An email from SU Today reminded me that it is almost Asian American and Pacific Islander month, and that got me thinking: there really aren’t that many Asian spots in Syracuse. But there are more than you might expect: here are a few underrated Asian American spots (that aren’t Chinese takeout or Bleu Monkey!) that you should know about for May.
1. Kasai
Speaking as Bleu Monkey’s biggest ramen fan, Kasai blows it out of the water in just about every category. The atmosphere in this place is phenomenal; most nights that I’ve been have featured a live artist playing on the stage in the lower floor. For fans of spicy food (such as myself), you should try the aptly-named Diablo Bowl (though I would suggest asking for a pitcher of water prior to eating it). It’s a little out of the way, but if you’re ever downtown looking for a place to eat you should definitely try it.
Find Kasai's menu here.
2. Asahi Sushi
Having lived within walking distance of Westcott last year, I can say that Asahi Sushi came in clutch with their “buy one get one free” deals on Uber Eats. I genuinely don’t understand how it’s remotely profitable to sell their food at such a price, but two rolls for $7? I’m definitely not complaining. The food itself is okay, too. It’s about what you’d expect from a sushi place in Syracuse at this price. Cost considered, it’s the best sushi spot around here. (Don’t get me started on Bleu Monkey’s sushi. It’s… not great.)
Find Asahi Sushi's menu here.
3. New Century
Until recently, I hadn’t tried pho in the Syracuse area. I always exercise caution when it comes to more diverse options around here - I’ve been burned before. However, what I’d heard about New Century prior to going last week was “It’s just okay.” To the contrary, I’d say that it was actually one of the better pho places that I’ve been to. I happened to go to Vietnamese Noodle House shortly after and I’d definitely rate New Century higher than that.
Find New Century's menu here.
Honorable Mention: Red Chili
I think just about everybody knows Red Chili, but if you don’t, you should go. Hot pot is hard to find outside of urban areas, but Red Chili has a respectable selection of sauces and fairly-priced options. Even outside of the hot pot, they have pretty large portions on their entrees and it’s the perfect middle ground between a formal sit-down place and takeout.
Find Red Chili's menu here.
4. Dosa Grill
Dosa is, by far, my favorite place to eat in Syracuse. It’s a relatively unassuming spot on East Genesee that serves Indian food, but the shining jewel of this restaurant would have to be the all-you-can-eat lunch buffet that runs between 11:30 AM and 3:00 PM every day. For the price (about $14 a person?), there’s really nothing to complain about. If you go during dinnertime, there’s a more diverse menu - however, the lunch buffet is a must-try if you haven’t before.
Find Dosa Grill's dinner menu here.
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