Concord's Amazing Multicultural Food Scene

MEXICAN & LATINX

Concord arguably has some of Northern California’s best food from south of the border with the authentic flavors of Mexico, South America and beyond.

For a change of pace, grab a table at Restaurante El Salvador. Its must-have plate is the warm and savory pupusa, a thick cornmeal patty stuffed with beans, cheese, and meat (or all three!), accompanied by curtido, a spicy cabbage slaw.

La Fritanguera delivers a delicious Nicaraguan food experience with their unique flavors and traditional combination plates. Dishes include marinated meats, rice, beans and plantains with a blend of sweet, tangy and savory flavors. 

With their fresh, colorful ingredients and unique flavors, Lima, in Todos Santos Plaza, brings the authentic taste of Peru right to Concord. While you’re enjoying one of Lima’s expertly prepared dishes, indulge in the country’s signature drink, a refreshing pisco sour.

For an unforgettable casual dining experience, try Canasta Kitchen, located in a quiet neighborhood not far off Todos Santos Plaza. It presents a modern twist on traditional Mexican cuisine—even the chips and salsa make a statement, served with a tangy salsa verde and drizzled with a savory black bean puree.

Be sure to check out Concord’s Taco Trail, a complete guide and map to all 39 of Concord’s authentic taquerias and Mexican restaurants. 

ASIAN

If there’s one culinary segment in Concord that rivals Mexican food in terms of the sheer number of options, it’s Asian. And no matter what variety you may crave - Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai, Indian, Filipino, Burmese or Vietnamese - Concord has it.

Craving the complex flavors of Indian? Local favorites Naan n Curry and Momo N Curry both offer delicious tandoori-style meats, tikka masala as well as curry dishes.

 
For dependable Chinese, head to Lulu’s Kitchen. Whether dining in or taking out, Lulu’s menu is chock-full of crowd-pleasing Chinese American dishes, as well as delicious house specialties. Another Chinese stand-by is Steamboat on Willow Pass Road, which is known for its tasty hot pot menu.

 
Japanese food and sushi in particular has always been a big draw in Concord. Mikuni Restaurant & Sushi Bar
offers award winning sushi creations that blend Japanese traditions with American innovation in a stylish, modern setting. I Love Teriyaki & Sushi located near Todos Santos Plaza is a great, casual spot for sushi and other favorites.

If Thai sounds good about now, Thai Table is known for their excellent food, service and friendly staff. Yum Squared, a new addition to Todos Santos Plaza, serves traditional Thai cuisine including Pad Thai and curry dishes to their steadily growing fan base.

Those partial to Korean will enjoy the marinated beef and mixed rice dishes at Gangnam Cafe. Another great option is Korea House, who use traditional methods to prepare their authentic dishes and offer a complete drink selection featuring rice wine, saki, and Korean beers.

Rounding out Concord’s Asian culinary scene, are a number of popular Vietnamese spots. Whether it’s boba to go or a sit-down meal you’re after, head to Saigon Bistro, which is known for its excellent bahn mi sandwiches. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, Hello Pho and Kevin’s Noodle House (aka Pho Huynh Hiep) are both highly-rated, popular pho spots in Concord. 

ITALIAN & MEDITERRANEAN

Doppio Zero is a welcome new addition at The Veranda shopping center. This stylish Neapolitan-style restaurant and bar serves comfort food from the Campania region of Southern Italy. Enjoy their fresh, innovative pasta dishes or pizzas straight from the oven, along with a splashy cocktail or two. 

Luna Restaurant serves flavorful Italian dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Everything they serve is homemade daily, from their soups, sauces, pastas, salad dressings and amazing desserts.

Serving contemporary Afghan halal, Chopan Kabob transports diners thousands of miles away with its exotic flavors and warm ambiance.

From wraps to platters Falafel Flame hits all the right spots. This newer hidden gem located in downtown Concord offers delicious halal certified fare made from traditional recipes.

EUROPEAN 

For an old-world experience, reserve a spot at DJ’s Bistro. Located on Willow Pass Road, DJ’s delivers hearty Central European dishes like bratwurst, wiener schnitzel, and Hungarian goulash, as well as a small selection of imported beers, mostly from Germany and the Czech Republic.

 
The Hop Grenade tap room also serves up tasty pub food with a European flair. Their Reubenesque sandwich features corned beef on a ciabatta roll with horseradish cheddar cheese, sauerkraut and their specialty beer mustard. 

AMERICAN REGIONAL 

Barbecue lovers should plan a stop at Kinder's BBQ & Deli, which hand rubs and marinades its meats for over 12 hours and cooks them in the smoker for up to 24 hours to make sure you get smokin’ hot barbeque every visit.

And don’t let the modest décor fool you, Barney’s Hickory Pit on Clayton Road has been a local favorite since 1957. Enjoy their famous barbecue and smoked ribs smothered in their own signature sauce, plus all the extras: baked beans, cole slaw, French fries, onion rings and pie. Fans say the sauce-soaked bun is the cherry on top. 

Are you hungry yet?! As you can see, when it comes to the restaurant scene in Concord, the toughest problem is choosing from the abundance of options. Come ready to eat—and know that you’ll always have a good reason to plan another visit.

For more information, visit Eat & Drink Concord.