When Red Lantern Asian Fusion unlocked the doors to its Olympia location on December 6, 2025, it wasn’t just the opening of a second restaurant — it was the continuation of a family story that began years earlier in Yelm. What started as a small, community-rooted eatery has grown into a regional favorite, and the move into downtown Olympia marks a milestone the family behind Red Lantern once only dreamed about.
The original Yelm location, opened in 2018, quickly became known for its comforting food, vibrant noodle dishes, and the kind of hospitality that makes regulars feel like family. After years of steady support and a loyal following, owners Tiffany Lin and Hung Pham felt the timing was finally right to expand. Olympia’s lively downtown and diverse food culture offered the perfect setting to share their family’s recipes with a broader audience.
At the heart of Red Lantern’s appeal is its Asian fusion menu — a thoughtful blend of Vietnamese, Thai, and Chinese influences, all approached with a modern sensibility. Guests can expect everything from fragrant pho and fresh spring rolls to Mi Quang, Mongolian beef, fried rice, and a variety of noodle dishes. Vegetarian diners are never an afterthought, and the handcrafted drinks have become a quiet obsession among regulars. Every plate is built around fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a presentation style that elevates even a casual lunch into something memorable.
The expansion to Olympia was a true family effort. Tiffany and Hung lead the restaurant with the same hands-on care that shaped their first location, supported by longtime team members who have grown with them. Their son Brandon adds a creative spark, contributing to branding and new ideas that help define the restaurant’s evolving identity. The launch, they say, was powered not only by their family but by the customers who have championed them from the beginning.
More than anything, the Red Lantern team hopes guests feel the warmth behind the food. Whether someone stops in for a quick midday meal or settles in for a celebratory dinner, the goal is the same: to create an experience that feels welcoming, thoughtful, and worth returning to. They want diners to leave satisfied, appreciated, and already thinking about what they’ll try next time.
And soon, there will be something new to look forward to — mochi donuts are set to arrive at the Olympia location in late spring, adding a playful, sweet twist to the menu.
For Red Lantern Asian Fusion, the Olympia opening isn’t just an expansion. It’s a promise to continue growing, evolving, and sharing the flavors and hospitality that have defined their journey from the very beginning.