Celebrating AANHPI Heritage Across Greenville

Greenville’s vibrant spirit is shaped by the many people who call it home–and among them, the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community continues to add cultural richness, creativity, and flavor to identity of the Upstate.

Each May, AANHPI Heritage Month offers a national opportunity to honor the contributions of Asian and Pacific Islander communities. But here in Greenville, those contributions aren’t just celebrated once a year. They’re felt every day through food, hospitality, culture, and connection.

This month, we’re proud to highlight local business owners and community members who are blending heritage with innovation–and building bridges across cultures in the process.

🍣 Sharing Culture Through Cuisine: Sushi Go

Located at the north end of Main Street in Downtown Greenville, Sushi Go isn't just a go-to spot for sushi—it’s a culinary classroom in cultural hospitality. Owner Max Godo, originally from Saitama, Japan, blends decades of restaurant service experience inspired by the spirit of omotenshi–a philosophy rooted in wholehearted hospitality. 

“I hope to see more opportunities for cultural exchange and education,” Max adds. “It would be wonderful if exposure to diverse cultures became a natural part of growing up in Greenville.” - Max Godo, Owner

The restaurant is known for its meticulous presentations, whether it's flame-kissed nigiri or house-specialty rolls topped with yuzu zest and truffle oil. This May, Sushi Go is introducing a limited-time menu to mark AANHPI Heritage Month and exploring collaborations with other local AANHPI businesses.

🧺 Everyday Hospitality: Green Laundry Lounge

At first glance, Green Laundry Lounge might look like a boutique laundromat. But step inside, and you'll discover a community space built on sustainability, global flavors, and Southern hospitality—all under one roof. Owned by Jay, Krishna, and Pulin Desai, this unexpected cafe-meets-laundry-hybrid serves lattes and lassis alongside masala curry and samosas. 

“Our heritage is woven into everything—from our hospitality and sustainability approach to the Indian-inspired flavors on our menu. We feel a deep responsibility to represent our culture with pride while fostering inclusion and connection.”

This AANHPI Heritage Month, Green Laundry Lounge is hosting an Indian Street Food Night on May 17, featuring regional favorites like chaat, samosas, and masala fries. It’s just one example of how the couple invites guests into a cultural exchange that’s both casual and deeply intentional.

“We hope Greenville continues to be a place where diversity is celebrated not just in moments, but year-round.”

🥟 Stories Through Food: Sum Bar

Sum Bar is intimate and energetic, a modern dim sum restaurant where the dishes are as thoughtful as the atmosphere. Owner Khailing draws from her Chinese, Malaysian, and American roots to craft small plates that speak volumes. The siu mai, char siu buns, and sesame balls are handmade—each one folded with care, memory, and a bit of joy.

“We’ve had the privilege of meeting new AAPI friends—some customers, some team members, and some visitors—who all connect through food.”

Look out, too, for something more traditional: congee, a savory rice porridge beloved across many Asian cultures. Rich, comforting, and deeply nostalgic, Sum Bar’s congee is served only during specific days—guests are encouraged to check in advance to see when it’s on the menu.

This May, the Sum Bar team is honoring AANHPI Heritage Month with a series of intimate events, from an auspicious knot-tying class on Mother’s Day to Mahjong Mondays, where guests can learn the traditional Chinese game in a welcoming environment.

“There’s pressure to represent our community well, but also great pride. Through our handmade dishes, we share our love, care, and history with our Greenville neighbors.”

🍩Sweet Connections: Mochibees Donut Café

The moment you walk into Mochibees, the scent of warm donuts glazed in black sesame or filled with ube custard makes it clear—this is not your average donut shop. Founded by Ruby Lam, an American-born Vietnamese entrepreneur, the café is a vibrant blend of heritage, innovation, and joy. Together with her partner, Carolina Arango, Ruby brings both Asian and Colombian influences to the menu with a creative twist.

“Although I'm an American-born Vietnamese, our café offers flavors from across Asia—like Korean mochi donuts, Taiwanese boba teas, and Vietnamese coffee.” - Ruby Lam, Owner

Beyond their signature mochi donuts, guests can enjoy crispy Korean corndogs, refreshing bubble teas, Asian ice cream, and sweet tanghulu—a traditional candied fruit snack that’s as photogenic as it is nostalgic. There’s even a photo booth tucked into the space, inviting guests to capture a bit of whimsy with their treat.

This May, they’re rolling out a rotating selection of AAPI-inspired donut flavors, including red bean, lychee, and taro. It's a sweet and celebratory way to honor culture through shared tastes—and a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the global flavor of Greenville.

🌿A Place to Grow: Plant Stella 

For Kate Plianpeng, the Thai-American owner of Plant Stella, heritage shows up in subtle, intentional ways: in the choice of plants, in the design of the café, in the way the drinks are served with care. It’s a space that invites you to slow down, notice the details, and connect with something meaningful.

“From the design of our space to the flavors and plants we feature, I’m always finding ways to reflect my Thai and Asian heritage,” she says.
“I want people to feel welcome—and to discover something meaningful.”

Throughout May, Plant Stella will host Asian-inspired workshops and highlight the work of other AANHPI-owned businesses and artists.

🍜 Heritage on the Table: Asia Pacific Market

Part resaurant, part grocery, part cultural anchor—Asia Pacific Market is a one-stop shop for ingredients, flavors, and everyday essentials that speak to traditions over overlooked in common grocery aisles. It's where you can find ingredients like Sichuan peppercorns or Vietnamese rice paper—and also enjoy authentic plates like Ma La Chicken Ding and Char Siu Buns right in the shop.

“After the first few years, we finally have so many people that support us and love our food. We’re honored to serve authentic Chinese cuisine—and we support all our friends in food and beverage.”

The market and restaurant has become a go-to spot for visitors and locals alike looking for fresh Asian ingredients and home-cooked flavor. Whether you’re stocking your pantry or sitting down for lunch, it’s a place where culture is both preserved and shared, one dish at a time.

💮 A Celebration That Lasts

AANHPI Heritage Month may be one moment on the calendar—but the contributions of Greenville’s AANHPI community are reflected in the everyday experiences that locals and visitors alike enjoy year-round. Whether it’s a mochi donut, a steaming bowl of pho, or the welcoming service behind the counter, these businesses help shape the soul of the Upstate.

TEASER BREAK

Ready to explore more? Check out Greenville’s ever-evolving international food scene—including AANHPI-inspired cuisine—by visiting our guide to global restaurants.