After spending decades between Iowa and Singapore, Jennifer Vayding returned to her roots in the United States. Born in Laos and raised partly in Iowa, Vayding decided to open a restaurant with her son Zach Tan, who had recently moved back from Taiwan where he studied culinary arts. Together, they launched Hawker’s Kitchen, a unique eatery that pays homage to the vibrant street food culture of Singapore and Malaysia. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes inspired by hawker stands, bringing authentic flavors to Ankeny residents who might otherwise have to travel far for such cuisine. From soy chicken rice to laksa, the menu features both traditional favorites and innovative creations, catering to local tastes while staying true to its cultural heritage.

Vayding’s journey began in Laos before she moved to Iowa at the age of ten. After graduating from the University of Iowa, she relocated to Singapore, where she worked at Principal Financial Group until her retirement. When her son Zach joined her in Iowa, they discovered a shared passion for cooking and decided to bring the essence of Singaporean street food to their new home. Opening Hawker’s Kitchen in August, they aimed to recreate the bustling atmosphere of hawker stands, offering a taste of Southeast Asia right in Ankeny. The duo focused on dishes that reminded them of home, adapting recipes to suit local preferences without compromising on authenticity.

The restaurant’s menu is a testament to Vayding and Tan’s dedication to preserving the rich culinary traditions of Singapore and Malaysia. Dishes like chicken satay, shrimp pancakes, and laksa are prepared with care, using ingredients and techniques that reflect the region’s diverse influences. Chicken satay, marinated in turmeric and lemongrass, comes with a creamy peanut sauce, while shrimp pancakes offer a crispy texture paired with a tangy soy dipping sauce. Laksa, a spicy coconut noodle soup, showcases the delicate balance of flavors that defines Southeast Asian cuisine. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted to introduce diners to the bold yet nuanced tastes of the region.

One of the standout items on the menu is the soy chicken rice, a dish that combines poached chicken with fragrant rice seasoned with soy sauce. This dish, adapted from a Hainanese recipe popular in Singapore, has quickly become a favorite among patrons. Another must-try is the nasi lemak, featuring coconut rice served with fried chicken, peanuts, cucumber, and sambal chili paste. Vayding emphasizes that while some dishes come with optional spices, they intentionally keep the heat levels moderate to appeal to a wider audience. The roti John, a sandwich filled with curried beef, eggs, cheese, and vegetables, exemplifies the fusion of Western and South Asian elements that characterizes much of the menu.

Hawker’s Kitchen has not only introduced Ankeny residents to new flavors but has also created a community hub where people can gather and enjoy meals together. Located at 1975 N. Ankeny Blvd., the restaurant welcomes visitors from Monday through Saturday, serving lunch and dinner. With its inviting ambiance and carefully curated menu, Hawker’s Kitchen continues to thrive, bridging cultures and bringing the vibrant spirit of Southeast Asian street food to the heart of Iowa.