8 Groundbreaking Asian Fusion Restaurants

The Southern culinary scene is constantly evolving, and one of the most exciting trends has been the expansive rise of Asian fusion restaurants, with dining spots pulling from India to South Korea. Boasting traditional flavors with modern twists, these fusion restaurants are transporting diners across oceans. We’re highlighting eight new Asian fusion restaurants with creative takes on classic dishes and unforgettable dining experiences.

Maru | Tampa, Florida

Executive chef Billy Brannen and culinary director Masa Hamaya of the Indigo Road Hospitality Group work to curate an intimate rooftop Nikkei experience that blends bright Peruvian ingredients with precise Japanese culinary techniques at Maru. The expertly crafted beverage selection, directed by Vonda Freeman, features an expansive list of wines and Champagnes as well as classic and contemporary Nikkei cocktails. Enjoy vibrant small plates and shareables while fully immersed in a lounge featuring wood accents and golden hues seamlessly blend onto an outdoor patio overlooking the Tampa Bay skyline.

Kura House Asian Cuisine | Memphis, Tennessee

Situated on Memphis’s lively Peabody Avenue, Kura House Asian Cuisine carefully molds the perfect melange of Asian cuisine capable of transporting enjoyers beyond national borders. The menu is unique and abundant, featuring elaborate dishes with the traditional and contemporary palates of Japan, Vietnam, and Thailand. Plates are colorful, light, and bursting with authentic umami flavor, such as miso-glazed eggplant skewers and steak and vegetable kebob kushiyaki.

Latuli | Houston

Established in the dining destination of Memorial Neighborhood, celebrated Houston chef Bryan Caswell and entrepreneur Allison Knight have opened the much-anticipated Latuli. The restaurant expands far beyond city borders, curating a strong base of beloved Gulf Coast cuisine beautifully accented with Cajun, Mexican, Asian, and Mediterranean influences in an expansive menu. The rustic pastoral setting reflects the restaurant’s farm-to-table sensibilities with earthy tones and natural materials, featuring a reception desk formed from a tree root, wrought iron signage, and curtains made from vintage blankets. 

Katsubō Chicken & Ramen | Charleston

Owners Joe Nierstedt and Abby Leibowitz take their fried chicken expertise and Japanese immersion to North Charleston with Katsubō Chicken & Ramen. Twice-fried chicken is infused with eastern flavors marinated in garlic, ginger, white pepper, and wrapped in Japanese potato starch. In addition to slow-simmered ramen, the menu will also feature Japanese small plates like pork gyoza, shishito peppers, and okomiyaki (cabbage pancakes). 

JMT Kitchen + Bar | Annandale, Virginia

Inspired by the Korean slang phrase “jon mat taeng,” JMT Kitchen + Bar’s name roughly translates to “extremely delicious,” or “just my taste,” setting the stage for this Annandale, Virginia restaurant’s laidback and playful atmosphere. The lively restaurant and bar focuses not only on authentic Korean cuisine meets American late-night favorites, but also creates an electric environment for its customers, staying open until one or two in the morning. Here, you’ll find dishes like the JMT flatbread with spicy pork or bulgogi, volcano omurice, and the seafood gambas, showing the breadth of Mark Chang’s Korean background and his training in French and Italian cuisine.

The Kingsway | New Orleans

Integrating stories from his Asian upbringing with the distinct culinary portfolio of New Orleans, James-Beard co-nominated chef Ashwin Vilkhu returns with the opening of The Kingsway. The menu celebrates the culinary diversity of Singapore, featuring dishes such as tuna solera, served with Ashwin’s five-year chili sauce and peking-style duck breast à l’orange with honey and pineapple. Bar manager Colin Williams and general manager Taylor Adams work together to handcraft a drink menu that complements the umami-rich flavors of Asian cuisine, while also featuring old world wines from small producers in Georgia, Slovenia, and Hungary.

Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken | Huntsville, Alabama

Translating to “my hometown,” or “my roots,” Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken comes from founder Jinduk Seo, who aspired to transport a taste of his home across the world. Seo, in collaboration with the restaurant’s chef based in South Korea, enhances fried chicken, infusing it with his signature sauces. Their chicken is hand battered, double fried, and hand brushed. Apart from just chicken, their menu features a plethora of classic Korean dishes such as japchae, glass noodles with vegetables, and bulgogi stir fried with soy garlic sauce and sesame oil.

Lucky Danger | Washington, DC

Born from the Chinese-American pop-up in Arlington, Virginia, in the midst of the pandemic, Lucky Danger has since experienced skyrocketing popularity and has just opened a new location in Washington, DC. Chef Tim Ma and executive chef Robbie Reyes have paralleled the restaurant’s growing popularity and expanded the menu to include refined new dishes like allium pancakes packed with whipped tofu and caviar. But, you can still find their club classics like crab rangoons and three cup chicken.

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