Celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Visit these hot spots for Asian culture and influence throughout the Dallas metroplex.
Updated April 2025
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and Dallas is joining the celebration. Throughout the month there are opportunities for both locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the rich traditions, compelling history, and diverse cultures that the AAPI community adds to the American mosaic. From delectable dining experiences that traverse the vast culinary traditions of Asia to museum exhibitions that illuminate the profound contributions of the AAPI community, Dallas offers a multitude of ways to honor AAPI heritage this month.
Arts & Culture
The Samurai Collection
Selectively curated by Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller, The Samurai Collection contains a wealth of artifacts such as suits of armor, helmets, horse armor and weaponry that are dated between the 7th and 19th centuries. Discover the art and armor of the samurai warriors with the museum's latest exhibition, Iron Men. Located in the Harwood District above Saint Ann's Restaurant + Bar, this collection is the only one of its kind in the United States and one of the largest in the world. Open each Saturday and Sunday from 11-5 p.m., and free to the public. Reservations for viewing the Samurai Collection can be booked at samuraiironmen.com.
The Crow Museum of Asian Art
Seeking to inspire and promote learning and dialogue about the arts and cultures of Asia through selective exhibitions, research and curation, artistic and educational programming and guest experience, a visit to the Crow Museum of Asian Art is a wonderful way to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month. Current exhibitions include, "Divine Spark: Kana Harada," featuring work from the Dallas-based artist created during the pandemic to inspire a peaceful and bright future for all, and "Vishnu: Across Time and Space," focusing on one of the most popular and power gods of the Hindu pantheon, celebrating him as the Preserver and for his ability to restore balance to the universe. Located in the Dallas Arts District, the Crow Museum of Asian Art is open from Tuesday – Sunday, 11-5 p.m., and free to the public.
Dining
Tatsu Dallas
Deep Ellum
Tucked away in Dallas’s historic Deep Ellum, this intimate destination blends MICHELIN-starred Japanese hospitality with the timeless art of Edomae sushi. As Dallas' first MICHELIN Star restaurant, awarded in the inaugural MICHELIN Guide Texas, guests are transported through a seasonal omakase experience crafted by Executive Chef and Owner Tatsuya Sekiguchi. Each course features one or two appetizers, thirteen to fifteen pieces of nigiri, a hand roll, miso soup, and dessert.
Ten Ramen
West Dallas
Ten Ramen a fast-casual spot dishing out a lineup of ramen favorites like Mazemen, Shoyu, Tonkotsu, and even lobster ramen. Known for its cool atmosphere and service, it’s a go-to for locals craving bold, comforting flavors. Created by Teiichii Sakurai, the chef behind the acclaimed Tei-An, Ten Ramen offers a more relaxed take on high-quality Japanese cuisine.
Bangkok City Restaurant
Bangkok City Restaurant has been serving up authentic Thai cuisine to the Dallas community since 1991. This family-run spot is celebrated for its pad Thai, green curry, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. It is a must-visit for anyone craving a taste of Thailand.
Hyphen Space
Deep Ellum
Hyphen Space is a cozy café, creative studio, and community-driven event space designed to feel like home, and yes, their matcha is really good. The founders created this space with intention, moving away from the typical grab-and-go boba scene to build something rooted in connection. Whether you're sipping on a drink, attending an event, or creating content in the studio, Hyphen Space invites you to slow down, hang out, and enjoy the community vibe.
Chimlanh
The Cedars
Chimlanh is the first Vietnamese cà phê shop in Dallas proper specializing in traditional phin drip brewing. Using premium, ethically sourced beans exclusively from Việt Nam. Opened in January 2023, Chimlanh also serves thoughtful bites like the fan-favorite Bánh Mì Bagel, blending Vietnamese flavors with creative flair.
Uchi Dallas
Uptown
Uchi brings a contemporary twist to Japanese dining. Opened by renowned Chef Tyson Cole, Uchi Dallas offers an inventive menu that blends traditional Japanese flavors with cutting-edge culinary techniques. Uchi is best known for its sushi and omakase offerings.
Dragon Boat Festival
Bath House Cultural Center
Sunday May 18, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Get ready to kick off the first-ever AAPI Heritage & Dragon Boat Festival on May 18. .This family-friendly celebration is an invitation to the community to delight in an array of live performances, participate in hands-on workshops, and admire art installations. With savory food, unique vendors, and the thrilling spectacle of Dragon Boat races—where attendees can watch or even join in on the paddling—there's something for everyone to enjoy.
AANHPI Celebration
AT&T Discovery District
Saturday May 3, starting at 2 p.m.
Dallas is celebrating the rich and diverse cultures of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, & Pacific Islander heritage at the AT&T Discovery District! The 4th annual celebration starts at 2 p.m. and is filled with performances, delicious food specials, and an eclectic mix of beats by a live DJ. Then at 7 p.m., the Lawn turns into one-of-a-kind cinematic experience featuring the beloved Disney hit, Moana 2, on their 104ft Media Wall. Self-parking is available at the 1212 Jackson Street garage. It’s complimentary with AT&T Discovery District merchant validation from the Exchange Hall, Cowboy Cho, or the AT&T Store.
AAPI Heritage Month Family Weekend
Sammons Park
Saturday May 10, 10 a.m.
Join the AT&T Performing Arts Center for the third annual AAPI Heritage Month Family Weekend at the AT&T PAC in collaboration with the Dallas Police Department. Once again, Sammons Park will be full of beautiful artisanal vendors, community representatives from different Asian countries, delicious food stalls and trucks, and incredible local performers. Come enjoy local musicians, martial artists, dancers, and experience a traditional lion dance. This year we will be featuring their AT&T PAC Culinary Passport activity, where you can get stamps and stickers from different Asian communities’ booths while you try the yummy cultural snacks they have to offer.* Once you’ve collected all of the stamps, enter your completed passport into a raffle for your chance to win tickets to an upcoming show!
