The Absolute Best Asian Food in LA Jolla [Updated 2024]

I've tried my fair share of restaurants and dishes, exploring the vibrant culinary scene that this coastal gem has to offer. After countless meals and taste tests, I can confidently present to you a curated list of the best asian food in LA Jolla.

With 13 fantastic establishments in my review radar, get ready for a delightful journey through the flavors of Asia. From savory dumplings to mouthwatering sushi rolls, we'll dive into the lighthearted world of Asian cuisine right here in our beloved neighborhood.

Join me as we embark on this flavorful adventure together!

Cherrywine Modern Asian Restaurant & Sushi

Highlights
C Jack Noodles
Garlic Shrimp
Flavorful Gyoza
Incredible service
Amazing food

First things first, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, the C Jack Noodles at Cherrywine are out of this world! The combination of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and that secret sauce is a flavor explosion in your mouth. It's like a party for your taste buds that you don't want to end.

But wait, there's more! The Garlic Shrimp is another dish that deserves a standing ovation. The succulent shrimp are perfectly cooked and coated in a garlic-infused sauce that will have you licking your fingers (don't worry, we won't judge). It's a dish that will leave you wanting more and more.

Now let's move on to the Flavorful Gyoza. These little pockets of joy are filled with a delicious mixture of pork and vegetables, then pan-fried to perfection. They're crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside – just how gyoza should be. Dip them in some soy sauce and you'll be in dumpling heaven.

Aside from the incredible food, I must applaud the service at Cherrywine. The staff is attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. They're always ready to answer any questions or make recommendations – a rare find these days.

In conclusion, my experience at Cherrywine Modern Asian Restaurant & Sushi was nothing short of amazing. From the delectable dishes like the C Jack Noodles and Garlic Shrimp to the top-notch service, this place truly embodies what it means to have an exceptional Asian dining experience. Don't miss out on this hidden gem when exploring LA Jolla's culinary scene!

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Blue Ocean / Harumama

Highlights
Character buns
Yummy food
Great views
Nice vibes
Spectacular sunset

Upon entering the restaurant, I was immediately captivated by the vibrant atmosphere and the tantalizing aroma of character buns. These adorable buns, shaped like cute animals and anime characters, were almost too adorable to eat...almost.

Now onto the main event - the food. Let me just say, it was yummy! The menu offered a wide variety of Asian dishes, each bursting with flavors that danced on my taste buds. From sushi rolls to ramen bowls, every dish was expertly crafted with fresh ingredients that made my mouth water in anticipation.

But what sets Blue Ocean / Harumama apart from other Asian restaurants in LA Jolla is its breathtaking views. As I enjoyed my meal, I couldn't help but gaze out at the panoramic vista of the ocean. It was as if Mother Nature herself had approved this dining experience.

The restaurant's nice vibes added to the overall enjoyment of my visit. The staff were friendly and attentive, making sure that every aspect of my dining experience was top-notch. The ambiance was modern and chic, creating an inviting atmosphere that made me feel right at home.

And let's not forget about the spectacular sunset I witnessed during my time there. As I savored each bite of my meal, I watched as the sky transformed into a fiery canvas of oranges and pinks. It truly added a touch of magic to an already delightful evening.

So if you're looking for a playful yet professional Asian dining experience in LA Jolla, look no further than Blue Ocean / Harumama. With their character buns, yummy food, great views, nice vibes, and spectacular sunsets, it's a culinary adventure you won't want to miss!

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Mandarin House

Highlights
American Chinese Food
Chicken corn soup
Beef lo mein
Sesame Chicken
Ample serving sizes

Upon entering Mandarin House, I was immediately greeted by the vibrant and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant's fusion of American and Chinese cuisine created a unique dining experience that intrigued my taste buds.

One dish that stood out from the menu was the Chicken Corn Soup. As I took my first spoonful, I was instantly captivated by the rich flavors and velvety texture. It was like a warm hug on a chilly day, comforting and satisfying.

Moving on to the main course, I couldn't resist ordering the Beef Lo Mein. The noodles were perfectly cooked, boasting a delightful chewiness that complemented the tender beef slices. The medley of vegetables added a refreshing crunch to each bite, enhancing the overall harmony of flavors.

The Sesame Chicken at Mandarin House deserves special mention. Each piece of succulent chicken was coated in a heavenly sweet and savory sauce, crowned with toasted sesame seeds. The combination of textures and flavors left me craving for more.

What impressed me most about Mandarin House was their generous portion sizes. It's safe to say that you won't be leaving this place hungry! The friendly staff ensured that every customer felt valued, providing exceptional service throughout my dining experience.

In conclusion, Mandarin House in LA Jolla is a hidden gem for those seeking delectable American Chinese cuisine. Their Chicken Corn Soup, Beef Lo Mein, and Sesame Chicken are all must-try dishes. With ample serving sizes and attentive staff, it's no wonder why this restaurant has become a local favorite. So next time you're in LA Jolla craving some Asian delights, make sure to swing by Mandarin House for an unforgettable culinary adventure!

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P.F. Chang's

Highlights
Great service
Remarkable food
Delicious drinks
Busy city

Walking into P.F. Chang's, I was immediately struck by the bustling atmosphere. The restaurant was filled with energetic chatter and the aroma of authentic Asian cuisine wafted through the air. It was clear that this place had a reputation for being one of LA Jolla's hotspots.

The service at P.F. Chang's was nothing short of exceptional. The staff members were attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. They guided me through the extensive selection of dishes with enthusiasm, making sure to highlight their recommendations.

Speaking of the food, let me tell you, it was downright remarkable. Each dish boasted a perfect balance of flavors and textures – from crispy spring rolls to succulent orange chicken. The chefs at P.F. Chang's clearly take pride in their craft, creating dishes that are both visually appealing and mouthwateringly delicious.

To accompany my meal, I couldn't resist indulging in one of their signature cocktails. Sipping on a refreshing lychee martini added an extra layer of enjoyment to my dining experience.

While P.F. Chang's is undeniably popular and can get quite busy during peak hours, it didn't detract from the overall experience. In fact, it added to the vibrant atmosphere and made me feel like I was partaking in something truly special.

If you're in LA Jolla and looking for an Asian culinary adventure that combines great service with remarkable food, look no further than P.F. Chang's! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it!

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Shiku

Highlights
Kind service
Amazing food
Fast and friendly service
Variety of sushi

Walking into Shiku, I was greeted with a warm smile and kind service that made me feel like royalty. The atmosphere was inviting, with soft lighting and traditional Japanese decor. As I perused the menu, my taste buds danced in anticipation of the amazing food that awaited me.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the food! The sushi at Shiku is simply mind-blowing. Each piece was a work of art, meticulously crafted and bursting with flavors that transported me straight to Tokyo. From the melt-in-your-mouth toro to the tangy salmon rolls, every bite was a delightful explosion of umami goodness.

I must commend their fast and friendly service as well. The attentive staff ensured that my water glass was never empty and promptly brought out each dish with efficiency. It's always refreshing when you don't have to wait an eternity for your food to arrive!

One thing that impressed me about Shiku was their extensive menu, offering a variety of sushi options to cater to all tastes. Whether you are an adventurous eater or prefer sticking to traditional favorites, there is something for everyone here.

In conclusion, Shiku is a hidden gem in LA Jolla for those seeking exceptional asian cuisine. With their kind service, amazing food, fast and friendly service, and variety of sushi choices, it's no wonder why this place is quickly becoming a favorite among locals and visitors alike. If you're looking for an unforgettable dining experience that will leave your taste buds begging for more, look no further than Shiku!

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James' Place Prime Seafood Sushi

Highlights
Quality beef tenderloin filet
Complex flavors in creme mushroom sauce
Garlic rice with soy accent
Welcoming and engaging staff
Reasonable prices for quality food

Let me start by saying that James' Place Prime Seafood Sushi is a hidden gem in the world of Asian cuisine. As soon as I entered the restaurant, I was greeted by a welcoming and engaging staff, who made me feel like a VIP from the moment I stepped foot inside.

Now, let's talk about the food. The quality beef tenderloin filet at James' Place Prime Seafood Sushi is an absolute delight for meat lovers. Cooked to perfection, it practically melts in your mouth. Paired with their complex creme mushroom sauce, every bite is a burst of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

But it doesn't end there. The garlic rice with soy accent is a side dish that takes center stage. It's not your average plain rice; it's infused with just the right amount of garlic and soy to create a symphony of taste in your mouth.

What sets James' Place Prime Seafood Sushi apart from other Asian restaurants in LA Jolla is their commitment to quality while keeping their prices reasonable. You get top-notch food without breaking the bank.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an Asian dining experience that combines exquisite flavors, attentive service, and reasonable prices, look no further than James' Place Prime Seafood Sushi. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later!

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Spice & Rice Kitchen

Highlights
Delish lunch options
Reasonable prices
Tasty dressing
Balanced rice
Nice and calm atmosphere

Walking into Spice & Rice Kitchen, I was immediately greeted by a nice and calm atmosphere, setting the stage for what turned out to be a delightful dining experience. As an avid foodie, I'm always on the hunt for unique lunch options, and this place did not disappoint.

The menu at Spice & Rice Kitchen offers a wide selection of dishes that cater to different palates. From fragrant curries to mouthwatering stir-fries, there is something for everyone. What impressed me the most was the balanced rice that accompanied each dish. It was cooked to perfection - fluffy yet firm, providing the ideal base for all the flavors to dance on my taste buds.

One highlight of my meal was the delicious dressing that came with the salad. It had just the right amount of tanginess, perfectly complementing the fresh vegetables. The combination of textures and flavors made each bite an absolute delight.

In addition to their delectable cuisine, Spice & Rice Kitchen also boasts reasonable prices. This is great news for those who want to indulge in scrumptious Asian fare without breaking the bank.

Overall, my experience at Spice & Rice Kitchen was nothing short of fantastic. With its delish lunch options, tasty dressing, and balanced rice, it's clear why this place stood out amongst LA Jolla's Asian food scene. Spice up your day and give this gem a try!

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AROI

Highlights
Crab fried rice
Best fried rice ever
Thai donuts
Authentic Thai food
Imported ingredients

AROI, oh AROI! This hidden gem in LA Jolla is a taste bud paradise for lovers of authentic Thai cuisine. As I walked into the restaurant, I was greeted by warm smiles and an inviting aroma that immediately transported me to the bustling streets of Bangkok.

One dish that especially caught my attention was the Crab Fried Rice. Oh my, it was a rice revolution on my palate! Each grain perfectly cooked and infused with a delicate balance of flavors; the succulent crab meat added a luxurious touch that elevated this dish to new heights. It's safe to say that this is hands down the best fried rice I have ever had the pleasure of devouring.

But wait, there's more! The menu also boasts a delightful treat known as Thai Donuts. These little balls of joy were crispy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth soft on the inside. Dusted with just the right amount of sugar, they were like tiny bursts of happiness in every bite.

What sets AROI apart from other Thai restaurants in LA Jolla is their commitment to using imported ingredients. From fragrant herbs to vibrant spices, every flavor transported me back to Thailand. It's clear that they take pride in delivering an authentic culinary experience.

Overall, AROI exceeded my expectations with its mouthwatering dishes and friendly service. Whether you're craving a comforting bowl of Crab Fried Rice or indulging in some heavenly Thai Donuts, this place has got you covered. So next time you find yourself in LA Jolla craving some Asian food, make sure you head over to AROI for an unforgettable meal experience!

P.S: Just be warned that after eating at AROI, all other fried rice might pale in comparison - consider yourself warned!

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Din Tai Fung

Highlights
Delicious dumplings
Friendly staff
Extensive vegetarian options
Amazing chocolate xiao long bao

From the moment I stepped into Din Tai Fung, I knew I was in for a treat. The aroma of delicious dumplings filled the air, making my taste buds tingle with anticipation. As I made my way to my table, the friendly staff greeted me with warm smiles and impeccable manners.

One thing that stood out to me about Din Tai Fung was their commitment to catering to all dietary preferences. With an extensive vegetarian options, even my herbivore friends were able to join in on the culinary adventure. It's refreshing to see a restaurant that understands the importance of accommodating diverse palates.

Now let's talk about the star of the show - the dumplings! Each bite was a burst of flavors and textures that danced on my tongue. The dumpling skin was thin and delicate, hugging a delectable filling that left me craving for more. But what really blew me away were their amazing chocolate xiao long bao. This unique twist on a traditional dish combined rich chocolate with velvety soup inside a steamed bun – it was like an explosion of happiness in my mouth!

Din Tai Fung truly lives up to its reputation as one of LA Jolla's finest Asian restaurants. The quality of their food is unparalleled, and their attention to detail is evident in every dish they serve. So if you're looking for an unforgettable dining experience filled with bold flavors and culinary craftsmanship, make sure to pay Din Tai Fung a visit next time you're in LA Jolla.

In conclusion, Din Tai Fung has mastered the art of creating exceptional Asian cuisine that will leave you wanting more. So grab your chopsticks and dive into this gastronomic adventure – your taste buds will thank you!

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Blue Pepper

Highlights
Great food
Generous portions
Nice ambiance
Thai iced tea

First and foremost, let's talk about the great food at Blue Pepper. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I was in for a treat. The flavors were bold and authentic, taking my taste buds on a culinary adventure through Asia.

One thing that really stood out to me was the generous portions. It's safe to say that no one will leave Blue Pepper feeling hungry. Each dish was served with an abundance of deliciousness, leaving me pleasantly satisfied and contemplating whether I should have worn stretchy pants.

The nice ambiance at Blue Pepper added an extra layer of enjoyment to my dining experience. The cozy and inviting atmosphere made me feel right at home, as if I was sitting down for a meal in a friend's beautifully decorated living room. It's the kind of place where you can relax and indulge in your favorite asian dishes without any distractions.

Now, let's not forget about the ultimate Asian beverage: Thai iced tea. Oh boy, this drink deserves its own paragraph! Creamy, sweet, and bursting with flavors of Thai spices, it was like sipping on a little piece of heaven. Trust me when I say that no visit to Blue Pepper is complete without trying their delightful version of this classic drink.

In conclusion, if you're looking for some of the best asian food in LA Jolla, make sure to pay a visit to Blue Pepper. With their great food, generous portions, nice ambiance, and incredible Thai iced tea, it's a dining experience that will leave you craving more. Go ahead and satisfy your cravings - you won't be disappointed!

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Lemongrass Southeast Asian Cuisine

Highlights
Lemongrass chicken
Peanut sauce
Thai tea
Consistent quality
Childhood memories

Step into Lemongrass and be transported to a world of flavors that will make your taste buds tango with joy. As I perused the menu, my eyes were instantly drawn to the lemongrass chicken - a dish that promised an explosion of aromatic herbs and perfectly grilled succulence. And boy, did it deliver! Each bite was a symphony of tangy lemongrass, fragrant ginger, and tender chicken. It was like having a party in my mouth, complete with confetti made of cilantro.

But the real star of the show was the peanut sauce. Creamy, nutty, and slightly spicy, it elevated every dish to new heights. I swear I could eat it by the spoonful (and maybe I did). It's no wonder they call it the nectar of the gods.

To wash down all this deliciousness, I tried their Thai tea - an orange-hued elixir that tasted like childhood memories wrapped in sweetness. Sipping on it felt like being hugged by a warm blanket on a chilly winter day.

What impressed me most about Lemongrass was their consistent quality. Each visit has been consistently fabulous - no small feat for any restaurant. The attentive staff added to the experience, making sure every need was met without being intrusive.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an Asian food haven in LA Jolla that will transport you to flavor paradise, look no further than Lemongrass Southeast Asian Cuisine. They'll treat your taste buds so well; they might just send you a thank-you note afterward!

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Pho La Jolla

Highlights
Flavorful
Large
Tasty
Satisfying
Underrated

Pho La Jolla is like an undiscovered gem in the vast sea of Asian cuisine. It's one of those places that you might walk right past if you're not paying attention, but let me tell you, it's worth a second glance.

The first thing that struck me about Pho La Jolla was the flavor. Oh boy, did they know how to pack a punch! Each mouthful of their signature pho was bursting with a blend of aromatic spices that danced on my taste buds. The broth was rich and hearty, with just the right balance of savory and umami flavors.

Now, let's talk portion sizes. When they say "large," they mean it. I'm talking about bowls so big you could practically swim in them. It's like they're saying, "We don't mess around when it comes to satisfying your hunger." And trust me, after finishing a bowl of their pho, any lingering hunger was nothing more than a distant memory.

Beyond the size and flavor, what truly impressed me about Pho La Jolla was its underrated status. Sure, there are plenty of trendy restaurants in the area vying for attention with their flashy decor and hipster vibes. But sometimes you just want good food without all the fuss. And that's exactly what you'll find at Pho La Jolla - no frills, just deliciousness.

So next time you're in LA Jolla and craving some Asian delights, don't overlook Pho La Jolla. It may be hidden away from the spotlight, but once you try their flavorful and satisfying dishes, you'll understand why this place deserves some serious recognition.

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Turmeric Thai Garden

Highlights
Excellent food
Friendly staff
Lovely outdoor seating
Phenomenal mussels

Let me start by saying that the food at Turmeric Thai Garden is excellent. Each dish is a symphony of flavors, meticulously crafted to tantalize your taste buds. From the first bite to the last, every dish will transport you to the vibrant streets of Thailand.

The staff at Turmeric Thai Garden are not only knowledgeable but also incredibly friendly. They greet you with warm smiles and are always ready to offer recommendations or answer any questions you may have. Their passion for their cuisine shines through in every interaction, further enhancing your dining experience.

One of the highlights of this restaurant is its lovely outdoor seating. The cozy patio area provides a serene atmosphere, perfect for enjoying your meal on a beautiful day. It's like dining in a secret garden, away from the hustle and bustle of LA Jolla.

Now, let's talk about the mussels. Oh boy! These mussels are nothing short of phenomenal. Cooked to perfection in a fragrant Thai curry sauce, each bite bursts with delicate flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Trust me; you won't be able to resist savoring every last drop of that delicious sauce.

In conclusion, if you're searching for an unforgettable Asian culinary adventure in LA Jolla, Turmeric Thai Garden is a must-visit destination. With its excellent food, friendly staff, delightful outdoor seating, and those mind-blowing mussels, this place truly stands out among the best Asian restaurants in town. So go ahead and indulge yourself - your taste buds will thank you!