Chapter 41

As soon as they were told they could order their own dishes, many people’s faces lit up with excitement. Although every dish made by Qian Jianing was delicious, everyone had different eating habits and preferences. Some like rich and heavy sauces, others prefer light and refreshing flavors; some favor sweet and sour tastes, while others can’t eat without spice. In the past, Qian Jianing only offered a selection of seven or eight dishes per meal, and diners often left still craving more. Now with the freedom to order whatever they wanted, they could finally eat to their heart’s content.

Upon hearing the news, the little restaurant instantly buzzed with activity. Both acquaintances and strangers alike began to chat excitedly. Some even carried pen and paper and started writing their own menus on the spot.

Breakfast was consumed quickly. As one wave of satisfied diners left, another group that had been waiting eagerly came in. The shop remained lively and filled with the enticing aroma of lamb soup. After over half a month of tasteless meals, the patrons could finally enjoy delicious, fragrant food again. Everyone’s appetite surged, and with such a large crowd coming for breakfast today, by the time the restaurant was only halfway full, the lamb soup, sesame cakes, soup dumplings, and similar items prepared by Qian Jianing had already sold out.

But this didn’t faze Qian Jianing. Many breakfast items were easy enough to make fresh. She mixed a dough with ghee and made another using a blend of wheat starch and cornstarch. While letting the dough rest, she used the prepared batter to cook scallion and egg pancakes.

The waiting customers didn’t urge her to hurry. Instead, they gathered at the glass window to watch Qian Jianing cook. She was at the peak of her attractiveness—fair and tender skin, neatly shaped brows, slightly pursed rosy lips, and adorable dimples at the corners of her cheeks. Oblivious to the admiring gazes from the customers, Qian Jianing remained focused. She flipped pancakes on several skillets at once, and in no time, dozens of fragrant, soft scallion egg pancakes were ready.

She brought the thick stack of pancakes to the counter and also took out the red date porridge she had prepared for her family. Those who preferred softer food stepped forward to take a few pancakes, ladled themselves a bowl of porridge and a small plate of pickled vegetables, returned to their seats, and eagerly took a sip.

The porridge, simmered on low heat for over two hours, was at peak flavor. The large red dates, purchased from Xiantao.com, were sweet and crimson, infusing the porridge with a rich date fragrance. The rice, translucent and glistening, had already half-melted into the porridge, creating a soft, sticky, and sweet texture—thick and creamy.

A mouthful of hot, sweet porridge, a bite of crisp, tangy pickled cucumber, and a fluffy, thin, and savory scallion egg pancake—this simple homemade breakfast, somehow, tasted like happiness.

The pancakes were gone in the blink of an eye. Qian Jianing took the wheat starch dough and began rolling out small dough balls. With a twist of the rolling pin, she flattened them into thin wrappers, filled them with minced meat and shrimp, and quickly wrapped up delicate crystal shrimp dumplings. It took only ten minutes to steam the dumplings. In the meantime, Qian Jianing didn’t rest. She fetched the rested oil layered dough and began making Chinese layered pancakes. Meanwhile, pork loin and eggs sizzled in the skillet nearby.

Though busy in the kitchen, Qian Jianing worked efficiently and gracefully. Her movements were smooth and beautiful. She quickly made two Chinese pancakes, handing them to the first customers in line.

The first customer to receive one was Chen Cheng, who curiously examined the meal in his hands. The outer crust was golden and crisp, while the inside remained soft. It was lightly spread with Qian Jianing’s homemade sweet bean sauce, wrapped around tender pork loin, golden egg, and bright green lettuce—an utterly enticing combination.

“Try it! See how it tastes,” someone nearby urged excitedly.

Chen Cheng took a big bite. The crispy pancake, savory sauce, tender meat, fragrant egg, and fresh vegetables blended harmoniously in his mouth. The texture was multi-layered, the flavor rich and delicious.

“Delicious!” Chen Cheng exclaimed, chomping away. He didn’t even return to his seat but stood right there, devouring both of his pork-wrapped pancakes. Still feeling unsatisfied, he thought he needed something more. Just then, the crystal shrimp dumplings came out of the steamer. As the steam slowly cleared, the dumplings revealed their glossy, translucent skins and tender pink shrimp fillings, attracting everyone’s attention. Chen Cheng licked the oil off his fingers and joined the line again, ready for another basket of dumplings to fill his stomach.

The later customers had more options—some got both dumplings and pancakes, which Qian Jianing cooked for them. Others paired egg pancakes with porridge, which was even easier. Though the three additional breakfast items were made in a hurry, their appearance and taste still won over the diners. Some were even reluctant to leave, insisting that these new dishes be added permanently to the breakfast menu.

***

As the end of the year approached, Qian Jianing and Li Wanzhen were busier than usual. Even Qian Jiafeng wasn’t idle—every morning he went to a nearby park to practice martial arts, returning only when the sun was high. This wasn’t something Qian Jianing asked him to do. Rather, he had recently become obsessed with martial arts films. The graceful stances and fluid movements of the protagonists on TV sparked his interest in studying kung fu. After dedicated practice, he could finally punch a wooden pole without fearing pain.

Of course, smashing a post with one strike like Qian Jianing was impossible. Qian Jiafeng suspected that she must’ve eaten one of those mythical “power-boosting fruits” from wuxia novels, which is why she was so formidable. He even quietly asked her where such fruits could be found. Qian Jianing was stunned by his imagination and told him he’d be better off using his time to practice more routines. After shooing him away, she couldn’t help but laugh to herself. Oh, youth! Although you’re somewhat close to the truth, the actual truth is even more absurd than you can imagine.

In a household filled with positivity and motivation, Qian Guosheng had started to grow more dispirited. One day, Li Wanzhen even smelled a faint trace of cigarette smoke on him—an alarming change since he had never smoked before.

At first, she thought perhaps Old Madam Qian had sent word from back home and that Guosheng was anxious about being caught in the middle. But after a few days, that didn’t seem to be the cause. Unable to hold her tongue, Li Wanzhen confronted him over lunch: “What’s been bothering you? You’ve been completely out of it lately.”

With a heavy sigh, Qian Guosheng replied, “The factory’s performance has worsened over the past six months. This month’s salary is already a week late and still hasn’t come through. I asked at the finance office yesterday—they said it might be delayed a few more days.”

In the past, Qian Guosheng’s salary was the family’s primary income, a whole twenty yuan more than Li Wanzhen’s. But now, Li Wanzhen didn’t even count on his salary anymore. Just a few hours selling braised food each day earned her more than he did in a whole month. Seeing him so worried, she was immensely grateful she’d heeded their daughter’s advice and quit her job. Otherwise, they’d be stressing over how to afford the Spring Festival.

As long as it wasn’t trouble stirred up by the old lady, Li Wanzhen didn’t think it was a big deal. She picked up a piece of pork trotter from the bowl and offered it to Guosheng, comforting him, “So what if it’s late? We don’t need your money to get through the New Year anyway.”

“It’s not just that,” Guosheng said awkwardly. “I’m a grown man, letting my wife support the whole household—what kind of man does that make me?”

Li Wanzhen scoffed, “Your salary doesn’t even cover our food expenses anymore.”

That was true. In the past, they only had meat once a month, and if they could afford a meal of meat dumplings, Qian Jiafeng would be so excited he’d bounce around. Now, with their food business, Li Wanzhen braised massive pots of meat every night. If she wanted some, she could just grab a piece. As for Qian Jianing’s place, she had all kinds of ingredients in abundant supply. Last month, they even built an oven in the kitchen and had roast duck for two consecutive days. At her restaurant, a set of roast duck cost sixty yuan—that alone matched Guosheng’s entire monthly salary.

Hearing this, Guosheng looked even more glum. He sighed deeply and couldn’t even bring himself to eat the savory, tender pork trotter in his bowl.

Seeing his lack of appetite, Li Wanzhen tried to console him: “The household’s doing well. Whether your salary comes or not doesn’t matter anymore. Honestly, you should just apply for unpaid leave. I’m thinking of opening my own braised meat shop after the New Year, and Jianing wants to teach me cooking. It’s too much for me to handle on my own.”

Guosheng hesitated and shook his head. “But the factory’s in such a difficult place right now—how can I just walk away? I should stick through the hard times.”

“Oh, give me a break. You think you’re some big shot? Do you have tech skills or sales know-how? Anyone can do your office work! I’m telling you, if you submit that unpaid leave application, your managers will probably throw a farewell party to send you off!” She rolled her eyes. “Seriously, who do you think you are? At home, you’re a spring onion. At the factory, you’re just the outer skin—useless and in the way!”

Qian Guosheng’s face turned beet red. He didn’t want to admit it, but he knew she was right. Still, he had doubts about taking unpaid leave. He stuffed a mouthful of rice into his mouth and glanced at her: “So you’re saying I should just give up my iron rice bowl? Running a business isn’t as stable as holding a job…”

“Maybe not stable, but I make in a day what you earn in a month—I could make your lifetime income in a year!” she retorted. “You call that stable? Your ‘stable’ job can’t even pay salaries on time.” Getting angrier, she added, “This afternoon we’re going to the factory to file for unpaid leave. Our enterprise is overwhelmed; no use sticking to some dead-end job.”

“Why are you so fiery again? Can’t we at least sit and talk this through?” Qian Guosheng looked at her, helpless. “Our daughter gets that temper from you—so hot-headed.”

“Being fiery is good. Acting with resolve never puts you at a disadvantage.” Li Wanzhen rolled her eyes at him, picked up a bite of food and placed it into his bowl. “There’s no discussion about this. If you ask the kids, they’d definitely agree with me. Hurry up and eat. After the meal, we’ll head to the factory to process your paperwork. I have to be out on the street selling by four this afternoon, don’t drag me down.”

“What? Just like that?” Qian Guosheng panicked. “At least give me a heads up to prepare myself mentally!”

Li Wanzhen gave him an impatient look. “Prepare for what? When I resigned back then, I didn’t make such a fuss. Besides, the factory can’t even pay wages anymore. Taking unpaid leave actually eases their burden. Isn’t pitching in your favorite thing to do?”

Qian Guosheng was left speechless by her sharp words and could only nod weakly. “Alright then, unpaid leave it is, just like you said.”

***

“Did you hear? Qian Xiaomi’s Shop opens today. No restrictions on the menu—order whatever you like.”

“Oh wow, we’re in for a treat. I better go line up early.”

“I have to tell my dad—he’s been talking about it for days.”

…

Even though there was no internet or cell phones at the time, word of mouth still worked wonders in spreading news quickly.

On his way to work, Liu Junyue, the manager of Zibo City Restaurant, overheard this kind of conversation at least four times. He made a mental note that he had to check out Qian Xiaomi’s Shop today to see what kind of amazing cook could attract so many food lovers.

The first time Liu Junyue heard of Qian Xiaomi’s Shop was from a few businessmen who had come to dine at Zibo City Restaurant. According to them, the dishes there were practically divine, unavailable elsewhere. They sighed while talking, saying they had come too late and couldn’t get a seat, so they had to make do with a meal here. At the time, Liu Junyue had been quite upset. Zibo City Restaurant was the most upscale and largest restaurant in the area, with the best chefs in town—how could a mere small eatery surpass that?

The second time came not long after. An elderly man was celebrating his 70th birthday. His son booked a private room at Zibo City Restaurant and ordered expensive dishes like abalone and sea cucumber. Even so, the old man looked displeased, complaining that his son hadn’t booked Qian Xiaomi’s Shop ahead of time. He even said he’d rather have the tomato and scrambled eggs from Xiaomi’s little shop than the braised sea cucumber served here.

That time, Liu Junyue remembered the name “Qian Xiaomi’s Shop” but still didn’t take it seriously. In his view, the old man probably hadn’t eaten much gourmet food before, so the texture of abalone and sea cucumber might have put him off—and naturally, he would prefer simple home-style dishes.

Until a few days ago, during an investment promotion meeting hosted by the government, the dinner reception was held at Zibo City Restaurant. Once again, the name “Qian Xiaomi’s Shop” came up.

For official banquets like these, Liu Junyue personally oversaw the service along with the waitstaff. When he placed a platter of braised prawns on the table, he clearly heard the mayor mutter to his secretary, “Doesn’t look as glossy as the ones from Qian Xiaomi’s Shop.” After taking a bite, the mayor shook his head and put down his chopsticks. “The prawn meat isn’t as tender either.”

Hearing that, Liu Junyue felt uneasy. Taking the chance to fetch wine, he rushed into the kitchen and asked, “Did we have any leftover braised prawns from the banquet just now?”

Normally, Zibo City Restaurant’s chefs would save a spoonful of each dish to later taste it themselves and ensure it was spot-on. There were many dishes today, and sure enough, the remaining braised prawns still sat untouched in a bowl.

“Manager, are you hungry or what?” the head chef chuckled, handing him a pair of chopsticks.

Liu Junyue didn’t bother explaining. He picked up a prawn and put it straight into his mouth. Instead of clarity, the taste only brought more confusion. He had thought this dish must have fallen short today, which was why the mayor complained. But the sauce was rich and sweet, and the prawn was flavorful—clearly, it had been cooked perfectly. How could a little shop outperform this? Especially with braised prawns, which was Zibo City Restaurant’s signature dish and the chef’s specialty.

Putting down the chopsticks, Liu Junyue fell into thought. The head chef tilted the wok contents onto a plate and casually asked, “Manager Liu, what’s on your mind?”

“I’m wondering why our delicious braised prawns didn’t please the mayor,” he said. “He said our prawns weren’t as good as another restaurant’s.”

“Impossible!” the head chef looked displeased. “Braised prawns are my signature dish. No one in Zibo City can top me on that!”

If someone else had said it, Liu Junyue would have dismissed it. But since it came from the mayor, he couldn’t afford to ignore it.

The very next day, after wrapping up the banquet, Liu Junyue started asking around about Qian Xiaomi’s Shop. To his surprise, many wealthy and well-connected people around him had dined there—and all of them sang its praises.

That made Liu Junyue uneasy. If it were just one or two people recommending it, fine. But this many? Maybe this little shop really had something special. After all, “you can’t please everyone” wasn’t just a saying. Even Zibo City Restaurant couldn’t ensure every diner left fully satisfied.

That same day, Liu Junyue followed directions and went to Qian Xiaomi’s Shop. But the door was shut tight—they weren’t open. Outside, it looked like an ordinary home, nothing notable. As he turned to leave, a few more people arrived and wailed the moment they saw the closed door, “Why hasn’t Boss Xiao Qian come back yet? If she doesn’t reopen soon, I’ll starve to death.”

Liu Junyue glanced back at the notice on the door and reminded them, “Didn’t it say she’d be gone for half a month? Still five days to go, by the looks of it.”

“I know,” one of them murmured. “I know there’re still five days, but I just couldn’t help hoping she’d come back early.”

Hearing that, Liu Junyue stayed around a little longer. Within ten minutes, four or five more small groups came to peek at the shop, all sharing the same hope—that it might open ahead of schedule.

This made Liu Junyue even more curious about Qian Xiaomi’s Shop.

Five days passed quickly. That morning, Liu Junyue got up, thinking that today must be the day the shop reopens. Sure enough, along the way, many people were talking about it. After holding a staff meeting and inspecting the day’s ingredients at the restaurant, he glanced at the clock—it was already past ten. He motioned to the head chef, Fatty Zhang. “Take care of the kitchen for now. We’re going out for lunch.”

Fatty Zhang untied his apron and asked, “We’re being treated to lunch somewhere? Who’s inviting?”

“Have you heard of Qian Xiaomi’s Shop?” Liu Junyue abruptly asked.

Fatty Zhang shook his head. He was swamped every day from morning till night and knew nothing about what was happening outside.

Once he changed out of his chef’s uniform into a cotton coat, the two of them headed out. On the way, Liu Junyue said, “It’s a small restaurant that recently popped up here in Zibo City. Not much of a place, just a little inner courtyard on Dongyi Street.”

Hearing that, Fatty Zhang instantly lost interest. “Zibo City has at least a dozen small places like that. They don’t last long. Not worth getting worked up about.”

Liu Junyue shook his head. “This one’s different. I’ve heard a lot of people praising the food there. Even the mayor said…” he hesitated, glanced over at Fatty Zhang and reluctantly continued, “The mayor said your braised prawns weren’t as good as theirs.”

The indifference on Fatty Zhang’s face instantly disappeared. He frowned and snapped, “Impossible. No one in Zibo City cooks better than me.”

Liu Junyue knew that Fatty Zhang could be arrogant—he always looked down on small restaurants. But now wasn’t the time to argue. After all, he still had no idea what kind of food this small place actually served. Better to check it out first.

They walked their way to Dongyi Street. Expecting a sleepy shop just getting ready to open, they were both stunned by what they saw—a huge crowd lining up outside.

“So… so many people?” Fatty Zhang was dumbfounded. In his memory, Zibo City had never seen people lining up just for food, not even at Zibo City Restaurant. Liu Junyue was equally shocked. He knew business was good here, but he hadn’t expected it to be this wild.

As they stood to the side, dazed, a group of middle-aged men came running from the end of the street. The moment they arrived, they queued up at the back, panting hard and clutching their chests. “We agreed to come early. But we missed the bus. Should have biked here instead.”

That jolted Liu Junyue back to his senses, and he tugged Fatty Zhang into the queue.

Time ticked by. More and more people arrived to join the line. The two of them estimated that just the lunchtime crowd alone far exceeded that of Zibo City Restaurant. Liu Junyue tapped the shoulder of the person in front of him and smiled. “Hey man, it’s my first time here. You know what’s this place’s signature dish?”

“Signature dish?” The man was caught off guard.

Liu Junyue quickly added, “I mean something really delicious that everyone orders.”

The man laughed. “All her dishes are signature. There’s nothing here that doesn’t taste amazing.”

Liu Junyue looked a little embarrassed. Fatty Zhang, no longer showing any scorn, couldn’t help but ask, “Then what’s your favorite dish here?”

That question actually stumped the man for a moment. He thought seriously and said, “I love her braised lion’s head meatballs, braised squab, roast duck from the hanging oven, sweet and sour carp, and Sichuan pepper chicken…” As he listed them, he started to drool and quickly swallowed, clutching the shoulder of the person in front. “Hey, remember our deal: one dish per person today! I have to get that roast duck—I’ve been craving it forever!”

Fatty Zhang was even more confused. “What kind of place is this? How come they cook dishes from every cuisine? Which master taught them, anyway?”