Oʻahu’s vibrant Chinatown continues to thrive, showcasing a rich tapestry of markets, restaurants, and shops packed within a few blocks. In an area known for its local and imported produce, fresh meats and fish, herbal medicines, dim sum, and cultural artifacts, four new establishments have recently emerged, each promising unique culinary experiences worth revisiting.
First up is Youpo Noodles, a humble yet passionate endeavor by Chef Andrew Pressler, which opened its doors in November 2024. After an impressive three-year stint hand-pulling noodles at farmers markets across Oʻahu, Pressler was inspired to establish his noodle shop in Chinatown following enthusiastic support from the local Chinese community.
The restaurant is characterized by an energetic atmosphere, where punk rock music fills the air, and the minimalist dining space embraces a no-frills aesthetic, with patrons served their spicy dishes on plastic plates and bowls. Pressler specializes in the flavorful biang biang mian from Xi’an, China, a testament to his diligence in sourcing high-quality ingredients both locally and abroad.
Highlights from his menu include Lamb Spareribs, Chicken Wings, Cumin Lamb Biang Biang Noodles, and Duck Biang Biang Noodles. According to Pressler, the fierce competition among local vendors ensures the quality of produce remains impeccable, further enhancing the dishes he serves.
Next is Mille Fête, a bakery that opened on February 20, 2025, under the guidance of award-winning chef Robynne Maiʻi, accompanied by her husband Chuck Bussler and former pastry chef Katherine Yang. This charming bakery extends the philosophy of their adjacent award-winning restaurant, Fête, by offering classic baked goods made with local ingredients.
Patrons are encouraged to try the creatively crafted Chinatown Coffee Soda or the savory cake salé, a muffin-like pastry packed with prosciutto, smoked mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and scallions. Dessert lovers can indulge in the delectable ʻUlu Chocolate Cake or the ice cream sandwich featuring Lāʻie Vanilla ice cream sandwiched between crisp chocolate chip cookies. Maiʻi desires her guests to leave longing for another visit, emphasizing the use of cravings as a guiding principle in their offerings.
Drip Studio occupies an important space in the evolving coffee culture of Honolulu. Originally established in February 2023 at Fort Street Mall, owners Vincent Pōhaku and Kelsie Mercado-Uehara relocated to a larger setting on the edge of Chinatown to better accommodate their growing clientele.
The couple has expanded their offerings beyond coffee to include lunch items and various espresso and tea-based drinks, fostering a community-oriented presence that encourages patrons to slow down and connect. Pōhaku, whose coffee journey began at home, has immersed himself in specialty coffee’s intricacies and hopes to enhance the coffee experience in Hawaiʻi.
Signature items include a rotating selection of Pour-Over Coffee, house-baked cookies, and the Cold Fashioned, a nonalcoholic coffee cocktail designed to thrill taste buds. Others can explore unique options like the Japanese-Style Iced Pour-Over or the Strawberry Matcha using ceremonial grade matcha imported from Kyoto, Japan.
For those craving Thai cuisine, Sing Sing Thai Street Food opened its doors on December 20, 2024, led by Chef Palm Amatawet. With extensive experience co-owning various restaurants globally, Amatawet brings authentic southern Thai flavors to Honolulu.
After learning to cook Thai cuisine from friends in Thailand, his restaurant features a menu filled with spicy, coconut-based soups and fresh ingredients. From juicy beef carpaccio drizzled with chiles and lime to house-made curry pastes, the menu evolves with new dishes introduced quarterly.
Must-tries include Issan Beef Tongue, Thai Beef Carpaccio, Betel Leaf Wraps, and the Panang of Beef Cheek, all painstakingly crafted to recreate the vibrant street food experience found in Bangkok. Adding a unique twist, dishes like the Hawaiian Pineapple Puffed—colorful turnovers resembling Hawaiian rainbows—invite locals and visitors to savor a slice of Thai culture crafted with care.
These new establishments in Chinatown not only reflect the rich culinary heritage of Oʻahu but also showcase the passion and dedication of their respective owners. As the neighborhood continues to thrive, each of these spots serves as a testament to the innovation and creativity that characterize Chinatown’s dining scene, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers regardless of their preferences.
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