Lovers of international cuisine know every noodle isn’t the same. While Saimin is a staple food item you can find across Hawaii, its origins date back decades in Hawaiian history.  

5 Historical Saimin Facts

1. Its Name May Have Chinese Origins

The name of the noodle is believed to be a contraction of two separate Chinese terms: “sai,” which means thin,” and “mein,” which translates to noodle. Therefore, the name perfectly describes the tasty noodle.

2. It’s Nearly a Century Old

The first traces of the delicious dish date back to Hawaii’s plantation era in the early 1900s. The noodle began to pop up in the 1930s when sugar and pineapple plantations took off. Vendors began selling bowls of Saimin across the island.

3. Its Fame Comes From Stands

Some stands are known and loved throughout the state for their secret saimin recipes. Hamura Saimin Stand was recognized by the James Beard Foundation — an organization which recognizes American chefs — in 2006. The writer said he discovered the stand in the 1980s, and he’s been enjoying the noodles ever since.

4. Its Precise Origins Are Debated

Although the Chinese translation of the noodle is widely accepted, many Chinese credit the Japanese for the development of the noodle, and vice versa. Because Hawaii has such a rich blend of cultures, it’s difficult to pinpoint one country from which Saimin originates. Most noodle connoisseurs note its similarities to Japanese ramen, Chinese mein, and Filipino pancit, but they agree saimin is a dish all its own.  

5. It’s Both Classic & Inventive

The noodle is best known for being served in a steaming broth with toppings like green onions, fish cake — kamaboko — and pork (char-siu). Other popular add-ins include won tons (dumplings), chicken, eggs, or shrimp. While this is the traditional way to eat the noodles — and still favored by locals and foodies everywhere — there are new takes on the dish, too. Fried and dry varieties can also be found throughout Hawaii.

Has all this talk about saimin got you feeling hungry? If so, there’s no better place to get a taste of authentic saimin in Hawaii than Sekiya’s Restaurant & Delicatessen. Located in Honolulu, HI, this Japanese restaurant is open seven days a week and is known for its delicious okazuya, and has been serving their signature saimin since 1935. You can view their menu online and like them on Facebook to learn more; or, call (808) 732-1656 to inquire about their catering and take-out options.