Cary, North Carolina, a town often lauded for its quality of life, family-friendly atmosphere, and thriving technology sector, is also quietly becoming a culinary hotspot. While many might immediately think of Southern comfort food or upscale American dining when considering the region, Cary boasts a surprisingly diverse and vibrant Asian food scene. Driven by a growing and increasingly diverse population, this small city has become a treasure trove for those seeking authentic, flavorful, and exciting culinary experiences from across the Asian continent. Forget your preconceived notions about sleepy suburban fare – Cary is a place where you can embark on a delicious journey through the tastes of China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, India, and beyond. This article serves as your ultimate guide to exploring the very best Asian food Cary NC has to offer, uncovering hidden gems and showcasing the established favorites that are shaping the town’s gastronomic identity.
The story of Asian cuisine in Cary is one of gradual but significant evolution. As the town has grown, so too has its Asian population, bringing with them not just cultural diversity but also a rich culinary heritage. The increase in skilled Asian chefs and the growing demand from an increasingly adventurous dining public have all contributed to the thriving landscape we see today. What started with a few standard Chinese takeout spots has blossomed into a diverse range of restaurants, each specializing in distinct regional cuisines and offering everything from traditional family recipes to innovative fusion creations. It’s not just about finding a plate of General Tso’s Chicken anymore; it’s about experiencing the depth and complexity of Sichuan peppercorns, the umami richness of Japanese ramen, the fiery heat of Korean kimchi, the fragrant herbs of Thai curries, the delicate balance of Vietnamese pho, and the aromatic spices of Indian biryanis.
This burgeoning Asian food Cary NC scene encompasses a wide spectrum, each contributing its own unique flavor profile to the town’s culinary map. You’ll find classic Cantonese restaurants serving up dim sum delights alongside modern Chinese eateries experimenting with contemporary techniques. Japanese restaurants range from traditional sushi bars offering the freshest catches of the day to bustling ramen shops serving steaming bowls of noodles in rich, flavorful broths. Korean cuisine is well-represented, with authentic barbecue restaurants where you can grill your own meats at the table, as well as family-run establishments dishing out comforting stews and flavorful banchan. Thai food is abundant, with restaurants offering everything from familiar favorites like Pad Thai to more adventurous regional specialties. Vietnamese restaurants serve up fragrant bowls of pho and crispy banh mi sandwiches, while Indian cuisine offers a diverse array of curries, tandoori dishes, and flavorful vegetarian options. The sheer variety is enough to excite even the most seasoned foodie.
Exploring the Best Chinese Restaurants
To begin, let’s explore the Chinese offerings in the town. One standout is “Golden Wok,” known for its elegant ambiance and focus on authentic Cantonese cuisine. Their dim sum selection, available during lunch hours, is a must-try. Steamed shrimp dumplings, pork siu mai, and crispy spring rolls are prepared with meticulous care. But Golden Wok isn’t just about dim sum. Their Peking duck, prepared using a traditional recipe, is a culinary masterpiece. Thin, crispy skin is served with delicate pancakes, scallions, and sweet hoisin sauce, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. Find Golden Wok on Main Street, where the welcoming staff are awaiting to accommodate you.
Next up is “Red Lantern,” a local favorite celebrated for its spicy Sichuan cuisine. If you’re a fan of bold, flavorful dishes with a kick, this is the place for you. Their mapo tofu, a classic Sichuan dish featuring silken tofu in a spicy, savory sauce with ground pork, is a must-try. The Sichuan peppercorns create a numbing sensation that enhances the overall flavor experience. Also highly recommended is their dan dan noodles, a spicy and savory noodle dish with a rich sesame sauce, chili oil, and ground pork. The perfect place to warm up in winter and ignite your tastebuds at any other time of the year.
Finally, for a modern twist on Chinese cuisine, there’s “Zen Asian Bistro.” This stylish restaurant offers a menu that blends traditional Chinese flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. Their pan-seared dumplings are filled with pork and vegetables, and served with a ginger-soy dipping sauce. Their seafood dishes are especially noteworthy, with the ginger scallion lobster being a particular highlight. Zen Asian Bistro manages to capture a balance between traditional and modern that will excite and surprise every palette.
Sampling the Japanese Flavors
Moving on to Japanese cuisine, Cary boasts a number of excellent options. “Sushi Yama” is a beloved local spot known for its fresh, high-quality sushi and sashimi. Their selection of fish is sourced daily, ensuring the freshest possible flavors. Their rolls are inventive and beautifully presented, with options ranging from classic California rolls to more adventurous creations featuring spicy tuna, avocado, and tempura flakes. The ambiance is simple and elegant, providing a relaxed setting for enjoying a delicious meal.
“Ramen Revolution” is a bustling ramen shop that serves up steaming bowls of noodles in rich, flavorful broths. Their tonkotsu ramen, made with a pork bone broth that has been simmered for hours, is a particular highlight. The noodles are perfectly cooked, and the toppings include tender slices of pork belly, marinated bamboo shoots, and a soft-boiled egg. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, making it a great spot for a casual meal with friends.
For a truly authentic Japanese experience, head to “Izakaya Zensai,” a Japanese gastropub that serves up small plates of delicious food alongside a wide selection of sake and Japanese beer. Their menu features a variety of dishes, including grilled skewers of meat and vegetables, crispy karaage chicken, and flavorful takoyaki (octopus balls). The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a great place to unwind after a long day.
Exploring Korean Culinary Gems
Korean food is increasingly popular, and Cary has kept pace. “Seoul Garden” is a renowned Korean barbecue restaurant where you can grill your own meats at the table. Their selection of marinated meats is extensive, with options ranging from bulgogi (marinated beef) to galbi (marinated short ribs) to dak galbi (spicy marinated chicken). The restaurant provides all the necessary equipment, including grills, scissors, and tongs. Side dishes include kimchi, pickled vegetables, and a variety of dipping sauces. This is perfect for an interactive and social dining experience.
“Han Table,” a family-run establishment, dishes out comforting stews and flavorful banchan. Their kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) is a must-try, featuring fermented kimchi, tofu, pork belly, and vegetables in a spicy and flavorful broth. Also highly recommended is their bibimbap, a mixed rice dish with vegetables, meat, and a fried egg, served in a hot stone bowl.
Tasting the Tropical Flavors of Thailand
Craving Thai? Cary has plenty of authentic options. “Thai Spices” offers a wide range of Thai dishes, from familiar favorites like Pad Thai to more adventurous regional specialties. Their green curry, made with coconut milk, green chilies, bamboo shoots, and vegetables, is a must-try. Also highly recommended is their mango sticky rice, a classic Thai dessert made with sweet sticky rice, fresh mango, and coconut milk. The flavors will transport you to the street markets of Bangkok.
“Siam Square” is another popular Thai restaurant, known for its elegant ambiance and creative menu. Their pineapple fried rice, served in a hollowed-out pineapple, is a visually stunning and delicious dish. Also highly recommended is their panang curry, a rich and creamy curry made with coconut milk, peanuts, and vegetables. Siam Square blends traditional flavors with modern flair.
Vietnamese Delights in Cary
For Vietnamese cuisine, “Pho 99” is a Cary institution, famous for its fragrant bowls of pho (noodle soup). Their broth is simmered for hours, resulting in a rich and flavorful base for the noodles, meat, and herbs. They offer a variety of pho options, including pho ga (chicken pho) and pho bo (beef pho). It’s a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for a cold day.
“Banh Mi Boys” is known for its crispy banh mi sandwiches. These sandwiches, made with crusty baguettes, pate, mayonnaise, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and your choice of fillings, are a delicious and affordable lunch option. Their grilled pork banh mi is a local favorite. Banh Mi Boys brings a taste of Saigon to Cary.
Sampling the Spicy Flavors of India
Indian cuisine is another culinary highlight in Cary. “Anjappar Chettinad” specializes in South Indian dishes. Their dosa, a thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentils, is a must-try. It is served with a variety of chutneys and sambar (a vegetable-based stew). This is a vegetarian paradise.
“Tandoor Indian Restaurant” is a local favorite for its North Indian curries, tandoori dishes, and flavorful vegetarian options. Their butter chicken, a creamy tomato-based curry with tender pieces of chicken, is a crowd-pleaser. Also highly recommended is their saag paneer, a spinach and cheese curry. It is perfect with naan bread!
Hidden Gems and Local Asian Food Favorites
Beyond the well-known restaurants, Cary is home to many hidden gems that offer unique and authentic Asian food experiences. One example is “Mama Liu’s,” a small, family-run restaurant specializing in handmade dumplings. Their dumplings are filled with a variety of ingredients, from pork and cabbage to shrimp and chives, and are served steamed, boiled, or pan-fried.
“The Curry Point” is a food stall that serves up delicious and affordable Indian curries and biryanis. Their chicken tikka masala is a particular highlight. Local foodies rave about its quality-to-price ratio.
Dining Experiences and Ambiance in Asian Restaurants
The Asian food Cary NC experience is diverse and caters to a wide range of preferences. You can find everything from casual takeout joints to elegant fine-dining establishments. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal in the fresh air.
Some restaurants cater to specific dietary needs, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Be sure to check the restaurant’s menu or website for more information.
Tips for Exploring Asian Food in Cary
Be adventurous and try new dishes. Ask your server for recommendations, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Use online reviews and ratings to find restaurants that have received positive feedback from other diners. Check restaurant websites or social media for updated hours and menus. Google Maps is your friend!
In conclusion, the Asian food Cary NC scene is a vibrant and diverse culinary landscape that offers something for everyone. From authentic Chinese dim sum to fragrant Vietnamese pho to spicy Indian curries, Cary is a treasure trove for foodies seeking exciting and flavorful experiences. So, get out there, explore, and support your local Asian restaurants. You won’t be disappointed. What are you waiting for? Tell us your favorite Asian spots in Cary in the comments below!
