How travelers can uplift the Asian American community

In recognition of Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month this May, we’re shining a spotlight on some of our favorite businesses, neighborhoods, and spaces in 5 cities across the US.

Our AAPI communities encompass a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions. With the ongoing rise in racial violence against this community, many travelers may be looking for ways to contribute positively. One impactful way is to support these Asian-owned businesses and neighborhoods found in our favorite travel destinations.

Flushing, New York

Queens is celebrated as one of the most diverse areas in America, with Flushing serving as the heart of the Asian American community in New York. You could spend an entire trip here and still discover new things. While the area boasts a significant Chinese and Chinese-American population, it also features many Korean and Vietnamese restaurants, shops, and cultural experiences. A must-visit is the New World Mall on Roosevelt Avenue, which offers over 100 Asian food stalls, shops, and markets. Don’t miss Jiang Nan, a Sichuan-style restaurant known for its artistic plating. Also, be sure to check out Union Street, home to much of Flushing’s Korean community, where you can savor seolleongtang (설렁탕 – a rich ox bone soup) at Gahwa, open 24 hours.

Dallas, Texas

A sprawling city in its own right, Dallas is home to an increasingly diverse population, including a vibrant Asian community. There are three primary areas to explore if you wish to support Asian-owned businesses. DFW Chinatown serves as a hub for commerce and culture in Richardson (North Dallas), featuring a large shopping center and fantastic dining options. Treat yourself to pho at Pho Que Huong or hot pot at Sichuan King. The Dallas Asian Trade District, also in North Dallas near I-35, boasts over 21 shopping plazas with more than 300 businesses, including a branch of the well-known grocery chain, H Mart. Lastly, Dallas’s “Little India” (also in Richardson) offers Indian food markets and shops. Don't miss the chance to grab takeout from Bikaner Sweets, known for its variety of South Indian dishes and mithai (sweets).

Chicago, Illinois

In the West Ridge neighborhood, Devon Avenue is celebrated as the “most diverse street in America.” Locally known as “Little India,” this area features a substantial South Asian community that runs various shops and eateries, while also showcasing a dynamic mix of other Asian cultures, including Pakistani, Chinese, and Middle Eastern establishments. If you venture towards Uptown around West Argyle and North Broadway, you’ll discover “Little Vietnam,” home to popular spots like Ba Le for bahn mi, Phở Loan for pho, and Tai Nam Food Market. For authentic Sichuan cuisine, many locals recommend Da Mao Jia, a street food joint offering dishes from Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco’s Chinatown hosts the largest Chinese and Chinese-American community outside of China. Stretching from Bush Street to Broadway, the iconic Dragon Gate marks the entrance to this vibrant neighborhood. For a more authentic cultural experience away from tourist traps, the Richmond District and Clement Street are excellent areas to explore. As the largest Chinatown in the US, you could spend a week here and still not uncover all the incredible food and shopping options. Be prepared for a wait at House of Nanking, a beloved eatery with lines often extending down the block, or check out its sister restaurant Fang. If you’re in the mood for something special, don’t miss the tasting menu at The Slanted Door, a Bay-area staple currently undergoing renovations but set to reopen later this year. Additionally, you can support local businesses across the city, especially in the SoMa neighborhood. Wine Down is an Asian women-owned wine bar that emphasizes social justice alongside unique varietals. Yank Sing offers a contemporary twist on traditional dim sum, while Manila Bowl, a Filipino-owned eatery located in the Twitter HQ on Market Street, is a lunchtime favorite.

Los Angeles, California

LA’s vibrant Little Tokyo is home to the largest Japanese American community in the US. Here, you’ll discover innovative spots like Donatsu (ドーナツ), a whimsical donut shop perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth any time of day. Be sure to check out the “Home is Little Tokyo” mural on Central Avenue, situated across from the Japanese American National Museum. Shojin (精進) offers a creative vegan and macrobiotic menu, with takeout and delivery options available throughout LA. If you find yourself in LA’s Chinatown, don’t miss Lasita, an award-winning Filipino rotisserie and wine bar favored by locals. For delicious Thai fast food, head over to Thai Town, where you’ll find spots like Ruen Pair serving up tasty dishes.

Do you have a favorite shop, restaurant, or attraction we overlooked? Let us know at @Dinogo.

As travelers, we frequently find ourselves in new and unfamiliar places—whether abroad or at home. No matter where you are in the world, racism has no place. To learn more about supporting the Asian American community right now—and what to do if you witness anti-Asian racism—visit Stop AAPI Hate.

This article was first published on March 24, 2021, and was last updated on May 11, 2022.