Best Dishes to Try If You’ve Never Had Asian Fusion 

You ever stare at a menu and think, “What the hell is a kimchi cheeseburger doing next to a Thai-style bao bun?” 

Welcome to the world of Asian fusion. 

If you’ve never tried it, the idea might sound a bit… chaotic. But done right, it’s anything but. It’s like a perfectly mixed cocktail—bold, balanced, and way better than the sum of its parts. 

The only issue? Figuring out where to start. 

Because when everything sounds unfamiliar-but-interesting, it’s easy to fall back on the safe choice. The “I’ll just get the edamame and a beer” order. (No shade—but you can do better.) 

If this is your first time dipping your toes into fusion dining, this is your cheat sheet. 

We’re talking must-tries. Crowd favourites. Dishes that even your most sceptical friend will secretly admit were actually really good. 

Let’s make your first bite count. 

And who knows? After tonight, you might just become that person who confidently says, “Trust me—you’ve gotta try this.” 

What Even Is Asian Fusion? 

Before we dive fork-first into what to order, let’s quickly unpack what Asian fusion even means. 

It’s not just about mixing cuisines for the sake of it. It’s about taking the best parts of different culinary traditions—say, Korean spice, Japanese precision, Thai boldness—and layering them in ways that make something new actually make sense. 

Think of it like music. Asian fusion isn’t a remix—it’s a whole new track that samples from different genres but still slaps on its own. 

So when you’re ordering, you’re not just trying a dish. You’re tasting a creative decision. A twist. A bit of culinary risk that, when it pays off, makes you go, “Wait… that was amazing.” 

So, What Should You Order? 

Okay, let’s say you’ve never had Asian fusion before. You’re staring at a menu that has both bao and brisket. Noodles with unexpected toppings. Cocktails that sound more like riddles. 

Where do you even begin? 

Here’s the move: Start with what you do know—but with a twist. 

If you’re a fan of fried chicken? Go for the version that’s been marinated in sake and soy, double-fried, and served with something citrusy and unexpected on the side. 

Like burgers? Try the one where the patty’s been infused with lemongrass and topped with a house-made chilli jam. 

Fan of dumplings? Find the ones that play with texture—maybe pan-seared, maybe soft-steamed, maybe stuffed with something like slow-cooked beef cheek or spiced mushroom. 

You don’t need to know the full backstory of every ingredient. You just need to be curious enough to say, “Why not?” 

Because fusion food isn’t about rules—it’s about vibes. 

Don’t Stress the Details—Focus on the Feeling 

Here’s a secret nobody tells first-timers: You don’t need to know exactly what you’re ordering. 

This isn’t fine dining with strict etiquette or a 10-course menu that needs decoding. This is more like jazz. You order something that sounds good, you take a bite, and you roll with the vibe. 

And if you’re at the right place—like Mr. Wabi—you’ll know it the second that first dish hits the table. The colour. The smell. The presentation. All of it builds into a moment. 

Fusion food isn’t supposed to feel predictable. It’s supposed to feel a little bit daring. 

So trust your gut. Pick the thing that makes you go, “Okay… that’s different.” 

That’s the sweet spot. 

A Word on Cocktails (Because They Matter Too) 

Asian fusion isn’t just about the food—it’s about the whole experience. And nothing pulls the whole thing together like a perfectly matched cocktail. 

Now, this isn’t wine pairing territory. You don’t need to get formal. Just match energy with energy. 

If your dish is spicy and bold? Try a cocktail that cools things down—maybe something citrusy with sake or yuzu. 

If your dish is sweet and rich? Go with something smoky or herbal that adds contrast, not more sweetness. 

And if you’re not sure? Just ask the bartender. They’ve probably watched this exact dilemma play out hundreds of times and know exactly what to recommend to make you feel like a genius for ordering it. 

Who Is Asian Fusion For? 

Quick answer? Everyone. 

Longer answer? Especially people who are tired of the same-same, who want more from a night out than just “good food.” It’s for people who appreciate a little adventure—without needing to fly across the world to find it. 

Fusion dishes are perfect for: 

• First dates (you’ve got plenty to talk about) 

• Group dinners (so many shareables) 

• Casual nights that need a little spark 

• Moments when you want to impress someone without trying too hard 

And it works whether you’re a picky eater or someone who’ll try anything once. Because at its best, fusion food doesn’t alienate—it invites. 

It says: “Come try something new. We promise you’ll like it.” 

Why Mr. Wabi Is the Move 

Now obviously, we’re a little biased—but hear us out. 

Mr. Wabi isn’t doing fusion for the novelty. It’s not just soy-drizzled burgers or kimchi-flavoured everything. It’s fusion with actual thought behind it. 

Each dish is created with balance in mind. Texture. Acidity. Heat. Umami. There’s a rhythm to it. And when paired with the atmosphere—neon glow, lively energy, cocktails with personality—you’ve got more than a meal. 

You’ve got a night worth remembering. 

So if it’s your first time dipping into Asian fusion, Mr. Wabi isn’t just a good choice—it’s your best one. 

Final Tips for the First-Timer 

If you’re new to this type of food, here’s the only advice you really need: 

• Order one dish that sounds familiar. It’ll be your anchor. Something you can trust. 

• Order one dish that sounds wild. This is the one that’ll surprise you. 

• Share if you can. Fusion is better when experienced together. 

• Don’t overthink it. You’re not taking a test—you’re having a good time. 

And remember: Asian fusion isn’t just about mixing cuisines. It’s about mixing things up. It’s about trying something you wouldn’t normally go for—and loving every bite of it. 

Ready to Try Asian Fusion in Brisbane? 

If you’ve never had Asian fusion before, this is your sign to start. And there’s no better place to dive in than Mr. Wabi—one of the best Asian fusion restaurants in Brisbane. 

Here, it’s not just about eating. It’s about discovering. About stepping into a space that’s vibrant, creative, and a little unexpected—just like the food itself. 

So whether you’re a local looking to shake up your usual dinner spots or visiting and searching for standout Brisbane restaurants, this is where your taste adventure begins. 

From flavour-packed starters to bold cocktails and creative mains, Mr. Wabi takes Asian fusion food to another level. 

We’re centrally located, walk-in friendly, and always down to surprise you. 

Pull up a seat. Take the first bite. 

Because you’re not just going out for dinner… 

You’re discovering what Asian fusion in Brisbane is really all about.