Introduction
St. Paul, Minnesota, is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, and that rich diversity is nowhere more evident than in its remarkable Asian food scene. From the fragrant steam of a comforting bowl of pho to the fiery kick of a perfectly balanced Thai curry, St. Paul offers a culinary journey across the Asian continent, right here in the heart of the Midwest. Are you craving authentic flavors, fresh ingredients, and dishes that transport you to faraway lands? Then you’ve come to the right place. This ultimate guide explores some of the most highly-rated and authentic Asian restaurants and markets in St. Paul, helping you discover your next favorite meal and revealing why St. Paul is a haven for lovers of Asian foods St Paul MN.
The Twin Cities, especially St. Paul, has long been a welcoming home to various Asian communities. Each community has brought its unique culinary traditions, creating a truly exciting and diverse landscape for food enthusiasts. Get ready to embark on a delicious adventure!
A Taste of Vietnam: Pho, Banh Mi, and More
Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh herbs, delicate flavors, and the perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and umami. Central to Vietnamese cuisine are its aromatic herbs, rice noodles, and flavorful broths. Two of the most iconic dishes are undoubtedly pho, a comforting noodle soup, and banh mi, a crusty baguette sandwich packed with savory fillings. In St. Paul, you’ll find a wealth of Vietnamese restaurants offering these classics and many more.
iPho by Saigon
Situated conveniently, iPho by Saigon offers a bright and modern atmosphere, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. Their pho is a must-try, with a rich and flavorful broth that’s simmered for hours, infused with aromatic spices. The rare beef pho is a particular favorite, with thinly sliced beef that cooks in the hot broth. They also offer a wide range of other Vietnamese specialties, including vermicelli bowls, rice dishes, and delicious spring rolls. Prices are reasonable, making it an excellent option for a satisfying and affordable meal. The quality of their ingredients and the care they put into their cooking truly shine through, making it a standout choice for experiencing authentic Vietnamese flavors. For those looking for excellent Asian foods St Paul MN, iPho is a definite go-to.
Trieu Chau
This long-standing institution is a local favorite for a reason. Trieu Chau offers a more traditional and bustling atmosphere, reflecting the authentic spirit of Vietnamese cuisine. Their menu is extensive, featuring everything from classic pho to lesser-known regional specialties. Don’t miss their crispy egg rolls, packed with savory fillings and served with a tangy dipping sauce. Trieu Chau is known for its generous portions and affordable prices, making it a great place to share a meal with friends or family. The restaurant’s commitment to preserving traditional recipes and using fresh ingredients has made it a beloved institution in the St. Paul community.
Quang Restaurant
This unassuming restaurant may not look like much from the outside, but don’t let that fool you. Quang Restaurant is a hidden gem, serving up some of the most authentic and flavorful Vietnamese food in St. Paul. Their menu features a range of dishes, from classic pho and banh mi to more unique and regional specialties. Many rave about their grilled pork vermicelli bowl, a perfect combination of savory pork, fresh vegetables, and flavorful noodles. Quang Restaurant is a local favorite for its delicious food, friendly service, and affordable prices. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Vietnam, a cornerstone for Asian foods St Paul MN.
The Spices of Thailand: Curries, Noodles, and Tom Yum
Thai cuisine is a symphony of flavors, balancing sweet, sour, spicy, and savory notes in perfect harmony. Thai cooking is known for its use of fresh herbs and spices, such as lemongrass, galangal, chilies, and basil. Popular dishes include Pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish; green curry, a rich and creamy coconut milk-based curry; and Tom Yum soup, a hot and sour soup infused with lemongrass and galangal. St. Paul offers a wide range of Thai restaurants, from casual eateries to more upscale dining experiences.
On’s Thai Kitchen
Located in a cozy and inviting space, On’s Thai Kitchen is known for its authentic Thai flavors and friendly service. Their menu features a wide range of dishes, from classic Pad Thai and green curry to more adventurous options like Panang curry with duck and spicy basil chicken. On’s Thai Kitchen is committed to using fresh, high-quality ingredients, and their dishes are always prepared with care. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, making it a great option for a satisfying and affordable meal. Many regard On’s as one of the best places for authentic Asian foods St Paul MN.
Bangkok Thai Deli
Don’t let the “deli” in the name fool you, Bangkok Thai Deli is more than just a sandwich shop. This hidden gem is a local favorite for its authentic Thai flavors and quick, friendly service. Their menu features a range of classic Thai dishes, including Pad Thai, green curry, and Tom Yum soup. They also offer a selection of Thai deli items, such as spring rolls, curry puffs, and Thai iced tea. Bangkok Thai Deli is a great option for a quick and affordable lunch or dinner.
Sawatdee
With multiple locations in the Twin Cities, Sawatdee is a popular choice for Thai food in St. Paul. They offer a more upscale dining experience, with a stylish atmosphere and a sophisticated menu. Their menu features a wide range of classic Thai dishes, as well as some more innovative and modern creations. Sawatdee is known for its high-quality ingredients and impeccable service. Prices are higher than at some of the more casual Thai restaurants, but the experience is worth it for a special occasion. For a finer take on Asian foods St Paul MN, Sawatdee is a great consideration.
The Diversity of China: From Dim Sum to Peking Duck
Chinese cuisine is incredibly diverse, with regional variations that reflect the different climates, cultures, and ingredients of China. From the dim sum parlors of Guangzhou to the spicy Sichuan restaurants of Chengdu, Chinese food offers a seemingly endless array of flavors and textures. Popular dishes include dim sum, a variety of bite-sized steamed or fried dumplings; Peking duck, a crispy-skinned roasted duck; and Kung Pao chicken, a stir-fried dish with peanuts and chili peppers. St. Paul boasts a number of Chinese restaurants representing various regional styles.
Mandarin Kitchen
A mainstay in St. Paul, Mandarin Kitchen is a go-to for familiar and well-executed Chinese dishes. The portions are generous, the prices are reasonable, and the service is always friendly. Their menu offers a wide range of classics, from sweet and sour pork to beef with broccoli. While it may not be the most cutting-edge Chinese cuisine, Mandarin Kitchen is a reliable choice for a satisfying and affordable meal.
Great Wall
This restaurant is a popular spot for its expansive menu and consistently good food. Great Wall offers a wide range of Chinese dishes, from classic Cantonese fare to more spicy Sichuan specialties. The restaurant is known for its generous portions and affordable prices, making it a great option for a family meal or a group gathering. Their lunch specials are especially popular, offering a variety of entrees with rice and soup. For those seeking good value for their Asian foods St Paul MN, Great Wall offers a lot.
Master Noodle
If you’re craving hand-pulled noodles, Master Noodle is the place to go. This restaurant specializes in Lanzhou-style noodles, which are made fresh daily. The noodles are served in a flavorful broth with a variety of toppings, such as beef, lamb, or vegetables. Master Noodle is a great option for a quick and affordable lunch or dinner. Their noodles are incredibly flavorful, and the atmosphere is lively and authentic. This is an essential experience for any lover of Asian foods St Paul MN.
Beyond the Familiar: Exploring Korean Flavors
Korean cuisine is characterized by its bold flavors, spicy kick, and use of fermented ingredients. Korean barbecue, bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables and meat), and kimchi (fermented cabbage) are all hallmarks of Korean cuisine.
Seoul Restaurant
Seoul Restaurant offers a traditional Korean dining experience, complete with tabletop grills for cooking your own meats. Their menu features a wide range of Korean dishes, from classic barbecue to comforting stews and soups. They are known for their generous portions and flavorful side dishes (banchan), which are served with every meal. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Korea, Seoul Restaurant is a must-try.
Sourcing the Ingredients: Asian Grocery Stores in St. Paul
No culinary exploration of Asian food in St. Paul is complete without a visit to one of its many Asian grocery stores. These markets are a treasure trove of exotic ingredients, from fresh produce and spices to noodles, sauces, and snacks. They’re also a great place to discover new and exciting flavors.
Dragon Star Market
Dragon Star Market is a sprawling supermarket offering a vast selection of Asian groceries, from fresh produce and seafood to frozen dumplings and snacks. They also have a hot food counter serving a variety of prepared dishes. Dragon Star Market is a great place to find everything you need to cook your own Asian meals at home.
United Noodles
More than just a grocery store, United Noodles is a culinary destination. They offer a wide selection of Asian groceries, as well as a restaurant serving a variety of noodle dishes. United Noodles is a great place to explore the diverse world of Asian noodles and discover new and exciting flavors.
Shuang Hur Oriental Market
This well-stocked market offers a wide range of Asian groceries, with a particular focus on Chinese and Vietnamese ingredients. They have a large selection of fresh produce, seafood, and meats, as well as a variety of sauces, spices, and noodles. Shuang Hur Oriental Market is a great place to find everything you need to cook your own authentic Asian meals.
Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
From the comforting warmth of a bowl of pho to the fiery kick of a spicy Korean barbecue, St. Paul offers a remarkable range of Asian food experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or new to exploring Asian cuisines, St Paul MN offers something delicious for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Embark on your Asian culinary adventure in St. Paul today! Explore the restaurants and markets mentioned in this guide, try new dishes, and discover your own favorite hidden gems. St. Paul’s diverse and vibrant Asian food scene is waiting to be explored! And when you do find a spot you love, share your experiences – let us know your favorite spots for Asian foods St Paul MN in the comments below. Your discoveries can help others find their own perfect Asian meal in this culinary-rich city.
