Rooted in Family Tradition. Elevated for the Modern Palate.

Founded in April 2016 in Sabre Springs, Zen Modern Asian Bistro is a family-run restaurant with tradition and innovation at its core. Zen Modern Asian Bistro brings an upscale and innovative approach while embracing creativity, premium ingredients, and modern presentation.

Zen Modern Asian Bistro

Zen Modern Asian Bistro interior modern Asian dining

Uncover the Story

At the heart of the establishment is Head Chef Henry Yang, a Taiwan-born culinary master with more than 40 years of experience spanning throughout Taiwan, Thailand, and China.

about us
Zen restaurant exterior and contact details
Bowl of noodles in broth topped with stir-fried minced meat and green vegetables on a wooden surface.

“Our recipes have been passed down through generations and infused with the love and tradition that define our family’s culinary journey,” said Executive Chef Ethan Yang.

"Our restaurant offers upscale and innovative Chinese cuisine, featuring Cantonese, Szechuan, and Pan-Asian dishes."

Reserve a Table

Get the Zen Experience

Spicy Asian shrimp stir-fry with peanuts and vegetables — signature dish at Zen Modern Asian Bistro San Diego.
Crispy shrimp in savory sauce served with broccoli — modern Asian fusion entrée at Zen Modern Asian Bistro.
Sweet and spicy chicken glazed with Asian sauce — authentic Asian restaurant dish in San Diego.
Fresh cucumber rolls with tangy soy dressing — light and refreshing appetizer from Zen Modern Asian Bistro San Diego.

Zen’s Modern Take on Asian Classics

Our menu reflects a three-generation family culinary journey inspired by the flavors of Taiwan, Thailand, and China, combined with modern technique and chef-driven creativity. Many of our dishes pay homage to family recipes and traditions first introduced by Chef Henry Yang, then refined and elevated by Executive Chef Ethan Yang for today’s modern palate.

explore our menu

our chef

henry yang

owner / Head Chef

Head Chef Henry Yang, a Taiwan-born culinary master with more than 40 years of experience spanning throughout Taiwan, Thailand, and China.

At almost 70 years old, Henry continues to keep his rich heritage and decades of expertise at the center of his career—including his years owning and operating the successful Mr. Charlie’s Fortune Cookie in Rancho Bernardo—to craft dishes that honor authentic Taiwanese flavors while embracing modern Asian fusion.

@henry_yang

I loved the food here! Everything was so flavorful and the portion sizes were very large. My favorites were the ube cocktail, coconut shrimp, orange chicken, and drunken noodles. The executive chef and owner visited our table and made sure we liked everything we ordered which was really thoughtful.

Alexis Klimpl
Quote

Such a great spot! The staff were super nice, and the Taiwanese beef noodles were incredible. Definitely a must-eat place if you’re in the Skydeck!

ling

Best salt and pepper chicken wings i’ve had in san diego. great atmosphere, reasonable price. loved the vibe.

Ashley Navarro

Great new location in Sky Deck! The food was fresh and delicious, reasonably priced, the staff was attentive and knowledgeable. Can’t ask for much more! Highly recommend this spot for lunch or dinner.

Michaela Allen

I had Taiwanese beef noodle.
Flavorful, good portion with tons of beef.

Shu Pin Liu
Glass with fresh green rosemary sprigs placed on a countertop next to condiment bottles and glass jars.
Middle-aged chef wearing a white coat and black apron working in a professional kitchen.
Hand holding a pan tossing stir-fried vegetables over a stove with steam rising and pots in the background.
Close-up of stir-fried dish with dark sauce, green vegetables, and chopped meat on a plate.
Glass container filled with cinnamon sticks and a smaller plastic cup with coffee beans inside it.
Two chefs cooking in a stainless steel commercial kitchen with pots and pans on the stove.

Join us at Zen Modern Asian Bistro for a dining experience that celebrates balance, flavor, and creativity. Our Modern Asian Tasting Menu features a fusion of handcrafted sushi, wok-fired specialties, and vibrant seasonal dishes inspired by the finest ingredients. Pair your meal with our curated selection of sake, wine, and crafted cocktails.
Reservations now open — experience Zen, redefined.

henry yang
chef / owner
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.