Holland to host Great Asian Noodle Cookoff, showcasing cuisine and culture

The Great Asian Noodle Cookoff is set to bring a flavorful celebration of Asian cuisine and culture to Holland on Saturday, Feb. 1. 

Organized by the Rotary Clubs of Holland in collaboration with the West Michigan Asian American Association (WMAAA), the event will be held at the Midtown Center from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

The cookoff will feature dishes from seven local Asian restaurants representing Chinese, Indian, Vietnamese, Korean, Thai, and Malaysian cultures. 

Guests will sample dishes and vote for their favorite noodle creation. Proceeds from the event will benefit local Rotary programs such as Heart Safe Holland, the Ottawa Beach Water Safety Program, and international initiatives like the Southeast Asia Clean Rivers Project.

Charles Elwood, co-president of the WMAAA and president of the Lakeshore United Rotaract Club, says the event is a unique opportunity to unite the community while celebrating the rich heritage of Asian cultures along the Lakeshore.

Celebrating cultural variety

“This idea really took off because of our community’s passion,” Elwood says. “We wanted to do something special that showcases the incredible diversity of Asian cuisine and brings people together. It’s exciting to see the enthusiasm and collaboration from local restaurants, Rotarians, and community members.”

Participating restaurants include Taste of Asia, Shanghai Bar & Grill (Chinese), Upleaf Café (Vietnamese), Chalo (Indian), Kaffeine (Korean), and Singapore Room (Malaysian). Guests will also enjoy dessert from Gallafe (Filipino). Live performances by a Laotian band and Polynesian dancers will add to the festive atmosphere. The Holland Area Arts Council is having a craft table for all.

Linda Falstad, fundraising chair for the Holland After Hours Rotary Club, says the event’s timing, just after Lunar New Year, makes it particularly meaningful.

“This is a chance to spotlight the growing Asian community in West Michigan while supporting important local and global Rotary projects,” Falstad says.

In addition to showcasing Asian cuisine, the event highlights WMAAA’s commitment to fostering community connections and supporting Asian businesses. 

“WMAAA focuses on health care, education, and civic engagement,” says Sandy Pierce, with the WMAAA. “Events like this allow Asian entrepreneurs to share their talents and build bridges within the community.”

Tickets, which include access to all tasting stations and entertainment, are available online. 

Jennifer Pascua from Halo Halo Multimedia and Broadway Grand Rapids will emcee the event.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit givegrove.com/the-great-rotary-asian-noodle-cookoff.