We’ll be exploring a variety of Asian cuisines available in Chattanooga. Yep, you heard it right—we do have several delightful Asian eateries in our vicinity that you may or may not have heard of. Keep reading to uncover 10 Asian restaurants worth adding to your dining list! Whether you’re looking for authentic Asian flavors, more vegetarian options, upscale dining, or something quick, we’ve got all bases covered.
1. Thai Smile
Located in downtown Chattanooga, this restaurant serves authentic Thai cuisines. Crowd favorites include Pad Thai, Yellow Curry, Pad See Eu, and more. They also provide the choice to substitute any protein with duck and offer vegetarian alternatives such as tofu. One dish I particularly enjoy is the Crispy Duck, served with a cozy hot and sour sauce for dipping. The combination of crispy, juicy duck and the sauce with a kick of spice hits just right.
2. High Su
Located slightly further away in Ooltewah, High Su specializes in authentic vegetarian and vegan Asian cuisine. Their menu is 95% vegan, and they can modify other dishes to be vegan-friendly by omitting eggs. Popular dishes include Vegan Fried chicken Cutlet, Mapo Tofu Rice Bowl, and High Su Curry. They also have a huge drink menu featuring Boba, fruit teas, smoothies, and decaf lattes.
3. Attack of the Tatsu
Newer to Chattanooga’s food scene is this Izakaya and Ramen shop in the heart of downtown Chattanooga. They boast a menu featuring Japanese-style ramens like Tonkotsu Ramen and Shoyu Ramen, alongside entrees such as Chicken Katsu Sando and more. Unlike the other restaurants, Attack of the Tatsu is open till midnight. So, if you’re ever hankering for a late-night bite, simply step right in. Recently, they’ve introduced an exciting food challenge called “The Godzilla Bowl Ramen Challenge.” If you can devour a bowl containing the equivalent of 4 regular ramen bowls in under 20 minutes, it’s on the house!
4. Shangri-la
Located in downtown Chattanooga, this restaurant offers American Chinese cuisine. They serve a variety of popular Chinese and Japanese-style dishes, including Kung Pao Chicken, Hunan Shrimp, California rolls, and more. We recommend this place for its flavorful dishes that are perfect for quick, on-the-go meals. They offer dine-in options, and customers often call-in orders that can be picked up in a very short amount of time.
5. Super Pho & Grill
Situated on Lee Highway, this authentic Vietnamese restaurant has recently undergone new management. They boast a wide variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes. Some popular dishes include Beef Pho, Steamed Rice with Grilled Pork, and more. They also have Vietnam-style Hot Pot with a Pho broth base that is super fulfilling.
6. Sushi Nabe
Located just outside Coolidge Park in downtown, Sushi Nabe offers both authentic Japanese and American Japanese cuisine. They have an extensive menu featuring a wide variety of dishes and sushi. Popular dishes and sushi rolls include Teriyaki Chicken, Matsuri Bento, Spicy Tuna Roll, Godzilla Roll, and more. For those seeking something unique and extraordinary, Sushi Nabe also offers the exquisite omakase option, showcasing the chef’s special sushi rolls not listed on the regular menu. If you still have room for dessert, don’t forget to try their tempura cheesecake. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
7. Zaya 1943 Korean Steakhouse
You can find Zaya in Chattanooga’s Northshore. The restaurant lives up to its name as a fine dining destination blending traditional steakhouse elegance with Korean barbecue flair. Offering an array of premium proteins such as Tomahawk steak and A5 Japanese Miyazaki Wagyu, their talented servers take care of cooking your meat just the way you like it, making sure that you have a pleasant experience.
8. Totto Sushi & Grill
Right next to Coolidge Park is a Japanese cuisine restaurant that offers a variety of entrées on their menu including Bento Boxes, Yaki Soba Noodles, Teriyaki Fajitas and more. At lunchtime, the all you can eat sushi and hot bar is a local favorite. They make it so easy for you to try new flavors!
9. Han-Mi
A Korean American restaurant that changes their menu seasonally. Some popular dishes are their Korean Fried Chicken, which comes with five sauce options, Bibimbap, and the Korean Spicy Ramen for those who love a bit of heat. Also, if you’re visiting this spring or summer, don’t miss out on their IceBirdy's Kimchi Fries —sure to impress if you're a fan of kimchi and cheese fries like me!
10. Ernest Chinese
If you're in search for a more upscale dining experience, look no further than Ernest Chinese. Located in downtown, Ernest Chinese specializes in American Chinese and Sichuan cuisine, providing a sophisticated dining atmosphere. Popular menu items include Dan Dan Noodles, Gong Bao Chicken and more. While the pricing leans toward the higher end, the service and atmosphere are both excellent.