For those who love a unique dining experience based on tried-and-true recipes, this Dimsum and tapas fusion is sure to please. Located in Asheville’s bustling downtown, it’s a restaurant with a view … and a menu to die for. When you’re ready to stop ogling the ambience, check out the hefty list of appetizers, sides, and tapas for an Asian experience with a Spanish twist.
Devised by Chef Ben Chen and Kevin Jiang, Red Ginger elevates the idea of traditional Chinese food by serving all-day Dimsum and tapas. This not only makes it easier to try many dishes, it gives the chefs ample room to experiment with local and limited ingredients, dictated by season and availability. The food is both heavenly and healthy, heavy on the veggies and lean meats.
One of the most exciting aspects of Red Ginger is how they changed up the ordering method. In most Dimsum restaurants, patrons order from a rolling cart containing various dishes, kind of like an old-fashioned sushi track. Here, though, you get to see right into the kitchen where the magic happens and order from the menu as you please. Once you’re seated, food comes quickly.
If you’re a wine enthusiast, good news: You can complement your dinner with wines grown and made in Red Ginger’s own vineyard. Waitstaff are happy to advise vintages that will pair well with your tapas dishes, rounding out the local dining experience. Vegetarians and vegans need not fear, either; there are plenty of choices for both on this extensive menu.
A few of our menu favorite at Red Ginger Dimsum & Tapas include:
Wonton Soup
A true Chinese classic, wonton soup is warming, soothing, and healthful all at once. Made with chicken broth, soft pork-filled wontons, scallions, and pickles, it’s a blast from the past that feels right at home among the delicious fusion-y menu items.
Foon Zao
If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Foon Zao. This dish of steamed chicken feet is tender and succulent, and a perfect choice for those who love skin.
Vegetable Lo Mein
Another Chinese classic, Lo Mein noodles are soft and silky, but hearty enough to stand up to the right sauce and veggies with which they are cooked. The dish comes piping hot and is plenty to share.
Curry Soft Shell Crab
Here’s where the fusion aspect of Red Ginger really starts to shine. The curry soft shell crab is served with onions, French bread, coconut milk, and an all-around fantastical combination of ingredients that is sure to please foodies and newbies alike.
Insider Tips:
-Red Ginger does not take reservations, so if you want to be sure to eat when you’re hungry, get there early. The restaurant is often packed due to the quality of the food and its excellent online reviews, so don’t take chances!
-Order lots of small dishes… Especially if you’re going for the first time, order lots of smaller dishes so you can sample the cuisine. You can always order more partway through dinner as well, so pace yourself.
-Red Ginger only offers pickup, not delivery, but the food is ready in about 25 minutes if you want to skip the crowds.
-Even though the restaurant is often busy, the staff are happy to push tables together to seat larger groups. Just make sure to get there early and get on the waitlist.