Cincinnati’s biggest Asian-inspired food festival is back this spring with dozens of vendors and even more styles of Asian cuisine represented than ever before.
Asian Food Fest returns to Court Street, between Elm and Main, in downtown Cincinnati for its 14th year Saturday-Sunday, April 26-27. The celebration is one of Cincinnati’s fastest-growing and most culturally diverse festivals, attracting nearly 120,000 attendees annually.
This year’s festival will feature a lineup of over 55 food vendors, with 18 different countries’ cuisines represented, including Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Malaysian, Filipino and Indian. There are returning favorites, including Boba Cha, Bridges Nepali Cuisine and Pho Lang Thang, as well as newcomers like Fusako (by Dine-In Hawaiian), Nittha Siam Kitchen, Tous les Jours Café and Taste of Manhattan. The fan-favorite Secret Menu, which features home cooks from local Asian organizations and new kitchen start-ups, will also return. You can see the full vendor lineup here.
“We’re thrilled to showcase the incredible diversity of Asian cuisines from across our region,” JP Leong, Asianati co-chair for Asian Food Fest, said in a press release. “This year’s vendor lineup represents authentic traditional dishes and innovative fusion creations that reflect the evolving nature of Asian food culture in America. There’s truly something for every palate.”
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There will also be expanded community and family zones this year, which include interactive cultural activities, along with performances and demonstrations designed for all ages. Community groups like FC Cincinnati’s Street Team, Queen City Riichi and Cincinnati Cancer Advisors will also be present, as well as K Pop dance group Aces of Spades, who will teach festivalgoers some of their moves.
Attendees can also expect live entertainment like traditional music, dance performances and contemporary Asian-inspired artists. There is also a new “AFF After Dark” activation, which will feature games, lively interactions and the chance to meet new people.
“Asian Food Fest has grown into a true community celebration that brings together people from all backgrounds,” said Brendon Cull, president and CEO of the Cincinnati Regional Chamber. “The festival demonstrates our commitment to creating an inclusive, educational experience beyond amazing food to celebrate the rich cultural heritage that the Asian community brings to our region.”
Asian Food Fest is currently looking for volunteers. There are various roles available, including vendor support, family zone activities, and general festival operations. Volunteers will receive a free T-shirt, as well as drink tickets. You can sign up at asianfoodfest.org.
Asian Food Fest runs from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, April 26 and from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, April 27. Learn more about the festival here.
This article appears in Mar 19 – Apr 2, 2025.
