The Best Saimin Spots

The Best Spots for Saimin on Oahu
By Olena Heu
​
Considered a savory, local, comfort food, Saimin is a staple in Hawaiian homes. The freshly cooked noodles sitting in a clear dashi-style broth is the perfect combination to warm the heart and soul. Similar to ramen, but boasting simple ingredients like fish cake, ham, egg and onions, the plantation workers dined on saimin often daily and many locals still eat it today on a regular basis. With the cooler winter months approaching it’s the perfect end to a chilly evening. Heres a look at the best spots for saimin on Oahu.

Shiro’s Saimin Haven
Influenced by the Hawaiian, Chinese, Japanese and Filipino foods, Shiro’s serves freshly made noodles and an abundance of other ingredients. They first opened in 1969 and have been serving a large variety of saimin dishes for every appetite. Try the Portuguese, Korean or Filipino Saimin.
98-020 Kamehameha Hwy
Aiea, HI 96701
91-919 Fort Weaver Rd.
Ewa Beach, HI 96706

Palaca Saimin
The menu is simple…Saimin with our without wonton or your choice of udon and bbq beef sticks. They say if you’re going to make something delicious then stick to it and that’s what Palace Saimin does. They don’t fret about food trends or adding anything new to their menu, instead they serve classic saimin in a comfortable setting without any bells or whistles. Sizes are also simple, small ,large or extra large depending on your appetite.
1256 N. King Street
Honolulu, HI 96817

Dillingham Saimin
One of the original saimin stands since the 1950’s Dillingham Saimin has been serving a secret family recipe to hungry eaters for decades. A shrimp broth foundation and option to add shrimp tempura make this simple dish a bit more decadent. They also serve a plethora of musubi and hearty plate lunches.
1425 Dillingham Blvd.
Honolulu, HI 96817

Zippy’s
Known statewide for their 24/7 hours and on the go meals, desserts and more… Zippy’s is an island tradition and with that their saimin is world-famous as well. Classic and piping hot or served with wontons too, with more than 2-dozen locations statewide you can quench your saimin thirst from dawn until dusk or anytime in between. The Zip Min is also a must-try, it’s a saimin with wun tun, shrimp, choi sum, fish cake, seaweed, egg, sweet pork and of course noodles. ​

---