Z Asian - Vietnamese Kitchen — Restaurant in Orlando

This is a family owned, upscale, Vietnamese restaurant.

Food 5/5:

This was an unforgettable dining experience! From the moment I took your first bite of the grilled squid, it's clear this place is all about getting the details right. The squid, cooked to perfection with just the right amount of char, paired with that irresistible sauce the owner makes (which you could probably drink by the gallon), sounds like a standout dish.

The shrimp rolls were another win, with the green onion adding a fresh kick and the shrimp itself seasoned and fried to crispy perfection. Even more surprising was the lamb chop--despite my usual aversion to lamb, these were so tender and flavorful that they changed your mind, with no trace of gaminess. It's a great example of how skilled they are at working with flavors.

Then there were the mini shrimp crêpes-- I was very impressed by the way it was cooked. perfectly crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and paired with a dipping sauce that balanced sweetness and spice just right. The freshness of the herbs added another layer of vibrancy to the dish, showing just how much care goes into each plate.

The tuna on shrimp crackers was an inventive twist on tuna poke nachos, and they were right about the shrimp chips--crispier and more flavorful than wonton chips, they didn't soak up oil and elevated the dish even further. It's clear the owner is not only a talented cook but also an innovator.

The star of the show, though, seems to be the bougie pho. With 24-hour-brewed broth that had layers of depth and richness, the addition of filet mignon, tender brisket, and the option to scrape in bone marrow? That's a pho like no other. The fact that you didn't even feel the need to add hoisin or Sriracha speaks volumes about how flavorful it was on its own. It's the kind of dish you can't stop thinking about after the meal.

And then, fried ice cream to finish--crispy, sweet, and perfectly creamy. It sounds like the batter was something special, adding a delicate crunch that complemented the ice cream beautifully without being greasy.

The Forager cocktail was another standout, with its complex, forest-like flavors that paired wonderfully with all the food.

If there's one place that's earned my highest recommendation, it's this one. This place is it a must-visit for anyone who loves delicious, thoughtfully prepared food.

Service 5/5: The service was as excellent as the food, with the owners personally crafting many of the ingredients and making every guest...

It was a bustling Saturday night in Orlando, and my stomach was growling louder than a lion in the Serengeti. After facing the formidable lines at two other restaurants, I stumbled upon ZAsain—a beacon of tranquility with its ample parking and mysteriously slow pace. As a Vietnamese American 🇺🇸, I admit I can be a tough critic when it comes to Vietnamese cuisine in the U.S. But hey, my hunger had taken the driver's seat, so in I went.

Walking into ZAsain was like stepping onto the set of a James Bond movie—contemporary, classic, and stylish, minus the explosions. I half-expected Daniel Craig to be at the bar sipping a martini. Instead, I was greeted by Mohammed, whose table-side manners were so phenomenal that I briefly considered nominating him for an Oscar.

The place was eerily quiet, with just one other table of four and a party of nine who waltzed in a bit after me. Most folks probably come here for the Pho or the main dishes, but not this guy! I was on a street food mission. I ordered the Vietnamese crepe Bánh Xèo and the Viet chicken wings, secretly hoping they would transport me straight to the bustling streets of Saigon.

Fifteen minutes later, my food arrived, fresh and hot. First up, the chicken wings. Now, I'm a self-proclaimed chicken wing connoisseur, and I have a soft spot for Korean fried chicken. But these Viet wings? They rocketed to the top of my list. Sweet, spicy, with a magical umami blend of garlic, cilantro, and tangy sauce. The crunch was like a symphony of crispy perfection, leading to a crescendo of juicy, tender chicken inside. 10/10, folks—these wings could make a grown man weep.

Next, the Bánh Xèo. Oh my goodness, it was like being teleported to Vietnam but with a classier, upper-crust twist. The pork and shrimp were cooked to perfection, a feat rarely achieved with Bánh Xèo. The crepe was light, fluffy, and crispy, like a golden cloud of deliciousness. Wrapped in fresh lettuce with a dash of anise leaves and pickled daikon and carrots, it was an absolute flavor explosion.

All in all, my experience at ZAsain was stellar. Sure, the prices are a tad high, but for this quality? Worth every penny. I'll definitely be back, not just for the food, but maybe to see if James Bond finally shows up.

In summary: If you're in Orlando and your taste buds are craving a culinary adventure, ZAsain is your ticket. Just watch out for Mohammed's charm—it might just...

Z Asian is a culinary gem that rightfully earned its Michelin Bib Gourmand, offering exceptional cuisine at moderate prices. This restaurant masterfully blends traditional Asian flavors with modern techniques, resulting in dishes that are both familiar and excitingly innovative.

The moment you step in, you're greeted by an ambiance that balances elegance with comfort, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. The attentive and knowledgeable staff adds to the welcoming atmosphere, always ready to guide you through the menu or offer pairing suggestions.

While everything on the menu is noteworthy, there are a few standout dishes that shouldn't be missed. The lamb chops are simply divine - perfectly grilled to your liking, they're tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The marinade, a secret blend of spices, elevates the natural taste of the lamb to new heights.

For soup lovers, the spicy beef lemongrass soup is a must-try. It's a harmonious blend of aromatic lemongrass, tender beef, and a spicy broth that warms you from the inside out. The complexity of flavors in this soup is a testament to the chef's skill and attention to detail.

To start your meal, I highly recommend the summer rolls. Fresh, light, and bursting with vibrant flavors, they're the perfect appetizer. The translucent rice paper wraps a delightful mix of fresh vegetables and herbs, often with a protein like shrimp or chicken, accompanied by a peanut dipping sauce that's absolutely addictive.

What sets Z Asian apart is their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients. This shines through in every dish, from the crispness of the vegetables to the tenderness of the meats. The presentation is equally impressive, with each plate arriving like a work of art.

The restaurant also boasts an impressive drink menu, featuring both classic cocktails and innovative concoctions that complement the food perfectly. Their wine list is well-curated, offering excellent pairings for every dish.

Z Asian's Michelin Bib Gourmand status is well-deserved. It offers a dining experience that rivals much pricier establishments, proving that exceptional food doesn't have to break the bank. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just looking for a great meal, Z Asian is sure to impress. Don't miss the chance to experience this culinary treasure - your taste buds will thank...