(Mr. Wang is Manager of Shanghai Travel Bureau. He is telling Mr. Richard, the representative of American Tourist Agency, how a Chinese banquet is served.)
W: Take your seat, please.
R: Thanks. Oh, dinner with chopsticks! What a typical Chinese custom! Mr. Wang, I was told that a Chinese banquet always surprises us big eaters. I’ve never experienced that. Could you tell me something about it?
W: With pleasure. A Chinese dinner usually starts with an assorted cold dish. It cam be mixed seafood, poultry or vegetables. Then comes the shark’s fin soup. !
R: Very interesting. That’s all.
W: Not yet. Following the shark’s fin soup, there will be a chicken dish, a prawn, a duck. Then comes a clear soup, followed by a fish. When you see fish, you know that all the main dishes have been served and the dinner will finish up with rice.
R: Really? It’s unbelievable.
W: Lastly, there are two or four kinds of dim sum for dessert, then fresh fruit and a cup of hot tea to conclude the dinner.
R: Oh, it’s a feast to feed a small army.
W: Mr. Richard, this is Deep Fried Croaker with Tomato Sauce and that is Phoenix-tailed Prawn. Please help yourself to whatever you like.
R: (After tasting) It’s very delicious and appetizing! We’re really enjoying” color, flavor and taste” all at the same time.
W: We Chinese People often say, “Good dishes should match good liquor.” So I invite you to try some Maotai.
R: Oh! Maotai is very famous. May I have a glass of it?
W: Sure. Time flies quickly. You’re leaving tomorrow. And would you mind telling us what has impressed you most during you stay here?
R: Well, what has impressed me deeply here is the beautiful scenery, warm-hearted people and especially your work efficiency.
W: Thank you. I think the contract will bear fruit in no time. I’m looking forward to our continued cooperation and further extension of our business relations. Let’s drink to our successful cooperation. Cheers!
R: So am I. Thank you for your help during my stay here. And thank you for such a wonderful dinner. Cheers!
W: It has been a great pleasure to work with you. Come back to Shanghai any time.
R: Thank you all. Good night.
W: Good night.