Zanyu Asian Noodles
If you’re a fan of Asian cuisine, especially ramen, Zanyu Asian Noodles in Raleigh, NC, should be on your list of go-to spots. Located in the picturesque Lafayette Village—an area designed to resemble the streets of Paris—Zanyu combines authentic flavors with a cozy dining atmosphere that makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of noodles or something a bit more adventurous, this restaurant delivers on all fronts.
Over the course of a few visits, I tried several of their dishes, but I have to say, their Creamy Vegan Shoyu Ramen truly stole the show. And I’ve got the pictures to prove it!
Ramen: A Vegan Delight
Let’s talk about the Creamy Vegan Shoyu Ramen. Made with rice noodles in a vegan shoyu broth, this dish is topped with an array of fresh and flavorful ingredients: bok choy, bean sprouts, wakame, Japanese mushrooms, edamame, inari tofu, and fried bean curd. Every bite was an explosion of textures and flavors, from the earthy mushrooms to the soft tofu and crunchy sprouts. The broth itself was light but creamy, perfectly seasoned, and absolutely packed with umami flavor.
It’s honestly one of the best vegan ramen dishes I’ve had. Even if you’re not vegan, this bowl is worth trying. It’s hearty, flavorful, and leaves you feeling satisfied without being overly heavy. This ramen quickly earned a top spot on my list of favorite noodle dishes in Raleigh, and I’m already planning my next visit just to have it again.
Other Favorites on the Menu
Although the ramen was the highlight, I also tried their Pad Thai—another crowd favorite. The noodles were cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of sweetness and tanginess in the sauce. The balance of textures and flavors was spot on, making it a great alternative if you're in the mood for something lighter but equally satisfying.
I’ll be honest, the ramen left such a strong impression that it was hard to focus on anything else after that, but rest assured, Zanyu’s menu is full of fantastic options.
Lafayette Village: A Unique Setting
Zanyu’s location in Lafayette Village is worth mentioning. This little corner of Raleigh is designed to look like Paris, with charming architecture, quaint shops, and a European vibe that feels worlds away from the typical city setting. Whether you’re grabbing a quick meal or making an afternoon of it, the atmosphere adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your dining experience.
Perfect Presentation and Friendly Service
The presentation at Zanyu is simple yet elegant. The ramen comes beautifully arranged with its fresh toppings, and every dish feels thoughtfully prepared. Plus, the staff is always friendly, welcoming, and happy to answer any questions you have about the menu. There’s something comforting about dining at a place where you can tell they care about what they do.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in Raleigh and have a craving for noodles, I can’t recommend Zanyu Asian Noodles enough. Their Creamy Vegan Shoyu Ramen is a standout dish that’s well worth a try, and the rest of the menu offers plenty of tasty options too. With its convenient location in Lafayette Village, you can enjoy a delightful meal and then take a stroll through this charming Parisian-style shopping area. Check out their menu at zanyunoodles.com and plan your visit. They’re located at 8450 Honeycutt Rd #116, Raleigh, NC 27615.
Trust me—you won’t regret stopping by! I’m already looking forward to my next bowl of ramen.
