V Fortune Land Vegetarian Cafe in KL
The Covid-19 pandemic has made it even more difficult for many to adapt to higher living costs, so eating out can often be a pricey affair. Surprisingly, amidst the price hikes, V Fortune Land Vegetarian Cafe in KL sells RM2 vegetarian mixed rice that’s hearty and affordable for its location.
Intrigued by the owner, we visited the cafe to discover how he makes it possible and understand the passion that drives his generous mission.
A cafe with 16 years of heart and history
Nestled in Taman Kok Lian, V Fortune Land Vegetarian Cafe has been a beacon of hope for the homeless and the less fortunate for over 16 years. Founded by the compassionate Uncle Richard, who initially operated the nostalgic Ye Beng shoe shop, this cafe offers RM2 mixed rice to support those struggling to make ends meet.
The humble 64-year-old uncle is often seen actively participating in the cafe’s daily operations. On any given morning, you can find him at the entrance, distributing free packets of vegetarian meals to the public.
But to ensure that the cafe’s daily operations run smoothly, Uncle Richard’s day starts as early as 6am to prepare food alongside his team, ensuring that up to 200 people can be served daily. He also heads to the wet market each day around 2pm to procure ingredients to cook up dishes for the following day.
The food often runs out before the restaurant closes at 4pm.
He has no intentions in gaining profit
When asked about his motivation to operate the restaurant, Uncle Richard shared with TheSmartLocal Malaysia that many homeless individuals along Jalan Ipoh struggle to find money for food. Although not a vegetarian himself, he hopes to offer both nutritious and delicious vegetarian meals to those who cannot afford them.
Despite initial challenges in sustaining the business, Uncle Richard used the profits from his shoe shop to keep the cafe running. “During the early years of running the restaurant, I endured significant losses adding up to around RM6,000”, he shared. Even so, his unwavering commitment and compassion never faltered.
After several years of operating the restaurant, local residents and close friends rallied behind him with donations, which supported staff salaries, rent, and the purchase of raw materials. His continuous distribution of free daily meals then caught the attention of netizens due to his generosity.
Upon reflecting on the early years, when economic pressures seemed insurmountable, Uncle Richard said that it was his perseverance and faith that helped him pull through over the years.
He shared with us that, “My primary intention in running the cafe is not to gain profit, but to help people in need, especially the homeless who cannot afford to buy food“.
Food at V Fortune Land Vegetarian Cafe
V Fortune Land Vegetarian Cafe currently boasts a menu of over 20 halal vegetarian dishes, all made from scratch. Options range from Braised Vegan Chicken and Sweet and Sour Vegan Fish crafted from soy, to Chinese-style Fried Brinjal and Stir-Fried Bok Choy, prepared without any preservatives.
For RM2, diners can select three dishes along with plain rice. For takeaways, customers are encouraged to bring their own containers or can opt to pay an additional 50 sen for a plastic one.
Additional dishes are priced accordingly, in the usual chap fan fashion.
The cafe also serves vegetarian wantan mee and noodle soup, accompanied by fried dumplings and vegan meat, for just RM2.50.
As for drinks, this cafe serves up warm complimentary Chinese tea and fresh Dragon Fruit juice (RM2), as well as homemade Bubur Cha Cha (RM2) for dessert.
When asked about her dining experience at the cafe, frequent diner Clarissa shared with us, “I love the delicious dishes here, and the portions are generous too. I often take some home for my grandma, who’s a fan of vegetarian food”.
Uncle Richard plans to open another branch in Cheras
When asked on the future plans for the cafe, Uncle Richard said that he aims to open another branch in Cheras next year to further assist those grappling with the high cost of living.
While this endeavour may require time and financial capability, he believes that “if you truly intend to do something with your heart, God and the Universe will conspire to make it happen”. Uncle Richard remains steadfast in helping the Malaysian community grappling with financial hardships amid the economic crisis.
Despite inquiries into why he persists in selling RM2 meals amidst the current economic climate, Uncle Richard remains resolute in keeping prices unchanged. “I just want to help those who cannot afford to buy food, so I try to maintain the price”, said Uncle Richard.
To ease his mission are catering orders from organisations and individuals who favour vegetarian meals for events, which provide essential support to the business.
Uncle Richard’s unwavering dedication and generosity have endeared him to many, and his cafe continues to flourish despite economic challenges.
A humble cafe that serves hearty meals for the community
Uncle Richard’s compassionate efforts have ensured that food, a fundamental necessity, reaches those in need. Despite economic challenges, he remains committed to helping those in need, showing how a big heart can change lives, one meal at a time.
V Fortune Land Vegetarian Cafe opens daily from 9.30am, except on Tuesdays. It attracts quite a crowd in the early morning for its free meal distribution. More than 50 packets of free food are distributed daily, often snapped up within hours.
If you’re looking to support his business, you can find his cafe at the address below:
Address: 33, Jalan Batu Ambar, Taman Kok Lian, 51200, Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Wed-Mon 8am-4pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Contact: 017-283 5039
For more unique spots to check out with inspiring stories, read 100-year-old bar in Melaka and the origin story behind Petaling Street Asam Laksa.
Cover image adapted from: The Smart Local Malaysia
Some quotes have been edited for brevity and clarity.
Photography by Yusintha.