Kedai Tapao: Love and a Malaysian Takeout Shop
Ian Szetho
About the Filmmaker
Trying my best to make great films in Chicago.
From the Filmmaker
Kedai Tapao was a huge passion project shot in Chicago to cover an extremely talented duo bringing their special sauce of Malaysian food to the Midwest. I myself am Malaysian-Chinese American so it was a huge joy for me to be able to bring their story to life. We hope you enjoy Jenn and Mike's story and if you're ever in the neighborhood consider checking out their pop-up.
Kedai Tapao: Love and a Malaysian Takeout Shop
Director: Ian Szetho
Producers: Eunice Wangadi, Matt Hebron
Mike and Jenn started Kedai Tapao in 2020 with the goal of bringing their taste of Malaysian food to Chicago. Within a few short months they succeeded in spades. Now most of their pop-ups sell out within hours. For this documentary we followed Mike and Jenn over the course of 3 days leading up to their first plated dinner pop-up service at Superkhana. The film explores the difficulties of opening and starting a pop-up business against the backdrop of a beautiful love story.
"Mike and Jenn own Kedai Tapao, a pop-up that often serves the local Logan Square area but they have delivered quality Malaysian food to homesick Malaysians everywhere from Edgewater all the way to Hyde Park. The climax of the film also takes place in a classic Logan Square establishment, Superkhana as Mike and Jenn prepare for their biggest pop-up at that time.
All crew and post-teams are also based in Chicago. From myself to our colorist.
This film is really about highlighting the incredible pop-ups and food scene that Chicago has at it's finger tips. Highlighting that even 'niche' food areas have dedicated fan bases. This film helps raise awareness to the broader Chicagoans of the amazing cuisine we have right in front of us."