How to Celebrate and Support Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Seattle
AAPI HERITAGE MONTH IN SEATTLE
Asian Pacific Americans have been integral to Seattle's story since the city's early days. Chinese pioneers set foot here in the 1860s, carving out space near the waterfront. Japanese settlers followed suit in the 1880s, crafting their own community dubbed Nihonmachi, or Japantown, near Chinatown.
Fast forward to today, and you'll find a vibrant mix of cultures in the International District, a hub born from the contributions of Pacific Islanders, Filipinos, and others. Wander through, and you'll spot dragons adorning light posts, elegant balconies on Chinese family association buildings, and serene community parks adorned with stone lanterns and pagodas.
In more recent decades, Seattle's welcomed immigrants from Korea, Vietnam, and beyond, now proudly calling the area east of the International District "Little Saigon." This melting pot of Pacific Rim influences infuses our region with a special charm evident in everything from our architecture to our cuisine and artistic expressions.
Here are some ways to celebrate AAPI Heritage in and around Seattle... this month and beyond:
The Arts + Cultural and Social Events
AAPI Heritage Month Events to check out:
MAY 19 |Â AANHPI Family Book Event
MAY 25 | United Festival
See a more extensive list of events on our AAPI Heritage Month Community Calendar
Eat, Drink and Shop
Some of our favorite establishments:
Mark Mizer and his wife Andrea brought the "aloha" to Buddha Bruddah in 2014, blending Hawaiian and Thai flavors with a "lei'd" back vibe. This flavorful fusion has amassed a "lu-WOW" following, sparking multiple locations to "lei" claim to their tasty empire!
In the veggie-friendly depths, Roshita Shrestha's Annapurna Cafe is a flavor haven! This "subterranean sanctuary" crafts a fusion of Indian, Nepalese, and Tibetan delights, catering to all palates. Originating from Nepal, Roshita's culinary adventures across South Asia seasoned her skills before unveiling this hidden gem.
Step into Sugar Hill, where owners Guitar Srisuthiamorn, Will Doherty, and Anh Nguyen mix up a "Thai-licious" storm of street food and craft cocktails. Swing by after hours and vibe to DJs spinning everything from hip-hop to R&B, turning up the "spice" on your nightlife!
Located in Seattle's Chinatown-International District's historic Publix Building, honors the Filipino legacy. Originally a haven for Filipino workers, our Cafe + Bar, established in 2019, celebrates this heritage through Filipino cuisine, hospitality, and storytelling.
Sprouted in Rainier Beach in '03, a doughy fusion of breakfast, teriyaki, and laundry, filling neighborhood gaps. 14 years later, the Hong Chhuor and family took over, pledging to keep the dough rolling. By '23, they moved south on Rainier Ave, still serving up sweet twists.
Outsider Comics is a longtime superhero sanctuary of Seattle's Fremont neighborhood. When the original owners decided to throw in the cape, Wing Mui answered the call, keeping the adventure alive. Billing itself as a "geek boutique," the store stocks up on the newest graphic novels, comic issues, zines, and locally-crafted treasures, ensuring every visit feels like a heroic quest.
Looking for a Vietnam vibe without the jet lag? Anchovies & Salt is your ticket! Owner Quyen Phan dishes out Vietnamese comfort with flair, turning every visit into a mini getaway. With lakefront views and rooms inspired by Vietnam's regions, it's a pho-nomenal spot for large groups.
See a comprehensive list of AAPI-owned establishments on the Intentionalist website
