Trang (Lena) Le moved to the United States in 2015, always seeking new challenges. She began studying culinary management at the Art Institute of Houston while working as a private chef for several families in Houston.

After a long day, she often craved excellent Asian comfort food, only to find what she craved was not readily available.

About three years ago, Le founded Lena’s Asian Kitchen, currently headquartered at the LIT Commercial Kitchen located at 10887 S Wilcrest Dr. in the International District.

Today, Le specializes in healthy meals that are packed with flavor. She loves working with individuals who have different health or dietary restrictions, firmly believing that you shouldn’t have to sacrifice taste for health.

Lena’s Asian Kitchen offers ready-to-eat meals priced between $8.50 and $13 each. Popular dishes include Tandoori Chicken Breast, Grilled Honey Lemongrass Pork, Miso Glazed Salmon, and Korean Bulgogi Beef Bowls. Be sure to try the Fried Rice with your choice of meat or no meat.

In addition to delivery, around 10 free pick-up locations are available throughout Houston, as well as Grab&Go options. Soon, Le plans to extend shipping nationwide and distribute her products in supermarkets.

Lena’s Asian Kitchen also offers catering services! Whether it’s a backyard get-together, a graduation party, or a warm summer night on the patio, you can call Lena’s Asian Kitchen for your catering needs.

Le aims to not only expand the availability of healthy Asian comfort food but also positively impact the community.

As an active advocate for victims of domestic abuse, Le provides jobs for those escaping abusive situations.

She trains each team member, helping them develop their culinary skills in a safe and supportive environment.

Le is collaborating with OCA of Greater Houston during AAPI Heritage Month for AAPI Restaurant Weeks. Those who donate $25 or more to OCA will receive discounts from all participating restaurants. In return, OCA provides rice for seniors in Houston. Learn more on their website.

While making a difference locally, Le has also gained recognition worldwide. In March 2024, she was crowned truffle champion on Food Network’s “Chopped,” winning $10,000, and she has appeared on “Beat Bobby Flay.”

Le will be a guest judge for the Kitchen Warrior Cooking Competition in Okinawa this summer.

As a James Beard Award winner, Le was voted one of the Top 50 Unsung Heroes across Asian communities worldwide. Her nonprofit, Lena’s Foundation, donates essential healthy food to survivors of domestic abuse, natural disasters, mental health crises, and other life-altering circumstances.

Upcoming events for Lena’s Foundation include feeding veterans with PTSD at Camp Hope on May 26, for which Le seeks volunteers (Lena’s Foundation).

Additionally, on May 29, Le will collaborate with Chef Masa from Pacha Nikkei for a five-course dinner that weaves together the story of two worlds. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Lena’s Foundation. Tickets are still available here.

So, to answer the perennial question of what’s for dinner tonight, How about meals that nourish your family and support the community?

Lena’s Asian Kitchen
10887 S Wilcrest Dr.
Website: www.lenasasiankitchen.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lenasasiankitchen.htx
Facebook: www.facebook.com/lenasasiankitchen