Gu Li Restaurant

Gu Li Restaurant has established itself as a leading destination for Asian cuisine lovers in southern Luxembourg. Located at 1 Op Der Gare in Aspelt-Frisange, this establishment offers a true culinary journey through China, Japan, and Thailand, all under one roof. With its upscale restaurant concept and modern, minimalist décor, Gu Li attracts a diverse clientele, from families and couples seeking a refined dinner to groups of friends looking to enjoy a sushi platter.

A rich and varied menu

What truly sets Gu Li apart from other restaurants in the area is the breadth of its menu. It skillfully blends classic Chinese dishes, Japanese specialties, and a few Thai touches. Among the signature dishes that consistently garner praise from customers, the Peking Duck holds a special place: crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, it’s served in two courses for an optimal dining experience. The garlic and black pepper beef is also a firm favorite, as are the caramelized chicken, crispy spring rolls, and homemade gyoza.

Sushi lovers will find plenty to enjoy with a diverse selection of maki, sashimi, and sushi platters. The shrimp tempura is regularly praised for its lightness and perfectly fried texture. The menu also features Thai soups, Asian salads, and several vegetarian dishes. For family meals or get-togethers with colleagues, Gu Li also offers a takeout service, allowing you to enjoy these same specialties at home.

A neat and modern setting

The restaurant stands out for its contemporary ambiance, a departure from the traditional codes of classic Chinese restaurants . Gone are the overly ornate reds and golds: in their place is a clean design, dark tones, and exceptionally comfortable armchairs that are a welcome replacement for traditional chairs. The main dining room offers soft lighting, ideal for intimate dinners, while a brighter room is better suited for family meals. An outdoor terrace allows guests to enjoy sunny days, particularly appreciated during the summer.

Accessibility has been designed with everyone in mind: a spacious car park in front of the establishment makes parking easy, and an access ramp allows people with reduced mobility to enter without difficulty. The cleanliness of the premises is regularly praised, although some visitors have noted a lack of attention to the maintenance of the restrooms.

The service: a point of contention

The service at Gu Li is clearly one of the most discussed aspects. On the one hand, many customers appreciate the professionalism of the staff, the quality of the advice given on choosing dishes, and the speed of the service. On the other hand, a significant number of visitors describe a less welcoming experience: staff who are sometimes distant, not very smiley, and seem eager for customers to leave, especially at the end of the evening. The language barrier can also complicate communication, as some staff members have limited French proficiency.

The pace of service is another concern. It’s not uncommon for the wait between the appetizer and the main course to exceed an hour, especially during peak hours. Customers in a hurry or those with a limited lunch break should allow ample time. Note that the restaurant closes at 2:30 pm, which means meals are relatively quick on weekdays.

A price-quality ratio worth considering

Gu Li’s pricing positions it in the upper echelon of Asian restaurants in the region. The prices reflect the quality of the ingredients, which are mostly fresh, and the care taken in the presentation of the dishes. The wine list offers a fine selection of local and international wines. However, some of the charges may come as a surprise: an extra charge for additional rice (around €2.50), a fee for containers when ordering takeout (€0.50 per container), and the charge for bottled water. Furthermore, tap water is not always offered free of charge.

Some customers find the portions a bit small for the price, especially for the sushi platters and certain fish dishes. Others, on the contrary, believe that the generous portions and the quality of the ingredients fully justify the cost. The best way to decide is to try it yourself.

Practical information

The restaurant is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with continuous service during the day (from 11:45 am to 2:30 pm) and a break before dinner service (6:00 pm or 6:30 pm depending on the day, until 11:00 pm). It is closed on Mondays. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends, as the restaurant is frequently fully booked. Reservations can be made by phone at +352 27 68 77 08 or directly online via the official website.

Gu Li offers several options to suit different needs: dining in the main room or on the terrace, catering for private events, and takeout or delivery for those who prefer to enjoy the cuisine at home. Takeout orders are carefully packaged to preserve their flavor and presentation.

Who should go and when?

Gu Li caters primarily to lovers of refined Asian cuisine who are willing to invest in a high-quality dining experience. Families will find it ideal thanks to the spaciousness, comfortable seating, and varied menu that appeals to both children and adults. Couples will appreciate the intimate atmosphere and the quality of the signature dishes. Groups of friends can share large platters of sushi and discover the house specialties together.

For a first visit, it’s recommended to start with the tried-and-true favorites: Peking duck as a main course, accompanied by tempura as an appetizer and mint tea as a digestif. Sushi lovers can opt for a mixed platter to sample different varieties. It’s best to set aside an entire evening to fully enjoy the experience, without time constraints, and consider making a reservation in advance to guarantee a table, especially during peak season.

Ultimately, Gu Li Restaurant is a solid option for anyone looking for a full-service Asian restaurant in southern Luxembourg, offering both authentic flavors and the comfort of a modern establishment. Despite a few minor service issues, the quality of the food and the extensive menu make it a top choice for lovers of Chinese, Japanese, and Thai cuisine .