A food outlet is not necessarily always about serving the best food in town; it is also about going the extra mile and giving back to the community that makes it special.
One such cafe is the Pure Lotus Cafe, a vegetarian cafe that not only serves delicious and mouthwatering dishes but provides a conducive and peaceful environment for customers.
It is located on Jalan Utama in George Town.
Set up not too long ago during the second day of Chinese New Year this year, the cafe is part of the Pure Lotus Hospice of Compassion project, where 50% of the cafe’s profits are channelled to the hospice to support its mission of providing care and comfort for end-of-life patients.
The outlet is currently being operated by an exceptionally versatile and talented Tina Loh, who hails from the Peranakan background.
It is learned that Loh has been a strong supporter of the mission-driven Venerable Lyan Shih, the founder and chairman of Pure Lotus Hospice of Compassion.
The current cafe, which is located only a few steps away from the hospice, formerly served as one of the venues where Ven Lyan Shih administered her caregiving service for the needy.
During an exclusive interview with Buletin Mutiara on March 12, she said when the existing building became operational in 2019, the current cafe initially was used to help depressed people and a space to display artworks.
“Then, I decided to rent this space to Loh as I find her to be very responsible, creative and also because she believed in the hospice’s mission.
“Despite already having a restaurant on her own to operate, Loh agreed to take up this space and transformed it into an incredible, conducive environment for customers.
“Most importantly, she was able to attract many customers due to the variety of dishes she offers, which guarantees satisfaction for all,” Ven Lyan Shih said.
What makes this cafe incredibly special is its employment of staff members with disabilities and various limitations.
It operates from Monday to Saturday (7.30am – 7pm) and is closed on Sundays.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Law Suun Ting