At Ling & Louie’s Asian Bar and Grill, brunch continues to be more than a weekend ritual. This spring, the Scottsdale restaurant is inviting the community to dine with purpose through its Big Hearted Brunch, a seasonal give-back campaign now benefiting Hunkapi Programs, a local nonprofit dedicated to healing through equine-assisted therapy for individuals facing trauma, emotional challenges, and life transitions.
Every Saturday and Sunday throughout April, May, and June, a portion of brunch sales at Ling & Louie’s will be donated directly to Hunkapi Programs, helping expand access to therapeutic services that foster connection, emotional regulation, and personal growth through interactions with horses.
“We chose Hunkapi because of the way they help people heal. It’s not traditional, and that’s what makes it so powerful,” says John Banquil, owner of Ling & Louie’s Asian Bar and Grill. “They’re working with people going through real trauma and giving them a way to reconnect and move forward. For us, this is about creating orders that matter, where something as simple as brunch can actually make a difference.”
Founded on the belief that the bond between horse and human can be a catalyst for growth, Hunkapi Programs offers experiential, therapist-guided services designed to support individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Through structured interaction with horses, participants work on building healthy relationships, regulating emotions, and developing communication and life skills.
“Hunkapi is a place where children and adults from all walks of life can come for connection, community and healing with our herd of healers,” says Terra Schaad, Executive Director of Hunkapi Programs. “Our farm is powered by our community of volunteers and community partnerships. We could not be more proud to be a part of Scottsdale and a neighbor to Ling & Louie’s. We are incredibly grateful for this opportunity.”
Hunkapi Programs’ core services and offerings include:
- Therapeutic Riding: Guided riding experiences that support physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
- Equine-Assisted Therapy: Ground-based sessions with horses and a licensed therapist focused on emotional awareness and behavioral growth.
- Counseling and Life Skills: Programs that help participants build communication, confidence, and coping strategies.
- Emotional Regulation Programs: Experiences designed to help individuals better understand and manage their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
- Team Building and Group Programs: Workshops that strengthen trust, connection, and interpersonal skills.
Hunkapi serves children and adults from diverse backgrounds, using the relationship between horse and human as a catalyst for positive growth and lasting change.
Guests participating in the Big Hearted Brunch can enjoy Ling & Louie’s signature menu while giving back, with offerings that include Korean Fried Chicken Benedict, Louie’s Hangover Fried Rice, Benedict Fries, and Buttermilk Pancakes topped with coconut cream and fresh fruit, alongside cocktails such as the Javatini and Bangkok Spritz.
Big Hearted Brunch at Ling & Louie’s
- When: Every Saturday and Sunday, April through June, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Where: Ling & Louie’s Asian Bar and Grill, 9397 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 125, Scottsdale.
- How it helps: A portion of all brunch sales will be donated to Hunkapi Programs to support equine-assisted therapy and mental health services.
Known for its bold flavors, high-energy atmosphere, and ongoing commitment to community impact, Ling & Louie’s continues to use its platform to bring people together for good. Through the Big Hearted Brunch, diners are invited to turn a weekend favorite into something more meaningful, where every table served helps support healing, connection, and hope.
To view the brunch menu or plan a visit, go to lingandlouies.com. To learn more about Hunkapi Programs or make a direct donation, visit hunkapi.org.
