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Libby Wiersema lived in California and Alabama before settling in South Carolina 38 years ago,
where she's covered the state's best culinary offerings and tells the stories behind the food.
Move over, tacos and pizza—make room for kimchi nachos, bibimbap and bulgogi.
The Asian fusion craze has hit its stride, and South Carolinians are eating it up—literally.
In Columbia, the dining scene is keeping step with the trend. More restaurants than ever are offering traditional favorites alongside Asian-forward dishes that boldly intersect with other cuisines.
But the demand for fresh, exciting dishes—and crafty cocktails to pair them with—goes hand-in-hand with atmosphere and vibe. Fans of modern Asian cuisine want date-night worthy spaces in which to enjoy their poke bowls, tuna tacos, gyozas and yuzu daquiris.
You can check off all the boxes for a lively, modern Asian dining experience at these establishments.
Kao Thai
Flavorful fusions and crafty cocktails are a perfect pairing at Kao Thai Cuisine.
Food Factors: Fresh, modern Bangkok-influenced Thai and Asian cuisine with creative twists Drink Factors: Full bar, craft cocktails, Asian-inspired sips The Feel: Casual, trendy, fun Dive into: Pork Gyoza, Drunken Noodles, Street Style Corn Ribs, Lychee Duck Curry
929 Kitchen & Bar
The Stone Bowl Bibimbap at 929 Kitchen is pure Asian-inspired comfort.
Food Factors: Modern Korean cuisine rooted in ancient cooking traditions Drink Factors: Full bar, craft cocktails, Asian-inspired sips The Feel: Warm, modern, hip Dive into this: Stone Bowl Bibimbap, Kimchi Bulgogi Nachos, Pop Mandoo, Yuzu Cake
Moa Korean BBQ
Grill your meats and veggies at the table when you dine at Moa Korean BBQ.
Food Factors: Marinated meat and veggie combos to prepare at your tabletop grill as well as traditional Korean plates from the kitchen Drink Factors: Full bar, craft cocktails, Asian-inspired sips The Feel: Bright, fun, casual Dive into this: Korean Ceviche, Spicy Pork Bulgogi, Spicy Squid and Pork Belly, Hotteok with Ice Cream
Bodhi Thai Dining
An exotic, chef-driven menu elevates the experience at Bodhi Thai Cuisine.
Food Factors: Exotic, world-class, modern Thai cuisine Drink Factors: Full bar, inspired wine list, Thai tea and coffee drinks The Feel: White tablecloth, candlelit, elegant Dive into this: Braised baby pork ribs, House-made squid ink pasta with seafood, Chicken Ballotine with Massaman curry, two-way potatoes, charred onion and roasted peanut. Note: Reservation only; no children younger than 6
CO
Sharing family-style plates at CO makes for an exciting Asian dining adventure.
Food Factors: Bright, bold Southeast Asian cuisine Drink Factors: Full bar with crafty cocktails, sake and sake infusions, Vietnamese iced coffee The Feel: Stylish, warm, contemporary Dive into this: Salmon carpaccio, Garlic Sesame Tuna Tacos, Green Papaya Salad, Hanoi Noodles
Dragon Room
KFC - Korean fried chicken - is a fan favorite at The Dragon Room.
Food Factors: Pan-Asian cuisine, wok-fired dishes, dim sum brunch and late-night menu Drink Factors: Crafty cocktails, wine and beer The Feel: Upbeat, bright, casual, whimsical Asian-inspired decor Dive into this: Szechuan Green Beans, Pow Shrimp, Ginger-glazed Osso Bucco
Libby Wiersema lived in California and Alabama before settling in South Carolina 38 years ago,
where she's covered the state's best culinary offerings and tells the stories behind the food.
