 "Photo: Stefanie Kuncman")
"Be Green ... Go Veg. Save the planet!" is just one of the messages that Loving Hut, a new vegan restaurant 20 minutes west of campus on Colonial Drive, proudly supports.
From the moment you enter Loving Hut you will be bombarded by the driving force behind this franchise: to sustain a planet that can live in peace, love and harmony with all beings.
The establishment is quaint, painted a crisp white and accented by bright yellow decorations. Flat-screen TVs are found throughout and are always tuned in to Supreme Master TV, an international channel aimed to educate and save the planet.
The staff is extremely friendly and helpful, and for a little more than $6 you can get a variety of foods such as fresh spring rolls, stir fry and vegan spaghetti.
"The people who work [at Loving Hut] are extremely friendly and inviting," anthropology major Rhae Royal said. "The last time I went they were experimenting with two new desserts, an almond and a chocolate cake; they were kind enough to let me and my friend sample it. It was so good!"
Part-owner David Tran was pleased to talk about the reason why this international franchise has chosen Orlando as its first location on the East Coast.
"Global warming is the reason we must stop the commercial raising of the meat industry," he explained. "I opened this place to provide a healthy vegan option for the community."
While providing a delicious mix of Asian-inspired cuisine, the Loving Hut aims to provide an eco-friendly option for dining out.
"The key factor of our planet is love; if you don't love, we can't survive," Tran said. "We are not alone, we have to treat everything and everyone the same."
Voted "Favorite Food Vendor" in the recent Orlando Fringe Theatre Festival, this restaurant is already beginning to make its mark in the community. It is all about an alternative way of living that endorses love for people, animals and the planet.
The Loving Hut also provides free cooking classes on Sundays and free meditation classes on the first two Fridays of every month.
"Meditation is the food for the soul," Tran said. "We want to give people a complete solution."
Aimed to revolutionize the world through a plant-based diet and an effort to reduce our environmental impact, the Loving Hut has chosen Central Florida as a stepping stone to continued expansion from their California base.
Even if you are a meat eater, take the time to explore this powerful little restaurant. You might just get food for thought.
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