Adam R.
Yelp
I've saved writing a review for Hawkers until my wife and I had an opportunity to go multiple times to get a truly rounded experience and set of expectations.
Now that we've been 3-4 times, I find that we keep talking about Hawkers and wanting to go back over and over in the weeks following our meals there. I love me some Asian cuisine, and thoroughly enjoy Hawkers' small plates experience, as it seems you end up ordering more than you normally would ($) but get to experience a variety of items. We made it a point to order several different items every time we went.
I'll say this, while it may be hard to get in (expect a wait on just about any day of the week starting at about 6pm), but once you do, the food is fantastic! Not even sure where to start, but at a minimum if you go and don't order the Roti with the curry sauce, I'll judge you. It is too good for words. A Malaysian-style flatbread that is soft and crispy at the same time, but the curry dipping sauce sets the whole thing up! Can't get enough of these delicious appetizers.
From the eggrolls to the crispy green beans, the wings to the lamb skewers to the sticky ribs, there really isn't anything bad to share with those who've come with you (except for the sharing part!)... I will say, speaking of the ribs, that one of the single best ribs I've ever put in my mouth came from Hawkers. Their Sticky Ribs are exceptional. SUPER Tender, absolutely Fall-Off-The-Bone, finger-licking good. The red pepper slices on top add a little bit of acidity and heat, and the sticky sauce they are coated in is on-point. Couldn't ask for a better small plate. My wife, who typically doesn't like ribs (lame) said these are the best ones she's ever tried.
A pro-tip and must add to any experience here is the spicy dip trio (contains a flavorful paste, chili oil, and spicy green pepper dip). 100% recommend.
Service is typical to good for East Nashville, but the bartenders are usually very welcoming and the drinks are fantastic! We've had several saki flights (all good), margaritas, and last time I got an Old Fashioned made with Japanese whisky. It was excellent.
Overall, our last experience (and every one before that) at Hawkers did nothing to dissuade us from wanting to go back again, and soon!