April 23rd happened to be my birthday. My parents, brothers and sister
unanimously decided going to a restaurant to celebrate the day. I was given
the privilege to choose my favorite restaurant. So I suggested the Mandarin,
a famous Chinese restaurant.
At 6.30 p.m., we drove up to the restaurant and found ourselves in a
large, comfortable dining hall with several tables. We selected one in a
cozy and quiet corner. I was invited to
choose my favorite dishes. After glancing through the menu, I decided on
'Shark's Fin Soup' 'Sweet-and-Sour Fish', 'Beef Steak', 'Mixed Vegetable'
and 'Fried Chicken'.
While waiting for the dishes, we chatted and listened to the music. A
band was playing some lively pieces and a
songstress was singing, obliging patrons with their requests.
Then the first dish - 'Shark's Fin Soup' - arrived piping hot. It was
delicious. Next, came the 'Sweet-and-Sour Fish', crispy, sweet and inviting.
The 'Beef Steak' was excellent, with its thick gravy and peas. This was
followed by an assortment of vegetables
- mustard green, mushrooms, beans, cabbage, sweet peas and carrots. Finally,
the 'Fried Chicken' was served and it was delicious, too.
To end the meal, we had a dessert of lychee and almond jelly, followed by
coffee. I was really full by now and felt that I had eaten too much. But the
meal was really good and we had all enjoyed it.
By now it was 8.30 p.m. and time to go home. It had been a truly happy
occasion. We hope to go to the same restaurant again on my sister's birthday
which falls in June. |