Daily Inspiration: Meet Ming Xuan Tay

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ming Xuan Tay

Hi Ming Xuan, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always loved food. Growing up in Singapore, food was everywhere and a huge part of my childhood. We even have supper culture there where we dine again after dinner, so there are many food establishments that stay open ’till 4am. So naturally when I started my Instagram, @talkingdoll, it centered around my experiences with food since that was what I enjoyed most. I’ve since moved around a bit and used my Instagram as a sort of journal, documenting my travels and the food I’ve had. When I made Michigan my new home, the food scene had just taken off. With new cafes, boba tea spots and restaurants popping up around Metro Detroit, it really fueled my desire to go out and try everything, just as I did when I was in Singapore.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Trying to photograph or video everything before the food gets cold! It’s an almost impossible challenge because I spend way too much time getting the perfect shot. All I can say is I am grateful my husband is extremely patient. He’s been very supportive of my work and even gets involved now by being my hand model for the videos.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As a foodie, I enjoy creating content showcasing the amazing places to eat around Metro Detroit. The food scene here is really taking off and I want to share that with everyone who loves food as much as I do. My content leans more towards showcasing Asian food and events and I love being a part of that community as it helps me feel closer to home.
Nothing makes me happier than when a video for a locally owned cafe or eatery takes off. I love supporting local businesses and if I can be the bridge that connect customers to businesses, that makes me happy.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Detroit seems to be quite misunderstood by people who have never been here. If they actually visit, they’ll see a very different side from what they often hear. There are great places to visit like the Detroit Institute of Art and Campus Marius Park. Catch a show at Detroit Opera House, visit Belle Isle, eat at Detroit Shipping Co, there’s so much to do here!

I’m a city girl at heart. I was born in Singapore and had a lot of freedom growing up as a child, thanks in part to public transportation. I loved exploring on my own without having to drive. That’s the only thing I wish Michigan could be better at, having good public transportation that can take you anywhere from the city to the UP. No need to drive, you could nap on the train and wake up in a new place. Wouldn’t that be lovely?

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/talkingdoll
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkingdoll
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564540076260
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@talkingdoll