Panda Express is not Chinese food
Well, nearly three months after returning from Asia, I took the big plunge and brought myself to eat at a local Chinese place. It was kind of a hole-in-the-wall joint, but hey, that’s how it is in China, too! This particular restaurant came after weeks of scrutinizing their t0-g0 menu we somehow ended up with. They finally received approval, but only because they had a few tofu dishes on their menu. All in all, it wasn’t bad. Of course, I had crab rangoons, which aren’t even authentic Chinese food, but I deserved those. I had some spicy tofu. My only qualm was that I enjoy how big meals in China mean ordering several dishes. I had a huge plate of tofu, which was delicious, but could have used a few other items, too. China has spoiled me. Oh, and some weird I-heart-China part of me came alive and decided that striking up a conversation with the Chinese owner would be paramount to the dining experience. I was crushed when that opportunity didn’t happen. Reverse culture shock is a strange beast.
Unfortunately, after that experience, my standards went completely downhill. I gave in and decided to have some Panda Express for lunch last week. It was horrible. And devastating. My quest for good Chinese food continues. I would love some late-night bbq right about now…bring on the greasy dumplings and burn-your-tastebuds-off vegetables on a stick.
In other news, I did come up with a few prospects for pho.
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