Kavitha started her stall after noticing a gap in vegetarian options at food courts.
ON rainy days, warm soupy meals provide lots of comfort.
There’s a herbal meaty broth that is popular but isn’t accessible for vegetarians and vegans.
Noticing a gap in vegetarian options at most food courts, R. Kavitha, 40, traded in her cashier’s apron for a cook’s hat when she started a stall in Taman Desaria, Petaling Jaya.
The single mother received approval from her four daughters when she had them try her vegetarian versions of popular Chinese meals.
Kavitha’s love for Chinese food led her to start this culinary venture a year ago.
(Clockwise from top left) Vegetarian Chinese dishes Curry Mee, Chik Kut Teh with rice and sliced Chinese crullers, and Wan Tan Mee.
She introduced vegetarian Chik Kut Teh, Curry Mee and Wan Tan Mee in her menu and the dishes made her stall popular.
“Vegetarian Chik Kut Teh and Curry Mee are my favourites and the stall’s bestsellers as well.
“At Mango Tree Cafe, you’ll find a fusion of Indian flavours and I take pride in bringing Chinese cuisine, catering to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences,” she said.
Each dish, regardless of whether it’s vegetarian or non-vegetarian, is priced the same.
As a vegetarian of two years, my quest for Chik Kut Teh found fulfilment here.
Kavitha’s herbal soup, priced at RM14, is good value.
Her Chik Kut Teh is made with shiitake mushrooms, fried beancurd, mock meat, fishballs and fishcakes. Served with hot rice along with sliced Chinese crullers, it left me craving for more.
I love the Curry Mee (RM9) too. Its soft noodles, spongy tofu, mushrooms and crunchy veggies in a creamy, spicy broth create a delightful combination of textures.
The Wan Tan Mee priced at RM8, accompanied by flavourful gravy, proves to be saucy, tasty and addictive.
Kavitha serves up generous toppings, large portions and great flavours.
In addition to Kavitha’s stall, Mango Tree Cafe hosts 10 other stalls operated by Indian owners, offering a diverse array of dishes.
From chapati (RM2) and pani puri (RM7) to chicken satti sorru (RM12) and grilled chicken chop (RM 15), there’s a wide variety of flavours to satisfy diverse cravings.
The stalls at Mango Tree Cafe are open daily from 6.30pm to 11.30pm, except on Mondays.
The cafe is located at No.36-3B Jalan PJS 5/2, Taman Desaria, Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
