Around The World In 12 Reno Bites
Funds, time and commitments can all get in the way of us jetting off to new places, but that doesn’t mean your taste buds can’t take a trip. When there’s no room for a real vacation, sometimes a good meal is just the replacement. While Reno may not have every world cuisine in its city limits, there’s delicious food from every corner of the globe. Get ready for a culinary adventure, no passport required.
Ethiopia
Zagol
3314 McCarran Blvd.
Remember when Mom told you not to eat with your hands? At Zagol it’s rude not to. Enjoy their flavorful Ethiopian dishes, like Ye Doro Wat – chicken legs slow cooked in chili sauce or mesir wat- stewed lentils, eaten in the traditional Ethiopian fashion of using Injera (Ethiopian flatbread).
India
Maya’s
148 West St.
While there’s lots of tasty Indian food in Reno, Maya’s brings something special to the table. A taste of Southern India. The lunch-only restaurant, located inside West Street Market features delicious dosas and kuzhi paniyaram, the circular dumplings, crispy on the outside, soft on the inside served with addicting coconut chutney.
China
Kwok’s
275 West St.
From the outside, Kwok’s doesn’t seem like much, but inside you’ll find Reno’s best Chinese food. The potstickers are heaven. The salt and pepper shrimp are finger-licking good and the clay pots are steaming bowls of goodness. You really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but if you’re feeling adventurous try something from their changing menu of chef specials.
Japan
Kauboi
1286 S Virginia St.
Kaboui Izakaya brings Japanese style pub food to Reno’s Midtown. In their old-west inspired space, you can nosh on traditional yakitori, umami-rich ramen and a range of delicious sharing plates.
South Korea
Hana Garden
1605 Sullivan Ln, Sparks
Hidden in a Sparks strip mall, Hana Garden serves tasty Korean food at friendly prices. The space is bare bones but the food is far from basic. Their traditional Korean dishes are spicy, sweet, tangy and all-around delicious. Banchan (side dishes) are served alongside every meal!
Taiwan
101 Taiwanese
400 W Fifth St.
While much of Taiwanese food originated in various parts of China, there are distinct differences between the two. Try for yourself at Taiwanese 101. You’ll find Chinese and Taiwanese dishes on the menu, but for a traditional Taiwanese meal try the beef noodle soup, some boba tea, and an oyster omelette.
Italy
Calafuria
725 S Center St.
This chic Italian eatery brings it back to the basics with a focus on delicious ingredients cooked properly. The pasta is made in house, as is the bread, the vinegars, and sausages, and… you get the picture.
Basque
Louie’s Basque Corner
301 E 4th Street, Reno, NV 89501
Okay, so, Basque Country is a region and not a country. The region rests in the Pyrenees straddling the border between Spain and France, but the food isn’t Spanish or French. Thousands of Basque people immigrated to Nevada during the Gold Rush and became closely tied to sheepherding in Nevada. Which means we also get to eat incredible Basque food. At Louie’s Basque Corner you can feast on classics like the sweetbreads or leg of lamb. Don’t forget to wash it down with their famous Picon Punch.
France
Beaujolais
753 Riverside Dr.
This charming French restaurant sitting along the Truckee River is a great place to come for a romantic night out. Their menu changes daily and always has a bit of modern flare, but you can expect to find traditional French dishes like duck confit and Mussels Marinières on the line-up.
El Salvador
Restaurante Yesenia
581 E Moana Ln.
Unassuming Restaurante Yesenia serves fresh and tasty Salvadorian food. You can Mexican food items on the menu, but the traditional Salvadoran pupusas are a definite must. You can get them stuffed with everything from chicken to loroco – an edible vine common in Central America.
Peru & Argentina
Sabor Latin Cuisine
585 E Moana Lane
Sabor Latin Cuisine gives diners a chance to try delicacies from multiple South American countries. Craving flaky empanadas? They’ve got them. Want some fresh and citrusy ceviche? Check. You’re not going to get a deep dive in the flavors and cooking of a particular country, but you will get a diverse selection of Latin American favorites. Dig in!
Mexico
Taco’s Tijuana
345 N Arlington
Taco’s Tijuana is a local chain (if you count 2 locations as a chain). Don’t come here if you want a relaxing meal served to you. Do come here if you want street tacos done right. Carnitas slow simmered in fatty goodness, al pastor with pineapple and handmade tortillas: no-frills, no fancy garnishes, just really good tacos.
This list only scratches the surface of Reno’s global fare. Tell us your favorite place to go for a culinary staycation! Or catch us on a Reno Food Tour for a taste of the Biggest Little City.