Santa Monica's Best Asian Food [Updated 2025]

With a vibrant culinary scene that makes my taste buds dance, I dove deep into the heart of Santa Monica to uncover twelve remarkable spots serving up the best Asian cuisine. From sizzling stir-fries to delicate sushi rolls, I’ve tasted it all, savoring each bite and jotting down every delightful detail along the way.

You can trust my expertise because I’ve spent countless hours exploring the local food scene, chatting with chefs, and, of course, indulging in every mouthwatering dish I could find. So grab your chopsticks, and let’s embark on this delicious adventure together! You’re in for a treat that will have you craving more than just your usual takeout.

Cobi's

Highlights
Amazing food
Beautiful atmosphere
Family-style dining
Exceptional buttered chicken
Friendly and helpful staff

Cobi's in Santa Monica is a delightful culinary gem that must not be overlooked when seeking the best Asian cuisine in town. As soon as I stepped inside, I was captivated by the beautiful atmosphere—a perfect blend of modern design and welcoming warmth. The vibe here is simply enchanting, making it an ideal spot for family-style dining.

Now, let’s talk about the food! I was particularly impressed with their exceptional buttered chicken, which was as comforting as a warm embrace. The tender pieces of chicken were perfectly infused with spices and served in a melody of rich, buttery flavors that danced on my palate. It’s a dish that invites you to indulge with every bite!

What truly stood out to me was the friendly and helpful staff. They were attentive without being intrusive, ensuring that my dining experience was as enjoyable as possible. Their enthusiasm about the menu made me eager to try more.

If you find yourself wandering the vibrant streets of Santa Monica, Cobi's is undoubtedly a stop you should make. Bring your family, savor the dishes, and prepare for a lovely evening filled with laughter and delicious food. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

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KazuNori: The Original Hand Roll Bar

Highlights
Fresh, high-quality ingredients
Hand rolls crafted before you
Fun, casual bar-style seating
Friendly and efficient staff
Limited seating, popular spot

Stepping into KazuNori: The Original Hand Roll Bar in Santa Monica is like entering a sushi paradise where every detail celebrates the art of hand rolls. The moment I perched myself on the sleek bar-style seating, I felt the excitement in the air—this spot is undeniably popular!

What truly sets KazuNori apart is their dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each hand roll is crafted right before your eyes, ensuring that every bite bursts with the flavors of perfectly seasoned rice, succulent fish, and crisp vegetables. I opted for the spicy tuna hand roll, and let me tell you, it was a delightful explosion of taste and texture! The staff is friendly and efficient, making the whole experience feel inviting and lively.

While the seating can be a bit limited, the vibrant atmosphere compensates for it, embracing the joy of communal dining. My visit left me enchanted, eager to return for more delightful creations. If you're in Santa Monica and craving Asian cuisine, KazuNori is definitely a must-try! It’s the ideal spot for a quick, satisfying meal that keeps you coming back for more.

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Din Tai Fung

Highlights
Friendly and welcoming atmosphere
Beautiful decor and design
Consistently great food
Excellent service experience
Prime location in Santa Monica

Din Tai Fung in Santa Monica is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that dances on the palate! Upon stepping inside, I was greeted by a friendly and welcoming atmosphere that instantly made me feel at home. The décor is a beautiful blend of modern elegance and traditional charm, setting the stage for a splendid dining adventure.

But let’s get to the heart of the matter — the food! Every bite is a symphony of flavors, with their legendary xiao long bao taking the spotlight. These delicate dumplings are expertly crafted, and the burst of savory broth makes them a must-try. What impressed me even more was how consistently great the food was throughout my meal.

The service was another highlight, with staff who were attentive and genuinely passionate about the menu. Their recommendations guided me in exploring delightful dishes that I might have overlooked otherwise. Situated in a prime location, Din Tai Fung is the perfect stop for anyone craving authentic Asian flavors.

If you find yourself in Santa Monica, don’t miss out on this gem! Din Tai Fung is, without a doubt, one of the best Asian dining experiences the area has to offer.

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Shunji Japanese Cuisine

Highlights
Intimate omakase experience
Michelin-starred sushi gem
Authentic Japanese ingredients
Exceptional hospitality
Minimalist decor elegance

Visiting Shunji Japanese Cuisine was like stepping into a serene oasis of flavor in the bustling heart of Santa Monica. The moment I arrived, I was enveloped by the restaurant's minimalist decor, which beautifully reflects the elegance of Japanese culture.

What truly sets Shunji apart is its intimate omakase experience. As I settled in, the skilled chef expertly crafted each dish with precision, showcasing lavish, authentic Japanese ingredients. Every bite was a delightful revelation, especially the perfectly aged sushi that seemed to dance across my palate. The meticulous attention to detail in each presentation was a feast for the eyes.

But it wasn’t just the food that captivated me; the exceptional hospitality provided by the staff elevated my dining experience. They were not only knowledgeable about the menu, but their warmth made me feel like an honored guest rather than just another patron.

As I savored the exquisite flavors that unfold with each course, I knew I had discovered a true Michelin-starred sushi gem in Santa Monica. Shunji is a culinary journey—each plate beckoned me to come back for more. I can’t wait to share this treasure with fellow food enthusiasts!

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SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa

Highlights
Quality fish and ingredients
Trust Me menu offers surprises
Relaxed yet elegant ambiance
Reasonable prices for Santa Monica
Attentive and kind service

Sugarfish by Sushi Nozawa is a contemporary haven for sushi enthusiasts right in the heart of Santa Monica. As I stepped into the restaurant, I was greeted by a relaxed yet elegant ambiance that set the tone for a delightful culinary journey. The menu, particularly the “Trust Me” option, invites adventurous diners like me to surrender to the chef's selections—an experience that promises some delightful surprises with each course.

The quality of the fish and ingredients truly shines at Sugarfish; every bite is a testament to why sushi aficionados rave about this spot. Each piece is crafted with care, reflecting a perfect balance of freshness and flavor that makes you appreciate the art of sushi. The prices, especially for a Santa Monica establishment, are quite reasonable, allowing sushi lovers to indulge without breaking the bank.

Through attentive and genuinely kind service, I felt valued as a customer—not just another diner, but a guest being treated to an exceptional meal. If you’re in the area, Sugarfish is a must-visit for anyone craving sushi that excites the taste buds. I left feeling satisfied and eager to return for more!

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Thai Dishes Wilshire

Highlights
Cozy atmosphere
Excellent service
Great lunch deals
Authentic Thai flavors
Free parking available

Thai Dishes Wilshire is a delightful gem tucked away in Santa Monica that I couldn't resist visiting. As soon as I entered the restaurant, I was enveloped by a cozy atmosphere that instantly made me feel at home. The decor strikes a harmonious balance between traditional Thai elegance and a relaxed vibe—perfect for a leisurely lunch or an intimate dinner.

Speaking of lunch, their great lunch deals really caught my eye! I decided to indulge in their signature Pad Thai, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of a culinary masterpiece. The authentic Thai flavors burst forth with each bite—crisp vegetables, tender noodles, and a delightful hint of lime that transported me straight to Thailand.

What truly stood out was the excellent service; the staff was incredibly attentive, ensuring my dining experience was seamless without being intrusive. To top it all off, finding free parking nearby made my visit stress-free—a rare find in this bustling area.

In a city overflowing with options, Thai Dishes Wilshire holds its own as a top contender for the best Asian food in Santa Monica. I can't wait to return and explore more of their delicious offerings!

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Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica

Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica is a delightful gem that tantalizes the senses. From the moment I stepped in, the ambiance was vibrant yet cozy, perfect for a casual dining experience. Their sushi is not just food; it’s an art form! Each roll I tried was a burst of flavor, beautifully presented and crafted with the freshest ingredients. I particularly savored the Spicy Tuna Roll, which had just the right amount of heat. The staff was attentive and friendly, enhancing the enjoyable evening. If you’re seeking authentic, delicious sushi in Santa Monica, Mikomi is undoubtedly a must-visit!

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BIBIBOP Asian Grill

At BIBIBOP Asian Grill, the vibrant atmosphere instantly welcomed me as I entered. I was thrilled to dive into their customizable bowls filled with fresh ingredients. The bulgogi beef was a standout—tender, marinated, and bursting with flavor. I adored how I could choose from a variety of crunchy vegetables and zesty sauces to elevate my meal. Each bite was a delightful fusion of textures.

What truly impressed me was the commitment to health and sustainability, making it a guilt-free indulgence. If you’re on the hunt for a fresh take on Asian cuisine in Santa Monica, this spot is a must-try!

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Kai Ramen Santa Monica

Kai Ramen in Santa Monica immediately captured my heart—and taste buds! Their rich tonkotsu broth is the star, simmered to perfection and bursting with umami. I savored every slurp of their handmade noodles, which delivered just the right amount of chewiness. The ambiance is cozy yet vibrant, making it perfect for both solo diners and groups eager to share dishes. The spicy miso ramen offers a delightful kick, while the gyoza served on the side are lightly crisp and packed with flavor. If you’re in the area, Kai Ramen is a must-try for any noodle enthusiast!

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dan modern chinese - santa monica

I had the pleasure of dining at dan modern chinese in Santa Monica, and let me tell you, it’s a culinary gem! The ambiance is chic yet cozy, making it perfect for both casual outings and special occasions. I indulged in their signature Peking Duck, which was crisp and succulent, paired beautifully with pancakes and hoisin sauce. The Dan Dan Noodles were another highlight—rich, spicy, and packed with flavor! The attentive staff added a personal touch to the evening. If you're on the hunt for delicious and innovative Chinese cuisine, dan modern chinese should not be missed!

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Chinois On Main

During my visit to Chinois On Main, I was swept away by a delightful fusion of Asian flavors—with a twist! The vibrant decor sets the tone for a culinary adventure, and each dish is a masterpiece. I savored the Mongolian BBQ ribs, tender and glazed to perfection, while the Chinese chicken salad featured an irresistible crunch. The service was attentive and warm, making me feel right at home. This gem truly showcases why it’s a local favorite, blending tradition with innovation. If you’re seeking a memorable dining experience in Santa Monica, don’t miss Chinois On Main! 🥢✨

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Bun & Mi

My recent visit to Bun & Mi in Santa Monica was a delightful culinary journey! Their Vietnamese bánh mì is a flavor explosion – every bite blends crunchy veggies, savory meats, and that luscious house-made sauce. I also savored their pho, brimming with aromatic broth that warms the soul. The ambiance is casual yet inviting, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner. With friendly service and reasonable prices, Bun & Mi has certainly carved a niche in the local food scene. For a vibrant taste of Vietnam, this spot is a can't-miss gem in Santa Monica! ✨

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