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Welcome to Palace Saimin

Palace Saimin is a beloved Hawaiian-Japanese noodle spot in Honolulu, known for its traditional saimin dishes. Despite its small size and lack of AC, customers flock for the piping hot soup and chewy noodles. The simple yet satisfying saimin, served with chili powder and mustard, is a crowd favorite. While the BBQ sticks may be hit or miss, loyal patrons keep coming back for the authentic flavors. The no-frills ambiance and quick service add to the charm of this hidden gem. If you're seeking nostalgia and comforting flavors, Palace Saimin is a must-visit spot.

Palace Saimin: Reviews & Ratings

Toby I.
Toby I.

This place is a staple. It's survived, Covid, economic down turns and its still in the same place it was 40 years ago. This is a testament to their quality and service. Highly recommend this place even though it's very small, no AC.. the food even on a blasting hot day is worth it. No line, great service, great food. Lots of memories here and I hope it's around in YEARS to come. The only regret I have of this place is that I didn't support it and review it sooner.

Tammy N.
Tammy N.

I loved the saimin here! The soup came piping hot and the noodles had a good chewiness. It's a simple dish done well. I liked adding the chili powder and mustard in the soup. The bowl is affordable and I could see myself coming here often if I were in the area. The teri sticks were a bit tough and bland, so I probably wouldn't get them again unless I wanted some meat on the side. Very small parking lot and is a bit of a hole in the wall. Service was efficient and friendly.

San S.
San S.

Classic. It's so popular. I'm not a min person so I would opt for the wuntun only... no min. The bbq sticks are not soft and juicy as in the past, but die hard loyal customers keeps this place busy.

Eileen A.
Eileen A.

This is Saimin. No frills, no wasted time or ingredients, this is your Webster Miriam textbook definition of Saimin. I always have to grab some and my dad who spent some time growing up in Oahu loves it too. Service is straightforward and quick. They're often busy and the place is hot, ambiance is lowkey but you just know it's a beloved spot in the community. The parking lot is small but you can park nearby or just wait it out. Prices are still decent given inflation and the popularity. If you're looking for some cousin of fancy ramen, a well balanced broth using organic proteins and question whether MSG was in it, this isn't the place for you. This is Saimin that brings you back to your childhood and warms your bones in a good way even when it is hot and humid outside. 4 stars only because my last two visits the fountain sodas needed more syrup and it's just something I feel like they should be on top of a bit more.

Meagan N.
Meagan N.

Awesome spot. You know a place is good when you have to walk through the kitchen to get to the bathroom. First time having saimin. I love the noodles. Super bouncy. The broth is nice and warm. Be careful with the mustard, it has a kick.

Lauren C.
Lauren C.

Old school saimin at local no frills joint. We are the only non-locals in the place and of the few who are not seniors. All to say, that this is a local lovers spot that has a loyal following. We had the classic saimin and the saimin with won tons. The noodles had just the right chew and the broth was comforting and flavorful. The portion size was decent and prices were fair. Ambiance is minimal, clean and all that you need it to be. Service is friendly and a bit abrupt as the few working had full tables, plus a short wait and to go orders as well. I was really looking for a memory of my childhood and I found it here.

Doug L.
Doug L.

Palace Saimin has now become our go to spot for Saimin. This was a small joint with a few tables that served just Saimin and skewers. I don't recommend sitting next to the ice machine as it was pumping out hot air on the nearest table. Simple decor but focused on delivering satisfying saimin. All staff were quite friendly and checked on all diners quite regularly. We ordered the standard wonton min and combo with udon. Portions were generous, both types of noodles had nice chewy texture, broth was delicious but it was the tasty wontons that sealed the five star rating. They were that good.

Don G.
Don G.

Back home on Oahu on an Aloha Thursday after a long flight path that started in Alaska. Time to head to my favorite hole in the wall for a Combination noodle bowl & bbq meat sticks! This is my Hawaiian comfort food whenever I crave a combination of Saimon, Udon and Won Ton Noodles in a house made broth made with shredded char sue pork and green onions. A side of house mustard for my Won Tons held clear my sinus cavity! Then there's the simple yet delicious BBQ Beef Sticks that are a match made in heaven with steaming hot Combo noodle bowl! I am always greeted warmly by the local kitchen staff and the simple no frills dining area still has their basic menu in black and while on a Coca-Cola classic sign. Pictures of O'hana, award winning plaques, lucky cat dolls and souvenir T-shirts hang on the walls by the kitchen entrance. Love this place, they have reduced their work schedule and are only open now Tuesday thru Friday 10 am to 8 pm. I talked to "Lin" the joyful waitress that hustles table to table, taking orders and always insuring your iced water glass is full! Five Fabulous Stars for BEST HOLE IN THE WALL NOODLE RESTAURANT! Reasonable prices for satisfying meal that tickles your taste buds and fills your belly! YUMMY! The simple menu and delicious food served with local Aloha makes me smile! "Simply da BEST!"

Michelle D.
Michelle D.

So so so good. I saw saimin in some Hawaiian youtubers' vlogs and knew I had to try it here. We both got the wonton saimin and the broth was so flavourful and light. The saimin had a nice bounce to them, and the wontons were generous and meaty! We each got a bbq skewer and I liked them too. The server was very nice and they had really refreshing ice cold water. Highly recommend if you're looking for something light, tasty, and cheap!

Lyn L.
Lyn L.

Had to bring my grandchildren to Palace Saimin. I want them to experience the old school Saimin stand and there's no place better than Palace. Love the good old Saimin with dashi and bbq stick. Got their cool t-shirt. Wish they had children sizes toon Everyone loved it. Thank you Palace Saimin for being here

Location

Palace Saimin, a beloved Hawaiian-Japanese noodle joint located in Honolulu, HI, is a must-try for anyone craving a comforting bowl of saimin. This establishment has stood the test of time, surviving economic challenges and pandemics, which speaks volumes about the quality and service they provide.

The menu at Palace Saimin features traditional saimin dishes that will warm your soul. Customers rave about the piping hot soup and perfectly chewy noodles, topped off with a kick of chili powder and mustard for added flavor. The simplicity of the dish done well is what keeps patrons coming back for more.

While the teri sticks may have received mixed reviews, the saimin itself is the star of the show. The ambiance is low-key, but the sense of community and nostalgia emanates from every corner of the restaurant. It's no wonder that loyal customers continue to flock to Palace Saimin, keeping the place bustling with activity.

If you're in search of a taste of authentic saimin that transports you back to your childhood, Palace Saimin is the place to be. This is not your fancy ramen joint; it's a spot that serves up genuine, no-frills saimin that hits the spot every time. And don't forget to add a little kick of mustard for that extra flavor boost.

So, whether you're a saimin aficionado or just looking to try something new, Palace Saimin is a hidden gem worth discovering. Stop by for a bowl of nostalgia and warmth in every spoonful. Your taste buds will thank you.