A neighborhood-rooted destination in the Bear + Larp District

1626 White Bear Ave, St Paul, MN 55106

When Cups & Cheers International Sports Bar & Restaurant opened in September 2019, it introduced something new to the White Bear Avenue corridor: a vibrant gathering place blending Hmong and Southeast Asian cuisine with the energy of a modern sports bar. Located in Hillcrest Shopping Center, Cups & Cheers has become one of the Bear + Larp District’s most successful and beloved businesses, showing what’s possible when local investment meets community connection.

Rooted in the Greater East Side

Founded by Hli Tsaab, who grew up on the Greater East Side and attended Johnson High School, Cups & Cheers was built with intention.

“White Bear Avenue was always a place of community for us,” Hli shared. “From the bowling alley to restaurants people gathered at, it felt like home, and that’s why we wanted to return and build our business here.”

After signing their lease in 2019, the team invested heavily in renovations and licensing, transforming the space into a full-service restaurant with two bars, big-screen TVs, private karaoke rooms and an event space that seats up to 80 guests.

Food, Entertainment & Community

Cups & Cheers specializes in Hmong and Southeast Asian dishes, including favorites like papaya salad and beef brisket. Cornhole tournaments, karaoke nights and sports viewing make it a go-to spot for both casual dining and group celebrations. Customers consistently praise the welcoming atmosphere and attentive service.

Investing in People and Place

The restaurant employs 38 people — six full-time and the remainder part-time — with most staff living in or near the Greater East Side. About 30 percent of customers come from the neighborhood, while others travel from Maplewood, Oakdale, Woodbury, Brooklyn Park and Brooklyn Center, bringing regional foot traffic into the corridor, especially on evenings and weekends.

Resilient Through Change

Like many small businesses, Cups & Cheers faced significant challenges during COVID-19. The team adapted by expanding takeout and delivery, strengthening their social media presence and leaning into community support.

“Our customers wanted to keep us here,” Hli said. “That support helped us survive and then grow.”

Since then, expanded event offerings and private karaoke rooms have helped the business continue to thrive.

Looking Ahead

Cups & Cheers is optimistic about the future of White Bear Avenue and the Bear + Larp District. The owners see opportunity in slower traffic, improved walkability and increased housing, along with practical upgrades like better crosswalks, bike racks, EV chargers and clearer communication about the future of Hillcrest Shopping Center and the corridor.

Most importantly, they want growth that protects what makes the corridor special.

“I want it to stay vibrant and homey,” Hli said. “Not like Woodbury or the West End. I want small businesses to be able to stay, grow and not get priced out.”

Cups & Cheers is proof that when local entrepreneurs invest in their own community, the impact goes far beyond business success. It reflects the promise of the Bear + Larp District: a place where culture, commerce and community grow together.