Vivi is an entrepreneur dedicated to vegetarian dining. Her journey towards vegetarianism and the process of entrepreneurship both stem from seeds she planted many years ago. As time passed, these seeds gradually matured into a ‘vegetarian’ tree, giving rise to ‘Seeds of Vegetarian’ and continuing to sow seeds in the hearts of everyone.
Vivi firmly believes that the entrepreneurial journey is bound to encounter various challenges. Therefore, it’s essential to find reasons and beliefs that convince you to persevere. For her, reconnecting with the original intention is crucial because it’s with a pure heart that you can see the different aspects that events bring into your life. Faced with difficulties, the optimistic Vivi always says with a smile, ‘It’s all a beautiful arrangement by the heavens.’ She believes that each test is given because the heavens believe you’re prepared and capable of facing it, just like playing a game and overcoming different levels. The final boss is always the toughest, which means life will only get more challenging.
For Vivi, the greatest joy in running this shop is the ability to spread the seed of ‘goodness.’ Regardless of the reasons people come to the breakfast shop, at least they have already ‘planted’ vegetarianism in their bodies.”
Tell us more about yourself, please
Start from the Heart
VIVI HSU
I am Vivi. During a trip to New Zealand, I found the meaning and value of vegetarianism. I also used vegetarianism to rediscover self-acceptance and muster the courage to embrace being disliked. Over the past ten years as a vegetarian, I have faced much criticism and setbacks. However, because I firmly believe in my convictions, I fear nothing. I believe in the choices I have made and trust that there is a divine plan.
Through several occasions of buying vegetarian breakfast from an elderly gentleman (阿伯), the seeds of goodness had already been planted, as if by fate. Then, during a serendipitous encounter, I learned that the elderly gentleman was looking to retire. After hearing his story, I didn’t hesitate and took over this vegetarian breakfast shop that had been in operation for eleven years. With the spirit of the elderly gentleman, I founded “Zone Su,” reinterpreting it and creating a vegetarian food brand that embraces generations.
｜Brand Story｜
The name “Zone Su” is not just a play on words for planting trees but rather a concept of sowing a seed. It signifies planting an idea in one’s heart, nurturing it patiently until it sprouts, and then taking action when the time is ripe
VIVI HSU
【Seed】A sentence, “oh hi yo,” planted the seed between Yang Ah Bo (the elderly gentleman) and the current shop owner. Through patience, careful nurturing, and the refining of time, it gradually sprouted into a robust tree. Thus, “Zone Su” was born…
【Irrigation】The centuries-old Narcissus Temple Market
In the summer of 2011, during his robust years, Yang Ah Bo, fueled by courage, the spirit of promoting vegetarianism, and a heart full of dreams, came to the “Narcissus Temple Market,” which has a history of over 300 years and is rich in cultural heritage. He deeply sowed the seeds of vegetarianism and began to form a closer connection with the lives of the local people in Tainan.
【Sprouting】The way of life of the locals
“Oh hi yo!” “Arigatou!” These are a few Japanese greetings, warm and friendly, that Yang Ah Bo has been continuously sharing for eleven years. “If you retire, we won’t hear you speak Japanese anymore, and we won’t be able to taste your food,” people expressed their concerns and emotions, reflecting in Yang Ah Bo’s sincere eyes. Every word is filled with affection and appreciation for the customers.
Yang Ah Bo says, “Everyone who comes to the shop is destined, just like the sun, they become nourishment for themselves, nurturing the seeds within.”
【Big Tree】Returning to the original intention
Through this shop, “Zone Su” aims to convey not only vegetarianism but also the “inheritance” of handcrafting, the aroma and human touch that “preserve” the records of time, the hope for a “common good” sustainable life, and the “cherishing” of every seed sown.
Everyone who comes is a complete individual. After finishing breakfast, they initiate a conversation with themselves and their bodies
VIVI HSU
We are located in the must-visit tourist destination of Guohua Street in Tainan, an area brimming with traditional and unique snacks. Vegetarian options are exceedingly rare, especially ones that break away from the common perception of “bland” vegetarian food. Our fresh and daily-made vegetable and fruit breakfast, promoting health and light eating, is the top choice in the minds of foreign tourists!
Zone Su has become more than just a vegetarian breakfast shop; it’s a place where locals and travelers can share not only delicious food but also information, sights, culture, and life.
These valuable pieces of information and life experiences have become important memories and unforgettable dining moments for international travelers and visitors to Tainan. This is the value of Zone Su’s existence.
The “breakfast shop” is just a medium, a space where we hope to cultivate “good seeds” exchange. Such nutrients accumulate precious and beautiful memories, stringing together many wonderful and touching stories.
We look forward to every “person of completeness” who visits our shop, creating stories that belong to each other!
Creating a dish that moves people,
VIVI HSU
Even with the simplest ingredients,
One can savor the happiest flavors
Signature No.1 Apple and Alfalfa Sprout Hand Roll:
Handcrafted moist pancake skin paired with high-fiber, high-protein alfalfa sprouts and a variety of nutritious vegetables and fruits. This refreshing, low-calorie dish has become a favorite among many female customers.
Signature No. 2 Pure Almond Tea:
Almonds have a unique fragrance and offer benefits such as moisturizing the lungs, relieving coughs, and aiding digestion. Among them, North almonds are often used medicinally to nourish the body. We specialize in using pure North almonds, enhancing their slightly bitter taste with rock sugar, and avoid adding artificial flavors or preservatives. Our tea is carefully handcrafted, creating a smooth and soothing texture that encourages even those who hesitate to try almond tea to enjoy it. Visitors from afar also come specifically for this drink.
Signature No. 3 Whole Wheat Light Vegetable Cold Noodles:
Breaking away from the traditional sesame paste cold noodles, we use the concept of the Five Elements, incorporating five-colored vegetables to correspond to the five internal organs, promoting overall body balance. We use handmade whole wheat noodles and a special sauce made with fragrant Chinese toon leaves and mulberry plum pickled sauce, greatly enhancing the overall flavor. This dish is not only refreshing and appetizing but also a top choice for a summer takeout lunch!
Signature No. 4 Crispy Double Egg Pancake:
To create a distinct texture different from traditional fluffy pancakes, we use handmade spring roll skin. It’s filled with various vegetables, mushrooms, and two eggs, offering a rich and layered flavor. This dish provides a satisfying and hearty meal experience, setting it apart from the traditional flavors of the past.
On March 12th, Arbor Day, we come together at Zone Su to plant a “Friendly Earth” seed! In the face of the recent impacts of climate change, tree planting is no longer just for livelihoods; it has become a responsibility and a mission to protect our planet. Every complete individual who participates in this event plants their own potted plant, just like planting a seed in their heart. This seed represents various possibilities, our shared goals for environmental sustainability, green initiatives, carbon reduction, and a net-zero future. Let’s ensure that the essence of green life takes root in our daily lives.
With love, go and thank the people I love and who love me around me
VIVI HSU
We have created a vegetarian food map of Tainan, connecting with the local vegetable power, overturning the traditional perceptions of vegetarianism, promoting a friendly natural environment, and advocating for an eco-friendly and sustainable lifestyle.
Through this map, we hope to become seeds, encouraging everyone in Tainan, or those who visit Tainan, to start nurturing their own seeds within their hearts. Whether you choose to go vegetarian or opt for a plant-based diet, or engage in environmental protection and caring for the Earth, all these actions are like tending to the seeds with care, waiting for them to sprout. Whether you become a thriving young tree or a gentle giant tree, you will be able to achieve the most delicate balance with nature.
Each small shop symbolizes a kind soul, rich in local culture and human warmth.
When everyone can become a vegetarian seed that heals themselves and others, we can transform the landscape of vegetarianism into something new.
Tainan Vegetarian Breakfast Specialized Store – Zone Su Healthy Vegetable and Fruit Breakfast
Vegetarian/Vegan Restaurant
🌱Open Mon.-Sun. 06:30-11:00 (Closed on Tuesdays)
🌱Address: No. 51, Section 3, Minquan Road, Central West District, Tainan City (Near the intersection of Shuixian Temple and Guohua Street)
🌱The concept of “種素” (Zhǒng Sù) is not just a pun on “planting trees,” but rather the idea of planting a seed, sowing a thought in your heart, patiently nurturing it until it sprouts, and waiting for the right time to put it into action
all images courtesy of Vivi Hsu
