants in Columbia, spotlight some of the best Chinese, Japanese, and Thai dishes, and highlight vegetarian and special diet options. Additionally, we’ll take a look at the Asian market experience and answer some frequently asked questions.

Foodies visiting Columbia NEED to check out my guide to Columbia’s best wing spots.

Columbia, SC, has a vibrant food scene, and Asian cuisine is no exception. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a romantic dinner, you’ll find plenty of options. From traditional dishes to modern fusion, the city’s Asian restaurants offer a range of flavors and textures that will satisfy any palate.

Key Takeaways

• Columbia, SC, has a diverse range of Asian restaurants catering to different tastes and budgets.
• Top-rated Asian restaurants in the city include Korea Garden Restaurant, 929 Kitchen & Bar, and Inakaya Japanese Restaurant.
• The city’s Asian restaurants offer a range of flavors and textures, including traditional dishes and modern fusion options.

Top Rated Asian Restaurants

If you’re looking for the best Asian food in Columbia, SC, you’re in luck. This city has a wide variety of Asian restaurants that cater to different tastes and budgets. Whether you’re in the mood for Korean BBQ, Japanese sushi, or Taiwanese bubble tea, you’ll find something that suits your palate.

To help you decide where to go, we’ve compiled a list of the top-rated Asian restaurants in Columbia, SC, based on Yelp and TripAdvisor reviews. We’ve also included information on the type of cuisine, price range, and location.

Brunch much? Expand your horizons by visiting some new brunch spots in Columbia.

Restaurant	Type of Cuisine	Price Range
Inakaya Japanese Restaurant	Japanese, Sushi	$$ – $$$
929 Kitchen & Bar	Korean	$$ – $$$
M Vista	Asian Fusion	$$ – $$$
Saki Tumi Grill & Sushi Bar	American, International	$$ – $$$
Flaming Grill Supreme Buffet	Chinese, Japanese, Sushi	$$ – $$$
JJ Tea House	Taiwanese, Bubble Tea	$$
KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot	Korean, Barbeque, Hot Pot	$$
Korea Garden Restaurant	Korean, Barbeque	$$
China Wok 2	Chinese takeout	$
Sun Ming Chinese Restaurant	Chinese	$$

Inakaya Japanese Restaurant is a popular spot for sushi lovers. Their sushi is fresh and flavorful, and their service is friendly and attentive. If you’re in the mood for Korean food, 929 Kitchen & Bar is a great choice. Their bibimbap and kimchi fried rice are highly recommended by customers.

M Vista is an Asian fusion restaurant that offers a more upscale dining experience and a unique blend of flavors from different Asian cuisines.

Their pork belly bao buns and shrimp pad thai are must-tries. They also offer shrimp Fried Rice and Pineapple Fried Rice.

Saki Tumi Grill & Sushi Bar is another great option for sushi and Japanese cuisine. They have a wide selection of sushi rolls and sashimi, as well as grilled dishes like teriyaki chicken and beef.

Flaming Grill Supreme Buffet is a buffet-style restaurant that offers Chinese, Japanese, and sushi dishes. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a variety of Asian food at an affordable price.

JJ Tea House is a Taiwanese restaurant that specializes in bubble tea. They also serve Taiwanese street food like popcorn chicken and beef noodle soup.

KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot is a relatively new restaurant that offers Korean barbecue and hot pot dishes. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for a fun and interactive dining experience.

Korea Garden Restaurant is a Korean barbecue restaurant that’s known for their marinated meats and banchan (side dishes).

China Wok 2 is a popular spot for Chinese takeout. They offer a variety of dishes, including lo mein, fried rice, and General Tso’s chicken. If you’re in the mood for something spicy, try their Szechuan chicken or shrimp.

Sun Ming Chinese Restaurant is a great place for a sit-down meal. They have a large menu with plenty of options, including vegetarian dishes. Their hot and sour soup is a customer favorite, as well as their moo shu pork.

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Exploring Asian Cuisine in Columbia SC

If you’re a fan of Asian food, Columbia SC has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. From Chinese to Japanese to Thai to Vietnamese, you can find a variety of delicious dishes to try.

Here are some of the best Asian restaurants in Columbia SC to explore:

Japanese Cuisine

If you are a fan of Japanese cuisine, Columbia has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. One of the top-rated Japanese restaurants in Columbia is Inakaya Japanese Restaurant.

This restaurant offers a wide range of traditional Japanese dishes, including sushi, sashimi, and tempura. Inakaya Japanese Restaurant is known for its fresh and high-quality ingredients, which are expertly prepared by their skilled chefs.

If you’re a sushi lover, you’ll definitely want to try out some of the sushi rolls at Inakaya Japanese Restaurant. One of their most popular rolls is the Godzilla Roll, which is made with spicy tuna, avocado, and tempura flakes. The roll is then topped with eel sauce and spicy mayo, which adds a delicious kick to the dish.

In addition to Inakaya Japanese Restaurant, there are several other Japanese restaurants in Columbia that offer delicious cuisine.

SakiTumi Grill & Sushi Bar is another popular sushi spot that offers a variety of sushi rolls, as well as other Japanese dishes like ramen and udon noodles.

If you’re a fan of sashimi, you’ll definitely want to try out the sashimi platter at Miyabi Kyoto Japanese Steak & Seafood House.

This platter features a variety of fresh sashimi, including salmon, tuna, and yellowtail.

To help you compare the different Japanese restaurants in Columbia, here’s a table summarizing some of the key features of each restaurant:

Restaurant	Specialty Dish	Price Range	Atmosphere
Inakaya Japanese Restaurant	Godzilla Roll	$$	Casual, modern
SakiTumi Grill & Sushi Bar	Volcano Roll	$$	Trendy, upscale
Miyabi Kyoto Japanese Steak & Seafood House	Sashimi Platter	$$$	Traditional, family-friendly

No matter which Japanese restaurant you choose in Columbia, you’re sure to be impressed by the quality of the cuisine and the skill of the chefs.

Thai Cuisine

If you are looking for a taste of Thailand in Columbia, you won’t be disappointed with the selection of Thai restaurants in the area. From traditional Thai dishes to modern twists on classic favorites, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the most popular Thai restaurants in Columbia is Baan Sawan Thai Bistro. This restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional Thai dishes, including curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes. Their Pad Thai is a must-try, and their Tom Yum soup is perfect for those who love a little spice.

Another great option for Thai food in Columbia is Antai. This restaurant offers a more modern take on Thai cuisine, with dishes like Thai-style tacos and sushi rolls. Their signature dish, the Antai Pad Thai, is a unique twist on the classic dish, with the addition of crispy pork belly.

If you are looking for a more traditional Thai dining experience, Thailand Restaurant is a great choice. Their menu features all the classic Thai dishes you would expect, like Pad Thai, Massaman Curry, and Tom Kha Gai soup. Their portions are generous, and their prices are very reasonable.

Restaurant	Signature Dish
Baan Sawan Thai Bistro	Pad Thai, Tom Yum Soup
Antai	Antai Pad Thai, Thai-style Tacos
Thailand Restaurant	Massaman Curry, Tom Kha Gai Soup

No matter which Thai restaurant you choose in Columbia, you will surely enjoy the delicious flavors and spices that make Thai cuisine unique.

Vietnamese Cuisine

If you’re in the mood for Vietnamese cuisine, Pho Viet Restaurant is a must-visit. This restaurant is known for its delicious pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup.

The menu also includes other Vietnamese dishes, such as banh mi sandwiches, spring rolls, and vermicelli bowls. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and friendly staff, making it a great place to grab a quick lunch or dinner.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, be sure to try the boba teas at Pho Viet Restaurant.

Boba teas are a Taiwanese drink that consists of tea, milk, and chewy tapioca balls. Pho Viet Restaurant offers a variety of boba tea flavors, such as taro, matcha, and strawberry.

The boba teas are perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

For more tasty sweets, see my guide to Columbia’s best dessert spots.

Korean Cuisine

If you’re looking for authentic Korean and Vietnamese cuisine in Columbia, SC, you won’t be disappointed. There are several restaurants that offer a wide range of dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.

One of the most popular Korean restaurants in Columbia is Korea Garden Restaurant. This restaurant is known for its delicious Korean barbecue and bibimbap.

The menu also includes a variety of other Korean dishes, such as kimchi jjigae, bulgogi, and japchae. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, making it a great place to dine with friends or family.

Another great Korean restaurant to try is Seoul Restaurant. This restaurant offers a variety of Korean dishes, including spicy pork belly, fried chicken, and seafood pancakes.

The restaurant also has a great selection of Korean drinks, such as soju and makgeolli. The interior of the restaurant is modern and spacious, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal.

Chinese Food

When it comes to Chinese cuisine, there are several great options in Columbia SC. China Kitchen is a popular spot for classic Chinese dishes like Kung Pao Chicken and Mongolian Beef.

If you’re in the mood for something a little more unique, check out Egg Roll Chen, which serves up dishes like Lettuce Wraps and Ma Po Tofu.

When it comes to Chinese food, a few dishes are always popular. Here’s a table highlighting some of the most popular Chinese dishes:

Dish	Description
General Tso’s Chicken	Deep-fried chicken in a sweet and spicy sauce
Lo Mein	Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and meat
Fried Rice	Rice stir-fried with vegetables and meat
Hot and Sour Soup	A spicy and sour soup with tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots
Moo Shu Pork	Shredded pork with vegetables, wrapped in thin pancakes

No matter what you’re in the mood for, Columbia has plenty of options for delicious Chinese food.

Vegetarian and Special Diet Asian

If you’re looking for vegetarian or special diet options, Columbia has plenty of Asian restaurants that cater to your needs. Here are a few options to consider:

• Vegetarian: Good Life Cafe is a great option for vegetarians looking for Asian-inspired dishes. Their menu includes items like the “Buddha Bowl” and “Raw Pad Thai,” both of which are vegan and gluten-free. Another option is M Kitchen, which offers a variety of vegetarian dishes like vegetable stir-fry and tofu curry.
  
• Gluten-free: Inakaya Japanese Restaurant offers gluten-free soy sauce and has several gluten-free sushi options on their menu.
  
• Egg-free: If you’re looking for egg-free options, Eggroll Chen has a variety of vegetable-based dishes like vegetable lo mein and vegetable fried rice. They also have tofu dishes for those looking for a protein source.
  

Experience the Asian Market

If you’re looking for an authentic Asian food experience in Columbia, SC, you can’t miss visiting the Asian Market.

This place is a treasure trove of ingredients and products from all over Asia, and it’s a great place to stock up on your favorite Asian groceries or try something new.

The Asian Market carries a wide variety of products, including fresh produce, meats, seafood, noodles, sauces, spices, and snacks.

You can find everything from Chinese bok choy to Korean kimchi to Japanese miso paste. The store is well-organized, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable, so don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.

One of the best things about the Asian Market is that you can find ingredients to make your favorite Asian rice dishes and noodle broths at home.

For example, in various quantities, you can find different types of rice, such as jasmine, basmati, and sushi rice. You can also find different types of noodles, such as udon, soba, and rice noodles, in different thicknesses and shapes.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try some of the all-you-can-eat hot pot or Korean BBQ options available in the store. These are great options if you want to try a variety of Asian dishes without having to cook them yourself.

To give you an idea of what you can find at the Asian Market, here’s a table with some of the most popular products and their prices:

Product	Price
Korean BBQ Beef	$9.99/lb
Thai Jasmine Rice	$1.99/lb
Chinese Bok Choy	$1.49/lb
Japanese Miso	$3.99/16oz
Korean Kimchi	$4.99/32oz

Conclusion: A Culinary Journey Through South Carolina’s Asian Delights

South Carolina, particularly areas like Devine Street, Oneil Ct, and Gervais St, is becoming a hotspot for Asian culinary expertise.

From the bustling Tao Asian Fusion Cuisine & Bar to the quaint small house eateries in Irmo, the state offers diverse choices for food enthusiasts.

For those with a penchant for traditional flavors, the Taiwanese beef noodle soup or the Szechuan-style dishes are a must-try. Dive into the world of Thai with traditional Thai food, where Thai ingredients play a pivotal role in delivering authentic tastes.

The pepper, sesame, and iconic General Tso’s chicken are staples that never disappoint. And for noodle lovers, the chicken chow mein and shrimp chow mein are dishes that showcase the true essence of Asian cuisine.

But it’s not just about the main courses. Starters like roast duck spring rolls and pork ginger wontons set the tone for a delightful meal. And for those who enjoy a bit of sweetness, the honey walnut shrimp is a dish that tantalizes the taste buds.

Of course, no meal is complete without some fresh cocktails. With a full bar available at many of these establishments, you can pair your meal with a drink that complements the flavors.

Whether you’re in the mood for the freshest sushi or craving some eggplant and broccoli dishes, South Carolina’s Asian restaurants offer large portions of tasty food that cater to specific needs.

In conclusion, whether you’re strolling down Columbiana Dr or exploring the culinary delights on Devine Street, South Carolina promises a combination of factors that make it a haven for Asian food lovers.

Every visit becomes a gastronomic adventure with the right local businesses showcasing their culinary expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions