Abdul Hamid says sup tulang is the most popular among the dishes available.
HAVING a steaming hot bowl of soup after a long drive is comforting and can help ease the strained muscles.
Those travelling from Kuala Terengganu in Terengganu to Kota Baru in Kelantan may want to check out Hentian Rahmat.
It is located on a federal road linking the two east coast capitals – 56km north of Kuala Terengganu and 110km south of Kota Baru.
The rest area in Kampung Rahmat in Chalok, Terengganu, has a stall that sells sup tulang, among other dishes.
“Uncle Pok” is among eight stalls at the facility.
Priced at RM11 per bowl, the soup contains a generous serving of meat with daun sup, which lends freshness to the light broth.
The addition of sliced lime and chillies add a hint of spice to the soup.
While many patrons opt to enjoy their soup with a side of plain rice for an additional RM2, the dish is delightful on its own.
The stall is a crowd-puller in the afternoon, during which many customers queue up to place their orders for lunch.
Stall owner Abdul Hamid Daud, 42, from Kampung Rahmat, said the sup tulang was the most popular among the dishes available.
Operating with help from his wife, the father of three said they cook about 30kg of sup tulang every day.
“We usually start working at 8.30am because the shop opens at 10.30am,” he said, adding that his stall runs until 6.30pm daily.
Abdul Hamid said he began operating at the rest area, which was under Setiu District Council’s jurisdiction, two years ago.
“Before the Covid-19 pandemic, I used to sell nasi lemak in my village,” he said.
“During the movement control order period, I was given a soup recipe by a friend and decided to try my luck here.
“So far, the reception has been encouraging and many customers have given good feedback.”
Abd Saleh Yacob, 63, who was travelling from Dungun in Terengganu to Pasir Putih in Kelantan, said he never missed a chance to stop there.
He was having sup tulang for lunch with his family after stopping to perform his afternoon prayer.
“It is a simple but satisfying meal and offers good value for money,” he said, adding that he was planning to order an additional portion to take away.
The stall also sells mixed and chicken rice, rojak and drinks, including air batu campur.
For details, call 016-413 0909.