Chinese food is more than just an experience in taste

Experiencing Chinese food is not just about savoring the flavor of exquisite cuisine but also a journey into Chinese culture and symbolisms of wishes for happiness, longevity and fertility.

"We don't merely appeal to the taste buds," says Joan Yu, proprietor of Ching Palace - Cebu's premier destination for Chinese cuisine. "Chinese food involves the mixed sensations of taste and smell, thus its distinc flavor."

Like Filipinos, the young culinary expert said, the Chinese believe taste is not limited to the four taste sensations - sweet, bitter, sour and salty - as generally accepted in the west.

"We have a fifth taste sensation for pungent or spicy foods," says Yu.

For the Chinese, the five taste sensations are in line with its philosophy involving the "five elements theory." Each taste corresponds to one of five elements: water, fire, wood, metal and earth.

Even the number of courses during a banquet is significant, points out Yu whose Ching Palace at Salinas Drive, Lahug; opened up a huge annex at the adjacent Edison street now called "The Great Hall" that accommodates large functions.

"The number eight is synonymous with good luck. Thus, many wedding banquets have eight courses, excluding dessert," Joan shared, noting that the Ching Palace is becoming a choice for wedding receptions among an increasing number of young couples with sophisticated tastes.

However, birthdays usually include an additional important course - noodles - which symbolizes long life. Indeed, specific dishes have their own significance.

For instance, Yu cites the popular Shark's Fin Soup which denotes wealth because the delicacy is quite expensive.

For wedding banquets, a roast suckling pig is apt because it symbolizes virginity.

Because the color red is for happiness, Peking duck and lobster mean joy and celebration. Serving the dish whole, with head and legs intact, symbolizes completeness.

Quail is offered whole to each guest so each one will experience a peaceful life. This goes well with vegetables and sea cucumber, which is a sign of selflessness.

Indeed, says Yu, going to places like Ching Palace is not just about great tasting Chinese food. It is also an adventure into Chinese lore on good luck, happiness, prosperity and well being.