Food For The Soul
My Top Picks For Great Asian Meals in Anchorage
Part 1: Noodles and Soups
Moving to a new place can be exciting, but it can also be a challenge, especially when it comes to finding your favorite foods. As someone who recently moved to Alaska from Hong Kong, I found myself missing the flavors and dishes of home. I was craving the taste of authentic Asian cuisine, and I set out on a journey to explore the food scene in my new city.
As I was 8 months pregnant, my belly was getting bigger and bigger and I was craving for a hot bowl of hearty soup. Being new to Alaska, I had to do a lot of research – “Internet Procrastination”. Alaska's cold weather even in the Summer months make hot, comforting soups like ramen and pho particularly appealing.
It's believed that the longer the noodle, the longer the life.
Asia is home to a diverse range of soup dishes that vary in taste, ingredients, and preparation methods. While each soup dish is unique, there are some similarities and shared features that unite them across the continent.
One similarity among Asian soup dishes is the use of broth as a base. Broth can be made with a variety of ingredients, including meat, vegetables, and seafood. The broth can be clear or thick, depending on the soup, and is often flavored with spices and herbs to add depth and complexity.
Another shared feature of Asian soup dishes is the inclusion of noodles. Noodles come in many different shapes and sizes, from thin rice noodles in pho to thick udon noodles in Japanese hot pot. Noodles add texture and heartiness to the soup, making it a more filling meal.
Noodle soups have a rich and diverse history in Asia, with different countries having their own unique styles and traditions. Over time, noodle-making techniques spread throughout Asia, resulting in the diverse range of noodle dishes we see today. Soba noodles are a popular and beloved dish in Japan, often served cold with a dipping sauce or in a hot soup. In Vietnam, pho noodles are a staple of the cuisine and have a fascinating history. It's believed that pho was created during the French colonial period in Vietnam, when the French introduced beef to the country. Vietnamese cooks combined the beef with rice noodles, herbs, and spices to create the dish we know and love today.
Across many Asian cultures, there is a belief that eating noodles can bring long life and good luck. In China, for example, noodles are often eaten during birthday celebrations as a symbol of longevity. It's believed that the longer the noodle, the longer the life. Whether you're looking for a long life or just a delicious meal, there's a noodle dish out there for everyone to enjoy.
Overall, the diversity of soup dishes in Asia reflects the vast array of cultures, ingredients, and traditions found across the continent. Despite their differences, these soups all offer comfort, nourishment, and a taste of their respective cultures.
Hope this helps you find the best soups to feed the soul and give you some ideas on what to order next time you are craving something warm, comforting and delicious. Here's a quick rundown of the best soups in town:
Japanese
Soup is a great option if you are looking for a warm, nourishing meal that is both satisfying and delicious. If you're in need of some comfort, why not try a piping hot bowl of delicious ramen? Ramen is often associated with college students due to its affordability and convenience, but high-end ramen shops have become increasingly popular in recent years.
Kumagoro
533 W 4th Ave, Anchorage
This ramen restaurant may be a bit touristy since it’s located downtown, but the flavors are definitely closer to the real thing. The restaurant has a lively and bustling atmosphere, making it a fun place to grab a bowl of noodles with friends. The menu has a variety of options, including skewers and sushi. Prices are on the higher side, but the quality of the food makes it worth it. If you're looking for a more authentic ramen experience without having to travel to Japan, this restaurant is a great choice.
Naruto Japanese Restaurant
3600 Minnesota Dr, Anchorage
If you're looking for a quick, easy meal, this ramen joint is a decent option. The atmosphere has a college cafeteria vibe because of all the manga, but the food is good enough to satisfy a craving. The portions are decently sized and the prices are reasonable, making it a popular choice among locals and those looking for a quick, casual meal. While it may not be the most authentic ramen experience, it's a solid choice if you're in a rush or on a budget.
Vietnamese
When the weather is cold, we all crave something warm and hearty. If you're in need of a quick meal, Pho is the perfect choice. It's flavorful, warming, and can fill you up fast (trust me). Here are just a few of our favorite Pho spots you'll want to try. The dish is made with a beef or chicken broth that's flavored with herbs and spices and served with rice noodles and various toppings, such as beef or chicken slices, bean sprouts, and herbs. Pho is often eaten for breakfast in Vietnam and is considered a comfort food that's good for the soul.
Gia Dinh Pho and Vietnamese Cuisine
549 W International Airport Rd, Anchorage
This restaurant has an unassuming ambiance that makes you feel right at home. The staff is incredibly welcoming and helpful, which only adds to the comfortable vibe. But let's talk about the star of the show - the pho. The portions are generous, and every ingredient is fresh and perfectly cooked. The broth is rich and clean, with the perfect balance of herbs and spices. Overall, if you're looking for an authentic pho experience with great service, Gia Dinh is the perfect spot.
PHOnatik Vietnamese Cuisine & Lounge
901 E Dimond Blvd, Anchorage
For those on a budget, PHOnatik is the place to be. This restaurant offers great value for money, allowing you to choose the size of your portion. No matter what size you choose, you'll be treated to a bowl of pho that's loaded with meat, giving you a true bang for your buck. And if you're looking for some sides to go along with your meal, PHOnatik has got you covered. The fresh rolls are just as delicious as their soups. Make sure to save some space for dessert too - there's an awesome bakery next door, Benji’s, that's definitely worth checking out.
Thai
Thai cuisine is known for its balance of sweet, sour, spicy, salty, and bitter flavors, as well as its use of fresh herbs and spices. The influence of Indian, Chinese, and Malay cuisine can be seen in many Thai dishes, such as noodle soups and stir-fry. Every meal is best enjoyed with a sweet glass of Thai Iced Tea.
So Thai
2602 Spenard Rd, Anchorage
What sets So Thai apart from other Thai spots in Anchorage is the authenticity of the flavors. You can taste the care and attention that goes into each dish. I love the Boat Noodle here because it’s close to what I get in Asia. The broth is loaded with herbs and spices, plenty of pork, and a secret ingredient: pig's blood.
But it's not just the food that makes So Thai such a standout. The service is attentive and friendly – with traditional Thai decor that adds to the overall experience, making you feel like you’re in Bangkok.
Coming Soon: Tom Yum Soup
If you have any suggestions for a great tom yum place, please feel free to send me a message. I'm always on the lookout for new and delicious thai spots to try, and I'd love to hear your recommendations!
Coming Soon…
I am excited to share my experiences with Filipino and Chinese soups soon. From the hearty and flavorful Filipino Sinigang to the classic Chinese Wonton soup, I'll be updating the list with a range of Asian cuisine that will surely satisfy any craving.
I feel like soup is one of those things that get overlooked because of convenience. Hope this helps you find the best soups to feed the soul and give you some ideas on what to order next time you are craving something warm, comforting and delicious.
I encourage you to try the restaurants yourselves, and share your own favorite spots with me!
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