Kathiew House of Oakland was never just a noodle house.

It was my heart, my culture, and my dream as a single mother trying to build something meaningful for our community.

When I opened my doors, I didn’t know what to expect. But what I received was love beyond anything I imagined. I served over 500 people from all across the Bay Area. Families, friends, influencers, and first-time customers walked in curious — and left smiling. Many told me they had never experienced Khmer cuisine before. Seeing our Cambodian flavors welcomed in such a diverse Oakland community meant everything to me.

Then one day, everything changed.

I received a letter from Alameda County and my landlord instructing me to discontinue all sales at the property. I remember standing there in disbelief. My hands were shaking. I had worked so hard, invested everything I had, and suddenly I was forced to close my doors.

As a single mom, this wasn’t just a business setback. It felt like my dream was being taken away from me.

Closing Kathiew House was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make. Not because the food wasn’t loved — but because financially, I could not keep up with the unexpected hardships.

But I still believe in this dream.

Kathiew House is more than noodles. It is about preserving Khmer culture. It is about creating a welcoming space where everyone feels at home. It is about showing my children that even when life knocks you down, you get back up.

Every dollar will go directly to help cover relocation costs, permits, equipment, and the expenses needed to reopen safely and legally. Every dollar will go directly toward bringing Kathiew House back to life.

If Kathiew House ever made you smile…

If you believe in supporting women-owned small businesses…

If you believe cultural food deserves a place in Oakland…

Please consider donating or sharing this page.

Even $20 helps sponsor a bowl.

Even a share helps reach someone who may be able to give.

With your support, we can reopen these doors and once again fill the air with the smell of broth simmering, noodles cooking, and a community gathering together.

This is not the end of our story.

With your help, it’s a new beginning.

From the bottom of my heart — thank you