Free lunch stirred by ‘suspended’ coffee rage

A customer pays for a suspended lunch at a restaurant in Xi’an, Shaanxi province, April 14, 2013. [Photo/CFP]

Inspired by the success of “suspended coffee” as an act of kindness to a stranger, a restaurant in Xi’an, Shaanxi province has started to offer “suspended lunch” following the online sensation of the theme.

Gao Wenlin, partner of Yushang Cultural Kitche, located in High-tech Zone of Xi’an, said the restaurant allows customers to buy a maximum 30 portions of free lunches each day.

"If nobody comes to take the prepaid lunch, we will stop the program and donate them to those in need in the community. ”

An old man came to have the free lunch on Sunday, April 14. Each free lunch costs 20 yuan (3.2$).

"I am worried that some people may take advantage of the opportunity, but I believe it worthwhile if we can help only one person.”

Sociology scholar Chen Li promoted the concept of “suspended fastfood” on his Weibo on April 12, generating a heated discussion over the weekend. National newspaper People’s Daily and online celebrities like Rui Chenggang, business anchor at China Central Television (CCTV), also gave support to the charity program on Weibo.

Gao Wenlin, partner of Yushang Cultural Kitche, introduces “suspended lunch” service in Xi'an, Shaanxi province, April 14, 2013. [Photo/CFP]