Chinese Food and Dining

Food has a special meaning to the Chinese people. The ‘waste not, want not' ethos means that a surprising range and variety of plants and animals are eaten and every part of a plant or animal is used. This has given rise to a remarkable diversity in the regional cuisine, but to Westerners it can be overwhelming - surprising, fantastic, delicious, horrifying or disgusting but above all, different. Travelers are often surprised that it is not like the Chinese take-away in their home town.

However, China is also a gourmet's paradise, and the food can be outstanding, if you know what to order. It includes a lot of fresh vegetables, meat, noodles, rice, fish, dumplings and regional specialties, with an amazing number of ways to prepare, spice, serve, pickle or preserve the food.

Most restaurants provide tea free of charge. This is normally green tea, or similar.

Cutlery can be ordered if wished.

Tipping is not expected, although service charges may be included in the more expensive restaurant.