Welcome to This Week in Chinatown!

As we wrap up January 2026, Chinatown is buzzing with that perfect late-winter energy: mild sunny days inviting strolls along Spring Mountain Road, live blues rocking The Sand Dollar Lounge, Sondheim’s Into the Woods closing strong at Las Vegas Little Theatre, and the soft opening of Claw World bringing hype collectibles and viral ice creams right to our core corridor. From soul-warming Korean soups at Tang (saved for next week’s spotlight) to fresh grocery deals at 99 Ranch and 168 Market, plus community calls for auditions and transit advocacy—it’s a week of comfort, excitement, and neighborhood momentum. Whether you’re clawing for Labubu wins, dodging potholes with patience, or planning your next hotpot run, Chinatown delivers. Let’s dive in!

🌟 Share your Chinatown vibe with #ChinatownVegasVibes!

Breaking News

Catch and Fire to replace Sea Salt.

🔥 Catch & Fire Taking Shape at Former Sea Salt Space (Arville St)

Fresh exclusive update from sources: Catch & Fire is poised to take over the prime spot at 3455 Arville St, Suite 100—the former home of Sea Salt Live Sashimi (now permanently closed, per listings and community buzz).

Adding real momentum, the exterior signage from Sea Salt has been fully removed, a clear visual sign that the transition is underway and the space is being prepped for its next chapter.

No official word yet on the concept, menu direction, ownership, or opening timeline—could be seafood-inspired, fusion, or something entirely fresh—but the physical progress has locals watching closely.

ChinatownVegas.com is all over this one: We’ll drop confirmed details the moment they surface. If you’re driving by Arville, snap a pic of the stripped storefront and tag us—your eyes on the ground help fuel the story!

(Pro tip: Keep an eye on nearby spots like Crab N Spice at Suite 102—they’re thriving in the same plaza, so whatever lands in 100 could complement the seafood boil/hotpot scene big time.)

Live Performance Spotlight

Live Performance Vibes: Music and Dance Take the Stage

🎶 Chinatown’s live music heartbeat pulses strong this week at The Sand Dollar Lounge (3355 W. Spring Mountain Rd.) — the iconic, intimate Spring Mountain Road spot famous for craft cocktails, killer pizza, and nightly blues-driven performances. From soulful midweek grooves to horn-fueled Fridays and a powerhouse Sunday blues finale, there’s something for every live-music lover. (Note: Monday is a rare closure for a well-deserved staff appreciation night.)

• Monday, January 26 — Closed
  A rare night off as the team hosts a staff appreciation party.
• Tuesday, January 27 — Didi West
  High-energy blues-rock guitar and soulful vocals light up the room.
• Wednesday, January 28 — Soul Town featuring Jack Conner
  Groove-heavy soul, blues, and rhythm to carry you through the midweek.
• Thursday, January 29 — Down South Jukers
  Southern rock-infused blues with a high-energy edge to kick the weekend buildup.
• Friday, January 30 — The Spectators featuring Jimmy Carpenter
  A stacked Friday night packed with horn-driven blues and funky grooves—music runs late!
• Saturday, January 31 — The Moanin’ Blacksnakes
  One of Las Vegas’ longest-running blues bands delivers a powerhouse Saturday set in a packed house.
• Sunday, February 1 — Casey Hensley featuring Anthony Cullins
  A high-octane blues finale with award-winning guitar work and deep Chicago-style blues to close the week strong.

Good to Know:
🎸 Live music most nights
🍕 Craft pizza & cocktails
⏰ Shows typically start around 10 PM
🚫 NEVER a cover

Pro tip: Get there early on Friday and Saturday—the vibe gets electric and the room fills up quickly for these standout sets!

🎭 LIVE THEATRE: INTO THE WOODS 🌲

If you missed the opening weeks of Stephen Sondheim’s timeless masterpiece at Las Vegas Little Theatre, there’s still time—this enchanting musical weaves together fairy tales with heart, humor, and killer songs. Following Monday, Jan 26, only four performances remain before the curtain closes for good!

Remaining Showtimes (expected to sell out—grab tickets now!):
– Friday, January 30 @ 7:00 PM
– Saturday, January 31 @ 2:00 PM (Matinee)
– Saturday, January 31 @ 7:00 PM
– Sunday, February 1 @ 2:00 PM (Final Performance!)

📍 Las Vegas Little Theatre (Main Stage), 3920 Schiff Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89103

🎟️ Tickets starting at $37 (students 18 & under $20—call 702-362-7996). https://www.lvlt.org/into-the-woods

Pro tip: Arrive early for great seats—these closing shows bring extra magic and emotion. A must-see!

Chinatown Spotlight

🕹️ Claw World Levels Up with New Chinatown Flagship

Get your gaming hands ready! Claw World brings neon vibes and prize-winning fun to Chinatown Vegas

The local arcade scene is about to get a major upgrade. As first reported by ChinatownVegas.com, the wait is nearly over: Claw World is expanding into the heart of Chinatown with its second location—now serving as the brand’s flagship.

The original Flamingo store kicked things off, but this Spring Mountain Road spot elevates the game, bringing high-energy, high-reward claw action right to the bustling corridor between Palette Tea Lounge (4601 Spring Mountain Rd) and LV Pho 7 (4631 W Spring Mountain Rd).

While the Official Grand Opening is set for early March, claw-fanatics get the inside track: Claw World begins its Soft Opening this week—your prime chance to dive in early!

A New Standard for Claw Arcades
This isn’t just another shop filled with generic plushies. The Chinatown flagship is unlike any claw store in the USA, moving far beyond traditional arcades with a cult following built on “hype” collectibles. Designer toy enthusiasts will go wild over shelves loaded with the most sought-after items right now: Labubu monsters, the latest Pop Mart blind box series, and exclusive limited-edition figures.

And don’t miss the exclusive viral ice creams—those TikTok-famous 3D mango, peach, and other propitious flavors that pair perfectly with your wins for a sweet, cooling finish!

The Heart of the Action
Nestled on Spring Mountain Road in the core of Chinatown, this flagship amps up the neon-lit energy that defines our neighborhood’s dining, shopping, and fun scene.

The Details:
– Soft Opening: Starting this week! (Daily hours ~12 PM–9 PM; confirm via @clawworld_usa on IG)
– Grand Opening: Early March 2026
– Location: Spring Mountain Road (approx. 4631 area), between Palette Tea Lounge and LV Pho 7 (Chinatown core)
– The Vibe: High-end collectibles (Labubu/Pop Mart), viral ice creams/snacks, strategic trade-ups, and top-tier claw action

Exclusive First-Look Photos (ChinatownVegas.com exclusive):

Welcome to the machine! 🕹️✨ A first look at the futuristic vibes inside the brand-new Claw World flagship in Chinatown. Those neon lights and marble floors are calling our names!

A neon dream in Chinatown! 🕹️✨ Get a first look inside the brand-new Claw World, where rows of glowing machines and adorable prizes are waiting for the perfect catch.

Stop by during the soft opening to beat the March crowds and get your first taste of this game-changer. Welcome to the neighborhood, Claw World—you’re clawing your way to the top!

Share your wins, first-looks, and hauls with #ChinatownVegasVibes—we’re hyped for the photos!

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.

🛒 Support Chinatown businesses and discover fresh finds throughout the Spring Mountain Road corridor. We’ve rounded up the standout bargains from the neighborhood’s favorite grocers this week. Whether you’re prepping for a weekend hotpot, family meals, or stocking up on pantry staples, these deals make it easy (and affordable) to shop local.

Pro Tip: If you’re heading to 168 Market, don’t forget your Club Card! Reaching 2,000 points earns you a $20 reward, which acts like an extra “loyalty discount” on top of these already deep price cuts.

99 Ranch Market Deals (Nevada Stores Only – Valid through 02/05/2026)

• 99 Jasmine Rice (25+3 lbs Special): Only $21.99/ea — A massive 28lb bag of premium rice to keep your pantry stocked all month long.
• Envy Apples: Now just 99¢/lb — Crisp, sweet, and perfect for a healthy winter snack or fresh sides.
• Chicken Mid Joint Wings: BUY 1 GET 1 FREE at $26.99/pk — Ideal for air-frying, soy-braising, or game-day wings.
• Mizuo Frozen Glutinous Corn: 2 for $5.00 (Regularly $3.99/ea) — Chewy, comforting staple for quick snacks or soups.
• Shin Ramyun Family Pack (5pk): Discounted to $3.99/pk — The gold standard of spicy instant noodles at a steal!

168 Market Deals (LV Stores Only – Valid through 02/05/2026)

• Synear Veggie Dumplings (Selected Varieties): Only $3.49/ea — Quick, easy “restaurant-at-home” meal for busy weeknights.
• Mogami 8-Blend Wholegrain Rice (5lb): Now $16.99/ea — Nutrient-dense upgrade for healthier eating this year.
• Flying Horse Fish Sauce (25 fl oz): Just $1.99/ea — Unbeatable price for this essential Southeast Asian pantry staple.
• Chimei 2-Color Bun (Mantou) Taro (6/pk): Only $4.29/pk — Fluffy, colorful steamed buns—beautiful for breakfast or dessert.
• JB Napa Kimchi (2.64lb): Priced at $10.99/ea — Large jar of authentic kimchi to add fermented kick to any meal.

Pro tip: Hit these spots early in the week—popular items like the BOGO wings or veggie dumplings can fly off shelves fast, especially with Lunar New Year prep vibes in the air!

Coming Soon: Chinatown’s Scene Heats Up

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

📅 Minja Yan Campaign Launch at Pickleball Universe

An official campaign launch for Minja Yan, candidate for Clark County Commission District F, is set to take place at Pickleball Universe (9001 Dean Martin Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89139)—a vibrant, community-oriented pickleball venue in the southwest valley.

The event is expected to draw residents, small business owners, and neighborhood advocates (including from nearby Chinatown) for an afternoon of civic engagement, grassroots organizing, and discussion on key district priorities: smart growth, public transit improvements, and stronger support for local businesses. Hosting at this active gathering spot underscores its role as a hub for community events beyond the courts.

ChinatownVegas.com will be on-site and bring you post-event coverage in a future issue—stay tuned for highlights, quotes, and any neighborhood-relevant takeaways!

Pro tip: If District F issues (like infrastructure, transit links to Spring Mountain, or business support) matter to you, this could be a great spot to connect and get involved. Check Minja Yan’s campaign channels for exact date/time/RSVP details as they drop.

Still to Come:

Sea Harbour by Chef Tony (5780 Spring Mountain Rd) – Opening Soon

Hatoya Ryoyousha (八十八良葉舎) – First U.S. Location, Opening 2026

Mukgo Nolza (West of I-15, near The Sand Dollar Lounge)

Shin-Sen-Gumi Yakitori (4810 Spring Mountain Rd) – Aiming for Early 2026

Weather: Chinatown Weather Post – January 26–February 1, 2026

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

Expect classic late-January Las Vegas mildness: mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies, comfortable daytime highs in the upper 50s to low 60s°F (around 14–17°C), and cooler nights dipping to the upper 30s to low 40s°F (3–6°C). Low chance of rain throughout—perfect for outdoor dining, Claw World soft-opening visits, or evening blues at Sand Dollar.

Daily highlights:
– Mon Jan 26: High ~58°F, low ~39°F, sunny.
– Tue Jan 27: High ~60°F, low ~40°F, mostly sunny.
– Wed Jan 28: High ~62°F, low ~42°F, partly cloudy.
– Thu Jan 29: High ~61°F, low ~41°F, sunny.
– Fri Jan 30: High ~63°F, low ~43°F, clear.
– Sat Jan 31: High ~64°F, low ~44°F, sunny.
– Sun Feb 1: High ~62°F, low ~42°F, mostly sunny.

Bottom line & pro tip: Layers for mornings/evenings (a light jacket does the trick), but daytime is ideal for Spring Mountain walks, Claw wins, or theatre matinees. Sunscreen and hydration still key—desert sun sneaks up even in winter!

Community Corner

Highlighting the people and places that make our Chinatown special.

🎭 Auditions Open: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time at Las Vegas Little Theatre

Las Vegas Little Theatre (3920 Schiff Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89103) is holding open auditions for their upcoming production of the acclaimed play The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (adapted by Simon Stephens from the bestselling novel). Directed by Hallie Lyons, this visually inventive and emotionally powerful story follows gifted teen Christopher Boone as he investigates his neighbor’s murdered dog—leading to a moving journey of discovery and growth.

Audition Dates:
– Monday, January 26, 2026, at 7:00 PM
– Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 7:00 PM
Sign-in starts at 6:30 PM; auditions continue until all are seen. Callbacks: Wednesday, January 28 at 7:00 PM.

Performance Run: April 17–May 3, 2026 (Fri/Sat evenings 7:00 PM; Sat/Sun matinees 2:00 PM).

Who Should Audition: All experience levels welcome! Roles include Christopher Boone (late-teen appearance), Siobhan, Ed & Judy Boone (parents), and an ensemble of multiple supporting characters. Prepare a short monologue; British/Swindon dialect coaching provided on-site.

This is a fantastic opportunity for local performers to join a celebrated, dynamic production that celebrates curiosity and individuality. Head to lvlt.org for more details or to prepare—break a leg!

Conceptual map of the Chinatown Tunnel Vision proposal showing a 1-mile underground connector beneath Spring Mountain Road designed to integrate Chinatown with the Vegas Loop.

🔦 Does Chinatown Have Tunnel Vision? – Join the Push for Better Mobility

The explosive growth of the Spring Mountain corridor has been incredible—but success has its price: epic gridlock that frustrates locals, tourists, delivery drivers, and businesses alike. As we plan for the future of our vibrant neighborhood, one big question looms: How do we actually fix the transit nightmares on our favorite three-mile stretch?

In our latest deep-dive feature, “Chinatown Tunnel Vision”, we dive into the real intersection of urban planning and on-the-ground reality. We explore everything from subterranean solutions to ease surface pressure, to the urgent need for pedestrian-first infrastructure that makes walking safer and more enjoyable—without losing the soul of the street.

This is a community-powered push to get Chinatown the mobility upgrades it deserves. Chinatown businesses: We need your voice! Add your name to our growing list of advocates, share the piece with your networks, and help amplify the message. Collective action from the people who live, work, and thrive here is how we make real change happen.

Read the full story & add your business support today → https://chinatownvegas.com/chinatown-tunnel-vision/

Pro tip: Drop your own traffic/transit stories in the article comments or tag us with #ChinatownVegasVibes—your experiences help build the case!

Looking Back

A look back at the time of Las Vegas Chinatown

🚚 Flashback: Shanghai Plaza’s Grand Opening Buzz – The Branded Truck Takeover

Throwback to the grand opening of Shanghai Plaza! 🥟🚚 Who remembers seeing this mobile billboard cruising through Chinatown to celebrate the new plaza?

Throw it back to the launch days of Shanghai Plaza (4258 Spring Mountain Rd), one of Chinatown’s key modern anchors that helped supercharge the Spring Mountain corridor. When this vibrant two-story shopping/dining hub officially came online (with key tenants rolling out from the late 2010s into the early 2020s), the energy was electric—new spots like 85°C Bakery Cafe, Yummy Rice, ShangHai Taste, and Da Lu Mi Xian brought fresh waves of Taiwanese baked goods, dumplings, noodles, and more to the neighborhood.

To amp up the hype, a massive branded truck cruised Las Vegas Blvd and the Strip, turning heads with mouthwatering visuals of steaming xiao long bao, fluffy breads, sizzling hotpots, and that iconic “堡仔飯” signage. It was a smart, rolling billboard that screamed “Chinatown’s expanding—come taste the new wave!”

Fast-forward to today, Shanghai Plaza remains a bustling gem: home to crowd-favorites for quick bites, desserts, groceries, and casual hangs—including standout Shanghainese spots like ShangHai Taste (4266 Spring Mountain Rd, Ste 104A, right in the plaza). Known for its authentic xiao long bao (soup dumplings), elevated Shanghai-style street food, and dishes by Chef Jimmy Li, it’s a go-to for juicy pork buns, fat noodles, and more—often packed with locals and visitors chasing that true Shanghainese flavor in a clean, welcoming setting.

It reminds us how strategic promo and steady growth turned vacant lots into must-visit hubs, paving the way for the packed Spring Mountain scene we love.

Pro tip: Next time you’re craving a quick 85°C pineapple bun or a bowl from ShangHai Taste’s dumplings/hot pots, remember—it all started with that truck making the rounds!

Share your own Shanghai Plaza memories (or first visits to ShangHai Taste) with #ChinatownVegasVibes!

Chinatown Gripes

😤 Same Road, Different Day

It seems some things never change. As we circle back to our regular list of local frustrations, the needle hasn’t moved an inch on the infrastructure front.

Potholes continue to be a bone-rattling reality for commuters, turning a simple drive into a high-stakes game of “dodge the crater.” Compounding the problem is the high speed limit on stretches that feel more like residential zones than drag strips—making every merge a white-knuckle experience.

Meanwhile, the bus stops and pickups remain a masterclass in questionable planning: We’re still seeing stops placed in “no-man’s-land” spots that lack basic shade or sidewalk access, leaving riders stranded in areas that simply don’t make sense for a walking commute.

The Crosswalk Dilemma
The recently installed pedestrian crossing has quickly become the city’s newest lightning rod for controversy. While a handful of proponents appreciate the attempt at slowing down the frantic flow of traffic, the overwhelming consensus from the community leans negative. Residents have voiced concerns that the design is more confusing than helpful—often catching drivers off guard and creating a false sense of security for pedestrians who are still dodging aggressive turns. Instead of a seamless safety feature, many feel it’s become a bottleneck that has only added a fresh layer of frustration to an already chaotic intersection.

Next week, we’ll dive deeper into this specific headache as we tackle the mounting feedback from locals, tourists, and business owners on the crosswalk’s real impact on daily life.

Pro tip: Until then, eyes up, patience on, and maybe honk twice if you’re stuck behind someone who thinks 45 mph is “cruising” through Chinatown—safety first, vibes intact!

Share your own gripes (or wins) with #ChinatownVegasVibes—we’re all in this traffic together.

Explore More Chinatown

Ready to dive deeper into everything our neighborhood has to offer? Whether you’re hungry, curious, or just looking for something new to experience—we’ve got you covered. Spring Mountain Road offers endless adventures, from dining to community events. Revisit our past guides for more inspiration at chinatownvegas.com/past-guides.

Master Martial Arts in Chinatown’s Core

Channel your inner warrior at Chinatown’s premier martial arts dojos, offering Kung Fu, Taekwondo, and more. From kids to adults, beginners to experts, these studios blend fitness, focus, and tradition—perfect for building strength and discipline year-round.

🥋 Pro Tip: Many dojos offer free trial classes—test your skills risk-free!

🥋 Must-Try: A beginner Kung Fu class for a mix of strength and mindfulness.

Chinatown Vegas Features Perfect Places to Master Martial Arts for Kids and Adults

Share your experience with #ChinatownVegasVibes!

Karaoke Nights That Steal the Show

Unleash your inner pop star at Chinatown’s lively karaoke lounges. With private rooms, neon vibes, and endless song choices, these spots bring AAPI flair to every night out.

🎤 Pro Tip: Reserve early—weekend rooms fill up fast!

🎤 Must-Try: All-you-can-sing sessions with unlimited soda for just $20/hr at spots like Max Karaoke Studio.

Chinatown Karaoke Revealed: 8 Amazing Must-Visit Spots

Share your experience with #ChinatownVegasVibes!

9 Ramen Bowls to Warm Your Soul

Chinatown’s ramen scene rivals the best, with steaming bowls of tonkotsu, spicy miso, and more. These dishes deliver bold flavors any time you’re craving comfort.

🍜 Pro Tip: Add extra chashu for a protein-packed treat.

🍜 Must-Try: Tonkotsu ramen with black garlic oil at Monta Noodle House.

🍜 Monta Noodle House, 5030 W. Spring Mountain Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89146

9 Amazing Ramen Dishes to Try in Chinatown

Share your experience with #ChinatownVegasVibes!

Embrace Traditional Chinese Medicine

Discover centuries-old wellness at Chinatown’s herbal shops and acupuncture clinics. From custom tea blends to holistic treatments, these centers offer balance and healing whenever you need a reset.

🌿 Pro Tip: Chat with herbalists for personalized remedy recommendations.

🌿 Must-Try: A first-time acupuncture session paired with a visit to Wing’s Chinese Herbs.

🌿 Wing’s Chinese Herbs, 4300 W. Spring Mountain Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89102

Discovering Traditional Chinese Medicine in Las Vegas Chinatown

Share your experience with #ChinatownVegasVibes!

Try Your Luck in Chinatown

No mega-casinos here, but Chinatown’s gaming scene has its own charm. Hit up cozy lounges with video poker or hidden spots for classic betting, all paired with great food and drinks.

🎲 Pro Tip: Look for bars with video poker for great drink deals.

🎲 Must-Try: A night of gaming and cocktails at The Golden Tiki.

🎲 The Golden Tiki, 3939 W. Spring Mountain Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89102

Can You Gamble In Chinatown? A Guide To Gambling In Las Vegas’ Chinatown

Share your experience with #ChinatownVegasVibes!

💡 Insider Tip: Visit ChinatownVegas.com daily for breaking news, openings, and the stories behind your favorite neighborhood spots.

Supercharge Your Business

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.

• Get listed on ChinatownVegas.com for instant exposure to our engaged audience.
• Leverage @chinatownvegas social media for shoutouts and real-time engagement.
• Optimize your Google Maps presence with our support to attract more foot traffic.

Chinatown Amplify: Your Dedicated Partner for Exponential Growth

Chinatown Amplify, the dynamic, results-focused marketing arm of Chinatown Vegas, is your powerhouse partner for elevating businesses within our vibrant district. Launched specifically to accelerate growth, we specialize in targeted, high-impact promotions that strategically leverage our strong Google presence, active social channels, and deep, exclusive community connections.

• Custom Social Media Campaigns: Professional content creation and strategic boosted posts engineered to reach target audiences—think viral video reels of your signature dishes shared across our premium platforms.
• Event Sponsorships and PR: Secure prime, high-value visibility at major neighborhood events paired with targeted press releases to local Las Vegas media for maximum impact.
• Premium Website Listings and Branding: Unlock enhanced, search engine optimized (SEO) profiles on ChinatownVegas.com, alongside professional branding support and consulting to attract the most lucrative customers from the Strip and beyond.

Ready to supercharge your visibility? Our foundational free tier on ChinatownVegas.com gets your business immediately noticed, while Amplify’s premium upgrades deliver measurable, transformative results—ensuring more eyes on your business, more doors opened, and more sustained success stories.

🚀 Get Started Today: Email hello@chinatownvegas.com or visit chinatownvegas.com to claim your free listing!

🏮 Join the Movement: Share your success story with #ChinatownAmplify

Let’s Celebrate

What a week to be in Chinatown—soft openings, live blues and Sondheim magic, fresh deals, community calls to action, and that classic desert sunshine making every stroll feel alive. Claw World stepping up as our flagship spotlight shows how our neighborhood keeps evolving with fresh energy and hype. Thanks for reading, sharing your #ChinatownVegasVibes stories, and supporting local—whether you’re trading up for Labubu, dodging potholes, or just grabbing a viral ice cream. Here’s to more wins, fewer gripes, and the best month ahead. See you next Monday for a look at Tang Korean Cuisine deep dive and more. Stay vibrant, stay Chinatown!

🏮✨ Share your Chinatown stories and tag us with #ChinatownVegasVibes!