In the heart of Hobart's Harrington Street, a small family-run Vietnamese restaurant is serving up more than just delicious meals — it's dishing out kindness, one plate at a time.
Ly Quan Restaurant, opened just three months ago by husband-and-wife team Andry and Lily Tan, has launched a heartfelt initiative called "Joy of Giving – Pay it Forward", inviting customers to buy a meal for someone in need.
The process is simple: purchase a meal, stick the receipt on the restaurant's "Giving Board" with your initials, and someone doing it tough can redeem it — no questions asked.
The idea was sparked by a moment of compassion.
"One day, a homeless man came in and asked if we had any food," said Andry.
"We gave him a meal, and it stayed with us. We thought – why not create a way for others to help too?"
Lily said this was very much a passion project, and one identified before the doors were even opened.
"It's something that's been on our minds since day one of planning Ly Quan," Lily said.
"For us, it just feels so right and really lines up with our core values of being good to each other and building up our community.
"We've always wanted Ly Quan to be more than just a place to eat; we want it to be a truly positive part of the Hobart community.
"Helping out through a 'Pay It Forward' system felt like such a natural fit for us.
"We're genuinely excited to get started and contribute to making Hobart an even warmer, more connected place."
Ly Quan owners Lily and Andry Tan are part of the City of Hobart's Warm Hearts campaign through their "Joy of Giving - Pay it Forward" initiative.
For Andry, giving back is deeply personal. Before opening the restaurant, he worked as a nurse for 12 years. But his inspiration goes back even further.
"My mum used to donate regularly to the local orphanage when I was growing up," he said. "She taught me that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. That's something I've carried with me."
For Lily, opening Ly Quan was a dream come true — not just to share their love of food, but to build something meaningful together.
"We've been overwhelmed by the warmth of the Hobart community," she said. "This is our way of saying thank you – and helping others feel that same warmth."
The City of Hobart's Warm Hearts campaign celebrates stories just like this – moments of generosity that shine brightest in winter.
As the Giving Board fills with receipts, Andry and Lily hope their idea inspires others.
"It's not just about food," said Lily. "It's about dignity, connection, and community. That's what warms our hearts."