Finding good Asian food near Johns Hopkins University is easy thanks to the diverse culinary scene in Baltimore. Whether you’re craving familiar comfort food or looking to try something new, there are plenty of options within walking distance or a short shuttle ride from campus. Here are some top recommendations for the best Asian restaurants near JHU:
Orient Express, located on St. Paul Street just a block from campus, specializes in Szechuan cuisine, known for its distinctive mala spice that creates a numbing sensation. Don’t worry if you can’t handle the heat; they offer plenty of non-spicy options as well. Their chicken with Szechuan pepper masterfully combines crispy chicken with bold flavors. For the adventurous, try the beef lungs in chili sauce – a surprisingly refreshing appetizer with a unique texture.
Craving Japanese food? Kajiken, an 8-minute walk from campus, offers a unique take on noodles with their signature dish, aburasoba. This brothless ramen allows the umami-flavored sauce and the texture of the homemade noodles to shine. Try the homura aburasoba for an added kick of spice.
Sakoon Indian Fusion, a 10-minute walk from campus, is a great introduction to Indian cuisine. They offer classic dishes like butter chicken served with delicious garlic naan. The staff helpfully guides you through the spice levels, differentiating between the “Indian” and “American” scales. Their daily lunch buffet from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring unlimited mango lassi, is a must-try.
Ekiben, a 20-minute walk or 10-minute shuttle ride from campus, excels in Asian fusion. Their Neighborhood Bird sandwich features a mouthwatering combination of Taiwanese curry fried chicken, spicy sambal mayo, and a soft bun. Vegetarians will love their tofu. Don’t forget to try their refreshing iced tea.
Bodhi Corner, located in Hampden (a 20-minute walk or 10-minute shuttle ride from campus), is a Thai restaurant known for its exceptional Pad Thai. The sauce perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. Their panang curry is another must-try dish.
