Saap Rai: A Hidden Thai-Lao Culinary Gem in Chinatown

Photo: Melissa Chang

Hawai’i is renowned for its abundance of Thai dining options, but Saap Rai offers something unique. Nestled within the well-known O‘ahu Market in Chinatown, this eatery opened about a month ago and has quickly garnered a lunchtime following. Many patrons are unaware of the food stalls located behind the butcher shops facing the street—those who do frequent the bustling Saap Rai.

Photo: Aaron Yoshino

Owned by Bo and Mang Sisouthone, who also run Thai Village in Waipio and Kunia, Saap Rai features a casual atmosphere and emphasizes the use of ultra-fresh ingredients. While Mang specializes in Thai cuisine, her Lao heritage influences the hybrid menu.

Photo: Melissa Chang

Daily ingredients are sourced from local vendors, with meats coming from Bo’s own butcher stall, B&M Meats, conveniently located in the market. He prepares between 160 and 200 pounds of Lao sausage every other day, often finding that it’s barely enough to meet demand.

Photo: Melissa Chang

One standout item on the menu is the Lao sausage, which offers a markedly tender texture and a delicate blend of flavors. It is served with one scoop of rice for $16 (or $18 with sticky rice), and many would agree that it pairs beautifully with curry.

Photo: Melissa Chang

Another recommended dish is the Penang curry ($18), known for its creamy texture and aromatic qualities enhanced by peanut butter, making it extremely addictive. The yellow curry comes highly suggested as well, with Penang as a close second.

Photo: Melissa Chang

The nem khao ($18), or crispy rice salad, is also a popular choice, involving a fun assembly process with lettuce and mint to complement the crunchy, slightly salty rice and fermented pork.

Photo: Melissa Chang

While pad Thai ($18) is commonly found at many Thai restaurants, the Sisouthones claim theirs stands out, primarily due to the fresh noodles sourced from Chi Kong Look Funn Factory right across the street.

Photo: Melissa Chang

The pad siew ($18) features wider look funn noodles flavored with shoyu, while those seeking a spicy kick can opt for the pad kee mow or drunken noodles.

Photo: Melissa Chang

Another intriguing option is the house-made Lao udon noodles ($18), a rarity in Hawai‘i, served in a flavorful soup that evokes a comforting jook-like essence, garnished with blood cake cubes for the adventurous eater.

Photo: Melissa Chang

An assortment of condiments allows diners to personalize their dishes, enhancing textures and flavors to suit every palate.

For a different experience, the fried fish fillet ($20) includes a delightful vinegar dipping sauce, perfectly complementing the moist fish.

Photo: Melissa Chang

To accompany the meal, Saap Rai offers freshly made Thai tea and coffee, providing a perfect pick-me-up. With about 10 stools available at the counter, arriving early is recommended. Parking options include street and municipal spaces, typical for Chinatown. The name “Saap Rai” combines two Lao and Thai words that express the idea of “What’s delicious?” or “Delicious food, no worries,” and true to its name, the only concern you’ll have is securing a seat on your next visit.

Open Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., located at 145 N. King St., Chinatown, @saap_rai_honolulu

Melissa Chang is a longtime contributor to Frolic Hawai‘i. @melissa808