Montpellier is full of students, and where there are students, there is a need to eat well without breaking the bank. The Asian food scene has exploded here, offering far more than the classic sushi. As a local resident, I’ll guide you to the spots where quality delivers, whether for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner with friends. Here is a selection based on reliable Google ratings and real local foot traffic.
Young Min Grill
Young Min Grill, located at 305 Av. Blaise Pascal, 34170 Castelnau-le-Lez, has a strong rating of 4.7/5 based on 982 reviews. This moderately priced Korean restaurant is an institution for those who live or study near the law and economics faculty. The atmosphere is warm and the service efficient. It’s the ideal place to try authentic Korean barbecue without leaving the Montpellier metropolitan area. View on Maps The official website also offers more information: https://www.youngmingrill.com/
Korean Korner
Korean Korner, located at 8 Pl. Martyrs de la Résistance, 34000 Montpellier, enjoys an excellent reputation with 4.5/5 from 4056 reviews. Right in the heart of the historic city center, it’s an almost essential stop for students. The value for money is very good (PRICE_LEVEL_MODERATE). People come for its spicy bowls and its ability to welcome large crowds while keeping a lively atmosphere. View on Maps Their website: https://korean-korner.com/
Jour Umami
Jour Umami is located at 2 Rue Adam de Craponne, 34000 Montpellier. With an impressive rating of 4.8/5 (44 reviews), this restaurant offers a more intimate and refined experience. It’s less crowded than the bigger names, perfect if you’re looking for relative calm to chat. The opening hours are specific: open for lunch and dinner, closed on certain days depending on the week. View on Maps More information at http://www.jourumami.com/
GUUMY
GUUMY, at 13 Rue Jacques Cœur, 34000 Montpellier, is a gem with a 4.9/5 rating (377 reviews). Listed as an Asian restaurant, it stands out for the finesse of its dishes. Note that it is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit from Tuesday to Sunday. Its city-center location lets you combine a meal with a stroll through the historic lanes. View on Maps
Bistrot Umami Montpellier
Bistrot Umami Montpellier occupies 3 Pl. de la Canourgue, 34000 Montpellier. Its 4.6/5 rating (267 reviews) reflects the consistency of the cooking. Here, Asian influences blend with French bistronomy. Closed on Mondays, it opens from 10:00 a.m. Tuesday to Sunday, which is convenient for a late brunch or a business lunch. View on Maps Check their page: https://www.umami-cinquiemesaveur.com/le-bistrot-umami/
GOMU Montpellier
GOMU Montpellier, located at 25 Rue François Coulet, 34000 Montpellier, is a go-to for fans of burgers with Asian flavors. With 4.7/5 from 3611 reviews, it’s the must-visit address for a quick but quality meal. Prices are moderate, ideal for a student budget. Open every day until 11:00 p.m., it’s a reliable rescue option after class or for a late dinner. View on Maps Website: https://restaurants.gomuburger.com/montpellier-saint-roch/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=mybusiness-website
Emiko
Emiko, at 10 B Rue des Balances, 34000 Montpellier, offers an izakaya experience with a 4.8/5 rating (1403 reviews). The atmosphere is friendly, ideal for sharing small plates. Take note: closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, open the rest of the week until 11:00 p.m. It’s the perfect place for an evening with friends after exams. View on Maps Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emiko_mtp/?igshid=nda1yznhogu=
YURICHA
YURICHA, at 68 Rue de l'Aiguillerie, 34000 Montpellier, is a small, much-loved Asian restaurant rated 4.9/5 (208 reviews). Closed on Mondays. Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner, with short evening hours (until 9:30 p.m.). Book ahead or arrive early, as space is limited. View on Maps
Practical Tips
To reach these places, the tram is your best ally. Line 1 serves Place des Martyrs (Korean Korner) and gets close to Saint-Roch (GOMU). For Young Min Grill in Castelnau, favor the bus or a car, as it is slightly outside the pedestrian center. Hours vary significantly: several establishments close on Mondays (GUUMY, Bistrot Umami, YURICHA) or midweek (Emiko). Always check before heading out, especially for smaller restaurants like Jour Umami or YURICHA where seating capacity is limited. Plan to book for Emiko and YURICHA during the week.
