This Week in Chinatown: May 25 – 2026

Welcome to This Week in Chinatown!

As the desert heat returns and temperatures climb back into the 90s this week, Las Vegas Chinatown continues to pulse with energy, new developments, and community life. Even with the summer sun beating down, the neighborhood is moving forward at full speed — new restaurant signage is going up at Shanghai Plaza and Golden Spring Plaza, utility boxes are being transformed into colorful public art, and the live music scene at The Sand Dollar Lounge remains one of the strongest in the city. This edition of This Week in Chinatown captures the resilience, growth, and excitement that define Spring Mountain Road right now.

From major restaurant progress and upcoming openings to local deals, community initiatives, and the stories that make our neighborhood special, there’s a lot to cover. Whether you’re a longtime resident, a weekly visitor, or someone discovering Chinatown for the first time, we hope this newsletter helps you stay connected to everything happening in one of Las Vegas’ most vibrant districts.

Breaking News

Win Kee HK BBQ Signs Go Up at Shanghai Plaza
Win Kee HK BBQ & Noodle is continuing to move closer to opening at Shanghai Plaza, with new storefront signage officially going up this week in the heart of Las Vegas Chinatown. ChinatownVegas.com previously broke the news of the popular Hong Kong-style BBQ restaurant’s expansion plans, and the newly installed signs now mark another visible milestone for one of Chinatown’s most anticipated upcoming restaurant openings.

Read more: Full Story

888 Sushi & Robata Signage Goes Up at Golden Spring Plaza
New signage has officially gone up for 888 Sushi & Robata at Golden Spring Plaza, marking another major visible step in one of Chinatown’s most talked-about restaurant expansions. ChinatownVegas.com previously reported in December 2025 on the 888 Group’s major pivot into the former Jong-Ro Chicken/Shin Yakiniku space with a combined sushi, robata, and yakiniku concept. The newly installed signage signals continued progress at this highly anticipated location.Replace the entire BTS section with this version:

BTS Royalty Spotted in Chinatown

ARMYs, assemble! BTS superstar j-hope was spotted hanging out at Urban Matcha on South Jones Boulevard, instantly sending shockwaves across social media and bringing a surge of excitement to Las Vegas Chinatown.

The surprise sighting triggered absolute chaos over the weekend as hundreds of dedicated fans flooded the neighborhood, hoping to experience the exact café the global K-pop icon visited. Long lines wrapped around the block throughout the day, with customers eager to snap photos, order the same drinks, and soak in the excitement surrounding the unexpected appearance.

Local businesses across the area felt the impact as foot traffic surged throughout the corridor, further highlighting how Las Vegas Chinatown continues evolving into a cultural hotspot attracting international attention far beyond the food scene.

Did you brave the lines this weekend? Or have you spotted any other celebrities around the neighborhood lately? Let us know in the comments below!

A Major Culinary Name is Heading to Chinatown

One of the country’s most recognized Chinese Michelin restaurant brands is officially heading to Las Vegas Chinatown as part of a major new redevelopment project along Spring Mountain Road.

The announcement marks another major milestone in Chinatown’s continued evolution into one of the nation’s most exciting dining destinations.

For longtime Las Vegas food lovers, this is a name many never expected to see return to the city.

Be sure to watch Episode 2 of Ruby Anne’s This Week in Chinatown video series tomorrow on ChinatownVegas.com and the Chinatown Vegas YouTube channel for the full exclusive interview and official confirmation.

Live Performance Spotlight

The Sand Dollar Lounge

No cover. Craft pizza. Legendary bartenders. And one of the best late-night live music lineups in Las Vegas.

The Sand Dollar Lounge keeps the amps hot all week long with another stacked lineup of blues, rock, soul, and rockabilly performances right in the heart of Chinatown.

Monday, May 25
Katrina Bree brings rock and soul vibes from 10 PM–2 AM.

Tuesday, May 26
The Chris Tofield Band takes over with blues guitar and rock from 10 PM–2 AM.

Wednesday, May 27
Mimi & The Riviera’s keep the dance floor moving with classic rockabilly from 10 PM–2 AM.

Thursday, May 28
Darius Jackson delivers blues-rock-and-roll energy from 10 PM–2 AM.

Friday, May 29
Jimmy McIntosh opens the evening from 6 PM to 9 PM before Jimmy Carpenter takes over the late-night set starting at 10 PM.

Saturday, May 30
The Chris Koman Band kicks off the night at 6 PM before Sonic Shakers bring retro rock energy to the stage starting at 10 PM.

Sunday, May 31
The Smokestacks close out the week with another late-night performance starting at 10 PM.

At a time when many cities are losing authentic live music venues, The Sand Dollar continues to prove why it remains one of the true cultural anchors of Spring Mountain Road. Grab a slice, order a cocktail, and stay awhile.

Chinatown Spotlight

Follow ChinatownVegas.com Across Social Media

ChinatownVegas.com continues expanding its real-time coverage of Las Vegas Chinatown across multiple social media platforms, giving readers more ways to stay connected with the latest restaurant openings, breaking news, events, redevelopment updates, and community stories from the Spring Mountain Road corridor.

In addition to the weekly “This Week in Chinatown” series and the new video series hosted by Ruby Anne, ChinatownVegas.com can now be followed across multiple platforms for live updates, food discoveries, opening announcements, and behind-the-scenes coverage throughout Chinatown.

As Chinatown continues growing, ChinatownVegas.com remains committed to documenting the businesses, culture, people, and momentum shaping one of Las Vegas’ most dynamic districts.

Follow ChinatownVegas.com for daily Chinatown updates:
Instagram,
Facebook,
X, and YouTube.

Shop Local: A Feast of Fresh Deals

99 Ranch Market Weekly Unbeatable Deals (05/15 – 05/28)

• Nissin Demae Ramen Series (5-pack): 3 for $9.99 (Must buy 3 for mix & match, regularly $4.99/pk)
• Eagle Coin Fried Dace with Black Beans (6.5oz): 5 for $9.50 (Regularly $3.49/ea)
• Haday Premium Wei Ji Xian Soy Sauce (750ml): $2.99 /ea (Regularly $5.29)
• Synear Dumpling Series (16oz): 3 for $8.97 (Regularly $4.49/ea)
• Iwatani Butane Fuel: 4 for $7.00 +tx (Regularly $2.59/ea)

99 Ranch Market Monthly Value Picks (05/01 – 05/28)

• Sekka Rice (15lb): $10.99 /ea (Regularly $17.99)
• LBW Liuzhou Rice Noodle Original: 2 for $5.00 (Regularly $3.49/ea)
• KSF Instant Noodles (5-pack – Assorted Flavors): 2 for $5.00 (Regularly $3.99/pk)
• Jinlongyu Pure Peanut Oil (1.8L): $8.99 /ea (Regularly $13.99)
• Tsubaki Shampoo/Conditioner & RP Set (900ml): $16.99 /ea+tx (Regularly $22.99)

168 Market Produce & Fresh Goods (05/22 – 05/28)

• Asparagus: $3.99 /lb • Napa Cabbage: 49¢ /lb
• Taiwan Honey Peach (5 lb/cs): $26.99 /cs
• Champagne Mango: $1.49 /ea or $16.99 /cs (12S-14S)
• Beef Back Ribs (Whole Piece): $3.99 /lb (Regularly $5.29)

168 Market Unbeatable Deals (05/15 – 05/28)

• Mushroom Fish Tofu (432g): 2 for $8.00 (Regularly $6.29/ea)
• TZS Lobster Flavor Chip Series (140g): 2 for $4.00 (Regularly $4.49/ea)
• M.Y. San Sky Flakes Crackers (28.21oz): $6.99 /ea (Regularly $9.99)
• Buddha Jasmine Rice (50lbs): $48.99 /ea (Regularly $59.99)
• Liumangyike Durian Ice Cream Bar (2.46oz): 2 for $4.00 (Regularly $3.29/ea)

Coming Soon: Chinatown’s Scene Heats Up

Chinatown’s dining scene continues its massive evolution with high-profile relocations, sweet artisan expansions, and more hot pot and ramen concepts. Keep these highly anticipated arrivals on your radar:

Coming Soon: KROK Thai’s 1st Anniversary Celebration

KROK Thai is preparing to celebrate its 1st anniversary on June 6, 2026, from 12 PM to 2 PM with a special community celebration open free to the public. The Chinatown favorite says guests can expect plenty of surprises during the event as the restaurant marks its first year serving modern Thai cuisine in the heart of Las Vegas Chinatown.

More Chinatown openings are still on the horizon:

Aroma Latin American Cocina
The Scoop: After capturing the hearts of adventurous foodies in Henderson, James Beard finalist Chef Steve Kestler is relocating his acclaimed Latin fusion flagship to the heart of Spring Mountain. Expect his signature elevated style—where classic Latin American comfort meets bold Asian influences (think chicken tinga enchiladas dialed up with gochujang and kimchi rice). The new space will feature an expanded dinner menu, a casual lunch/brunch program, and a custom outdoor patio in the works.

Location: 3355 Spring Mountain Rd., Unit 35 (Next to The Sand Dollar Lounge)

Win Kee HK BBQ & Noodle
The Scoop: Visible progress is officially underway at Shanghai Plaza! The highly anticipated exterior signage was just installed, confirming that Win Kee’s celebrated Hong Kong-style barbecue and Cantonese comfort food are locked in for the bustling plaza.

Location: Shanghai Plaza

Bee Dessert Atelier
The Scoop: The talented team behind Lamaii is making a major move into the sweet space. Taking over a longtime bakery location, this new elevated Thai dessert atelier promises to bring a highly curated, sophisticated pastry and dessert experience.

Location: 4355 Spring Mountain Rd., Suite 207 (Former Crown Bakery space)

Kyuramen
The Scoop: The mega-popular national ramen brand is preparing a massive 5,000+ square foot flagship location. Famous for its geometric honeycomb private booth seating and Tokyo-style ramen bowls.

Location: Hotai Plaza (4525 Spring Mountain Rd.)

Harbor Seafood Hot Pot and Shabu Rokka
Two new premium hot pot and shabu-shabu experiences are steadily advancing, adding more depth to Chinatown’s interactive dining scene.

Weather: Chinatown Weather Post – May 25-31, 2026

Mon 25: 95° / 71° • Sunny
Tue 26: 92° / 65° • Mostly Sunny/Wind
Wed 27: 84° / 63° • Mostly Sunny
Thu 28: 78° / 61° • Mostly Sunny
Fri 29: 86° / 65° • Mostly Sunny
Sat 30: 92° / 70° • Sunny
Sun 31: 96° / 72° • Sunny

Community Corner

Community Alert: RTC Launches Summer Heat Safety Campaign
With triple-digit temperatures returning to Las Vegas, the RTC is reminding riders and pedestrians to take extra precautions during the summer heat. As part of its new “Summer Heat Coming in Hot!” campaign, the RTC is encouraging transit riders to stay hydrated, avoid arriving too early at bus stops, wear light-colored breathable clothing, and use the rideRTC app to track buses in real time to minimize time spent standing in the sun. The campaign also reminds residents to watch for signs of heat stroke, including dizziness, headaches, nausea, and confusion. The public awareness push also highlights local businesses and community partners helping residents “Beat the Heat” this summer.

Utility Box Art

Vibrant murals painted on electrical utility boxes along Spring Mountain Road transform everyday infrastructure into a gallery celebrating the culture and spirit of Las Vegas Chinatown. From koi fish and orchids to lanterns, wildlife, and Asian-inspired imagery, the growing collection of artwork is adding another layer of visual energy to the Chinatown corridor while helping beautify one of the busiest stretches of roadway in Las Vegas.

Vibrant koi fish and floral designs on Spring Mountain Road.

Cultural artwork near Golden Spring Plaza.

Looking Back

The Evolution of Shanghai Plaza, Suite 106
Part of what makes our Chinatown district so electrifying is its relentless evolution. A perfect example of this constant reinvention is Suite 106 inside Shanghai Plaza (5130 Spring Mountain Rd). Today, the space is bustling as Fish With You, a smash-hit concept specializing in individualized, customized bowls of Chinese sauerkraut fish. But to truly appreciate this storefront, we have to look back at the distinct chapters that paved the way.

The Early Days: Wishful Dumpling House
Before the neon lights and modern aesthetics took over the suite, it was home to Wishful Dumpling House. A cozy, straightforward spot that leaned into classic Chinese comfort food, it served as a reliable anchor in the plaza’s earlier days.

The K-Pub Era: JMT Korean Street Food
As Shanghai Plaza solidified its reputation as the epicenter of late-night energy, the space underwent a dramatic transformation into JMT Korean Street Food. Named after the Korean slang term Jon-Mat-Taeng (“freaking delicious”), the concept traded the quiet dumpling vibe for the high-octane energy of a late-night Seoul pub. It became a beloved go-to for heavy-hitting, authentic street eats.

Fish With You’s iconic mascot welcomes diners to its new Las Vegas location at Shanghai Plaza!

Today: Fish With You
As the tides of the district shifted once more, the energetic Korean pub made way for a global culinary phenomenon. Suite 106 is now home to Fish With You, turning traditional, family-style Chinese sauerkraut fish into an accessible, fast-casual experience where diners fully customize their broths, proteins, and add-ons. From quiet dumpling house to rowdy Korean street-food pub, to a modern Sichuan fish destination, Suite 106 represents the very heartbeat of Las Vegas Chinatown.

Chinatown Gripes

Potholes and poor road conditions, poorly timed traffic lights, bus stops and rideshare pickups in spots that make little sense, high speed limits, and difficult left turns out of shopping plazas continue to frustrate drivers and pedestrians along Spring Mountain Road. As the neighborhood grows and attracts more visitors, these infrastructure issues become increasingly noticeable and impactful. Many residents and business owners say improvements can no longer wait.

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.

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

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

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.

9 Amazing Ramen Dishes to Try in Chinatown

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

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.

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

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

Let’s Celebrate

Even as the summer heat returns to the valley, Las Vegas Chinatown continues to thrive with new energy and momentum. New signs are going up, public art is brightening the streets, live music is filling the nights, and several exciting restaurant projects are advancing. This is a neighborhood full of life, flavor, culture, and community spirit.

And here’s a reminder that tomorrow we drop our video version of This Week in Chinatown. Episode 2 has lots of surprises, as well as an interview with the two developers of the Pacific Plaza opening on the east side  gateway to Chinatown

We’re proud to celebrate it with you every week. Stay cool, support local businesses, and enjoy everything Chinatown has to offer.