Meet Aisha: The Visionary Behind Matbakh, a Fusion of Cultures and Flavors in Jordan

In the bustling streets ofJordan, Hong Kong, where the aroma of spices and the hum of daily life intertwine, a new culinary gem has emerged. Matbakh, a small takeaway spot, is the brainchild of Aisha, a 23-year-old psychology graduate who has taken a bold leap into entrepreneurship. With a dream of sharing her love for food and culture, Aisha has created a space that not only serves delicious meals but also bridges cultural gaps and fosters community understanding.

A Journey Rooted in Diversity

Born and raised in Hong Kong to Pakistani parents, Aisha was exposed to a variety of cuisines and traditions that later inspired her culinary vision. However, her childhood wasn’t without challenges. As a young girl wearing a hijab, Aisha faced bullying and misunderstandings at school. Despite these hardships, she remained resilient, understanding that the lack of awareness stemmed from cultural differences. “It’s not their fault; they didn’t grow up understanding my traditions and beliefs,” she reflects. “But nothing justifies the disrespect we sometimes face.”

From Psychology to the Kitchen: A Bold Leap

After completing her master’s degree in psychology, Aisha decided to take a different path. With the unwavering support of her family—especially her father, who encouraged her to pursue her dreams—she opened Matbakh. The name, which means “kitchen” in Arabic and Urdu, reflects the essence of the place: a space filled with diversity and cultural inclusivity.

Switching from psychology to the food industry might seem surprising to some, but for Aisha, it’s about embracing new challenges and fulfilling a childhood dream of owning a restaurant. “It’s not a huge deal to change paths,” she says. “My long-term goal is to return to psychology, but right now, I’m fully focused on this.”

Matbakh: A Fusion of Flavors and Cultures

At Matbakh, Aisha offers a unique fusion of flavors that reflect her multicultural background. The menu is a testament to her love for food, featuring dishes like pizza, burgers, falafel, and doner rolls, which have quickly become customer favorites. “Growing up, we ate whatever we liked, and that’s what I want to share with others—a mix of different cultures and tastes,” she explains.

But Matbakh is more than just a takeaway spot; it’s a platform for cultural exchange. Located in a predominantly local area, Matbakh introduces the community to new flavors and traditions. “It’s about being out there, sharing our culture, and breaking down barriers,” Aisha says.

Breaking Barriers: Challenges and Triumphs

One of the biggest challenges Aisha faces is the preconceived notions people have based on her skin color and way of dressing. She believes that these barriers often stem from childhood, where stereotypes are reinforced at home. “Parents shouldn’t be telling their kids not to play with others who are different,” she emphasizes. “It’s important to teach children to be open-minded from a young age.”

Despite facing criticism and biases, Aisha remains focused on her goals. “When you’re starting something new, people expect you to be perfect right away,” she says. “But it’s okay to start slowly and learn along the way. Instead of criticism, we need support and encouragement.”

Moments of Joy and Connection

Amidst the challenges, there are moments of pure joy that keep Aisha going. She fondly recalls the few kids who come by just to talk and wave. “It’s those small, meaningful interactions that make it all worth it,” she shares. Her growing base of regular customers, who already know their orders by heart, is another testament to the impact Matbakh is making in the community.

A Message of Open-Mindedness

Aisha’s journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of being open-minded and embracing diversity. “Be open to different faiths and cultures,” she urges. “Even if you don’t like something, just experience it. Go out and try new things—you might be surprised.”

Visit Matbakh and Experience the Fusion

Aisha’s story is one of resilience, passion, and the power of food to bring people together. Through Matbakh, she’s not just serving meals—she’s building bridges and creating a space where everyone is welcome.

So, the next time you’re in Jordan, take a moment to visit Matbakh and be part of this beautiful culinary journey. Whether you’re trying the best-selling Hawashi or the flavorful Momo Chicken, each bite is a journey through cultures and traditions.

Support local entrepreneurs, celebrate cultural connections, and savor the rich flavors of Jordan at Matbakh. If you're interested in learning more about how we spotlight inspiring founders like Aisha, reach out to us at info@guidefong.org. Stay tuned for more stories!