The Asian Food Fest keeps getting a little better every year – this year features around 13 food vendors as well as several non-food vendors (games, massages, etc.) and on-stage entertainment and demonstrations in the center of the festival. Like last year the Asian Food Fest is at The Banks on Freedom Way between Paul Brown Stadium and The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.

Entrance is free however donations are encouraged to give to support the charity of choice – this year being Thrīvera, a non-profit organization that helps young people build self-confidence and strength by expressing themselves through telling their stories. For a $3 donation you can get a little “passport” coupon card good at some of the food vendors for $1 off certain items, up to $5 per card.

It’s spring again and that means festivals – in particular one of our favorites – the 4th Annual Asian Food Fest! Sample fare from local restaurants from Japanese to Indian and Chinese to the Philippines.

Like last year The Asian Food Fest is going to be held at The Banks in Downtown Cincinnati on Freedom Way between Elm and Rosa Parks Streets, or between the Paul Brown Stadium and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. There’s no entrance fee although guests will have to find parking at one of the many nearby garages or street parking.

Lotus root isn’t exactly a really common food here in the States, much less the seeds of the lotus plant. This is a shame as both are really tasty – and so we’d like to change that.

Eaten both raw and cooked in everything from salads to main entrees to desserts, lotus root and seeds are common in East Asian cuisines, but can also be found in other parts of the world (as far away as Columbia!) In particular the seeds are a delicious snack and addition to foods. Not to mention, the flower itself is absolutely gorgeous.

It’s no secret that we love Asian food and ever since Quan Hapa was announced we’ve been hanging by every post eagerly awaiting the announcement that they were open. The time has finally come.

Quan Hapa, pronounced “Wan Ha pa,” is the latest project by the amazing trio of David Le and brothers Bao and Duy Nguyen plus Chef Matt Cranert. Many may recognize the trio by their first restaurant Pho Lang Thang in Findlay Market. Pho Lang Thang has enjoyed continued popularity and success as not only one of everyone’s favorite places in Findlay Market but also as the best Vietnamese in the Cincinnati area. Quan Hapa, the latest project, is an Asian gastro pub focusing on serving what is their take on Asian street food.

This year’s Asian Food Fest is possibly the biggest and definitely the best yet. Featuring thirteen restaurants from around Greater Cincinnati, visitors can sample some of the finest Asian dishes around town. Several other local businesses also have booths and live entertainment sits at the heart of the festival.

Unlike previous years, the Asian Food Fest is located along Freedom Way in-between the Paul Brown Stadium and the National Underground Freedom Center. The location is easily accessible and parking is plentiful thanks to all the parking lots nearby. Booths are set up on either side of the street with a few open tables and the stage is located in the center of the event.