KUALA BERANG, Oct 21 — Enjoying lunch surrounded by the beauty of nature is undoubtedly an exciting experience for everyone.

Even more so when savouring the flavours of authentic village-style dishes, complete with fresh herbs, while dipping one’s feet in the cool, crystal-clear river water.

That is the experience offered by Nasirudin Mohd, 34, owner of Warung Sungai Berakir in Kampung Tapah here, to customers seeking an unique and refreshing dining atmosphere.

Located about 16 kilometres from the town of Kuala Berang, Warung Sungai Berakir has become the latest attraction in the Hulu Terengganu district, drawing visitors from far and wide.

Nasirudin said the idea to open a river-themed eatery came after observing the success of similar ventures in other states.

“Besides, no one in Terengganu has done this concept yet. Initially, I planned to set up a campsite here because the location is strategic and beautiful, but I changed my mind after realising that running a food stall is more profitable.

“Before this, I worked at my family’s restaurant and helped my wife with her wedding décor business. With that experience, I felt confident of starting something of my own,” he told Bernama when met at his stall recently.

Together with his wife, Nur Jannah Anuar, 30, Nasirudin currently serves about 20 dishes daily, including ikan baung (catfish) and patin masak tempoyak (patin fish cooked with fermented durian), which has become a favourite among his customers.

The stall has been receiving overwhelming response since it opened on June 2, with crowds of families and friends flocking in, especially during weekends.

One of the customers, Roslaili Razali, 41, a nurse from Bukit Payong, Marang, said she had long planned to visit Warung Sungai Berakir with her close friends and family.

She said the peaceful village setting and tranquil river ambiance help relieve work-related stress and daily fatigue.

“I saw the stall’s promotions on TikTok. My friend and I had been planning to bring our children here for a while. After eating, the kids can immediately play in the water since it’s shallow,” she said.

Another customer, Muhammad Syafiq Hafizi, 34, from Kampung Gaung, said he and his family took the opportunity to relax while enjoying a good meal.

“The kids were thrilled because they could play in the water while eating. The scenery here is beautiful, and the water is so clear that you can even see small fish swimming around,” he said. — Bernama