Discover the Best Lunch In Chinatown Honolulu: A Culinary Delight

Indulge in a Flavorful Journey Through the Heart of Chinatown

If you’re in search of a culinary adventure, look no further than the vibrant district of Chinatown, Honolulu. With its bustling streets, colorful storefronts, and tantalizing aromas, Chinatown is a must-visit destination for foodies and culture enthusiasts alike. But with so many dining options to choose from, how do you know where to find the best lunch in Chinatown Honolulu? This guide will take you on a flavor-filled journey through the district’s top spots, showcasing the very best that Chinatown has to offer.

🍜 1. Pho My Lien: A Vietnamese Classic

When it comes to comfort food, few things beat a steaming bowl of pho. At Pho My Lien, you’ll find some of the best pho in Chinatown, with a range of options to suit any taste. Whether you prefer your broth light and fragrant or rich and hearty, Pho My Lien has you covered. Don’t miss the chance to try the house special – a flavorful blend of beef, brisket, and tendon that’s sure to satisfy.

🍲 2. Little Village Noodle House: A Chinatown Institution

For more than 20 years, Little Village Noodle House has been serving up some of the tastiest Chinese food in Chinatown. From steaming hot pots to crispy Peking duck, there’s something for everyone on the menu. But the real star of the show is the handmade noodles, which are made fresh daily and served up in a range of delicious dishes. Be sure to arrive early, as Little Village Noodle House is a popular spot that fills up fast.

🍣 3. Sushi ii: A Hidden Gem

If you’re a fan of sushi, you won’t want to miss Sushi ii. Tucked away in a quiet corner of Chinatown, this unassuming restaurant is a hidden gem that’s beloved by locals. The sushi here is made with only the freshest ingredients, and the skilled chefs know just how to bring out the flavors and textures of each piece. Try the omakase for a truly unforgettable experience.

🍔 4. The Pig & The Lady: A Fusion Feast

For a taste of something unique, head to The Pig & The Lady. This innovative restaurant blends Vietnamese flavors with modern techniques to create dishes that are both familiar and unexpected. From the banh mi burger to the pho French dip, every bite is a surprise. And don’t forget to save room for dessert – the pandan tofu cheesecake is a must-try.

🍚 5. Lucky Belly: A Contemporary Take on Asian Cuisine

Lucky Belly is a modern gastropub that takes inspiration from the flavors of Asia. Here, you’ll find dishes like ramen with pork belly and soft-boiled egg, as well as Korean-style fried chicken and steamed bao buns. The cocktails are just as creative as the food, and the atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming. If you’re in the mood for something different, Lucky Belly is the perfect spot.

🍜 6. Menya Le Nood: A Noodle Haven

When it comes to noodles, Menya Le Nood is an expert. This cozy restaurant specializes in udon, soba, and ramen, all of which are made in-house. The broth is simmered for hours to achieve maximum flavor, and the portions are generous. If you’re a noodle lover, you won’t want to miss Menya Le Nood.

🍢 7. Iyasume Musubi: A Hawaiian Twist

For a taste of Hawaii with a Japanese twist, head to Iyasume Musubi. This casual spot serves up musubi – a popular Hawaiian snack that consists of rice and a filling, wrapped in seaweed. At Iyasume Musubi, you’ll find a range of creative fillings, from spam and egg to teriyaki chicken. The musubi are perfect for a quick bite on the go.

🥮 8. Royal Kitchen: A Dim Sum Destination

Dim sum is a beloved Chinese tradition, and there’s no better place to indulge in it than Royal Kitchen. This bustling restaurant is a Chinatown staple, serving up steamed dumplings, buns, and more. The menu is extensive, so be sure to come hungry and ready to try everything.

🌯 9. Olay’s Thai Food Express: A Flavorful Feast

For a taste of Thailand in the heart of Chinatown, look no further than Olay’s Thai Food Express. This no-frills spot serves up some of the best Thai food in the district, with dishes like tom yum soup, pad Thai, and green curry. The portions are generous and the flavors are bold, making Olay’s a favorite among locals.

🥘 10. Kim Chee II: A Korean Classic

If you’re in the mood for Korean food, Kim Chee II is the place to be. This family-owned spot serves up classic dishes like bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi stew. The portions are large and the prices are reasonable, making Kim Chee II a great option for a filling lunch.

🍚 11. Ono Seafood: A Poke Paradise

Poke – a Hawaiian dish made with raw fish – has become an international sensation, and Ono Seafood is one of the best places in Chinatown to try it. The poke here is always fresh and flavorful, with a range of toppings and sauces to choose from. Be sure to get there early, as Ono Seafood is a popular spot that often sells out.

🥢 12. Mei Sum Dim Sum: A Classic Experience

Mei Sum Dim Sum is a no-frills spot that serves up classic dim sum dishes at affordable prices. From shrimp dumplings to pork buns, everything here is made fresh daily and served up hot and steaming. The atmosphere is lively and bustling, making Mei Sum Dim Sum a fun and authentic Chinatown experience.

🍜 13. Ramen Nakamura: A Noodle Haven

Ramen Nakamura is a cozy restaurant that specializes in – you guessed it – ramen. The broth here is rich and flavorful, with a range of toppings to choose from. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable, making Ramen Nakamura a great choice for a satisfying lunch.

Get Your Lunch Fix Today

With so many amazing options to choose from, finding the best lunch in Chinatown Honolulu can be a daunting task. But no matter what kind of cuisine you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find something delicious in this vibrant district. So why not plan a culinary journey through Chinatown today?

FAQs

1. What are the best lunch options in Chinatown Honolulu?

Some of the best lunch options in Chinatown Honolulu include Pho My Lien, Little Village Noodle House, Sushi ii, The Pig & The Lady, Lucky Belly, Menya Le Nood, Iyasume Musubi, Royal Kitchen, Olay’s Thai Food Express, Kim Chee II, Ono Seafood, Mei Sum Dim Sum, and Ramen Nakamura.

2. What kind of cuisine can I find in Chinatown Honolulu?

Chinatown Honolulu is known for its diverse cuisine, with options ranging from Vietnamese pho to Japanese sushi to Hawaiian poke. There are also plenty of Chinese, Korean, Thai, and fusion restaurants to choose from.

3. Are there vegetarian and vegan options available in Chinatown Honolulu?

Yes, many of the restaurants in Chinatown Honolulu offer vegetarian and vegan options. Little Village Noodle House, for example, has a range of vegetarian dishes, while The Pig & The Lady offers several vegan options. Be sure to ask your server for recommendations.

4. What is the price range for lunch in Chinatown Honolulu?

The price range for lunch in Chinatown Honolulu varies depending on the restaurant. Some places, like Mei Sum Dim Sum and Olay’s Thai Food Express, are very affordable, while others, like Sushi ii and The Pig & The Lady, are more upscale. Expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $30 for lunch.

5. Is parking available in Chinatown Honolulu?

Yes, there are several parking garages and lots in Chinatown Honolulu, as well as street parking. Be sure to read the signs carefully to avoid getting ticketed.

6. Are reservations necessary for lunch in Chinatown Honolulu?

Reservations are not always necessary for lunch in Chinatown Honolulu, but they are recommended for some of the more popular restaurants, like Little Village Noodle House and The Pig & The Lady. Be sure to call ahead to check availability.

7. What is the best time to visit Chinatown Honolulu for lunch?

The best time