Hillcrest Eats: Fabulous Asian Cuisine

You'll find no shortage of options when it comes to the Asian food scene in Hillcrest, from convenient counter-service spots to Michelin-starred fine dining.

VIETNAMESE

• Goi Cuon – 420 Robinson Ave
  Stands out for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine, particularly their fresh spring rolls, known as "gỏi cuốn,". Focuses on fresh ingredients and offers plenty of vegan and veggie options. Their house-made peanut sauce gets tons of love for its rich flavor.
• Phở Fifth Avenue – 3807 Fifth Ave
  Phở Fifth Avenue serves up steaming bowls of pho in laid-back setting. Regulars love the Phở Dac Biet loaded with steak, brisket, and tendon, plus their fresh spring rolls and boba teas.

THAI

• Taste of Thai – 527 University Ave
  Serving up classic Thai dishes in Hillcrest since the ‘80s. The interior has a traditional vibe, and the menu sticks to the favorites: Pad Thai, Green Curry, Tom Kha soup, and more.
• Veganic Thai Cafe – 1417 University Ave
  This popular, award-winning restaurant specializes in vegan Thai dishes that are packed with flavor. They offer creative plant-based versions of classics, like crispy “duck” stir-fry and 3 Flavors “Fish.” Solid decor also helps this place stand out from the pack.

FUSION

• White Elephant – 3950 Fifth Ave
  A unique fusion of Thai, Lao, and Vietnamese cuisines sets this spot apart from other local eateries. Housed in the old Amarin Thai spot, it keeps a nod to the location’s roots. Favorites like the White Elephant Noodle Soup with garlicky chicken broth and the crispy fried mango chicken with tangy sauce show off their fresh take on Southeast Asian flavors.
• The Asian Bistro – 414 University Ave
  Opened in 1955, The Asian Bistro, also known as Jimmy Wong’s Golden Dragon Asian Bistro, serves a fusion of Thai and Asian-inspired dishes. The remodeled interior still retains its historic golden dragon neon sign. Late-night hours make it a popular spot for night owls.
• Poké Chop – 3884 4th Ave
  This successful, local San Diego chain offers endlessly customizable poke bowls and sushi burritos, with toppings like pickled ginger, avocado, and their standout OG sauce. A simple, modern counter-service spot that lets quality of the fish and ingredients shine.
  
• Makai Sushi – 3968 Fifth Ave
  Makai Sushi is all about fresh sushi with Hawaiian influences. Known for their poke bowls, salmon burritos, and spicy ahi rolls, in a modern and casual eatery setting. Especially pouplar is the Gorilla Poke bowl, which includes a variety of fresh fish and veggies served on sushi rice and organic greens.
• Khyber Pass Zarparan – 523 University Ave
  Khyber Pass Zarparan brings Afghan and Persian flavors to Hillcrest, with dishes like Kabob-e-Murgh (chicken marinated in yogurt-cumin sauce), tender Lamb Shank, and fragrant rice plates.

INDIAN

• India Palace – 3960 Fifth Ave
  Perfectly prepared, classic Indian food in a colorful, vibrant setting. Go for the creamy Butter Chicken, rich Lamb Korma, or hearty Saag Paneer. The well-regarded restaurant has has gotten accolades from Zagat, Fodor's, The New York Times, Lonely Planet, and more.
• Taste of the Himalayas – 1260 University Ave
  Classic Indian and Nepalese dishes packed with flavor, featuring traditional dishes like Momo dumplings and Nawaratan Korma. Himalayan spices and herbs offer a distinctive flavor profile.
• Tandoori Hut – 1435 University Ave
  Open for 15 years, this casual spot known for its North Indian comfort food. Popular picks include the smoky Chicken Tandoori, cheesy Paneer Tikka, and buttery Garlic Naan.

JAPANESE

• Ramen Ryoma – 815 University Ave
  A buzzy spot serving up authentic Japanese ramen with house-made, meticulously prepared noodles and broths, offering options like shio, shoyu, and miso. Their menu also includes sushi rolls, gyoza, and takoyaki. Hand-massaged "tenomi" noodles provide a unique and wavy texture.
• Nishiki Ramen – 1040 University Ave Suite B-111
  This popular and highly rated San Diego chain recently celebrated their 10-year anniversary, and specializes in Tokyo-style ramen. Crafts their own noodles and broths daily, and known for their signature, one-of-a-kindTonkotsu broth.
  
• HiroNori Craft Ramen – 3803 5th Ave
  A California chain that's renowned for its authentic sourcing and tonkotsu, shoyu, and vegan ramen. Broths are simmered for hours to achieve deep flavor, in variety of options to suit your taste. Rice bowls also available.
• Baikohken Ramen – 690 University Ave
  Baikohken Ramen, a Michelin-recognized establishment from Japan, is known for its "double soup" broth combining pork, chicken, dried fish, and seaweed for a complex flavor. Their new Hillcrest location marks its second U.S. outpost.
• Sushi Roll Land – 800 University Ave
  A variety of delicious sushi rolls and Japanese dishes in a casual, all-you can eat buffet setting. Extensive menu and affordable prices. Favorites include the Crunch Roll and specialty rolls like the Golden Tiger Roll and In & Out Spicy Roll. Bento box specials also available.
• Rakitori Japanese Pub & Grill – 530 University Ave
  Rakitori stands out for its izakaya-style vibe, offering Japanese small plates, yakitori skewers, and comforting bowls of ramen in a laid-back pub atmosphere.
• Sushi Deli 1 – 228 W Washington St
  With locations in Hillcrest and Kearny Mesa, Sushi Deli 1 is a go-to for creative, budget-friendly rolls with fun twists and generous portions.
  
• RK Sushi – 4002 30th St
  Located between Hillcrest and Mission Hills, RK Sushi is a low-key, well-rated spot with an extensive selection of both classic and creative sushi rolls at affordable prices. All-you-can-eat options available.
• Wonderful Sushi Hillcrest – 128 W University Ave
  A casual eatery known for its straightforward, high-quality sushi and sashimi. The menu also includes appetizers like Gyoza and Edamame, as well as lunch specials and bento boxes.

CHINESE

• Cluck N Sip – 120 W Washington St B
  A fast-casual, counter-serve eatery serving up Sichuan-style fried chicken with a spicy kick. Their Cluckin' Spicy Sandwich, featuring tender chicken, house-made hot mayo, and Chinese chili oil, is a crowd favorite.
• Dumplings N More – $ 3860 Fifth Ave
  This informal restaurant offers a delectable variety of dumplings, including soup dumplings, steamed buns, and pan-fried options. You'll also find noodle dishes, fried rice, and boba tea.
• Corner Cafe – 3614 Fifth Ave
  A no-fuss spot serving up classic favorites like garlic pepper wings and Chinese sausage fried rice. The portions are generous, the flavors get great reviews from locals, and the prices are reasonable.