Supporting Asian Restaurants in the Twin Cities

As COVID-19 spread throughout the United States, bigotry towards Asian Americans was fueled by news that the first case had appeared in China. Stop AAPI Hate, a coalition of Asian American advocacy groups, issued a report in August 2020 stating that it had received more than 2,500 reports of hate and discrimination across the country since the group was founded in March.

Asian American small businesses have been among the hardest hit by the economic downturn during the pandemic. According to a study by the National Bureau of Economic Research, Asian American business-owner activity dropped by 26 percent from February to April nationwide. Even in 2021, anti-Asian hate crimes have continued to increase across America. How can you support the community during the economic downturn and rise in bigotry? Buy your next meal at one of these delicious Asian restaurants. 

Hmong Village

Located in the heart of Eastside St. Paul, the Hmong Village Shopping Center is a one-of-a-kind indoor market in the Twin Cities. They feature over 250 vendors that offer food, clothing, groceries, and services. They have an assortment of Southeast Asian eateries that are not limited to just Hmong cuisine. My favorite meal to get here is a plate of fresh Hmong sausage, sticky rice, and boba tea. You can feel the heart of Hmong culture and life when stepping into this setting, with vendors greeting you at every stop.

Union Hmong Kitchen 

Union Hmong Kitchen is a pop-up restaurant experience that features Hmong culture, stories, foods, and flavors. Led by Chef Yia Vang, this restaurant reflects a modern take on the traditional Hmong food that he grew up with. In 2021, Vang plans to open up a permanent home for his restaurant, Vinai, in Northeast Minneapolis. They currently offer takeout and buffet-style dining options for pick-up.

Eastside Thai Restaurant

From curries to pad thai, this location offers classic, authentic Thai dishes that are loved in the Southeast Asian community. I’m a huge fan of their pork belly dishes with Chinese broccoli. Any dish off their menu will leave you feeling satisfied and full. They are open for takeout and third-party deliveries. Large party trays or individual boxed meals are also available for purchase. 

Phở Hòa

Phở Hòa is located off of Nicollet Ave. in Minneapolis. Their chain offers a wide array of Vietnamese specialities. They’re notorious for their traditional pho and are praised for being a community favorite amongst Asian American college students in the Twin Cities. They offer dine-in, takeout, and no-contact delivery options.

Lat 14 Asian Eatery

If you’re looking for a dinner place with a classier ambience, Lat 14 is the place for you. They offer shareable plates that are inspired by Chef Ann Ahmed’s connections to Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and the Philippines. I highly recommend their signature creamy tom yum ramen and fried garlic green beans. Their culinary experience is offered through dine-in and takeout. 

Minnesota Rice

If you’re looking for other ways to support the Asian American community, consider Minnesota Rice. Twin Cities chefs and bartenders are partnering together to raise awareness and support against racism in the community. Throughout May, you can pre-purchase a ticket for access to seven instructional cooking videos, accompanied by written recipes from Asian chefs and bartenders, for $100. One hundred percent of ticket sales go to their charity partner CAAL, the Coalition of Asian American Leaders.

Which restaurant are you planning to visit in the near future?