The iconic restaurant group marked three amazing decades with an all-day Wonderfest party at the end of September that brought together music, food, and heart in true SOULed OUT fashion.
We could tell something big was happening as soon as we turned into Sri Hartamas last weekend. Traffic was insane, parking was almost nonexistent, and there was a palpable buzz in the air.
SOULed OUT, one of Malaysia’s most recognizable names in dining and entertainment, turned 30 in spectacular style with Wonderfest, a high-energy celebration that took over its flagship Hartamas outlet on September 27, 2025. The milestone event brought thousands together for a full day and night filled with music, performances, great food and drinks, and plenty of heartfelt moments — all the things that have defined the brand since it first opened in 1996.
From early morning yoga and shadowboxing sessions to live music, gourmet bites, nighttime fireworks, and star-studded performances, Wonderfest embodied SOULed OUT’s enduring spirit of connection, community, and fun. Guests arrived from near and far to celebrate what founder Fred Choo described as “not just a restaurant, but a feeling of belonging.”
“Seeing so many familiar faces — and so many new ones — celebrating with us made it all worth it,” Choo said. “This wasn’t just our milestone; this was everyone’s. We’ve built something special, and we’ve done it together.”
A DAY-LONG CELEBRATION OF MUSIC, FOOD, AND SOUL
The festivities began at sunrise with the brand’s mascot, Pearly, leading guests into a morning of wellness and rhythm. The day’s upbeat tone continued with the Rhythm Up Dancers, live acoustic sets, and DJ performances, culminating in headline acts that lit up the night.
Music icons Junji Delfino, Dasha Logan, Samantha De Lune, Jordan Rivers, Izen Kong, and vocal group Pop n’ Bop took to the stage, while the 17-piece SOULed OUT Big Band brought a touch of jazz and nostalgia to the celebration. In between, DJ Melissa Jo kept things going strong. The night’s crescendo came with a rare appearance by Malaysian legend Dato’ Zainal Abidin, whose performance left the crowd in awe.
Just when the audience thought the night had peaked, reggae star Sasi the Don surprised guests with an impromptu performance before FM1 closed the festival with a euphoric DJ set that carried on past midnight.
COMMUNITY AND COMPASSION AT THE HEART OF IT ALL
True to its name, SOULed OUT used the celebration to give back. Through its Heart & SOUL initiative, 20% of Wonderfest proceeds were donated to three local charities — Hospis Malaysia, The Lost Food Project, and Dignity for Children Foundation. Guests also contributed through interactive workshops and direct donations throughout the event.
From sizzling live food stations and signature drinks to stilt walkers, dancers, and colourful crowd moments, Wonderfest captured the essence of SOULed OUT’s “as good as a hug” philosophy — a mix of warmth, joy, and generosity that has defined the brand for three decades.
THREE DECADES OF GOOD FOOD, GREAT TIMES
Founded in 1996 as a small neighbourhood café in Mont Kiara, SOULed OUT has grown into a Malaysian F&B institution. Now operating nine outlets under The SOULed OUT Group, which also includes the WIP and NOA brands, it remains a cornerstone of casual yet refined dining.
Over the years, SOULed OUT has earned multiple accolades, including Malaysia’s Best All-Day Dining Restaurant and Malaysia’s 20 Best International Bars at the Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards. Its eclectic menu, blending Asian, Western, and Indian cuisines, continues to attract both loyal regulars and new patrons.
As the final notes of Wonderfest faded, guests raised their glasses to toast not only three decades of SOULed OUT but also the promise of more to come. “This 30-year journey has been incredible, but it’s just the beginning,” said Choo. “We’ll keep evolving while staying true to what matters most: good food, great company, and genuine connection.”
