The 14th edition of the Asian Food Fest is set to bring an explosion of flavors and vibrant performances to downtown Cincinnati this weekend. Organized by the nonprofit group Asianati in collaboration with the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber, the festival will feature a record-breaking lineup of 65 restaurants and food trucks offering unique culinary creations from across Asia. With free admission, attendees can indulge in dishes ranging from $1 to $15, making it an affordable yet enriching experience for all ages.

From April 26 to 27, Court Street Plaza transforms into a hub of cultural celebration, drawing over 100,000 visitors annually. This year's event highlights the rich diversity of Asian cuisine through offerings that represent 16 different countries. JP Leong, co-chair of Asianati’s Asian Food Fest, emphasizes the uniqueness of the menu selections, many of which cannot be found elsewhere in Cincinnati. The festival also includes nine secret menu options available exclusively during the event.

Attendees will have plenty to explore beyond just food. Live entertainment spans two stages featuring more than 100 performers, including rock bands, traditional dances, taiko drummers, and student groups from the University of Cincinnati. The main stage hosts acts such as Balintawak Filipino Stick Fighting and Olohana’s Polynesian Dance, while the DJ stage presents dynamic sets like those by Sabastooge and Astropat.

In preparation for the festivities, several streets around the venue will undergo closures starting Thursday evening until Monday morning. These include portions of Court Street, Race Street, and Vine Street, ensuring ample space for both vendors and spectators.

As the sun sets on Sunday evening, the Asian Food Fest leaves behind cherished memories of shared meals and captivating performances. It successfully bridges communities through a celebration of culture and cuisine, leaving participants eager for next year's gathering.