Our Journey

Hi there! I’m Liang, the founder of Nan Yang Delight.

My story begins in Malacca, Malaysia, where my grandfather immigrated from Hainan, China in search of a better life. In the 1950s, he ran a kopitiam, a traditional coffee shop. I grew up hearing stories about his kopitiam—it wasn’t fancy, but it was full of life. My dad was actually born right upstairs from the shop!

What made the kopitiam special was the mix of people and cultures. He sold coffee and kaya toast, a Malay auntie brought in baskets of kuih to sell at the counter, and an Indian uncle set up by the door with his curry rice. It was this blend of cultures and flavors that brought people together. That’s the part of his story that’s always stuck with me.

Why Nan Yang Delight?

“Nan Yang” (南洋) refers to the long-established Chinese communities in Southeast Asia. It is a nod to where my family roots run deep. Nan Yang Delight is about keeping that spirit alive—sharing the foods I grew up with, and honoring where we came from.

For me, it’s also about preserving my family’s heritage, and paying homage to my grandfather’s legacy. He built community through food, and I hope to replicate that here in LA, just in my own way.

What We Make

Right now, I’m making Acar—a crunchy, tangy Malaysian pickle that’s usually found on the side of family meals back home. It’s bright, refreshing, and adds a pop of flavor to anything you’re eating. This was always on the table at our gatherings, and now I get to share it with you.

And there’s more coming. I’ve got plans to roll out other Malaysian staples I grew up with—things that remind me of home, made fresh here in LA.

Rooted in Malaysia, Crafted in LA

Nan Yang Delight is my way of celebrating the food and flavors I love, and keeping a piece of my heritage alive. Thanks for being here and being part of this story.

– Liang