Palace Saimin

This place is the spot for saimin, hands down, no contest. Every time I'm on the mainland hunting for good ramen, this is what I'm craving but can never find. Too bad they don't have a location up there they'd absolutely kill it in the winter. This is one of the last true old school saimin spots standing and has been a cornerstone of the Kalihi food scene for generations.There aren't many places I actually remember eating at as a little kid, but this is one of them. And honestly it hasn't changed in decades, and that's a good thing. Still the same layout, same menu on the wall, still only about eight tables and five parking spots, and the aunties working here? Still rocking those warm smiles while making sure tables turn over fast. The saimin? Still legendary. The noodles have that perfect chewiness, the broth and diced char siu are magic, and the beef sticks? They got better over time and thicker....just tender, flavorful beef with zero fat nonsense. But this is one of those places where the saimin is best eaten fresh at the table. Something about the steam, freshness of the noodles, and the broth just hits different when you're sitting there.Pro tip - go past lunch (2-3 pm) or early because parking is a battle (with only five spots) and seating is super limited. But it's worth the effort. My husband declared his won ton min the best ever, and honestly, I can't argue with him. And let's talk price, $8 for a large saimin? In this economy with this inflation? Seems like a steal. I'm just grateful this place has survived until now, serving up the same Saimin I grew up on.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Everything was done to my specifications. Awesome service and staff were all very friendly and nice. I'd recommend going if you can any to get your Saimin or Udon fix. Will go again.

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 toonEveryone loved it. Thank you Palace Saimin for being here

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.

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.

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!"