Chinatown Vegas
Published by chinatownvegas.com
April 27, 2025
This Week in Chinatown
Hello Chinatown friends, welcome to This Week in Chinatown, your go-to source for the latest events, openings, and stories along Spring Mountain Road! We’re kicking off with entertainment as Las Vegas Little Theatre and Sand Dollar Lounge bring theater and music to life, followed by culinary delights at Fukuya Japanese Market and a new retail spot, Puff Supply Smoke Shop.
Celebrate community spirit with a special Boba with a Cop event to launch Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month, get ready for new spots like Pink Gorilla Games and Alchemist Rising, and shop local with deals at 99 Ranch Market, 168 Market, and NV Nail Supply. Plus, take a nostalgic look back at Chinatown’s culinary journey—share your memories with us! Let’s dive into the heart of Las Vegas Chinatown!
AAPI Heritage Month Spotlight: May marks Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich cultures and contributions of AAPI communities. Chinatown has long been a hub for AAPI traditions, and this event is just the start of a month-long celebration! Join us at Sharetea on May 1 to kick things off with Boba with a Cop, fostering community connections in true Chinatown spirit!
This way to Chinatown Vegas
Live Performance Vibes:
Chinatown’s Stages Come Alive!
The State of Virginia Hits Chinatown’s Stage
Chinatown’s stage lights up with Las Vegas Little Theatre’s The State of Virginia, winner of the 2025 New Works Competition! This sharp comedy with a murderous twist follows Virginia’s wild journey of resilience—and maybe a crime or two. Catch performances at LVLT (3920 Schiff Dr) on May 16–18 and 23–25, 2025, with shows at 8 PM Fridays/Saturdays and 2 PM Sundays. Tickets are $20–$25, available at lvlt.org. Stay for a post-show Q&A with the cast on May 17! Support local theater and secure your seats for this Chinatown gem. All ages are welcome, but parental discretion is advised for mature themes.
Sand Dollar Lounge Rocks Chinatown
The Sand Dollar Lounge (3355 Spring Mountain Rd) delivers rockin’ Chinatown nights with live bands this week! Groove to The Smokestacks’ gut-bucket blues, then sway to The Velvet Moon Band’s classic rock anthems from the ’60s–’80s. Dirty Red and the Soul Shakers bring powerhouse blues, while BootyLicious, a Vegas All-Stars rock outfit, cranks up the energy. Don’t miss the Blues Society Jam, hosted by the Southern Nevada Blues Foundation, a decades-long champion of local blues.
All shows are 21+ and have no cover charge. Sip $5 draft beers and grab pizza specials while you groove. Check sanddollarlounge.com for the full schedule!
Keep the Chinatown vibes going! Discover 8 unique experiences you can only find in Las Vegas Chinatown, from hidden gems to cultural hotspots. Dive into our special feature at 8 Cool Things to do in Chinatown
Chinatown Spotlight: Savor Culinary Gems
Fukuya’s Exclusive Wagyu Curry Event with James Beard Finalist Chef!
Savor a culinary masterpiece at Fukuya Japanese Market this week! On Tuesday, April 29, from 11 AM to 2 PM, Chef Kaoru Azeuchi of Kaiseki Yuzu—recently recognized as a James Beard Foundation Finalist—joins Fukuya at 3910 Spring Mountain Rd, Suite 4, for a one-day-only Wagyu Curry event. Choose between the rich “Kotteri” or light “Assari” style—both showcasing premium Wagyu beef for just $24.99. This collaboration promises an unforgettable taste of Japan in Chinatown! Fukuya is open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM, but don’t miss this exclusive treat!
Fun Fact:
Las Vegas Chinatown on Spring Mountain Road is home to an incredible array of James Beard Foundation Award-nominated chefs:
• Kaoru Azeuchi of Kaiseki Yuzu: Chef Azeuchi was a semifinalist for the Best Chef: Southwest award in 2023
• Michael Vakneen of Double Zero Pie & Pub: Chef Vakneen was a semifinalist for the Best Chef: Southwest award in 2025.
• Jimmy Li of ShangHai Taste: Chef Jimmy Li was a semifinalist for the Best Chef: Southwest award in 2023.
• Brian Howard of Sparrow and Wolf: Chef Brian Howard was a semifinalist for the Best Chef: Southwest award in 2024.
• Hongrui Xin of Big Dan Shanxi Taste: Chef Hongrui Xin was a semifinalist for the Best Chef: Southwest award in 2022.
• Mitsuo Endo of Raku: Chef Endo was a Best New Restaurant semifinalist in 2009 and a Best Chef: Southwest semifinalist in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015.
Does your Chinatown have this many?
Chinatown Gripes: What’s Bugging Our Community?
We applaud the community’s active engagement and the dedication of local officials and advocates in addressing Chinatown’s needs; however, several persistent challenges remain, many of which appear to be simple fixes. A significant city-wide issue is the demonstrably inefficient timing of traffic lights, causing counter-productive delays for both residents and visitors. In fact, Las Vegas drivers reportedly endure more wasted time idling at traffic signals than anywhere else in the nation. To illustrate, a seemingly short 1.5-mile drive from Starbucks to Desert Breeze Park can frustratingly take up to 25 minutes at 4 AM due to excessively long traffic light waits.
Traffic Cones: Chinatown’s “Unofficial State Bird”
Within Chinatown itself, specific issues demand attention. These include the brief 10-second traffic light timer at Tenaya before 5 AM, the ferocious potholes plaguing the area near McDonald’s leading to Lindell Road, a blinding, strobe-like parking lot light disrupting the ambiance near One Piece Cafe, and the 45 mph speed limit on Spring Mountain despite significant pedestrian activity. Furthermore, the allowance of left turns out of busy commercial areas like Shanghai Plaza seems to exacerbate traffic congestion in the vicinity. Has the feasibility and impact of these left turns been assessed? Anecdotally, attempting these turns often disrupts the entire flow of traffic to the entire vicinity
To effectively address these concerns and significantly enhance both city-wide traffic flow and the local quality of life in Chinatown, we urge authorities to prioritize hiring a specialized traffic consultant and implementing intelligent sensor technology for dynamic and responsive signal recalibration, while also seeking clarity and fixes for these more localized infrastructure challenges, including a re-evaluation of left-turn permissions from high-traffic plazas. Share your thoughts and experiences on social media @chinatownvegas
Shop Local Sunday: Local Business Deals
Savor Deals at 99 Ranch Market in Chinatown Plaza!
Support local at 99 Ranch Market in Chinatown Plaza (4215 Spring Mountain Rd) with these unbeatable deals! Stock up on Nongshim Shrimp Cracker Hot (4 for $5.00), savor premium Sea Bass Collar at $7.99/lb, or enjoy Heytea drinks (Peach, Lychee, Red Grape Oolong, Pomelo, Bayberry, or Jasmine) at 4 for $6.00. Don’t miss USDA Choice Beef Chuck Roast at $5.99/lb—perfect for hearty meals! Visit 99 Ranch Market this Sunday!
More Fresh Finds at 168 Market at Spring Mountain at Jones
Discover great deals at 168 Market in Chinatown Plaza (4266 Spring Mountain Rd)! Snack on Organic Dried Jujube at $6.99/lb, perfect for traditional dishes, or savor a crisp Snow Pear for $3.99 each—a sweet treat for fruit lovers. Grab USDA Choice Beef Chuck Roast at $5.99/lb, ideal for hearty, slow-cooked meals. Support local and visit 168 Market this Sunday for these delicious savings!
Elevate Your Nail Game at NV Nail Supply!
Shine Bright with HyGEL at NV Nail Supply
Beauty lovers and nail pros, support local at NV Nail Supply in Asian Pacific Plaza! They’re now an official distributor of HyGEL, a revolutionary hybrid gel that’s odor-free, flexible, and long-lasting—perfect for stunning nails that last 3 to 4 weeks. HyGEL cures beautifully under LED/UV lamps for professional use or DIY nail care. Discover this game-changer and more—visit NV Nail Supply today!
Coming Soon:
New Flavor and Fun in Chinatown
Another new destination for retro and modern games: Pink Gorilla Gaming in Las Vegas.
Pink Gorilla Games Joins Chinatown’s Vibrant Entertainment Scene
Get ready, gamers—Chinatown’s entertainment scene is powering up with Pink Gorilla Games! Opening May 1, 2025, at The Center at Spring Mountain (4089 Spring Mountain Rd, next to K Spa), this Seattle-born retro gaming haven brings its legendary collection of classic and modern video games, import titles, and collectibles to Las Vegas for the first time.
Whether you’re hunting for a vintage Nintendo gem or the latest PS5 release, Pink Gorilla has something for every gamer. It’s set to become a hub for gaming fans of all ages, perfectly complementing the live music and theater along Spring Mountain Road. Swing by their grand opening for retro gaming demo stations and a chance at exclusive swag for the first 50 visitors—level up your Chinatown adventures! Follow PinkGorillaGames
Alchemist Rising? Full Bar & Restaurant Coming to Former Hell’s Chicken Spot!
Stirring things up with Alchemist! It’s not yet confirmed yet if Vincent Lam and his team, formerly of Hell’s Chicken, are rebranding the space at 4225 Spring Mountain Rd—in the plaza next door from Shanghai Plaza—into a restaurant with a full bar called “Alchemist” Promising a fresh dining and social experience, Alchemist is set to shake things up, though the menu and vibe remain under wraps. Let’s support local entrepreneurs elevating Chinatown’s culinary landscape! Stay tuned to Chinatownvegas.com for updates on the remodel, menu, and opening timeline as this new gem takes shape.
Another new business is joining the vibrant landscape of Chinatown! Puff Supply Smoke Shop is now open, adding to the diverse offerings on Spring Mountain Road
Retail News on the Rise!
Chinatown’s retail scene is buzzing with fresh energy! A new store is now open at the small but lively Chinatown Retail strip mall at 3900 Spring Mountain Rd, joining Tofu Hut, Hafez, Kaiseki Yuzu, and others. This store is tied to the folks at 4905 Alta Dr (Charleston Heights Shopping Center)—a relocation or a second spot? We’re digging for details! Meanwhile, other nearby storefronts are transforming, promising more exciting additions. Stay tuned to Chinatownvegas.com for updates on this retail wave!
Still More to Come…
Shoo Loong Hotpot: What was believed to be imminent, after we had a tour this week, we believe this is still a few months away.
Shin-Sen-Gumi Yakitori: This legendary California yakitori chain brings its famous skewers to our ‘hood.
TP Tea: The originator of bubble tea. Spring Mountain. Across from Crown & Anchor
Master Sushi & Oyster: Taking over the Pho spot in Golden Dragon Park
Sen Thai Noodle: Slated for 3380 Arville St., per January 12, 2025, chinatownvegas.com
Sea Harbour Seafood by Chef Tony: Landing at 5780 Spring Mountain Rd., per February 9, 2025, update—Chef Tony’s dim sum legacy is set to shine.
VT Mania: They passed all inspections and are ready. Opening should be imminent.—Vietnamese vibes or something else? It’s a tasty mystery.
Pho Saigonese: Taking over Lamoon’s old haunt, teased November 3, 2024. Missed April’s, early May, the next bet.
Spring Mountain’s 25+ mall empire keeps growing—watch these spots light it up!
Want to learn more about our strip malls in Las Vegas’ Chinatown, which features over 25 along Spring Mountain Rd and defines it as a “New Chinatown” despite the presence of freestanding businesses? Visit Chinatown Vegas Malls: A Guide To The Strip Malls Of Chinatown
Looking Back:
A Taste of What Was to Come!
Remember This? Hobak Korean BBQ Announced in 2015
Looking Back: The anticipation was high! This banner announced the upcoming arrival of Hobak Korean BBQ in Chinatown back in January/February 2016. A delicious addition to our ever-evolving culinary scene.
Throwback to 2015! Chinatown Vegas shared this gem: “New Korean coming to ChinatownVegas SpringMountain Rd, Just east of Jones,” announcing Hobak Korean BBQ’s arrival with a sign teasing a Jan/Feb 2016 opening. We’ve been your go-to for breaking news for over a decade, from Hobak’s debut to the rise of spots like Gabi. This sign is a sweet reminder of our ever-growing food scene! Share your favorite Chinatown memories and tag us @chinatownvegas.com—we’d love to hear them!
About Hobak Korean BBQ – Las Vegas (USA’s First Location!)
Bringing the vibrant flavors and nostalgic charm of 1980s Seoul street markets to the heart of Las Vegas’ Chinatown, Hobak marks the first USA location for our esteemed South Korean group. Experience premium Korean BBQ with our carefully selected cuts of USDA Prime Black Angus beef and heritage pork, expertly grilled tableside by our attentive team. Enjoy a diverse array of authentic banchan and unique dishes in our funky, modern space.
As part of the bustling culinary scene here, we’re proud to be neighbors with fantastic establishments like Gabi Coffee & Bakery and the delicious shabu-shabu spot right next door, The Shabu Shop. Across the street, you’ll also find an excellent all-you-can-eat yakiniku option. Come discover why Hobak is quickly becoming a Vegas favorite for genuine Korean BBQ!
Community Corner:
Boba with a Cop Kicks Off AAPI Heritage Month!
Community bonding with LVMPD
📢 Kick Off AAPI Heritage Month with Boba with a Cop! 📢
Join us for a refreshing and community-focused event as we celebrate the start of Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month! Come and connect with the officers from the Spring Valley Area Command at our upcoming Boba with a Cop event. 🧋👮♀️
Chatting with local law enforcement in a relaxed and informal setting is a fantastic opportunity. Enjoy a delicious boba drink while building connections and learning more about the Spring Valley Area Command.
Date: Thursday, May 1, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Sharetea
Address: 4258 Spring Mountain Rd, Suite A105, Las Vegas, Nevada 89102
Let’s kick off AAPI Heritage Month together with community spirit and delicious boba! We look forward to seeing you there! 🎉
Another Big Name from China Opens in the Shanghai Plaza
Explore More Chinatown
Are you looking to dive deeper into the Chinatown experience? Check out our guides:
Chinatown Vegas Gambling Guide: Discover hidden betting gems along the Strip.
Perfect Places to Master Martial Arts Guide: Find top-notch martial arts training locations.
History of Chinatown: Uncover the rich history of Chinatown
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Thank you for another vibrant week in Chinatown! Our district continues to pulse with new energy, and we appreciate you being part of its exciting journey. Stay tuned for more updates and keep discovering the best of Las Vegas Chinatown at ChinatownVegas.com. Remember, what happens in Chinatown happens here.
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