Welcome to This Week in Chinatown!

Happy Monday, Chinatown fam! As we settle into the fresh energy of 2026, Spring Mountain Road is already buzzing with momentum—from the star-studded CES spillover (shoutout to Akon dropping by Más Por Favor for that exclusive after-party!) to the exciting rollout of the Inspiring Spring Mountain Corridor Improvement Grant Program, which kicks off applications this week. We’re talking real community wins: up to $75k in matching funds for facades, safety upgrades, lighting, murals, and more to make our neighborhood safer, more walkable, and even more vibrant.

This week brings sunny mild weather perfect for patio hangs and exploring, killer grocery deals at 99 Ranch and 168 Market, nightly free blues/rock at the iconic Sand Dollar Lounge, and the kickoff of the Tony-winning Into the Woods at Las Vegas Little Theatre. We’re spotlighting the timeless legacy of Mountain View Plaza while venting about those persistent road gripes (because we love this place enough to keep pushing for better).

Here’s to a week of bold flavors, live vibes, and big plans ahead—let’s make 2026 the year Chinatown truly shines. Share your stories, sightings, and vibes with #ChinatownVegasVibes! 🌟

Breaking News

Akon Spotted in Chinatown for Exclusive CES After-Party

The star power of CES 2026 (which wrapped up last week with major tech reveals) spilled over into the district as global music icon and entrepreneur Akon was spotted in Las Vegas Chinatown. Multiple sources and circulating social media footage confirm the superstar attended a private, invite-only after-party on the evening of Wednesday, January 7, at the popular speakeasy Más Por Favor (3879 Spring Mountain Rd).

The exclusive gathering drew an elite mix of tech executives, industry insiders, and creatives—perfect for unwinding off-Strip after days at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Buzz kicked off early when a black Rolls-Royce limousine rolled up, signaling high-profile arrivals. While the event stayed strictly private (no public guest list or statements), leaked clips and photos quickly surfaced showing Akon mingling, posing for pics, and soaking in the vibes inside the venue.

This high-profile drop-in highlights Chinatown’s rising status as a go-to spot for low-key, upscale hospitality during the city’s biggest conventions—proving Spring Mountain Road delivers the perfect blend of authentic eats, hidden gems, and discreet nightlife that even global stars can’t resist.

Chinatown keeps leveling up—next time you’re craving tacos upfront and top-shelf tequila in the back, you never know who might be sipping in the shadows!

Live Performance Spotlight

Live Performance Vibes: Music and Dance Take the Stage

Chinatown’s live scene shines this week with free nightly blues/rock at one of the neighborhood’s most iconic spots, plus a special theatrical gem just a short drive away for those craving Broadway-caliber magic.

First up: The Sand Dollar Lounge (3355 Spring Mountain Rd) — Chinatown’s go-to for nightly free live music (typically 10 PM–2 AM, no cover), blending blues, rock, soul, and jam sessions with great cocktails and pizza. Perfect for unwinding after exploring Spring Mountain Road.

🎶 Live Performances at The Sand Dollar: Jan. 12 – 18

🎸 Monday, January 12
🔹 The Chris Koman Band — Local favorites bringing high-energy rock and blues to kick off the week at 10 PM.

🎤 Tuesday, January 13
🔹 Stanley Avenue — Friday-night vibes on a Tuesday with groove-driven rock and blues set at 10 PM.

🎷 Wednesday, January 14
🔹 Mimi & The Riviera’s — 10 PM set spotlighting soulful blues and rhythm that keeps the crowd swaying.

🎶 Thursday, January 15
🔹 Swayze & Friends — A blend of blues and classic rock starts at 10 PM.

🎸 Friday, January 16
⭐ Double Feature Night
• SAM CHAMBLISS (Opener) — 6 PM–9 PM warm-up set featuring bluesy Americana and roots music.
• Eric Sardinas — A high-octane blues-rock performance takes the stage at 10 PM.

🎤 Saturday, January 17
🔹 Heather Walker & The Shadow Band — Early set at 6 PM–9 PM featuring soulful vocals and blues-rock textures.
🔹 The Blue Byrdes — 10 PM brings upbeat rhythms and rich harmonies to the lounge.

🎵 Sunday, January 18
🔹 The Smokestacks — Close out the week with their 10 PM performance, blending blues and rock for late-night vibes.

🎶 Insider Tip: The Sand Dollar Lounge regularly hosts free live music nightly — a true staple for live entertainment in Chinatown.

Theatrical Highlight: Into the Woods at Las Vegas Little Theatre
Step into a world where fairy tales collide and the consequences of “happily ever after” come to life. Las Vegas Little Theatre presents the Tony Award-winning musical masterpiece Into the Woods, with music and lyrics by the legendary Stephen Sondheim and book by James Lapine.

This modern classic intertwines beloved Brothers Grimm tales—Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, Rapunzel—and more, all tied together by the story of a baker and his wife desperate for a child. The first act follows their wishes coming true; the second act explores the messy, poignant realities that follow, delivering humor, heart, and deep insights on community, responsibility, and the stories we share.

LVLT offers an intimate, community-driven setting for this sophisticated Broadway favorite.

Performance Dates: January 16 – February 1, 2026 (kicking off this week!)
Showtimes:
• Fridays: 7:00 PM
• Saturdays: 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM
• Sundays: 2:00 PM

Location: Las Vegas Little Theatre (Mainstage), 3920 Schiff Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89103

Tickets: General Admission $37
For tickets and more info, visit lvlt.org or call the Box Office at 702-362-7996.

Whether you’re into high-energy blues at the lounge or Sondheim’s timeless storytelling, this week delivers unbeatable live experiences right in and near Chinatown!

Chinatown Spotlight

Shining a light on the vibrant heart of Chinatown. Stay tuned for this week’s business spotlight!

Mountain View Plaza: The Original Westside Anchor

While the iconic “Tang Dynasty” gates of the 1995 Chinatown Plaza often grab the historical headlines, the real veteran of the Spring Mountain corridor stands just a bit further west. Built in 1986, Mountain View Plaza (3400 S. Jones Blvd) has been a foundational pillar of the district since before “Chinatown” was even an official name—carving out space for Asian entrepreneurship in what was once a mostly industrial area.

A Legacy of “Firsts”
This plaza isn’t just old; it’s a launchpad for legends. It was home to two game-changing spots that helped define the neighborhood:

• The Birthplace of Chubby Cattle: Before it exploded into a global conveyor-belt hotpot empire, the very first Chubby Cattle opened here, revolutionizing Vegas dining with high-tech delivery and premium Mongolian-inspired flavors.
• The China Mama Roots: For nearly two decades, this was the original home of the legendary China Mama, where crispy beef and soup dumplings drew massive lines and put Spring Mountain on the map as a top-tier culinary destination (the restaurant has since expanded to Shanghai Plaza and reopened its original location nearby).

China Mama’s Mountain View Plaza Location: The Restaurant will now move into the Shanghai Plaza in the IX Skewer and Bar space

The New Era: Elevated Eats, Viral Hype & Fresh Energy
Today, Mountain View Plaza is getting a serious glow-up, blending its classic roots with cutting-edge trends that keep the crowds coming.

• Molly Tea (China’s Jasmine Sensation): If you spot massive lines spilling onto the sidewalk, it’s probably for this premium bubble tea brand’s Las Vegas debut. Fresh off its grand opening in late December 2025, Molly Tea brings elegant floral-infused jasmine teas, chic “Modern Eastern” vibes, and that signature pink branding—currently the hottest sip in town.
• Amador Cocina Fina: Chef Oscar Amador (of EDO Tapas fame) has turned the former EDO space into his personal, creative haven with Amador Cocina Fina (opened quietly in November 2025). This intimate spot elevates the plaza with Spanish techniques meets global flair—think fresh masa, house-fermented sauces, dry-aged seafood, and bold, boundary-pushing plates in a high-energy setting.

The EDO hospitality spirit lives on through Chef Amador’s ongoing projects (including the upcoming EDO Gastropub at The Gramercy in 2026), ensuring the neighborhood’s late-night energy and innovative dining stay strong—even as spaces evolve.

From its 1980s industrial beginnings to its current role as a hub for viral teas, fine-dining innovation, and timeless favorites, Mountain View Plaza remains the essential western anchor of the Spring Mountain experience. Swing by, grab a jasmine tea, and feel the history in every bite!

Shop Local: A Feast of Fresh Deals

Shop Local: A Feast of Fresh Deals — Support Chinatown businesses and discover fresh finds throughout the Spring Mountain Road corridor.

Stock up on premium proteins, fresh produce, and Lunar New Year must-haves this week—Chinatown’s grocery giants are delivering unbeatable prices just in time for cozy winter meals and prepping for the Year of the Horse (kicking off Feb 17!). Whether you’re planning hotpot nights, family feasts, or just everyday eats, these deals from 99 Ranch Market and 168 Market make it easy (and affordable) to shop local on Spring Mountain Road.

99 Ranch Market – Top 10 Deals
(Valid: Jan 9 – Jan 15, 2026)

• Beef Ribeye Roast – $7.99/lb
• Pork Baby Back Rib – $4.69/lb
• 9/12 Premium Head-on Shrimp (2lb pk) – $9.99/pk
• Sunkist Navel Oranges (10lb box) – $9.99/bx
• Asian Taste Jasmine Rice (25lb) – $21.99/ea
• Fuji Apples – $0.79/lb
• Organic Land 100% Organic Cane Sugar (2lb) – $3.99/ea
• YPJZ Red Gift Box (Lunar New Year Item) – $17.99/ea
• Red Onion – $0.69/lb
• Kong Yen Black/Rice Vinegar (20.2oz) – 2 for $4.00

168 Market – Top 10 Deals
(Valid: Jan 9 – Jan 15, 2026)

• Beef Back Rib (Vacuum Packed) – $3.99/lb
• Pork Belly (Skin-on, Frozen) – $3.99/lb
• Live Sunvoi Frozen Monthong Durian (Whole) – $2.99/lb
• Fresh Young Coconut (9 count case) – $16.99/cs
• Headless Shrimp (26/30 size) – $5.49/lb
• Green Mussel Half Shell (2lb pk) – $9.88/pk
• Cucumber – $0.39/ea
• Tomato – $0.99/lb
• Diecas Wok w/ Diamond Pattern (30cm) – $19.99/ea
• White Peach Cream Puff Cake – $3.49/ea

Pro Tip: Hit 99 Ranch early in the week for the best selection on meats and seafood (they restock fresh daily!), Then swing by 168 Market for exotic fruits like durian or those viral young coconuts—the lines move fast, and parking is easier mid-morning. Pair these deals with your Lunar New Year red gift box for an epic home celebration setup!

These prices won’t last—grab your cart and support our neighborhood favorites!

Coming Soon: Chinatown’s Scene Heats Up

A vibrant gateway to what’s next — Chinatown Vegas prepares to unveil its newest additions.

As major infrastructure investments—ranging from the new pedestrian corridor and Vegas Loop tunneling to large-scale retail developments—continue to reshape Chinatown, momentum on the ground is unmistakable. Alongside the construction buzz, a wave of headline-grabbing dining and entertainment concepts is inching closer to reality. With signage installed, interiors taking shape, and timelines coming into focus, here’s where some of Chinatown’s most talked-about openings currently stand as we dive into 2026.

Sea Harbour by Chef Tony (5780 Spring Mountain Rd) – On the Horizon
One of Chinatown’s most highly anticipated culinary debuts is nearing fruition. Revered as the “King of LA Dim Sum,” Chef Tony is bringing his modern Cantonese seafood powerhouse to Las Vegas. Expect an elevated menu featuring refined dim sum classics, lavish seafood presentations, and show-stopping specialties like Peking duck. The sleek, glass-fronted space is fully branded with steady progress throughout 2025, suggesting an opening that could redefine the local dim sum scene soon.

Hatoya Ryoyousha (八十八良葉舎) – First U.S. Outpost, Targeting 2026
Las Vegas Chinatown has officially been selected for the U.S. debut of this legendary Kyoto matcha brand. Celebrated for its carefully sourced Uji matcha and minimalist craftsmanship, the café will spotlight layered matcha lattes, rotating seasonal offerings, and refined sweets such as Fresh Matcha Terrine and Half-Baked Matcha. “Coming Soon” signage has been up since late 2025, fueling excitement for an authentic Japanese tea experience rooted in centuries-old tradition.

Matcha Café Maiko (Hotai Plaza, next to Nabe Hotpot) – Nearly Ready
The popular matcha café, which originated in Hawaii with strong ties to Japanese tea culture, is preparing to open its first Las Vegas location. Known for its vibrant green soft serve, parfaits, and premium matcha beverages, Matcha Café Maiko is expected to be a major draw. Licensing activity and visible progress throughout 2025 point to an opening that appears imminent—perfect timing for matcha lovers!

Mukgo Nolza (West of I-15, near The Sand Dollar Lounge) – Targeting 2026
This ambitious concept from restaurateur Peter Vu aims to push Chinatown’s nightlife offerings into new territory. Mukgo Nolza will feature 21 private karaoke rooms, each uniquely themed with futuristic, fantasy, and pop-culture designs—from galaxy-inspired spaces to comic-book flair—paired with elevated Asian cuisine. Exterior branding has been visible for some time, and while early projections hinted at a 2025 debut, the project is now tracking toward a 2026 launch.

Shin-Sen-Gumi Yakitori (4810 Spring Mountain Rd) – Early 2026 Goal
The beloved Japanese izakaya chain known for its charcoal-grilled yakitori and lively late-night atmosphere remains committed to its Chinatown location. Though construction and permitting delays surfaced in 2025, momentum has resumed, with an early 2026 opening now in sight—promising to add another layer of authentic Japanese dining to the corridor.

Together, these upcoming openings underscore Chinatown’s continued evolution into a destination for globally respected cuisine, refined tea culture, and next-level entertainment. Stay tuned to chinatownvegas.com for real-time updates as each of these long-awaited projects moves closer to opening day.

Join the conversation and share the excitement with #ChinatownVegasVibes 🏮🍵🎤

Weather: Chinatown Weather Post – January 12–18, 2026

☀️ Weather Watch: This Week in Chinatown (Monday–Sunday)

Expect a classic, comfortable winter week in Chinatown with sunshine every day and mild daytime highs—perfect patio weather by day and cool evenings by night.

Monday: Sunny and calm with a high near 60° and a crisp low around 40°.
Tuesday: Warming up slightly—bright skies with a high of 66° and a low of 45°.
Wednesday: One of the warmest days of the week, sunny with a high of 69° and a low near 48°.
Thursday: Still sunny and pleasant, topping out around 68°, with an overnight low of 48°.
Friday: A slight cool-down but still beautiful—sunny with a high of 65° and a low of 46°.
Saturday: Weekend weather shines with sun, a high of 63°, and a low around 46°.
Sunday: Wrapping up the week sunny and mild, with a high near 64° and cool evening temps in the mid-40s.

🌤️ Bottom line: All sun, no rain, and ideal weather for exploring Spring Mountain Road—just bring a light jacket once the sun goes down.

Community Corner

Highlighting the people and places that make our Chinatown special.

New Grant Funding for Spring Mountain Corridor – A Game-Changer for Chinatown!

Big, exciting news for property owners and small business owners across Las Vegas Chinatown: Clark County Commissioner Justin Jones, in partnership with the Clark County Redevelopment Agency and Grow America, has officially rolled out the Inspiring Spring Mountain Corridor Improvement Grant Program!

This $750,000 matching grant fund is a huge win for our district, designed to boost safety, walkability, cultural vibrancy, and overall appeal along the Spring Mountain corridor (home to 1,500+ businesses and 14,000 employees). It supports visible, lasting upgrades while including anti-displacement protections like a 5-year maintenance covenant and 12-month tenant clause to keep legacy spots thriving.

Key Program Details

• Application Window: January 15 – March 15, 2026 (opens this week—don’t miss it!)
• Funding Amount: Up to $75,000 in matching funds per eligible project (applicants contribute at least 25%).
• Award Structure:
  • Base Award: Up to $25,000 per property.
  • Bonus Award: Additional $5,000 per acre (beyond the first acre), capped at $75k total.
• Eligible Projects: Facade & storefront enhancements (new signage, paint, lighting), safety/security improvements, circulation/pedestrian access, placemaking like murals/public art, and more.

Who Can Apply?
Property owners in the Spring Mountain Chinatown Cultural Corridor Redevelopment Area, plus commercial tenants with written owner consent.

Get Expert Help: Mobile Office Hours
Not sure about eligibility, matching funds, project scope, or permitting? Commissioner Jones’ team (including Commission Analyst Jayson Dagher) is hosting no-appointment-needed Mobile Office Hours right in Chinatown:

• Thursday, Jan. 15 (12:30 PM – 4:30 PM): Tous Les Jours Cafe (4731 Spring Mountain Rd)
• Tuesday, Jan. 20 (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Afterlife Boba (4568 Spring Mountain Rd)
• Sunday, Jan. 25 (Noon – 4:00 PM): 85°C Bakery Cafe (4258 Spring Mountain Rd)

Drop by for one-on-one guidance—these sessions are perfect for brainstorming how to make your space shine!

This grant ties perfectly into the bigger Inspiring Spring Mountain vision (approved late 2025), which includes wider sidewalks, more trees, better lighting/security, new crosswalks (like the upcoming Chinatown-Shanghai Plaza link), and a stronger Chinatown brand. It’s all about supporting our small businesses and preserving the cultural heart of the neighborhood while embracing growth.

Let’s seize this opportunity to make Spring Mountain even more welcoming and vibrant—apply early, swing by those office hours, and share your project ideas with #ChinatownVegasVibes!

For full details, check the Inspiring Spring Mountain site or contact Jayson Dagher via Commissioner Jones’ office.

😤 Chinatown Gripes (Still the Same, Still Ignored)

Let’s be honest—our gripes haven’t changed, because the problems haven’t either. Spring Mountain Road is thriving like never before, but the infrastructure is lagging, turning everyday drives and walks into a test of patience (and tires).

• Lower the speed limit on Spring Mountain Road. This dense, walkable business corridor isn’t a freeway—yet cars fly through at speeds that endanger pedestrians, diners, workers, and families every single day. A 35 mph cap (as many locals have long demanded) would make a world of difference for safety.
• Fix the traffic light timers. Sitting through two or three full cycles just to go straight isn’t “traffic management”—it’s pure dysfunction. Poorly timed signals choke the corridor, back up lines at plazas, and punish local businesses trying to keep customers moving.
• Adjust bus stops and rideshare pickup zones to match Chinatown’s growth. We’ve outgrown the old setup—buses stopping mid-lane and chaotic rideshare pickups (especially with tourists flooding in) are worsening congestion and creating safety hazards. Better turnouts and dedicated zones are overdue.
• Ban left turns out of Chinatown strip malls. These moves are dangerous, disruptive, and a major source of backups and near-misses. Other busy corridors enforce this for good reason—Chinatown deserves the same safety standards.
• And finally, FIX THE FEROCIOUS POTHOLES. This isn’t cosmetic damage—it’s shredding tires, risking accidents, and embarrassing for one of Las Vegas’ most vibrant districts. The craters (especially west of Decatur) have been a running joke (and expense) for years.

These aren’t new complaints—they’re long-standing, reasonable requests from a community that keeps growing, thriving, and contributing despite it all. The good news? The Inspiring Spring Mountain Corridor plan (approved late 2025) is finally addressing some of these head-on: repaving starts Q1 2026, bus turnouts and improved turn lanes/medians are in the works, plus wider sidewalks, more crosswalks, and better lighting/security. With the new $750k grant program open soon (Jan 15–Mar 15), property owners and tenants can push for even more targeted fixes.

Let’s keep the pressure on—share your own gripes with #ChinatownVegasVibes, hit up those Mobile Office Hours, and hold officials accountable. Our neighborhood’s too special to settle for outdated roads!

Explore More Chinatown

Supercharge Your Business

Chinatown Vegas: Boost Your Business with Free Advertising

ChinatownVegas.com is and always will be free, and businesses are encouraged to take advantage of it, our @chinatownvegas social media, and our Google Maps page to boost their visibility in this vibrant district. Feature your business, events, or specials on these platforms to connect with thousands of locals and visitors exploring Spring Mountain Road. But for those looking for a whole lot more, Chinatown Amplify is the ultimate growth engine to make your brand shine in Las Vegas’s most dynamic neighborhood.

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Let’s Celebrate

What a week to kick off the new year! From Akon’s surprise Chinatown cameo proving our district is the cool off-Strip spot for elite crowds, to the grant program opening doors for real upgrades (hit those Mobile Office Hours starting Jan 15!), and everything in between—Spring Mountain Road is alive with possibility.

Whether you’re catching blues at the Sand Dollar, grabbing fresh deals for cozy meals, or just strolling under sunny skies, remember: this neighborhood’s magic comes from its people, its resilience, and its endless flavor. Here’s to more growth, more community, and more unforgettable moments in 2026.

Thanks for being part of it—drop your highlights, gripes, or favorite spots below and tag us with #ChinatownVegasVibes. See you out there, and stay tuned for next week’s issue as the scene keeps heating up! 🏮✨