In this project, Expanding Pecel Lele : Catfish Converse serves as a hub that weaves together various design practices and cultural elements in the shape of Indonesia street food stall. Beyond representing the tension of “being urban while remaining local,” it allows for an exploration of vernacular design. Pecel lele stalls are known for their iconic banners, decorated with awkward illustrations and bold typography configured in singular layouts—testaments to Indonesia’s ‘vernacular aesthetic’ in graphic design. Various makeshift tools created with limited resources further demonstrate this ingenuity. These vendors, as local geniuses, embody the collective creativity that influences and is influenced by the cultural exchange, subtly critiquing the individualism of modern designers and creators. In the context of Bangkok Design Week, Expanded Pecel Lele project will serve as a catalyst for cultural dialogue. The shared experience of enjoying this humble dish can bridge cultural divides, fostering conversations about food, traditions, and shared human experiences. By immersing ourselves in the authentic setting of a Pecel Lele stall, we can engage in meaningful interactions that transcend language and cultural barriers.