Local nonprofit Asianati is bringing its annual Asian Food Fest back to downtown later this month, marking the event’s 15th year with a two-day celebration of food, culture and community.
The event returns April 25-26 to Court Street Plaza, where more than 60 vendors will serve over 150 dishes spanning a wide range of cuisines from across Asia. What started with just a handful of vendors and about 1,000 attendees has grown into a regional draw, now attracting more than 125,000 people each year.
Admission is free and open to the public.
“Fifteen years ago, we set up five tables and hoped people would show up,” said JP Leong, co-chair for Asian Food Fest. “They did — and they’ve never stopped.”
From humble beginnings to major impact
Founded in 2010, Asianati is a Cincinnati-based nonprofit dedicated to celebrating Asian food and culture through events and community storytelling, while supporting Asian American and Pacific Islander-owned businesses across the region. Earlier this year, the organization merged with the Greater Cincinnati Chinese Cultural Exchange Association, bringing together two groups with similar missions under one banner to expand programming, broaden outreach and strengthen long-term sustainability.
That momentum carries into this year’s festival, which blends firsts with fan favorites. New vendors — including Thai Table, Tenji Sushi, Stix-on, Pacific Bowls, Lotus Thai & Sushi, Gimmebap and Duck Beijing House — join the lineup alongside returning staples and the popular Secret Menu. The weekend will also include expanded programming, from a karaoke competition to a new Sunday night drag show, plus a full slate of music and cultural performances.
A full schedule, vendor lineup and additional details are available on the festival’s website and social media channels.
“What began as a small act of community pride has grown into something that genuinely reflects the soul of Cincinnati,” Leong said. “This year, we’re not just celebrating how far we’ve come — we’re showing the world what’s possible when a community decides to show up for each other.”
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