Burbank

The story

Burbank Frankfurt Reviews: California-Asian Fusion at Roomers Hotel

The Chef and the Kitchen

Burbank serves California-Asian fusion cuisine in Frankfurt, where chef The Duc Ngo blends West Coast sensibilities with pan-Asian techniques. The kitchen is led by Ngo, a Vietnamese-born cook who moved to Germany at age five without formal training. He opened his first restaurant, Kuchi, in Berlin in 1999 at twenty-four, quickly becoming known for reinterpreting the traditional sushi roll. His current concept draws inspiration from California street food, his own travels, and the personal favorites of partners Micky Rosen and Alex Urseanu, creating dishes that fuse multicultural American vibes with Asian precision. A recurring tiger motif honors his zodiac sign and reflects a deep connection to his background.

Fresh Cuts and the Open Bar

The dining flow centers on the open seafood bar, where guests watch staff prepare ceviche, sashimi, and sake dishes tableside. The menu highlights shareable plates, pairing delicate raw fish preparations with bold items like Korean fried chicken. Ingredients emphasize high quality and freshness, allowing the distinct flavors of the West Coast to merge naturally with Asian aromatics. This structure encourages a lively, communal atmosphere while keeping the craftsmanship of the kitchen visible. The result is a cross-over style that balances elegance with an accessible, urban energy.

Design and Ambiance

Interior designer Hyunjung Kim, a close friend of the chef, shaped a space using light wooden tables, deep green granite surfaces, and accents of sky blue and desert orange. Seating areas feature niches lined with dark golden velvet, providing texture against the brighter architectural elements. A patio extends the dining room into the courtyard of the adjacent Roomers Hotel, maintaining the relaxed yet refined mood year-round. The Schlemmer Atlas awarded Burbank two and a half spoons, recognizing how the thoughtful design complements the inventive California crossover menu.