Curator’s statement
Houston’s Asiatown is not just a neighborhood; it's a living, breathing part of Houston's soul. Unlike many cities that have a singular cultural identity, Houston is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, and Asiatown is a perfect example of this. For me, growing up in Louisiana, this was always a special place to travel to—a vibrant hub of culture and cuisine that felt both entirely foreign and completely like home. Now, as I live in Houston, it remains a constant source of discovery.
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Things to do
Get a reflexology massage: This is the perfect way to unwind after a long day of exploring. Reflexology focuses on pressure points, mainly in the feet, to restore energy and blood flow throughout the body. Try local favorite Oasis Massage Salon.
Festivals: Immerse yourself in the cultural heart of the community by visiting during major celebrations like Lunar New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival. These events are filled with colorful lion dances, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Explore supermarkets: Experience the rich tapestry of the community by shopping at places like Hong Kong City Mall and Dun Huang Plaza. These massive markets are home to a huge variety of Asian staples, from fresh produce to imported snacks and unique spices.
Teo Chew Temple: Find a moment of peace and serenity at this beautiful Vietnamese Buddhist temple. The atmosphere is incredibly tranquil, and you can learn about the grounds and theology from friendly temple workers.
Places to eat & drink
Bakeries/Dessert
ECK (Egg Custard King): This bakery lives up to its name, serving some of the best Chinese egg tarts you'll ever have. They are perfect when eaten fresh from the oven and are a true local favorite.
King Bakery: Known for its authentic Hong Kong-style pineapple buns, which are a must-try straight out of the oven. They also offer a wide variety of sweet and savory Cantonese-style breads and buns. This bakery accepts cash only.
Chinese
Mala Sichuan Bistro: For a true taste of Sichuan cuisine, this is the place to go. Their spicy, numbing dishes like the famous Mala chicken and mapo tofu are a favorite among Houstonians.
Arco Seafood: This restaurant is known for its delicious Peking duck with crispy skin, served with steamed buns. They are also a well-regarded dim sum spot with a variety of Cantonese dishes.
One Dragon: One of the few restaurants in Houston that specializes in Shanghainese cuisine—their soup dumplings are a must-order. The crispy bottom buns are also a popular choice.
Korean
Hongdae 33 Korean BBQ: This all-you-can-eat restaurant is a great spot to enjoy premium cuts of meat and seafood grilled at your table. The festive ambiance, with K-pop music and colorful murals, makes for a lively dining experience.
Vietnamese
Crawfish & Noodles: This iconic spot is a monument to Houston's diversity, combining Cajun and Vietnamese flavors in dishes like Viet-Cajun crawfish and wok-fried noodles. It’s a truly unique dining experience that you can only get here.
Nam Giao: A humble but renowned restaurant that specializes in the regional cuisine of Huế in Central Vietnam. They are famous for their steamed rice cakes and have even been featured on a Netflix show.
Japanese
Toukei: A lesser-known Japanese restaurant that is more than just sushi, Toukei offers a super chill atmosphere. It's a true hidden gem in the Asiatown neighborhood.
Sushi Miyagi: This small, older, cash-only spot is run by a charming older couple. They are known for their very authentic big cuts of fresh fish.
Need to know
Getting around: Asiatown is a large, sprawling area, and many of the best spots are not within walking distance of each other. The most efficient way to get around is by car. Consider using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft if you don't have your own vehicle.
Payment: While many places accept cards, smaller, cash-only establishments are common, so it's a good idea to carry cash.
Accommodations: While there are not many options for accommodations in Asiatown, there are several luxury options in close proximity. Located in the Galleria area of Houston, the St. Regis, The Post Oak Hotel, and Hotel Granduca are all excellent choices.
Ready to book your trip to Houston's Asiatown? Let me help you craft the perfect itinerary so you can explore all that this vibrant neighborhood has to offer!
Travel Advisor
Elise Wong
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