This Week in Chinatown: June 22– 2026

Welcome to This Week in Chinatown!

Welcome to This Week in Chinatown!

Even as the Las Vegas heat kicks into full summer mode, our neighborhood is staying cool with exciting new developments, strong community momentum, and plenty of great food and music options. This week, we spotlight Mountain View Plaza’s rapid rise as a culinary hotspot, check in on several new restaurants preparing to open, and highlight one of Chinatown’s most beloved late-night music venues — The Sand Dollar Lounge. Plus, we’ve got your best grocery deals, a powerful look at traffic safety on Spring Mountain Road, and more.

Breaking News

Shanghai Plaza Continues to Evolve

Shanghai Plaza’s restaurant lineup continues to change. This week, signage was installed for Nagaiki Ramen at the former Noodle Nest location, signaling what appears to be another new addition to one of Chinatown’s busiest dining destinations.

The concept specializes in Japanese abura soba, a brothless noodle dish centered on umami-rich oils, house-made noodles, and fresh toppings — no broth required.

Signage for Nagaiki Ramen has been installed at the former Noodle Nest location on Spring Mountain Road in Las Vegas Chinatown.

Research by ChinatownVegas.com found that the Nagaiki Ramen name is associated with at least two distinct operations: an Edmonton-based concept currently operating at West Edmonton Mall, and a separate U.S.-focused entity listing a Garden Grove, California address. The U.S. site includes a franchise page on the Canadian side, which may explain how the brand is expanding. Whether the Las Vegas location is directly affiliated with either operation or represents an independent franchisee has not been confirmed.

No opening date has been announced.

Live Performance Spotlight

Live Performance: The Sand Dollar Lounge

If you’re looking to keep the night going after dinner, you don’t even have to leave the Chinatown corridor.

Just a few minutes east of the district on Polaris Avenue sits The Sand Dollar Lounge, one of Las Vegas’ true music institutions. Operating as a live music venue since 1976, The Sand Dollar has built a reputation as the rare place where world-class musicians, craft cocktails, artisan pizza, and a completely unpretentious atmosphere all coexist under one roof.

While many venues charge cover fees or focus on touring acts, The Sand Dollar continues to offer free live performances seven nights a week, making it one of the best values in local entertainment.

Featured Performances This Week

• Jimmy Powers & The Hang Dynasty return with their signature blend of blues, rock, and jam-band energy, continuing one of the venue’s most popular recurring residencies.
• Mimi & The Rivieras bring soulful vocals and vintage rhythm-and-blues influences to the stage during the week.
• The weekend lineup features Jimmy Carpenter, the award-winning blues saxophonist whose high-energy performances have made him a favorite among Las Vegas music fans.
• Closing out the weekend are the Sonic Shakers, delivering a crowd-pleasing mix of classic and modern rock favorites.

The Insider Take

Most headline performances begin around 10:00 p.m., making The Sand Dollar the perfect second stop after dinner in Chinatown. Whether you’re finishing a bowl of ramen, Korean barbecue, hot pot, or late-night dim sum, it’s one of the easiest ways to turn a great meal into a complete night out.

As always, schedules are subject to change, so check The Sand Dollar’s live music calendar for the latest lineup and set times. thesanddollarlv.com/lounge/

Chinatown Spotlight

Chinatown Spotlight: Mountain View Plaza

Located at 3400 S. Jones Blvd., Mountain View Plaza is quietly becoming one of Chinatown’s most exciting culinary destinations. While some plazas are defined by a single anchor tenant, Mountain View has evolved into a collection of standout concepts spanning Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Latin American, tea, coffee, and emerging nightlife.

At the heart of the plaza is China Mama, one of Chinatown’s most beloved restaurants and a destination for everything from crispy beef to soup dumplings. Nearby, Chubby Cattle continues to draw crowds with its premium hot pot experience, while Hachi remains a favorite late-night izakaya known for authentic Japanese small plates and yakitori.

One of the plaza’s most significant recent developments is Amador Cocina Fina, where Chef Oscar Amador has transformed the former EDO Gastro Tapas space into an elevated Latin American dining destination. Featuring dry-aged seafood, creative tasting menus, and a highly curated dining experience, Amador is quickly becoming one of the district’s most talked-about restaurants.

The beverage scene is evolving as well. Molly Tea has brought its modern Chinese tea culture and floral-forward beverages to the plaza, while Urban Matcha has become a destination for matcha enthusiasts seeking everything from premium tea drinks to soft-serve and Japanese-inspired snacks.

The momentum doesn’t appear to be slowing anytime soon.

An upcoming wine bar and tasting room is expected to add a new nightlife component to the plaza, while a new Japanese omelet concept is preparing to take over the former Sea Fresh space under new ownership.

With established favorites, exciting newcomers, and additional concepts on the horizon, Mountain View Plaza is quickly establishing itself as one of the most dynamic foodie destinations in Las Vegas Chinatown.

Community Corner

Community Corner: Two New Initiatives Taking Shape for Chinatown

As reported in previous issues of This Week in Chinatown, two new community-focused initiatives continue moving forward with the goal of strengthening both visitor engagement and neighborhood representation throughout the district.

The first is the planned Chinatown Visitor Center, currently being developed through ChinatownVisitorCenter.com. The vision is to create a centralized resource where visitors can learn about the district’s history, businesses, events, attractions, and cultural significance before exploring the neighborhood. As Chinatown continues attracting tourists from around the world, organizers believe a dedicated visitor center could help create a more welcoming and informative experience while directing guests to businesses throughout the district.

Also taking shape is the proposed Chinatown Advisory Council, which is being organized through ChinatownAdvisoryCouncil.com. The goal of the council is to create a stronger platform for business owners, property owners, residents, and community stakeholders to discuss issues affecting the district, including transportation, safety, beautification, development, and long-term planning.

While both initiatives remain in the planning stages, they represent an important shift toward building not only a stronger destination for visitors but also a stronger voice for the community itself.

We’ll continue providing updates as both projects progress and opportunities for participation become available.

Shop Local: A Feast of Fresh Deals

🛒 Best Grocery Deals in Chinatown This Week

We’ve been digging through the latest local circulars so you don’t have to. If you’re planning a shopping run on Spring Mountain, hit these two stores first — bulk staples, fresh produce, and quick-fix essentials at prices worth the trip.

🏪 99 Ranch Market

Pantry & Packaged

• 🍚 99 Jasmine Rice 50 lb — $42.99 (reg. $52.99) | $10 off a massive pantry staple
• 🍵 Itoen Oi Ocha Green Tea / Jasmine / Oolong 12-pack — $14.99/cs (reg. $22.99) | Stock-up pricing on premium unsweetened tea
• 🍜 Nongshim Shin Ramyun Family Pack — 2 for $7.98 (reg. $5.49 ea) | Drops to $3.99 per pack
• 🥮 Melundo Ginseng HK-Style Sesame Eggrolls 10.58 oz — $9.99 (reg. $13.99) | $4 off a popular specialty treat

Fresh Produce & Seafood

• 🍒 Premium Red Cherries — $3.29/lb | Competitive seasonal pricing
• 🥬 Taiwan Cabbage — $0.49/lb | Rock-bottom bulk cooking staple
• 🌿 Fresh Spinach — $0.89/ea | Budget-friendly fresh greens
• 🦐 Premium Head-On Shrimp 9/12, 2 lb — $9.99/pk | Jumbo farm-raised, incredible value
• 🦀 Imitation Crab Kanikama 1.1 lb — 2 for $9.00 | Great for hot pot or sushi nights

🏪 168 Market

Monthly Value Picks

• 🍟 Haitai Honey Butter Chip 60g — Buy 1 Get 1 FREE (reg. $3.49 ea) | One of the most sought-after snacks in the store — this BOGO is a steal
• 🧋 Pufru Tea Series 8 fl oz — 3 for $3.00 (reg. $1.49 ea) | Easy grab, solid savings
• 🍚 Asian Taste Calrose Rice 15 lb — $9.99 (reg. $13.99) | $4 off premium short-grain everyday rice
• 🍜 Nongshim Shin Ramyun 10-pack case — $9.99/cs (reg. $14.99) | $5 off bulk — a phenomenal pantry stocker
• 🍳 Helperware Stainless Steel Steamer 3-Layer 30cm — $39.99 +tx (reg. $73.49) | Over $33 off — clearance-level pricing on serious kitchen hardware

Frozen, Dairy & Deli

• 🥡 Zuming Fried Tofu Series — $2.29/ea | Quick-cooking protein, reliable discount
• 🧊 House Tofu 14 oz Soft/Medium/Firm — $1.69/ea | Solid pricing on a kitchen essential
• 🌽 Mizuho Glutinous Corn Vacuum Pack — $2.99/ea | Heat and eat street-style corn
• 🍗 Honey BBQ Whole Chicken Leg (Asian Gourmet Kitchen) — $4.99/lb +tx | Easy, affordable hot-deli protein grab

That’s your Chinatown grocery run for the week. Get in before the circulars flip — these prices won’t last.

📍 Both stores on Spring Mountain Road

🔔 Follow ChinatownVegas.com to stay up to date on everything happening in the district.

Coming Soon: Chinatown’s Scene Heats Up

Still to Come…

While several projects have opened in recent months, Chinatown’s development pipeline remains extremely active.

Among the most anticipated upcoming additions is Nagaiki Ramen, the abura soba concept preparing to take over the former Noodle Nest space in Shanghai Plaza. Nearby, Royale Frites continues progressing toward its debut at Shanghai Plaza, while Win Kee HK BBQ & Noodle prepares to bring its Hong Kong-style barbecue and noodle offerings to the corridor.

Mountain View Plaza also remains one of the district’s most active development zones. In addition to a planned wine bar and tasting room, a new Japanese omelet concept is preparing to take over the former Sea Fresh location under new ownership.

Elsewhere, Bee Dessert Atelier continues working toward its opening in the former Crown Bakery space, while 888 Sushi & Robata is preparing to expand onto the Spring Mountain corridor under the same ownership group behind 888 Japanese BBQ and 888 Sushi.

Several larger projects are also moving forward. Kyuramen continues its buildout, bringing its nationally recognized ramen concept and signature private booth design to Chinatown. Meanwhile, construction remains underway on Harbour AYCE Seafood Hot Pot, an ambitious all-you-can-eat seafood and hot pot destination that has already generated significant interest among local food enthusiasts.

As always, opening dates can change, but one thing remains clear: Chinatown’s next wave of restaurants is already taking shape.

Looking Back

Looking Back: Honey Pig — A Korean BBQ Pioneer in Chinatown

Long before Korean barbecue became one of the defining cuisines of Las Vegas Chinatown, Honey Pig was helping introduce locals to an authentic and distinctly Korean dining experience.

Opening during a period when the Spring Mountain corridor was still evolving into the culinary destination it is today, Honey Pig quickly established itself as a favorite among local diners, hospitality workers, and Korean food enthusiasts.

Honey Pig Korean BBQ — a Chinatown original since 2007. Photo courtesy of the owner.

One of the restaurant’s most recognizable features was its use of the traditional sot-ttugeong (솥뚜껑) grilling method. Rather than cooking on a standard flat grill, meats were prepared on large cast-iron dome lids modeled after traditional Korean rice pot covers. As the pork belly cooked, the rendered fat flowed down the sloped surface, naturally seasoning the kimchi, bean sprouts, garlic, and vegetables surrounding the grill. The experience became part of Honey Pig’s identity and helped distinguish it from many early competitors.

For almost 20 years, Honey Pig has also earned a reputation as one of Chinatown’s most dependable late-night destinations. Staying open until 5 a.m. made it a regular gathering spot for casino employees, chefs, bartenders, servers, and countless hospitality workers finishing shifts long after most restaurants had closed.

Today, with Korean cuisine firmly established as a major part of Chinatown’s dining scene, Honey Pig remains one of the businesses that helped pave the way.

Want to learn more? In Wednesday’s Episode 6 of This Week in Chinatown, Ruby Anne sits down with the founder’s son, who is now helping lead the next chapter of Honey Pig’s story in Las Vegas Chinatown.

 Chinatown Gripes

Chinatown Gripes: Highlighting unresolved issues in Las Vegas Chinatown.

The Gripes: Turns Out We Weren’t Imagining It

A new report from Metro confirms what many Chinatown residents, business owners, and visitors have been saying for years: Spring Valley continues to lead the Las Vegas Valley in reported traffic crashes, and Spring Mountain Road remains one of the area’s most problematic corridors.

To be honest, this shouldn’t surprise anyone who regularly drives, walks, or works in Chinatown.

For years, we’ve highlighted concerns about speeding vehicles, difficult left turns into busy plazas, poorly timed traffic signals, dangerous pedestrian crossings, and the growing challenge of balancing heavy traffic with a district that has become one of Southern Nevada’s most visited dining and entertainment destinations.

When the flashing-beacon crosswalk between Chinatown Plaza and Shanghai Plaza was proposed, many community members pushed for a pedestrian bridge instead. When concerns were raised about vehicle speeds along Spring Mountain Road, some dismissed them as anecdotal. When pedestrians were struck or near misses occurred, many saw them as isolated incidents.

The data now suggests otherwise.

Metro’s latest numbers show that the broader Spring Valley area continues to experience more crashes than anywhere else in the valley. While Chinatown is only one piece of that larger picture, anyone familiar with Spring Mountain Road knows the challenges are real.

The good news is that the conversation appears to be gaining traction. County officials have acknowledged that lowering speed limits along portions of Spring Mountain Road remains under consideration. That’s a discussion worth having.

Because Chinatown’s future isn’t just about new restaurants, new developments, and new visitors. It’s also about making sure people can safely get to them.

We’ve been talking about these issues for years. Maybe now more people are finally listening.

Explore More Chinatown

Ready to dive deeper into everything our neighborhood has to offer? Whether you’re hungry, curious, or just looking for something new to experience—we’ve got you covered. Spring Mountain Road offers endless adventures, from dining to community events. Revisit our past guides for more inspiration at chinatownvegas.com/past-guides.

Master Martial Arts in Chinatown’s Core

Channel your inner warrior at Chinatown’s premier martial arts dojos, offering Kung Fu, Taekwondo, and more. From kids to adults, beginners to experts, these studios blend fitness, focus, and tradition—perfect for building strength and discipline year-round.

🥋 Pro Tip: Many dojos offer free trial classes—test your skills risk-free!

🥋 Must-Try: A beginner Kung Fu class for a mix of strength and mindfulness.

Chinatown Vegas Features Perfect Places to Master Martial Arts for Kids and Adults

Share your experience with #ChinatownVegasVibes!

Karaoke Nights That Steal the Show

Unleash your inner pop star at Chinatown’s lively karaoke lounges. With private rooms, neon vibes, and endless song choices, these spots bring AAPI flair to every night out.

🎤 Pro Tip: Reserve early—weekend rooms fill up fast!

Chinatown Karaoke Revealed: 8 Amazing Must-Visit Spots

Share your experience with #ChinatownVegasVibes!

9 Ramen Bowls to Warm Your Soul

Chinatown’s ramen scene rivals the best, with steaming bowls of tonkotsu, spicy miso, and more. These dishes deliver bold flavors any time you’re craving comfort.

🍜 Pro Tip: Add extra chashu for a protein-packed treat.

🍜 Must-Try: Tonkotsu ramen with black garlic oil at Monta Noodle House.

🍜 Monta Noodle House, 5030 W. Spring Mountain Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89146

9 Amazing Ramen Dishes to Try in Chinatown

Share your experience with #ChinatownVegasVibes!

Embrace Traditional Chinese Medicine

Discover centuries-old wellness at Chinatown’s herbal shops and acupuncture clinics. From custom tea blends to holistic treatments, these centers offer balance and healing whenever you need a reset.

🌿 Pro Tip: Chat with herbalists for personalized remedy recommendations.

🌿 Must-Try: A first-time acupuncture session to experience the holistic benefits firsthand.

Discovering Traditional Chinese Medicine in Las Vegas Chinatown

Share your experience with #ChinatownVegasVibes!

Try Your Luck in Chinatown

No mega-casinos here, but Chinatown’s gaming scene has its own charm. Hit up cozy lounges with video poker or hidden spots for classic betting, all paired with great food and drinks.

🎲 Pro Tip: Look for bars with video poker for great drink deals.

🎲 Must-Try: A night of gaming and cocktails at The Golden Tiki.

🎲 The Golden Tiki, 3939 W. Spring Mountain Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89102

Can You Gamble In Chinatown? A Guide To Gambling In Las Vegas’ Chinatown

Share your experience with #ChinatownVegasVibes!

💡 Insider Tip: Visit ChinatownVegas.com daily for breaking news, openings, and the stories behind your favorite neighborhood spots.

Let’s Celebrate

Let’s Celebrate!

This week, we raise a glass to Honey Pig Korean BBQ — nearly 20 years in, still going strong, and still one of the best reasons to be out at 4 a.m. in Las Vegas Chinatown. Here’s to the pioneers.

Happy birthday to everyone celebrating this week — may your table be full, your grill be hot, and your AC be on full blast. 🎉