China Arts

I've passed by China Arts (CA) many, many times. This seems like a very convenient place to pick up Chinese household and kitchen items, along with good luck charms and décor. But I don't really need anything so I visits here are on the rare side.Recently, at work our kitchen scale finally conked out on us. They've had the scale for YEARS and it is key as ingredients are often weighed especially when cooking in bulk. So I was sent on a mission to purchase a non-digital scale in Chinatown. My boss has suggested I come to CA so I recently made my way here.Located on the Diamond Head side of Maunakea Street with neighbors of famous Nam Fong Restaurant and Bo Wah Trading Co., CA is a somewhat cramped store with merchandise displayed efficiently and quite organized. I was pressed for time with a lengthy to-do list that morning, I asked the male staff where the scales were. I was caught off-guard when asked "Metal or bamboo ones?" and I didn't realize they now have bamboo scales but then figured out he misunderstood me so I proceeded to ask him again but this time in Cantonese. Not sure if he was in a foul mood or this man just is not made for customer service but he had this semi-disgusted look on his face. The next thing I know he's walking towards the back of the store and I followed him. He turned on the light and pointed to the top and there were scales lined up with the size depending on maximum weight capacity. I don't use this scale at work so I called my manager asking which size to buy. Initially I wanted the 22 lb scale but after going through the store's electronic inventory system, this was out-of-stock. I ended up with the next largest one, which is the 48 lb priced at $80 plus tax. I paid for my merchandise, got my receipt and off I went. I took the scale back to the restaurant and it was easy to assemble. My colleagues were happy because this replaced the broken one that immediately was tossed into the trash bin after assembling the new one. Some commented I got a good deal because of great pricing but did acknowledge this product is Made in China.Overall, a decent place to shop for primarily Chinese household and kitchen supplies but don't expect great customer service or you may be sadly disappointed.NOTE: All sales are final - - no returns. Sign is posted up so think twice before making large purchases here at CA.

My one friend sure knows all the nooks and crannies of Honolulu! She said she wanted to go to "this shop she could spend hours in" located in Chinatown. After having lunch nearby, we headed in. Oh my goodness, it was like a Williams Sonoma specializing in Chinese kitchenware! Anything and everything you can think of was crammed inside, from home-style kitchenware and cutlery, to restaurant-quality products. Some notables were dim sum steamer baskets, bamboo steamers in various sizes and huge pots. They even sell those good luck trinkets and stationaries all decked out in red. Prices were good too. OVERALL:Your one-stop shop for kitchen hardware. How could I possibly carry everything back to Maui?!

Like another reviewer, if I could give a lower rating, I would. CAUTION: Items here are on the pricey side, but quality is good. Owner is NOT customer oriented!Spent a lively day with my gf walking around Chinatown and walked in CA to see the "Closeout Sale on Decoration items" and at the same time, I looked at the utensils. I was taken aback as to the high price. Down the street, a same stainless steel ladle was $2.00 less. Then, I noted almost all the items were on the pricey side. After about 7 minutes perusing the products, the Owner condescendingly and sarcastically told my gf, "IF YOU NOT BUYING, GET OUT OF MY STORE". We were shocked as to his attitude and poor professionalism. I rarely write negative reviews, but this place and owner SHOULD NOT be in business. I am glad another reviewer experienced the same rudeness because the experience is not just me. Spend your time and money somewhere else. Even Amazon is a better choice, at least you'll get better service.

My significant others father had found this place, they have restaurant quality items for really cheap. They also have won cleaning brushes which to my amazement are difficult to find out here.

I had been to this store before and had purchased the red "lee see" envelopes with my family name on them. Today I was attracted to a string of small red Chinese blinking lanterns that were cleverly displayed at eye level. I thought they'd make a great addition to our HGEA Lunar New Year party so I took a package to the cash register. Without my asking, the cashier opened the bag and tested the bulbs...good thing, because they didn't work! He turned around and efficiently grabbed another string of lights, tested them and placed them in my bag. What service!

This place was way cool. They had the hugest baking and cooking pots, cutting boards and utensils that I have ever seen. Wow. My friend bought a whisk longer and bigger than her arm for only $10! The prices are insanely cheap. They have little spoons, serving trays and dishes. I bought some split dishes for my wasabi and soy sauce to go with my new chopsticks I got from Laos. They have tons of knives for cheap. I wanted a big butcher knife, but I was afraid my husband might be a little alarmed if I came home with a random huge butcher knife. It's a very compacted place so don't bring kids or a stroller.

Cheap wok, horrible customer service. We bought a wok & took it home. The handle fell off when we took it out of the bag. Tried to take it back but "No returns! Sign right there!" Nasty & arrogant. Never go there!

I wish I knew about this place sooner. Went to a lot of stores in Chinatown and some people did not know what I was talking about. Found the tea basket to replace our old one and other cooking utensils. Going back again after Christmas to check out what they have in vases etc. Place has so many things, you need to spend a 1/2 day just to look around.

Be careful, owner makes up prices. Told me the crab leg opener was 5.95 each and then told me, it's 5.98 each. I had to raise my voice infront of the owner. I hate liars. If ya wanna stay in business, do business RIGHT!

If I could give a lower rating than 1 star I would do so. First time a couple of years ago, I went in looking to buy an expensive cleaver. The owner just pointed them to me and when I asked him a question he showed no interest so I walked out. Second time a year later (2 wks ago) I bought an expensive steamer pan. Today I bought a couple of bamboo steamer baskets came up to $24.02. He has a cup of change right between his register and the counter so I assumed that is a penny jar that could be used so he doesn't been to give all of the change. Nope, he said I'm taking HIS money. When I apologized, he still was very nasty. I talked to another friend who said he's like this all the time. Frankly, I'd recommend avoiding this place altogether. It's not like he was having a bad day. Guys like this SHOULD NOT BE IN BUSINESS! I usually give people the benefit of the doubt but this guy was downright nasty. Good luck if you do!