One Stop Restaurant Solution: From Empty Lot to Food City in Just 7 Months
Project: Malaysia Food City
Client: Soul Foodie Sdn Bhd
Timeline: December 2024 – June 2025 (Just 7 months!)
In the vibrant heart of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s bustling capital, a vast new food city has risen, bringing together 66 unique food stalls under one roof. Chefmax wasn’t just a supplier here — we were the end-to-end partner, delivering a true one stop restaurant solution. From the first sketch on an empty lot, to kitchen design, to manufacturing and delivering equipment, to on-site installation and full staff training — every detail passed through our hands.
And we did it all in just seven months, turning a bold vision into a fully operational culinary landmark.



Turning Challenges into a Seamless Launch
Every food city comes with its own hurdles — and this one had plenty. Kuala Lumpur’s food scene is diverse, but that also means local tastes vary widely. Staffing can be tricky, and working kitchens in tropical heat can be unbearable without the right setup. On top of that, strict environmental regulations and complex supply chains made the project even more demanding…
Custom Kitchens, Locally Adapted
Of the 66 stalls, Chefmax designed and built seven from scratch, including noodle shops, dumpling stalls, fried chicken counters, grilled fish stands, milk tea outlets, and roujiamo (Chinese burger) kiosks.
We took tried-and-tested Chinese chain restaurant models and adapted them for Kuala Lumpur’s market — adjusting both menu and equipment to suit local preferences while keeping authentic flavors.
Staffing concerns were addressed with automation: smart noodle machines, intelligent stir-fry cookersvà automated milk tea machines reduced labor needs significantly. Our technical team trained local staff on-site, not only on how to operate the equipment but also on cooking techniques, ensuring recipes stayed true to their origins while appealing to local tastes.


Cool, Comfortable Kitchens in Tropical Heat
In Kuala Lumpur’s year-round 35°C (95°F) climate, heat and grease can quickly overwhelm kitchen staff.
Our solution combined professional-grade oil fume purification with a custom cooling system. Each stall was fitted with high-efficiency exhaust equipment and a scientifically designed duct system that met Malaysian environmental standards.
For cooling, we deployed 17 industrial-grade evaporative air coolers using chilled water pre-cooling. This setup delivered airflow comparable to air conditioning — a game-changer for both comfort and productivity.
High-Volume Cleaning Made Easy
To handle massive daily traffic and comply with Malaysia’s strict environmental rules (which restrict single-use tableware), Foodie adopted a reusable tableware system. Guests pick up dishes from self-service cabinets with UV sterilization, ensuring hygiene and safety. The core cleaning relies on a large máy rửa bát băng tải with built-in drying, which disinfects and dries at high temperatures. This streamlined the dishwashing team from over 20 people to just 2–3, saving significant labor and water while keeping operations efficient.


Hassle-Free Procurement and Logistics
Behind the scenes, Chefmax handled every pot, pan, and utensil through our one-stop supply chain service. We sourced high-quality items from trusted Chinese suppliers, managed quality checks, optimized container loading, shipped everything to Malaysia, and handled customs clearance, unloading, and distribution — so the client never had to lift a finger.
Designed for All-Weather Service
Kuala Lumpur’s weather can swing from scorching sun to sudden downpours. To keep the food city running smoothly year-round, we designed and installed a motorized retractable awning system.
With one button, it extends to shield against rain or retracts to let in natural sunlight. We built it with thick, bird-resistant canvas and heavy-duty frames to withstand the local climate. From production in China to installation on-site — led by our own engineers — the entire structure was completed in just seven days.



The Result
The Result
Foodie Food City is now a thriving dining destination in downtown Kuala Lumpur — modern, efficient, and built to last. From staffing shortages to flavor adaptation, from tropical heat to environmental compliance, every challenge was met with a Chefmax one stop restaurant solution.
When the grand opening came, our project leader was there on site to celebrate this important moment together with the client. The collaboration was smooth, built on trust and shared vision, and the result is something we’re truly proud of.



Whether you’re launching a new restaurant, upgrading your kitchen, or building an entire food court, Chefmax delivers more than equipment — we deliver peace of mind.
Contact Chefmax today to turn your vision into a reality.