Here are AAPI- and Asian-owned businesses to support in Greater Boston

Readers Say

Did we miss your favorite? Tell us and we’ll add it to the list.

May marks the arrival of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, which celebrates the contributions, culture, and influence of people of Asian and Pacific Islander descent. The Greater Boston area is home to several active Asian American communities, from Chinatown to Little Saigon in Dorchester, where businesses and organizations serve as a welcoming place for anyone looking to get together, share ideas, or find supportive services.

It has not been an easy year for the AAPI community. During 2021, there was a rise in anti-Asian hate crimes increasing by 339 percent nationally, according to research from the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism cited by NBC News. Last month, a 70-year-old Asian American woman was punched by stranger in Chinatown. But Asian Americans also saw uplifting change when Michelle Wu, the daughter of Taiwanese immigrants, became Boston’s first woman and person of color elected mayor in November.

In honor of AAPI Heritage Month, we asked for your favorite AAPI- and Asian-owned local businesses and nonprofits, and what they mean to you. We put together a guide of businesses and organizations that you can visit, as a way of supporting local AAPI communities. Here are your recommendations from this year and last, along with a few of our own.

Share your favorite local AAPI- and Asian-owned businesses and nonprofits in our survey below or by e-mailing [email protected], and we’ll add it to our list.

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Local businesses

9Zaab Thai Street Food

At 9Zaab in Cambridge, you have the chance to experience the hustle and bustle of a dynamic exhibition kitchen. They serve classic Thai street food here, so consider sampling the beef boat noodle soup and the khao na gai, chicken stew over jasmine rice. (569 Cambridge St., Cambridge; 617-868-6644)

Bánh Mì Lê 

This eatery offers up delicious Vietnamese fast food with their classic bánh mì, bubble tea, and more as their way of “keep[ing] the Vietnamese Culture alive” in North Quincy. You can dine in or have them cater your event. (49 Hancock St., Quincy; 617-302-3301)

Bao Bao Bakery

This Chinatown bakery puts a modern twist on the goods they serve, buns, egg tarts, fondants, and crepe cakes. While you’re here, grab a bubble tea to go with your pastry for breakfast. Sisters Gloria and Emily Chin also run Double Chin, known for its cube toast. (84 Harrison Ave., Boston; 617-988-8191)

Boston Chinatown Tours

If you’re looking to explore Boston’s Chinatown and learn more about its culture, history, and food traditions, embark on a guided tour led by long-time resident Jacqueline Church. While you uncover the neighborhood, you’ll learn about boba, dim sum, architecture, grocery stores, and other secrets. (116 Lincoln St., Boston; 617-851-4880)

Brown Sugar Cafe

The inviting atmosphere at Brown Sugar Cafe isn’t the only reason to visit this Thai restaurant. Owner Sudamanee Pinyochon believes in the importance of using fresh kaffir lime leaves, galanga, and other ingredients. The casual spot near Boston University is meant to be a “haven” for Thai students missing the taste of home, while also welcoming Americans new to the cuisine. (1033 Commonwealth Ave., Boston; 617-787-4242)

Changsho

In Cambridge, Chansho has been providing regional Chinese cuisine since 1993. The name of the restaurant comes from the Chinese word for “often” or “familiar,” because the restaurant’s intention is that when you come to dine, you will be treated like family. (1712 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge; 617-547-6565)

Cha Yen Thai Cookery

As the weather gets warmer, stop by this Thai eatery, which serves classic dishes like pad see ew and panang curry, but also has Thai ice cream on the menu. They change their flavors bi-weekly and in the past have featured flavors such as Thai iced coffee and jasmine Thai basil. (613 Mount Auburn St., Watertown; 617-393-0031)

China Pearl Restaurant

No guide would be complete without the China Pearl, a banquet hall that has served quality dim sum since the 1980s. The space is a gathering spot for those looking to celebrate, cooking up dumplings and vegetable spring rolls. Owner Brian Moy also runs Asian fusion restaurant Shojo, ramen shop Ruckus, and the recently opened Nomai in Hingham. The Chinatown location for China Pearl is currently closed for renovations, but the Quincy branch is open. (9 Tyler St., Boston; 617-426-4338; 237 Quincy Ave., Quincy; 617-773-9838)

Chinatown Cafe

Readers are fans of the food at Chinatown Cafe, declaring that they have “the best Hong Kong BBQ, especially their crispy pork, which they start cooking in the early mornings.” Another reader said that you should visit for the roast duck, and the restaurant offers a list of vegetarian options as well, such as the mock general’s chicken. (262 Harrison Ave., Boston; 617-695-9888)

Christopher Huang Photography

Boston area photographer Christopher Huang is best known for his creative, edgy portraits, and shooting events and weddings. Reader Eric C. from Roslindale said, “These are the best headshots I’ve gotten. The shots are dynamic outdoor photos that convey a range of emotions, and he was very involved in communicating with me in the editing process.”

Cicada Coffee Bar 

This Central Square coffee bar is another 2020 addition to the city’s restaurant scene. It’s owned by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, who also ran pop-up eatery, Nem Kitchen in Somerville. Try their Bạc xỉu, or Saigon street coffee. (106 Prospect St., Cambridge; 617-714-4766)

The Corner Pub

At this family-owned bar located in the Leather District, you can pair your pint or a cocktail with an egg roll, a burger, or a chicken sandwich. A couple blocks west of South Station, this is a great place to relax and watch a game. (162 Lincoln St., Boston; 617-542-7080)

DakZen

Davis Square’s DakZen brings Thai street food for those looking for casual bites, tom yum soup, drunken noodles, and more from the Central, Northern, and Isan regions. Thinking about pad Thai? Handling the heat of a rice plate? Stop by and grab a Thai iced tea while you’re at it. (195 Elm St., Somerville; 617-718-1759)

District Kitchen

Venture to District Kitchen in Malden for a modern take on Chinese food from a contemporary restaurant and bar. Order the hand crafted dumplings, black bean paste noodles, or the spicy, crispy striped sea bass hot pot. (2 Florence St., Malden; 781-480-3113)

EHChocolatier

A woman-owned, artisan chocolate boutique in Cambridge, EHChocolatier is famed for its delicate bon bons, sipping chocolate, and chocolate bark. Their goods make excellent gifts, and you can even take a class and learn to make your own confections, from lava cakes to mug cakes. (145 Huron Ave., Cambridge; 617-284-6096)

Eldo Cake House

This Chinatown bakery is a neighborhood favorite, serving up bao, their famous fruit cakes, and beautiful pastries. When you pick up a Swiss roll, moon cake, or delicate sponge cake, you can enjoy a delicious cup of milk tea to go with dessert. (36 Harrison Ave., Boston; 617-350-7977)

EMME Lash Bar

A beauty salon with locations in South Boston, Brookline, and Dedham, EMME specializes in services for lashes and brows, aiming to help customers feel self-empowered. They provide extensions, making lashes look bold and dark, as well as brow tints, waxing services, and other treatments. (Multiple locations)

Essex Corner

Located in Chinatown, this crafts store is a great place to find Asian arts and goods such as chopsticks and food dishes, decorative items, and stationery. During the Lunar New Year you can find traditional red envelopes and lanterns, but their year-round selection of cultural products make it a worthwhile visit any time of the year. (50 Essex St., Boston; 617-338-8882)

Eye Lush 

If you’re looking to pamper yourself, try one of these greater Boston salons. Owner Thuy Leung offers a number of luxury eyelash extension services as well as waxing appointments. (Multiple locations)

Fiya Chicken

You can get Korean-style, fried chicken at this restaurant, but they also sell corn dogs, Tteokkochi rice cake skewers, and limoncello cake. Michelle from Chelsea told Boston.com that Fiya is “a halal-friendly eatery” with Korean tastes “fused with American-friendly palettes. The fresh lemonade is to die for.” (1024 Commonwealth Ave, Boston; 617-208-8350) 

Formosa Asian Market 

This MetroWest supermarket specializes in Asian goods from Japan, Taiwan, China, Korea, and other southeast Asian countries. For those with special diets like vegan, halal, and vegetarian, they offer a variety of diet-specific selections. (271 Worcester Rd., Framingham; 508-872-1088)

FuGaKyu 

At FuGaKyu, you’ll find both traditional and creative takes on Japanese cuisine. They cook with seasonal ingredients to guarantee the freshness of their meals. If you go, try the staff favorites: grilled miso-marinated Chilean sea bass or sashimi taco trio. (1280 Beacon St., Brookline and 621 Boston Post Rd., Sudbury; 617-738-1268 and 978-443-1998)

Great Taste Bakery & Restaurant

To satisfy your sweet tooth, try this bakery in the heart of Chinatown. This café offers an array of Asian baked goods, plus flavored milk teas and smoothies. (63 Beach St., Boston; 617-426-8899)

Green Peapod Restaurant

Reader Cathy L. called Green Peapod a “family-owned, no frills” place to dine, serving “awesome dinner specials.” The restaurant specializes in Chinese and Thai food, with a menu that includes red curry in coconut milk, shrimp chop suey, and beef chow mein. (557 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown; 617-926-8881)

H Mart 

H Mart is your one stop shop for Asian groceries. With a wide range of imported groceries, packaged foods, and ready-to-serve meals, these stores are a great resource for cooks skilled in making Asian dishes as well as newcomers to the cuisine. (581 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge and 3 Old Concord Rd., Burlington; 857-209-2747 and 781-221-4570)

Hong Kong Supermarket

Can’t decide between Chinese, Thai, Indian, Korean, or Japanese for dinner? Try Hong Kong Supermarket, an Asian food market and food court in Allston. The shop is also known by its former name, Super 88 Market, because of the signage above its location. Inside you’ll find nearly a dozen stalls offering a host of affordable Asian cuisine. The food vendors are subject to change, but the variety of options means there’s always something worth eating. (1 Brighton Ave., Boston; 617-787-2288)

I Do Wedding Dresses and Photography

If your big day is approaching, look to I Do Wedding for an idea of what to wear. This bridal boutique offers beautiful, stylish gowns, from designers like Giovanna Alessandro and Enzoani. You can also order a photography package, to make sure that every moment is perfectly captured. (283 Tremont St., Boston; 857-317-2348)

I Fresh Noodle

At this Chinese restaurant in Allston you can find biang biang noodles that “are the freshest in town and absolutely addictive,” according to Kezia C. from Brighton. “They’re also known for their beef noodle soup, which is filled to the brim with tender hunks of beef and a deliciously spicy red broth.” (182 Brighton Ave., Allston; 617-787-8888)

Jade Garden

A standard Chinatown kitchen, Jade Garden is a great place to visit when you need late night bites—they close at 3 a.m. Stop by for their kung pao chicken, crab rangoon, or shrimp lo mien. (20 Tyler Street, Boston; 617-423-3288)

Joyful Garden

This restaurant inside Watertown Mall serves up fresh-steamed, handmade dim sum, seafood, and chef specialties all in a relaxing banquet hall. Readers recommended ordering lamb with tofu skin and hot pot for dinner. (550 Arsenal St., Watertown; (617-356-1234)

K Restaurant

Serving healthy and authentic Korean food in Peabody, K Restaurant doles out deopbap, noodles, and Korean grill, served with rice and kimchi. And many guests seem to be excited about the cuisine. Yelp recently released a top Korean eateries in every state in the US and Canada, and K Restaurant topped the list for Massachusetts. (100 Lynn St., Peabody; 978-595-1889)

Little Celebrations Children’s Event Rentals

When you’re planning a kid’s birthday party, a wedding, or another special event, look to Little Celebrations for help making sure the youngsters have a good time. They provide festive furniture, mini bounce castles, and all the other props and accessories you may need. Linda C. from Milton said, “This company gives little guests the royal treatment with upscale party rentals.” (85 Tosca Drive, Stoughton; 617-433-7656)

Mack Designer Hardware

This decorative hardware showroom in Burlington can help you when you need cabinet knobs, hinges, or even heated floors. Thomas M. from Lakeville said, “Their top of the line products, even the most simple items, bring beauty to any home. Products, service, and expertise are unique and add an elegant touch to any room in a house.” (175 Bedford St., Burlington; 781-552-3200)

Mae Asian Eatery

Co-owner and chef Yuri Asawasittikit puts her own spin on Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese dishes that her mother taught her to prepare. Take a bite of the mango curry, pho ga chicken noodle soup, or the pork gyoza, and we’re sure you’ll return. (781 Main St., Cambridge; 617-354-3388)

Mahaniyom

A Thai tapas and family-style restaurant in Brookline, Mahaniyom specializes in home-cooked, authentic dishes. You may fancy their rambutan salad, crab curry, or taro coconut custard, all to be enjoyed with a cocktail. Whatever you order, you’ll find that the food connects people, in the spirit of “ran lao,” which are Thai bars where friends hang out over small plates and drinks. (236 Washington St., Brookline; 617-487-5986)

Maki Sushi Bar & Grill

You can visit Maki Sushi in Peabody when you have a craving for delicious nigiri or sashimi. Try a dragon roll, a crunchy crab roll, or one of their creative concoctions, like the Incredible Hulk roll. (43 Main St., Peabody; 978-854-5426)

Manoa Poke Shop

You can find Hawaiian poke, fried chicken, and other Pacific Islander bites, like Kalua pig and pineapple cake at Manoa. Bri M. from Jamaica Plain said, “This is some seriously authentic Hawaiian food and the only place to get spam musubi in the area! The food is all very fresh and you can taste the care that goes into every bite.” (300 Beacon St., Somerville; 617-945-1042)

Mango & Marigold Press

Founder Sailaja Joshi opened this independent publishing house because she could not find books about Indian culture, when her eldest child was to be born. Now, Mango & Marigold Press shares stories about the South Asian experience. Seeking to improve representation in children’s books, Joshi formed the company so that more kids could see themselves reflected. (Order online)

May’s Cafe

Try the sesame chicken and orange flavored beef at this Chinese kitchen in Medford. Reader Katie G. called May’s Cafe a “family business that has been part of the community for decades!” (367 Main St., Medford; 781-396-8750)

May’s Cake House

Readers told us about May’s Cake House in Chinatown, a “neighborhood gem,” where their roasted pork buns and rice noodles are meant to be savored. And the sweet that stands out most is their mango mousse cake, perfect for special occasions. (223 Harrison Ave., Boston; 617-350-0210)

Mei Mei Dumplings

Run by chef Irene Li, Mei Mei specializes in unconventional dumplings, with flavors such as lemongrass and pork, curried sweet potato, and cheddar scallion potato. A reader said, “It’s locally-sourced dumplings, is a leader in terms of how they treat their employees, and is owned by an Asian American woman who grew up in Brookline…a James Beard Award-winning restaurateur.” (506 Park Drive, Boston; 857-250-4959)

Mei Sum Bakery

Get delicious baked goods and snacks at this no-frills Chinese shop on Beach Street. Reader Casey C. from Boston said of Mei Sum, “I have been going to Mei Sum for baked goods with my family since I was little. At the time, I could always count on my dad bumping into and reconnecting with his friends from the restaurant business as they all sat around for hours, catching up.” (36 Beach St., Boston; 617-357-4050)

Moonshine 152 

Asia Mei, the chef and owner of Southie’s Moonshine 152, mixes traditional East Coast and Asian flavors. The restaurant is open for dinner and hosts weekend brunch on its outdoor patio so it’s a perfect place to enjoy the chef’s famous cinnamon french toast sticks outside. (52 Dorchester Ave., Boston; 617-752-4191)

Myers+Chang

Award-winning chef and restaurateur Joanne Chang runs a number of much loved eateries in the Boston area. Myers+Chang, which she co-owns with her husband, Christopher Myer, serves Asian-inspired small plates while her Flour locations focus on baked goods and other cafe staples. (1145 Washington St., Boston; 617-542-5200) and Flour Bakery + Cafe (Multiple locations)

My Thai Vegan Cafe 

This eatery is perfect for our vegan and non-vegan readers alike. My Thai offers exclusively vegan Thai food and is also well loved by locals for its bubble teas. This second-story restaurant stays true to traditional Thai flavors while foregoing meat. (3 Beach St. #2, Boston; 617-451-2395)

New Hong Kong

In Brighton, this restaurant offers what readers called “generous portions” of Chinese cuisine, including Szechuan dumplings, shumai, beef pineapple fried rice, and shrimp Chongqing noodles. Order take-out to experience their “variety in taste” and fresh ingredients. (14 Tremont St., Brighton; 617-783-3236)

Nine Tastes

Enjoy papaya salad, basil crispy chicken, and grilled duck at this scintillating Thai restaurant in Cambridge. Be sure to look into their lunch specials, which include options like panang tofu curry and lemongrass seafood soup. (50 John F. Kennedy St., Cambridge; 617-547-6666)

Noah’s Kitchen

At Noah’s Kitchen, a chef-owned restaurant and tea lounge, authentic Szechuan cuisine is on the menu. Pam, a reader in Downtown Crossing, said, “Their food is absolutely amazing and the attention to detail is key. From decor to plating, everything is well thought through.” (18 Harvard St., Brookline; 617-383-5848)

Peking House

This family-run, take-out place in Roxbury has been serving Chinese food since 1971. Order a wonton soup, egg foo young, or an appetizer of scallion pie, and you’ll see why people return for more. (160 Dudley St., Roxbury; 617-442-9215)

Peppercorn House

At this restaurant in Woburn, peppercorn, native to Southeast Asia, is known to be infused throughout its Chinese- and Japanese-inspired dishes. When you get a salmon lover maki roll or mango duck with eggplant, remember to pair them with a tropical cocktail. (318 Main St., Woburn; 781-933-6699)

Phin Coffee House

Reader Alma B. recommended this Financial District coffee shop because of its Vietnamese bánh mì sandwiches. She recommends ordering the tofu and the cafe uses “the freshest and crunchiest bread.” You may also want to try their phở burrito, and polish it off with a coconut coffee. (10 High St., Boston; 617-377-4170)

Crispy shrimp bánh mì and a vermicelli bowl from Cafe Phinista. Globe Staff/Erin Kuschner

Phinista Café

This café specializes in Vietnamese-style drip coffee. Owners Yeanie Bach and Phi Pham started Phinista as a pop-up, selling tea and Vietnamese coffee at markets around the city. Their idea has since grown to the brick and mortar location in Fenway where they offer specialties like bánh mì and vermicelli bowls in addition to their classic coffee and crepes — be sure to try the staff favorite drinks like milk n’ oolong and berry matcha n’ milk. (96 Peterborough St., Boston; 617-262-7700)

Punjab Cafe

This unassuming sit down spot in Quincy has served Indian food, including vegan options, to the South Shore community since 2000. Look to order their baby samosas, chicken tandoori, and mulligatawny soup. (653 Southern Artery, Quincy; 617-472-4860)

Reign Drink Lab

This coffee shop has deep roots in Dorchester’s Fields Corner, a Vietnamese enclave that was recently designated by the Mass Cultural Council as Boston Little Saigon. Owner Tam Le is an active part of community advocacy in the area and his father runs Pho Hoa, a restaurant off Dorchester Avenue. Reign Drink Lab is currently open Tuesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays and their specialty Vietnamese coffee makes it a great weekend treat. (1370 Dorchester Ave., Boston; 617-863-7353)

Reliable Market

Union Square in Somerville is home to this family-owned supermarket, where you can stock up on Korean and Asian groceries from curry pastes to candies to produce. In store, you’ll find bulgogi to prepare at home, frozen gyoza, cellophane noodles, and sides like kimchi. They are also known for their craft beer and liquor section, with a noteworthy selection of sake and soju. (45 Union Square, Somerville; 617-623-9620)

Rod D. By Sitti Thai Cuisine

When you’re thinking of ordering easy and affordable Thai street food, look no further than Rod D. Try the chicken satay, fried fish cakes, or tofu triangles, and you may find yourself asking for another order. (1422 Beacon St., Brookline; 617-738-9002)

Rutchada Thai 

This Thai eatery opened its doors in 2020 but already has fans among Boston.com readers. Their menu includes Thai dishes such as chicken massaman curry as well as several takes on the classic pad Thai. (153 Belgrade Ave., Roslindale; 617-942-8385)

Sichuan Gourmet

The restaurant has several outposts in Brookline, Sharon, Burlington, Billerica, and Framingham — but readers specifically called out the latter two locations. Specialties include the dan dan noodles, chicken with spicy chili sauce, and the xiang la dry fish fillet. Andrew from Wayland said, “Our family has been going to Sichuan Gourmet since I was a child—I would recommend this place for the delicious and authentic food from Sichuan.” (Multiple locations)

Sugar Cane Restaurant

Chinese and Vietnamese food is served up at this Peabody kitchen, which has an extensive menu that features plates such as mango shrimp, mussels in black bean sauce, and cashew pineapple chicken. (106 Main St., Peabody; 978-532-7800)

Sweetheart Cafe

This bubble tea shop in Belmont specializes in milk tea—including taro, red bean, and coconut—but they also have a few other sweet items on the menu. Try their mocha chip or pistachio ice cream, or look to their smoothies for flavors like avocado and honeydew. (386 Trapelo Rd., Belmont; 617-993-3297)

Sweet Sip

Head to Sweet Sip for the Thai rolled ice cream, offered in flavors like lychee, Viet coffee, mango, and ube. You can also pick up an egg puff waffle, milk tea, smoothies, or macarons, when you have treats on the brain. (285 Adams St., Dorchester and 250 Granite St., Braintree; 617-506-0745 and 857-389-7218)

Sweet Waffles & Boba

Pop into this Hudson Street dessert spot and get something delightful to eat. Zarius from Jamaica Plain praised their “delicious Belgian liege waffle pops and boba milk teas, prepared by a third-generation Bostonian Vietnamese-American family.” (18 Hudson St., Boston; 617-357-7634)

Tanám

A tiny restaurant in the Bow Market oasis, this is the place to be if you want to feast upon Filipino food. Tanám holds a prix fixe Kamayan dinner currently featuring spicy coconut milk mussels, roasted pork belly, all served on a banana leaf platter. The space comes out of the Olio Culinary Collective, a “worker-owned, socially conscious group largely run by women of color.” (1 Bow Market Way, Suite 17, Somerville; 617-669-2144)

Tao’s Beauty

This lifestyle and skincare store specializes in Asian beauty supplies. They boast over 10,000 products ranging from skincare to snacks at their brick and mortar locations in South Boston and Allston, and from their online store. (35 Harrison Ave., Boston and 141 Harvard Ave., Boston; 617-513-1112 and 617-608-3680)

The Maharaja

Looking for dinner with a view? This Indian restaurant has floor to ceiling windows and boasts panoramic views of Harvard Square. Reserve a table and try dishes that span the subcontinent from biryanis to lamb specialties. (57 John F. Kennedy St., Cambridge; 617-547-2757)

Three Circles Studio

At this photography studio, artist Kevin Thai believes that a portrait should show who a person is, not just what they look like. Christina J. said, “This studio is an amazing place to get your headshots done. Right in the heart of Malden Center, photographer Kevin Thai is very talented and can easily bring a nervous person at ease to get that perfect picture. Kevin’s studio is very relaxed and comes equipped with a fridge and all kinds of snacks free for you to have something to drink and eat. You can’t ask for more than that!” (6 Pleasant St., Suite 315, Malden; 617-875-2282)

Trapology Boston

Run by owners Jason and Nicole Loeb, Trapology offers different escape room games that families, groups of friends, or companies can play. Pick a range of escape options from “Crush Depth,” where you’ll have to face a haunting by the ghost of a submarine’s former captain, to “The Retreat,” where a dangerous camping adventure awaits. (177 Tremont St., 2nd floor, Boston; 857-285-2085)

Tsurumen Davis

Noodles are on the menu at this compact Davis Square shop. Mara from Roslindale said, “There is no better bowl of ramen in the area than the ramen in this tiny restaurant, soon to pass its 1,000th day in operation. The soups and noodles are created with the proper mastery of its owner, striving each day to make the ramen taste even better than it was the day before. The team succeeds.” (420 Highland Ave., Somerville)

Uncle Cheung’s

Vanessa C. from Cambridge said that Uncle Cheung’s in Framingham has a menu that is almost entirely gluten-free, including a solid dim-sum menu. Drop by for their lunch specials, where you can try the emerald chicken and beef Peking style. (266 Worcester Road, Framingham; 508-872-9200)

VienneMilano

Founder Vienne Cheung Brown started this hosiery brand and online boutique in 2011 after discovering a lack of options available in her size. Specializing in Italian thigh high stockings and known for its range of sizes, VienneMilano also offers lingerie and loungewear, and develops products with eye toward sustainability. (866-322-5347)

Viet Citron

A woman-owned and managed spot for Vietnamese food in Burlington, Viet Citron serves rice vermicelli bowls, citrus arugula salad, bubble tea, and more. Debra O. from Swampscott praised their “excellent, fresh, and tasty food.” (47 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington; 781-739-3655)

Winsor Dim Sum Café

Readers have said that the food at this local Chinatown favorite is “astoundingly delicious,” praising the restaurant’s pork buns, custard buns, and deep fried shrimp rolls. Winsor Dim Sum Café was named Boston.com’s best dim sum restaurant in 2021, according to readers. If you sample their dishes, you’ll see why. The Quincy location (Winsor Dim Sum House) is a notable mention as well, with reasonably-priced options like the salt and pepper chicken wings. (10 Tyler St., Boston; 617-338-1688)

Yang’s Dumplings

If you love dumplings and want to enjoy them from the comfort of your own dining table, Yang’s Dumplings has got you covered. Founder Mama Yang’s dumplings are handmade and delivered to your front step, frozen or fresh. ​The restaurant also partners with CommonWealth Kitchen, a nonprofit that aims to create an “equitable, sustainable food economy” in the state. (196 Quincy St., Boston; 617-819-4051)

Yaowarat

You can find traditional Thai street food at this Quincy restaurant where they cook up dishes like fish ball skewers, boat noodles, fried chicken rice, and more. Stay for dessert—there’s banana sticky rice on the menu. (6-8 Beale St., Quincy; 617-481-1121)

Yoma Boston

The Allston restaurant Yoma Boston serves up classic, all natural Burmese cuisine, specializing in mango salad, rainbow noodles, and bamboo tofu curry. Plus, they have been running an online grocery store since 2013, selling picked tea salad, sun-dried shrimp, and Burmese kimchee. (5 North Beacon St., Allston; 617-783-1372)

Yume Wo Katare

In Porter Square, you might chance upon this small, 18-seat ramen shop, where you’re encouraged to dine on pork noodles and share your dreams. Literally—the staff will ask you, right after the meal, to tell everyone your hopes and aspirations. The idea is that ramen will leave you inspired, and after trying theirs, we think you’ll agree that it does. (1923 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge; 617-714-4008)

Yummy Express

Reader Colin B. praised this South East Asian take-out spot in Lowell, calling it “not well known,” but an excellent mini-market, serving food out of a tiny space. Their banh mi, egg rolls, and sticky rice are notable customer picks (21 Branch St., Lowell; 978-458-6825)

Zoe’s Chinese Restaurant

A casual, Somerville eatery, Zoe’s serves traditional Chinese food, including vegetarian options. Visiters will enjoy classic items like the pu pu platter, hot and sour soup, and chicken with broccoli. (296-298 Beacon St., Somerville; 617-864-6265)

ZZDessert/OneZo 

Milk tea lovers should try this joint dessert and bubble tea spot. They have several locations in Boston, Brookline, and Quincy and pride themselves on making their own specialty tapioca balls in house. (Multiple locations)

Nonprofits and community organizations

Asian American Civic Association

AACA aims to provide economically disadvantaged people in greater Boston with education, occupational training, and social services, including English classes and after-school and college preparation programs. The group launched a pilot program during the pandemic to provide training and mentorship to Asian businesses owners in the area. You can support their mission by donating and volunteering your time. (87 Tyler St., Boston; 617-426-9492)

Asian American Resource Workshop

A political home for pan-Asian communities, AARW’s mission is to build grassroots power through its member-led campaigns. Their areas of focus include housing justice, deportations, fighting criminalization, and civic engagement. You can also check out their Sticky Rice Project, a series of anti-oppression trainings, the Story Project, archiving the histories and experiences of Asian Americans, and the Writers’ Group, a safe space for members to hone their writing skills. (42 Charles St., Suite A, Boston; 617-942-8178)

With the rapid gentrification of Boston’s Chinatown neighborhood, ACDC aims to protect communities, build and preserve affordable homes, and empower families. Since 1987, the nonprofit has developed 375 affordable homes for low- to moderate-income families. Their work has included “advocating for more federal pandemic relief funding for immigrant households,” promoting data equity, and supporting the creation of community-centered public art projects. (38 Oak St., Boston; 617-482-2380)

Asian Task Force Against Domestic Violence

This Lowell-based organization has been working to prevent domestic violence in Asian communities since 1992. Many clients are immigrants and refugees from East Asia, South Asia, and South East Asia, and the group provides services in 18 different languages and dialects. Their Asian Shelter and Advocacy Program provides emergency shelter, advocacy services, outreach, and education for adults and children, and their legal program helps victims find support. (617-338-2355)

Asian Women for Health

​Asian Women for Health describes itself as a “peer-led, community-based network” that works to Asian women’s health. Using education and advocacy work, the group addresses the barriers to healthcare that Asian women face. support them by volunteering, donating, or getting involved in the medical research they support. (83 Wallace St., Somerville; 617-767-1071)

Chinese American Association of Lexington

CAAL is a nonprofit organization that has served Chinese Americans in Lexington since 1983. Areas of focus include public school education, local politics, and cultural issues. They strive to provide opportunities for Chinese Americans to engage with the Lexington community through volunteering, networking, and social events. (P.O. Box 453, Lexington)

Chinese Culture Connection

The Malden nonprofit aims to build relationships between the city’s growing Asian immigrant population and its other diverse communities. Their programs include language school, Little Dragon After School Program, Summer Enrichment Camp, and East Meets West Cultural Dialogue, which helps Asian immigrants understand American culture, while valuing their own heritage. (109 Mountain Ave., #236, Malden; 781-321-6316)

Chinese Progressive Association

Founded in 1977, CPA is a community organization that seeks to improve the living and working conditions of Chinese Americans in Boston. Their programs include a Workers Center, which promotes awareness of workers’ rights, citizenship classes, and a youth initiative that teaches students about issues relating to immigrants and political empowerment. (28 Ash St., 617-357-4499)

Greater Boston Chinese Golden Age Center

This nonprofit has been serving the Asian elderly population for the past five decades, with a main office on Kneeland Street and senior centers in Boston and Brighton. Those who drop in at Hong Lok House in Chinatown, for example, will find an activity center and meal site, while they can also access an Adult Day Health Program. Programs include strength and balance class, English language studies, and ballroom dancing. (75 Kneeland St., Suite 204, Boston; 617-357-0226)

National Association of Asian American Professionals

NAAAP Boston serves Asian American professionals by providing them with professional development, networking, and community service opportunities. The group accepts donations to aid in their work to support professionals and entrepreneurs in the greater Boston area.

Pao Arts Center

This art gallery and community center is a collaboration with Boston Chinatown Neighborhood Center and Bunker Hill Community College, with the goal of highlighting and celebrating Asian culture. You can visit the center for art exhibits, cooking demonstrations, festivals, and more. (99 Albany St., Boston; 617-635-5129)

Saheli

This nonprofit, which has been helping immigrant women and families since 1996, offers “free and confidential culturally sensitive services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence from South Asia and the Middle East.” Their services, offered in several South Asian languages, include legal and housing advocacy, translation help, support and therapeutic groups, and economic empowerment programs. (P.O. Box 1345, Burlington; 1-866-472-4354)

South Asian Workers’ Center

This nonprofit was founded with the goal to serve South Asian immigrants and workers in the greater Boston area. They foster community through youth programming, bi-monthly Chai Addas, or organizing meetings, and in the past year, COVID-19 relief fundraising. The group is always looking for donations as well as volunteers to help with events, photography, videography, social media, and fundraising. (P.O. Box # 417, Weymouth; 617-299-6393)

Founded in 1972, South Cove provides community-based health care and health promotion programs, intended to be accessible to Asian Americans. According to Lisa L. of Weymouth, “Many of the staff members/service providers speak languages other than English, which can help put patients at ease, while eliminating the need for a translator.” Services that they provide include adult medicine, dentistry, behavioral health, and pediatrics. (435 Hancock St., Quincy; 617-318-3300)

VietAID

The Vietnamese American Initiative for Development was founded in 1994 by community leaders and residents who wanted to create affordable services to the Fields Corner community. They offer childcare services, youth leadership programs, immigration support, as well as opportunities for the greater Boston community to celebrate Vietnamese cultural traditions. You can support this group by volunteering and donating, as well as participating events like anti-Asian racism workshops. (42 Charles St., Dorchester, 617-822-3717)