If you’re a local in Richmond, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of John 3:16 Malaysian Delight – a family-run restaurant that has been serving authentic Southeast Asian dishes since its inception in 2014.
But if you haven’t yet experienced the flavourful delights of this hole-in-the-wall joint, then it’s time to add it to your must-try list.
Before we jump into their mouthwatering food, let’s take a look at how John 3:16 Malaysian Delights got started:
The Back & Forth Story About John 3:16 Malaysian Delights
Before coming to Vancouver, owner Daniel Chew and his family operated multiple restaurants in Penang, Malaysia.
As a devout Chinese Christian (notice the name of the restaurant), Daniel saw the rise of racism and religious intolerance in Malaysia, which made him feel insecure about the safety and future of his children.
This led him to close all eight of his restaurants in Penang and move his family to Vancouver in 2009.
Still beaming with passion for food, Daniel opened Yummy Malaysian Delights at the Richmond Public Market after arriving in Vancouver. Soon after, he sold the food stall before moving to Kamloops. However, the town felt too small for his kids, so the family moved back to Richmond to open the original John 3:16.
Just as things were settling down, Daniel and his family were forced close the restaurant due to a condo development. But Daniel didn’t give up on his dream; he reopened the restaurant on North Shore’s Upper Lonsdale area in 2016, while continuing to search for a location closer to home.
Their search finally ended when they found a unit by Richmond City Hall that would become their bustling location today.
The Flavours of Malaysia
What sets John 3:16 apart is its mouth-watering flavourful food and what Daniel says is “authentically Malaysian”.
From satisfying Roti Canai with curry sauce to rich Beef Rendang, Penang Asam Laksa full of flavor or marinated Satay Beef – every dish is crafted with care using authentic ingredients and recipes that transport diners straight to Malaysia.
If you’re struggling with what to order (which can happen considering their extensive menu), we recommend trying out some popular items like Char Kway Teow, Laksa, Nasi Lemak, Mamak Mee Goreng, Hainanese Chicken Rice, Roti Canal with Curry Sauce or Satay Beef Skewers.
Many of these are our favourites and part of our regular dishes to order for family dinners.
John 3:16 has quickly become a go-to spot for locals looking for authentic Malaysian cuisine served up with exceptional service. There’s a reason why we named it as one of the best restaurants in Richmond!
But John 3:16 is not just limited to Richmond; if you’re located in Vancouver, West Broadway also has a branch!
John 3:16 Malaysian Delight offers more than just delicious food; it tells an inspiring story about one man’s journey towards creating a better life for himself and his family while sharing flavors from their homeland with others.
So if you want an unforgettable dining experience filled with tasty Southeast Asian dishes prepared by passionate individuals who care about their craft – look no further than John 3:16!
Address:
-6838 No. 3 Road, Richmond, BC V6Y 2C4
-1063 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC