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Your Go-To Guide for Vail’s Asian Restaurant Scene

Discover Asian restaurants in Vail, from sushi and Japanese dishes to Nepalese cuisine, Thai food and beyond.

Asian restaurants in Vail bring vibrant flavors to the mountains from culinary traditions across Japan, Thailand, Nepal, India and more. Start with a comforting bowl of ramen — perfect on a snowy day — as you take in breathtaking mountain views. Then, enjoy rich curries that balance spice with bold flavors or indulge in MICHELIN-recommended seafood and sushi rolls artfully crafted by celebrated chefs. Try it all with our comprehensive roundup of Asian restaurants and sushi spots in Vail that should be on any foodie’s list.

At Mokoto Vail inside the Grand Hyatt Vail Resort and Spa, two dinners savor platters of fresh sushi and glasses of sake.
Photo courtesy of Grand Hyatt Vail Resort and Spa

Sushi & Japanese Flavors in Vail

Osaki’s

100 E. Meadow Dr. #14, Vail, CO 81657; 970-476-0977

Tucked away on a cozy sidestreet behind Meadow Drive’s boutiques, Osaki’s is a haven for diehard sushi fans. Its intimate setting with a traditional, no-frills aesthetic and dedication to high-quality dishes earned its MICHELIN recommendation.

Snag a reservation (available 24 hours in advance), and request a spot at the coveted sushi counter to watch these masters in action. There’s also a handful of tables for small groups to share a bottle of sake and catch up between sips of miso soup. For an unforgettable evening, you can’t beat the omakase experience — a fan favorite — where your chef decides and serves a specially crafted multi-course, off-menu meal just for you.

Insider’s Tip: If you’re planning a visit, check out their Instagram channel, where videos of two whiteboard menus and fresh-caught fish reveal the day’s offerings. Sushi options range from staples like salmon and tuna to Japanese specialties such as hagatsui and akamutsu.

Makoto Vail

1300 Westhaven Dr., Vail, CO 81657; 970-479-1536

Conceived by award-winning chef Makoto Okuwa, Makoto Vail’s concept blends Japanese cuisine with Rocky Mountain ingredients. Sushi fans can dive into everything from hosomaki rolls — wrapped in seaweed and filled with options like succulent snow crab — to uramaki rolls — stuffed with ingredients like crispy shrimp tempura or spicy scallops, then wrapped in a layer of seasoned sushi rice. For something beyond seafood, opt for the Ginger Lamb Chop with whipped tofu feta or a 10-ounce skirt steak with wasabi chimichurri and avocado puree. Round out your meal with a savory side like wagyu dumplings with smoked aioli sauce.

Located inside the Grand Hyatt Vail Resort and Spa, this restaurant pairs its menu with an upscale-minimalist setting — think a black-and-white stone bar, a hanging, interlocked wooden sculpture and sleek leather seating. A complimentary shuttle is also available to pick up guests staying off-property in Vail Village and Lionshead. Use it for a romantic date night out (reservations are highly recommended) or to attend signature events and specialty tastings. If you’d prefer to savor Makoto’s dishes in your own space. Keep an eye out for their upcoming takeout service.

Two people snack on sushi while wearing their ski gear at Avanti F&B Vail in Vail, Colorado.

Glo at Avanti F&B Vail

458 Vail Valley Dr., Vail, CO 81657; 970-763-6017

As a Japanese kitchen with a penchant for ramen, Glo at Avanti F&B Vail boasts some of the best remedies for chilly days. If the rich, umami flavors of the traditional tonkotsu pork broth don’t stir your bowl, you’ll love the ginger-chicken and chili jam of the Shio or the all-veggie option loaded with bok choy, black garlic oil and roasted mushrooms. Sit outside in winter for unmatched views of the snow-blanketed mountainside and watch skiers and snowboarders carve their way down Golden Peak.

When summer comes, there’s nothing like basking in the warm sunshine on Avanti’s open patio — with a few tasty treats, of course. For cooling off, we suggest a zesty and refreshing yuzu lemonade with a side of chilled tofu seasoned with sesame vinaigrette, chili oil and cucumber. Or belly up to the indoor sushi bar for the flame-seared Aburi Salmon flavored with miso, citrusy ponzu and charred serrano salsa or temaki (hand rolls) like the Negihamma with yellowtail and fresh green onion.

Zuma Vail

16 Vail Rd., Vail, CO 81657

Located inside The Sebastian Vail (set to open in spring 2026), Zuma Vail brings the internationally celebrated izakaya-style dining to Vail’s sushi scene. It’s one of just five restaurants in Zuma’s exclusive North American lineup, with additional international locations, including Milan, Dubai and London.

Here, soft, ambient lighting, carved wooden screens and plush chairs set the scene for an après afternoon of socializing and dining. Grab a chair at the bar with a date to share plates of grilled skewers called robata, savor expertly prepared nigiri and sample bottles of sake. Groups can settle into a comfy booth or table for Saikyo Miso-marinated black cod (a Zuma signature dish), tempting desserts and seasonal offerings — all to the backdrop of DJ-spun tunes.

Matsuhisa Vail

141 E. Meadow Dr., Vail, CO 81657; 970-476-6628

Brought to Vail by world-renowned Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Matsuhisa Vail is one of only four U.S. locations and a standout for both celebratory dinners and elevated nights out. Located inside the Solaris Residences, the restaurant blends family-style dining with traditional Japanese flavors boasting Peruvian influences. Try knock-out signature dishes like the black cod with sweet miso and the squid pasta in aromatic garlic sauce. Then, elevate your meal with a bottle from the extensive bubbles, wine or sake list — or a Japanese-inspired cocktail like the fruity Matsuni, finished with a Champagne float.

Going for sushi? Settle in at the long, wooden sushi bar and watch talented chefs artfully slice and plate each creation. It’s a mesmerizing show and one of the best ways to discover all the tastiest looking bites. The yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño and whitefish tiradito in particular are some of Matsuhisa’s signature dishes. Or explore the full menu with your crew in the main dining area where floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning mountain and village vistas. When the weather’s warm, the open-air terrace offers refreshing breezes and views of the lively Solaris Plaza.

Yama Sushi

168 Gore Creek Dr., Vail, CO 81657; 970-476-7332

Wanting sushi, but not sure what to get? Yama Sushi makes it easy to follow your appetite with a menu spanning artfully plated nigiri and special cuts of sashimi to beloved standbys like the snow crab-filled California Roll and playful, seasonal creations such as the Berry Picker Roll topped with fresh, tart raspberries. Round out your order with marinated seaweed salad or bowls of spicy edamame and handcrafted cocktails. Choose a mix of familiar favorites and new discoveries to share as a group.

Inside, the atmosphere is upbeat and retro, with muted red floors, sleek modern chairs and black lattice dividers. Snag a seat at the sushi bar for dinner and a show or opt for a small table with close friends. Walk-ins are sometimes available, but reservations will ensure you one of these coveted spots, especially around peak season. In summer, you may luck into a last-minute seat at an umbrella-shaded table on the cobblestone patio — a perfect perch for people-watching amid blooming flowers and greenery. For extra fun, check Yama Sushi’s Instagram for special events, including karaoke nights with sushi and drink specials and surprise menu offerings.

Joy Sushi

2161 N. Frontage Rd. W., Vail, CO 81657; 970-688-5758

Joy Sushi in West Vail is the kind of eatery you stumble onto once and come back to again and again. Stop in to refuel post-hike with a lineup of delicious rolls in the sunny, window-lined dining room. Try a twist on the well-known crab-and-avocado-filled Rainbow Roll with black instead of white rice for a nutty, umami flavor. For a spicy kick, get the signature Joy Roll crafted with tuna, salmon and avocado, then wrapped in soy bean paper and topped with slices of wagyu beef, Japanese wasabi dressing and chili pepper.

In the evenings, this eatery becomes a homey meet-up spot for friends, with the soft glow of colorful string lights and pendant lamps fitted with charming little plants. Order a selection of rolls to share and swap around the table, then round out your meal with crispy egg rolls, chicken-stuffed gyoza and sweet bundles of mochi ice cream.

Thai Food in Vail

Lost Heaven

616 W Lionshead Cir., Vail, CO 81657; 970-688-5158

True to its name, Lost Heaven is a haven for Thai-food lovers craving tantalizing flavors and generous portions.The menu features popular Thai hits including stir-fried pad thai noodles, authentic curries, spicy tom yum soup and fried-rice dishes — we suggest the citrusy pineapple fried rice, which is served up in an actual pineapple half. For even more variety, browse the selection of Japanese sushi rolls and Chinese dishes including a hot pot meal that gets rave reviews. Whatever you choose, expect a high chance of leftovers and make sure there’s room in your fridge before heading out.

Lost Heaven also boasts a super convenient location in Lionshead Village’s Concert Hall Plaza. Enjoy a short, easy walk from lodgings like The Lion Vail and Montaneros in Vail or hop on the bus and arrive right at the building entrance. The main area is cozy with bright-colored walls, lots of tall windows and cushioned wooden chairs. Meanwhile the outdoor deck features shaded tables with stands of tall pines and views of the bustling village. If you’re too tired to dine out, order takeout or delivery and savor your meal snuggled up on the couch.

Indian & Nepalese Food in Vail

Annapurna Nepali & Indian Cuisine

250 S. Frontage Rd. W., Vail, CO 81657; 970-476-7812

Tucked inside the Evergreen Lodge at Vail, Annapurna Nepali & Indian Cuisine invites you on a flavorful journey through Nepali and Indian traditions. The menu balances comforting favorites with bold spices — from pillowy naan and flaky, golden samosas to rich kormas and heat-forward options like lamb vindaloo simmered in a tangy, spice-packed curry. Vegetarians will feel right at home with dishes like alu dum, a potato curry loaded with spices and served in a sauce of tomatoes, caramelized onions and a dash of cream.

The spacious dining room is welcoming and relaxed with plenty of plush booths and tables for families and larger groups. Picture windows look out onto an outdoor terrace surrounded by towering evergreens and decorated with planters blooming with flowers in warmer months. Dine outside under umbrella-shaded tables in the afternoon or visit in the evening to dine amid twinkling lights.

Chinese Food in Vail

Bao You Like It

Pop-Up Locations; 970-331-3033

Creating a buzz across Vail, Bao You Like It is a local pop-up bringing traditional Chinese bao buns to some of the villages’ favorite gathering spots, including Sarah’s Lounge in the Christiania at Vail, 10th Mountain Whiskey & Distillery Company, Archetype Distillery and — this summer — the Vail Farmers’ Market & Art Show.

Warm with a pillowy dough, these steamed buns are an oh-so-cravable snack after a day of mountain adventure. Each bun is handmade with authentic techniques and bold flavors by husband-and-wife team Mick Boland and May Yang. Go savory with Grandma’s OG Pork, filled with soy-glazed pork belly, green onions, ginger and garlic, or opt for the Vegan Delight, stuffed with sweet potato glass noodles, tofu and an umami-forward spice blend. For dessert, try a sweet bao with red bean paste. Follow their Instagram to see where these delicious buns will appear next.

Insider Tip: You’ll be thinking about these long after the last bite, which is why grabbing a pack of pre-made, frozen buns to enjoy at home is highly encouraged.

May Palace

2109 N. Frontage Rd. W., Vail, CO 81657; 970-476-1657

A longstanding spot for Chinese cuisine in West Vail, May Palace offers a range of dishes, including spicy, tangy bowls of hot and sour soup, Mongolian beef and dim sum — a traditional meal of meat and veggie-filled dumplings.

FAQs: Insider Tips for Asian Restaurants in Vail

What is considered Asian food?

Asian food spans an incredible range of regions and flavors — from Mongolia in the north and Indonesia in south to Japan in eastern Asia and western Asian countries like Pakistan — offering endless options to fill your plate.

I love spicy food. Which dishes can be made the spiciest?

Spice lovers will feel right at home exploring Vail’s Asian restaurants, with plenty of popular dishes including curry, tom yum soup and vindaloo. When choosing your eatery, scan online menus for spicy standouts or ask your waiter about heat levels — most kitchens are happy to dial things up or down to match your preferences.

I’m not a fan of raw fish. Which sushi rolls are cooked?

If you’re exploring sushi in Vail, there are many options when it comes to cooked sushi rolls, including classics like the Shrimp Tempura Roll with crunchy, fried shrimp; the Spider Roll featuring deep-fried crab, cucumbers and spicy mayo; and the Philadelphia Roll made of smoked salmon, cream cheese and cucumbers. Ask your server about specialty house rolls that may be cooked as well.

Discover Vail Staff Writer
Discover Vail Staff Writer
Each Discover Vail blog is shaped by people who know Vail inside and out. With 119 combined years of experience on these mountains and in this community, our team — consisting of skiers, hikers, foodies and event devotees — delivers big on local insights. And we’re always discovering new things to love about our home.