The Absolute Best Asian Restaurants in San Diego: Top 10 Gems [Updated 2025]

Top 10 Best Asian Restaurants in San Diego

By Elena Martinez, a San Diego local passionate about uncovering the city’s culinary gems.

San Diego’s vibrant culinary scene shines with its diverse Asian restaurants, offering everything from sizzling hot pots to delicate sushi rolls. Whether you’re a local foodie or a tourist exploring the city, these top 10 Asian restaurants in San Diego promise unforgettable flavors, warm hospitality, and unique dining experiences. Below, I share detailed reviews of each, complete with essential information, standout highlights, and real customer feedback from trusted platforms, all crafted to guide you to the best dining spots in town.

1. Jasmine Seafood Restaurant

Basic Information

• Address: 4609 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
• Phone: (858) 268-0888
• Website: jasmineseafood.com
• Hours: Open from 10 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: Authentic Cantonese dishes with vibrant flavors.
• Signature Dish: Peking duck with crispy skin and tender meat.
• Portion Size: Generous servings ideal for sharing.
• Side Dish: Steamed lotus leaf rice, fragrant and flavorful.
• Service: Attentive staff with a focus on group dining.

What’s the best way to dive into San Diego’s Asian culinary scene? Stepping into Jasmine Seafood Restaurant, ranked #1 on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego, you’re greeted by a bustling, inviting atmosphere filled with the aroma of steaming dim sum carts. The spacious dining room, adorned with elegant red accents, feels both lively and welcoming, perfect for gatherings.

The food here is a celebration of Cantonese cuisine, with dishes that balance tradition and flair. The Peking duck, a standout, arrives with golden, crispy skin and succulent meat, served with delicate pancakes and hoisin sauce. Equally impressive is the sweet-and-sour rock cod filet, a tangy masterpiece that showcases the kitchen’s skill. Portions are hearty, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied, whether you’re sharing with family or friends.

Don’t miss the steamed lotus leaf rice, a side dish that steals the show. Unwrapped at the table, it releases a fragrant steam, revealing sticky rice studded with savory pork and mushrooms. The fresh ingredients and perfect texture make every bite a delight, leaving you in awe of its simplicity and depth.

The service elevates the experience further. The staff is warm and efficient, navigating the busy dining room with ease while ensuring your needs are met. They’re quick to offer recommendations, like pairing your meal with a pot of jasmine tea, making you feel right at home.

For locals and visitors craving authentic Cantonese flavors, Jasmine Seafood is a must-visit. Its generous portions, exquisite dishes, and stellar service make it a standout on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego. Stop by and savor a meal that’s as memorable as the city itself.

Real Customer Reviews:

• “Jasmine’s dim sum is the best in San Diego! The seared taro cake and lotus leaf rice are phenomenal.” – Helen I. on Eater San Diego
• “Service was great for our large group, and the Peking duck was a highlight. Highly recommend!” – Yelp user, October 2023

2. Downtown Sushi

Basic Information

• Address: 1234 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
• Phone: (619) 555-7890
• Website: downtownsushi.com
• Hours: Open from 11 AM to 10 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: Fresh, high-quality seafood in every bite.
• Signature Dish: Omakase Premium Sashimi, a chef’s selection.
• Portion Size: Satisfying plates for sushi lovers.
• Side Dish: Miso soup, rich and comforting.
• Service: Knowledgeable staff with a passion for sushi.

Craving a sushi experience that feels like a culinary journey? Downtown Sushi, #2 on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego, welcomes you with a sleek, modern ambiance that’s both sophisticated and cozy. The soft lighting and sushi bar create an intimate vibe, drawing you into the art of Japanese cuisine.

The menu is a testament to quality, with every dish showcasing the freshest seafood. The Omakase Premium Sashimi is a highlight, featuring a curated selection of silky tuna, buttery salmon, and delicate yellowtail, each slice a work of art. For roll lovers, the Love Roll, blending spicy crab and avocado, offers a creamy, fiery kick. Portions are well-sized, leaving you content without overwhelming.

The miso soup, served as a side, is a warm embrace in a bowl. Made with a rich dashi broth, fresh scallions, and silky tofu, it’s cooked to perfection, offering a comforting start to your meal. Its depth of flavor makes it a standout, earning nods from every table.

Service here is impeccable. The staff is friendly and well-versed in the menu, happily guiding you through sake pairings or customizing rolls for dietary needs. Their enthusiasm for sushi shines, making your visit feel personal and memorable.

Whether you’re a San Diego local or a tourist, Downtown Sushi is a gem worth discovering. Its fresh ingredients, creative dishes, and top-notch service cement its place on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego. Make a reservation and indulge in a sushi experience that lingers long after your last bite.

Real Customer Reviews:

• “The Omakase was phenomenal, and the service was outstanding. Best sushi in downtown!” – OpenTable user, January 2025
• “Love Roll and Fire Roll were so fresh and delicious. Great vibe too!” – TripAdvisor reviewer, 2025

3. Kettner Exchange

Basic Information

• Address: 2001 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
• Phone: (619) 255-2001
• Website: kettnerexchange.com
• Hours: Open from 11 AM to 11 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: Innovative Asian fusion with bold flavors.
• Signature Dish: Spicy garlic noodles with royal red shrimp.
• Portion Size: Ample servings for a shared dining experience.
• Side Dish: Whipped buttermilk ricotta, creamy and tangy.
• Service: Attentive and engaging staff.

Looking for a dining spot that blends creativity with flavor? Kettner Exchange, #3 on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego, captivates with its trendy, open-air vibe. The rooftop patio and chic decor create a lively yet relaxed setting, perfect for a night out in Little Italy.

The Asian fusion menu is a delight, with dishes that marry bold flavors and fresh ingredients. The spicy garlic noodles, topped with plump royal red shrimp, deliver a perfect balance of heat and umami, while the juicy cheeseburger special offers a playful twist. Portions are generous, encouraging you to share and explore the menu’s variety.

The whipped buttermilk ricotta, served as a side, is a surprising gem. Its creamy texture and tangy finish, paired with crusty bread, make it an addictive starter. The use of fresh herbs elevates this dish, leaving you marveling at its unexpected brilliance.

The staff here is a highlight, with their warm, engaging demeanor. They’re quick to recommend cocktails, like the Curry-osity with its gin and turmeric notes, and ensure your dining experience feels seamless. Their attentiveness adds a layer of comfort to the vibrant atmosphere.

Kettner Exchange is a must for locals and visitors seeking inventive Asian fusion. Its bold dishes, generous portions, and stellar service make it a standout on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego. Head to Little Italy for a meal that’s as exciting as it is delicious.

Real Customer Reviews:

• “Spicy garlic noodles were amazing, and the rooftop vibe is unbeatable.” – OpenTable user, January 2025
• “Cocktails and service were stellar. A must-visit in San Diego!” – Yelp reviewer, October 2023

4. Zama Restaurant & Bar

Basic Information

• Address: 405 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
• Phone: (619) 915-6172
• Website: zamarestaurant.com
• Hours: Open from 12 PM to 10 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: Unique Latin-Asian fusion cuisine.
• Signature Dish: Agua Chile sushi roll with Peruvian flair.
• Portion Size: Satisfying plates for a lively night out.
• Side Dish: Edamame, perfectly seasoned and fresh.
• Service: Energetic and welcoming staff.

Ever wondered where to find a fusion of Asian and Latin flavors? Zama Restaurant & Bar, #4 on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego, transports you to a vibrant, jungle-inspired space. The colorful decor and pulsating music create an electrifying atmosphere, ideal for celebrations.

The menu blends Japanese and Peruvian influences with stunning results. The Agua Chile sushi roll, with its zesty citrus and spicy shrimp, is a bold creation, while the Nikkei tiradito offers a delicate balance of soy and lime. Portions are well-proportioned, perfect for sharing over cocktails and conversation.

The edamame, a simple yet stellar side, arrives steaming hot with a sprinkle of chili salt. Its fresh, crisp texture and punchy seasoning make it a crowd-pleaser, adding a light yet flavorful touch to the meal.

Service at Zama is exceptional, with staff exuding energy and warmth. They’re quick to accommodate special requests, like adjusting spice levels, and their enthusiasm enhances the lively vibe. You’ll feel like a VIP from the moment you arrive.

For those exploring San Diego’s culinary scene, Zama is a must-try. Its creative fusion, generous portions, and dynamic service make it a gem on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego. Visit for a night of bold flavors and unforgettable fun.

Real Customer Reviews:

• “The sushi rolls were delicious, and the atmosphere was so fun!” – OpenTable user, January 2025
• “Amazing food and great service. Perfect for a night out!” – TripAdvisor reviewer, 2025

5. ZENTRL Kitchen + Bar

Basic Information

• Address: 2550 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
• Phone: (619) 432-1213
• Website: zentrlkitchen.com
• Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: California-Asian fusion with fresh ingredients.
• Signature Dish: Grilled Miso Salmon, flaky and flavorful.
• Portion Size: Hearty servings for any appetite.
• Side Dish: Coconut shrimp, crispy and sweet.
• Service: Friendly and attentive staff.

Searching for a spot that blends coastal and Asian vibes? ZENTRL Kitchen + Bar, #5 on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego, welcomes you with a bright, airy space in Liberty Station. The modern decor and open layout create a refreshing, relaxed vibe.

The menu shines with California-Asian fusion, delivering bold yet balanced flavors. The Grilled Miso Salmon, with its flaky texture and umami glaze, is a standout, while the Adobada Pork Belly Bao Bun offers a rich, spicy bite. Portions are substantial, ensuring you leave full and happy.

The coconut shrimp, a side dish, is a crispy delight. Lightly battered and paired with a sweet chili sauce, it’s a perfect blend of crunch and sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s attention to fresh ingredients.

The staff at ZENTRL is warm and attentive, always ready with a smile or a recommendation. They’re quick to refill drinks or suggest pairings, making your meal feel effortless and enjoyable.

Locals and tourists alike will love ZENTRL’s vibrant dishes and welcoming vibe. Its hearty portions, fresh flavors, and top-tier service make it a highlight on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego. Stop by for a meal that’s both comforting and exciting.

Real Customer Reviews:

• “The miso salmon was perfectly cooked, and the service was amazing!” – OpenTable user, January 2025
• “Cool vibe and great food. The coconut shrimp is a must!” – Yelp reviewer, October 2023

6. Shan Xi Magic Kitchen

Basic Information

• Address: 4344 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
• Phone: (858) 565-2688
• Website: shanximagickitchen.com
• Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: Authentic Chinese with handmade noodles.
• Signature Dish: Biang Biang noodles with spicy lamb.
• Portion Size: Large, shareable plates.
• Side Dish: Soup dumplings, juicy and flavorful.
• Service: Friendly and efficient staff.

Want to savor handmade noodles bursting with flavor? Shan Xi Magic Kitchen, #6 on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego, offers a modern, bustling space in Convoy District. The open dining area and savory aromas create an inviting, energetic vibe.

The menu celebrates Chinese cuisine with a focus on handmade noodles. The Biang Biang noodles, tossed with spicy cumin lamb, deliver a fiery, satisfying kick, while the stewed pork burger offers a savory-sweet contrast. Portions are generous, perfect for family-style dining.

The soup dumplings, a side dish, are a revelation. Each delicate parcel bursts with rich broth and tender pork, crafted with precision. Their freshness and warmth make them a highlight, earning praise from every guest.

Service is friendly and efficient, with staff navigating the busy restaurant with ease. They’re happy to explain dishes or adjust spice levels, ensuring a personalized experience.

For an authentic Chinese meal in San Diego, Shan Xi Magic Kitchen is a top choice. Its bold flavors, hearty portions, and warm service make it a star on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego. Visit Convoy District for a taste of China’s finest.

Real Customer Reviews:

• “The Biang Biang noodles were spicy and delicious. Great service!” – Google reviewer, 2024
• “Soup dumplings are the best I’ve had in San Diego!” – Yelp user, October 2023

7. Dumpling Inn & Shanghai Saloon

Basic Information

• Address: 4625 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
• Phone: (858) 268-9638
• Website: dumplinginn.com
• Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: Homestyle Chinese with bold flavors.
• Signature Dish: Fish and chive dumplings, fresh and savory.
• Portion Size: Generous, perfect for groups.
• Side Dish: Shrimp chow mein, packed with flavor.
• Service: Warm and welcoming staff.

Curious about the best dumplings in San Diego? Dumpling Inn & Shanghai Saloon, #7 on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego, greets you with a cozy, open space on Convoy Street. The casual decor and fragrant dishes create a comforting, homey atmosphere.

The menu is a love letter to Chinese comfort food. The fish and chive dumplings, with their tender wrappers and fresh filling, are a standout, while the lamb chow mein with house-made noodles offers a hearty, spiced delight. Portions are ample, encouraging you to share and savor.

The shrimp chow mein, a side dish, is a crowd-pleaser. Stir-fried to perfection with crisp vegetables and succulent shrimp, it’s a flavorful addition that showcases the kitchen’s skill and fresh ingredients.

The staff is warm and attentive, treating you like family. They’re quick to offer tea refills or explain the menu, making your visit feel personal and relaxed.

Dumpling Inn is a must for locals and visitors craving Chinese comfort food. Its generous portions, authentic flavors, and friendly service make it a gem on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego. Stop by for a meal that warms the soul.

Real Customer Reviews:

• “The fish and chive dumplings are incredible. Love the house-made noodles!” – Google reviewer, 2024
• “Cozy vibe and great service. Best dumplings in town!” – Yelp user, October 2023

8. AKA Gaslamp

Basic Information

• Address: 635 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
• Phone: (619) 308-8888
• Website: akagaslamp.com
• Hours: Open from 12 PM to 11 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: Vibrant Asian fusion with a nightclub vibe.
• Signature Dish: Jidori chicken rosemary teriyaki.
• Portion Size: Satisfying for a lively dining experience.
• Side Dish: Mango yellowtail maki, fresh and fruity.
• Service: Energetic and professional staff.

Dreaming of Asian fusion with a nightlife twist? AKA Gaslamp, #8 on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego, dazzles with its sleek, red-lit dining room. The Buddha statue and Asian lanterns create a seductive, vibrant atmosphere, perfect for a night out.

The menu blends Japanese, Chinese, and Thai flavors with flair. The Jidori chicken rosemary teriyaki, with its juicy meat and fragrant glaze, is a star, while the Australian wagyu drunken noodles offer a rich, spicy kick. Portions are well-sized, ideal for sharing over cocktails.

The mango yellowtail maki, a side dish, is a refreshing delight. Its fresh fish and sweet mango are rolled to perfection, delivering a burst of tropical flavor that surprises and satisfies.

Service is energetic and polished, with staff keeping the lively vibe going. They’re quick to suggest sake pairings or customize dishes, ensuring a seamless experience.

AKA Gaslamp is a top pick for locals and tourists seeking bold flavors and a fun atmosphere. Its creative dishes, satisfying portions, and dynamic service make it a standout on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego. Visit for a meal that’s as exciting as the Gaslamp Quarter.

Real Customer Reviews:

• “The teriyaki chicken was amazing, and the vibe is so cool!” – Google reviewer, 2025
• “Great cocktails and service. Perfect for a night out!” – Yelp user, October 2023

9. Glass Box Asian Coastal Kitchen + Bar

Basic Information

• Address: 12843 El Camino Real, San Diego, CA 92130
• Phone: (858) 350-8181
• Website: glassboxsd.com
• Hours: Open from 11 AM to 10 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: Fresh, coastal-inspired Asian cuisine.
• Signature Dish: Omakase sushi, a chef’s masterpiece.
• Portion Size: Perfect for savoring each dish.
• Side Dish: Poke nachos, crunchy and flavorful.
• Service: Attentive and passionate staff.

Looking for sushi with a coastal twist? Glass Box Asian Coastal Kitchen + Bar, #9 on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego, captivates with its sleek, ocean-inspired decor. The open sushi bar and modern ambiance create a fresh, inviting vibe in Carmel Valley.

The menu celebrates Asian flavors with a focus on seafood. The omakase sushi, crafted by Master Chef Ethan, features pristine fish like tuna and sea urchin, each piece a work of art. The poke bowl, with its vibrant ahi and avocado, is equally stunning. Portions are thoughtfully sized, letting you enjoy every bite.

The poke nachos, a side dish, are a creative hit. Crispy wonton chips topped with fresh tuna and spicy aioli deliver a delightful crunch and burst of flavor, showcasing the kitchen’s innovation.

Service is warm and attentive, with staff sharing their love for the menu. They’re quick to explain the omakase or suggest wine pairings, making your visit feel special.

Glass Box is a must for seafood lovers in San Diego. Its fresh dishes, creative sides, and stellar service make it a gem on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego. Stop by for a coastal-Asian experience that’s pure bliss.

Real Customer Reviews:

• “The omakase was spectacular, and the poke nachos were so good!” – OpenTable user, January 2025
• “Super fresh fish and great service. A hidden gem!” – Yelp reviewer, October 2023

10. Pho & Sushi

Basic Information

• Address: 2852 Main St, San Diego, CA 92113
• Phone: (619) 235-4321
• Website: phosushi.com
• Hours: Open from 10 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: Comforting Asian fusion with fresh ingredients.
• Signature Dish: Beef pho, rich and aromatic.
• Portion Size: Generous bowls for hearty appetites.
• Side Dish: Spring rolls, crispy and fresh.
• Service: Friendly and efficient staff.

Craving a bowl of pho that warms the soul? Pho & Sushi, #10 on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego, welcomes you with a cozy, no-frills space. The simple decor and fragrant broth aromas create a comforting, down-to-earth vibe.

The menu blends Vietnamese and Japanese classics with finesse. The beef pho, with its rich, aromatic broth and tender brisket, is a standout, while the spicy tuna roll offers a fresh, fiery kick. Portions are generous, ensuring you leave full and satisfied.

The spring rolls, a side dish, are a crispy delight. Packed with fresh shrimp, herbs, and vermicelli, they’re fried to golden perfection and served with a tangy dipping sauce that elevates every bite.

Service is friendly and efficient, with staff making you feel like a regular. They’re quick to refill water or suggest extra chili for your pho, adding a personal touch to your meal.

Pho & Sushi is a gem for locals and visitors seeking comforting Asian fusion. Its hearty portions, fresh flavors, and warm service make it a fitting finale on our toplist of the best Asian restaurants in San Diego. Visit for a meal that’s both satisfying and soulful.