It’s no secret that I absolutely love Asian food. From fragrant Thai curries to the fiery kick of Sichuan cuisine, I crave it all. Maybe you could have guessed that from my other Asian restaurant guides on this blog. From sleek sushi spots to cozy hole-in-the-wall joints, Cologne has an assortment of delicious Asian food options to choose from.
Now I’m going to let you in on a tightly held local secret – if you want truly exceptional Asian food in NRW, you should head north to Cologne’s rival city of Düsseldorf. While I am proud of Cologne for many things, I have to admit that Düsseldorf has us beat when it comes to Japanese and Korean food. It’s just better. But I don’t always want to make the 50km trek up to Düsseldorf for a bowl of ramen or a plate of sushi.
As such, I have spent time diving deep into Cologne’s Asian restaurants to find hidden gems that will impress even the most discerning foodies. I’ve compiled a list of the best Asian restaurants in Cologne, sorted by different regions such as Vietnamese or Japanese. In this blog post, I am highlighting standout dishes that each restaurant has to offer to help you discover the top Asian restaurants in Cologne.
Hankki
If you’re craving bold flavors and cozy comfort food, Hankki is the go-to place in Cologne for amazing Korean fried chicken. It is the hidden gem I didn’t know Cologne needed. They have absolutely nailed the balance between crispy breading and juicy meat. You can order fried chicken with or without bones and topped with your choice of different sauces. The portions are generations, the service is friendly, and the space is cozy. No reservations, so you might have to wait in line.
Bai Lu Noodles
If you happen to be shopping at one of the Belgian Quarter’s cute boutiques, Bai Lu Noodles is an easy place to grab a bowl of delicious Chinese soup. Head Chef Xue Bai brings her cooking experience from the Chongqing region of China, and specializes in dumplings, soup and homemade noodles. The restaurant has pretty tight quarters but their patio on a quiet street is a nice option on a sunny day. The menu is super enticing, but I am such a sucker for the broth dumpling soups. I always wind up ordering the same thing! The flavor is so rich, and the chili oil adds a beautiful heat.
- Address: Palmstraße 41
- Website: None
Takumi Ramen Chicken & Vegan
Arguably the most famous ramen shop in Düsseldorf, Takumi rode its incredible success down the Rhine to Cologne. It has opened up a few different ramen shops in the Domstadt, including their latest outpost Takumi Ramen Chicken & Vegan. While beloved staples still adorn the menu, I was impressed by the number of new options, especially the vegan options. Like all their locations, aged noodles are really the star of the show at Takumi. I had never eaten aged ramen noodles before, but they make a massive difference in the flavor. The noodles pack a punch and the texture is perfect.
Daikan Izakaya Bar
Offering a range of beloved Japanese dishes, Daikan is an upscale spot in the heart of the Belgian Quarter. I would describe the food as modern Japanese fusion, because there are a lot of unique combinations and ingredients you wouldn’t find on a traditional Izakaya menu, such as corn or green beans. What Daikan really excels at is quality. The flavors are clean and crisp. It doesn’t hurt that the inside of the restaurant is super stylish to boot! On a sunny day, there is a quiet courtyard outback for alfresco dining.
Tokyo Ramen Takeichi
Also imported Düsseldorf, Tokyo Ramen specializes in chicken based ramen broths. Feet to the flame, I would probably say this is my favorite ramen in Düsseldorf, so needless to say, I was excited when they opened up a new branch in Cologne. The portion sizes here are slightly smaller, but it doesn’t compromise the filling nature of a hot bowl of ramen. Toppings and noodles at Tokyo Ramen are simple and unassuming, which further highlights the incredible flavor of the rich chicken broth. It is meaty and full of umami flavor. Truly delicious.
Saravana Bhavan
Even though Saravanaa Bhavan is the most famous Indian restaurant chain, it is legit. They exist all over the world. When it opened in 2022, people flocked to Cologne just to eat there. The menu is focused on mainly South Indian dishes. Exclusively vegetarian and vegan, the menu is massive. Dosas are my favorite thing to order, but I can almost guarantee you’ll find something that will entice you!
Buriram Thai
I was told about Buriram Thai by a local friend who is originally from Chiang Mai. She says this is the best (and most authentic) Thai food in all of Cologne – and I have to agree. When you step into the restaurant off of bustling Schafenstraße, it feels like you’ve been transported to Thailand. There are floor tables, rattan paneled walls and even a real tuktuk! Dishes are cooked to Thai standards, and the flavors are spicy. From curries to stir fry, there isn’t a bad dish on the menu. Order whatever you’re in the mood for, and you won’t be disappointed.
Bangkok Thai
Hidden in plain sight near Barbarossaplatz, Bangkok Thai is a low-key favorite for affordable & tasty Thai food. The menu is massive, packed with fragrant curries, wok-fried noodles, and tangy salads that balance sweet, spicy, and sour. There is also a surprisingly large cocktail menu – some of which I’ve never heard of. It’s authentic, affordable, and hits the spot.
Chum Chay
This contemporary Vietnamese restaurant is such a gem. I am obsessed with their curries, especially the yellow curry! Tucked into a quiet square in the heart of Neumarkt-Viertel, Chum Chay’s menu is entirely vegetarian. But trust me, you won’t miss the meat. Dishes are prepared with traditional flavors and ingredients but in contemporary ways. Fresh salads and summer rolls are a perfect way to start. If it is your first visit, I strongly recommend ordering one of the curries. The staff at Chum Chuy are friendly and attentive, and the restaurant’s contemporary design makes it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
Hanoi September
Enjoy a modern take on Vietnamese street food at Hanoi September. Housed in a beautiful space with a nice ambiance on Aachenerstraße, I like the aesthetic here. The menu is manageable without offering too many things. I quite enjoy the different sandwiches, such as the vegan bahn mi, as well as the fried snacks here. There is also a surprisingly good wine list!
Vietnam Village
This local restaurant chain is easily recognizable by its over-the-top but lovely décor. Hanging baskets adorn the ceilings and windows, trailing plants drape throughout and gilded statues all give you the feeling that you are on a luxurious Vietnamese vacation–right in the heart of Cologne. The menu at Viet Village is massive, and it can be overwhelming. From curry and rice noodles to salad and summer rolls, you can find any southeast Asian cuisine your heart desires. The prices are reasonable and the service is quick.
Udum Vegan
Located in a stylish space near Rudolfplatz, this 100% vegan Asian restaurant is legit. It is one of my go-to spots when I’m not in the mood to cook. It’s just straight up good Asian food. If it wasn’t plastered all over the menu, you might not even realize the food is all vegan here. Offering a variety of east and north Asian cuisine, I was really impressed by the assortment of dishes at Udum. From pho to sushi to fried treats and curries, you can’t go wrong with this plant-based menu – you’re guaranteed to find something delicious!
