The development and diversity of Chinese cuisine is also representative of China’s long history. With each dynasty new recipes were created until the art of food preparation reached its peak during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). The dinner called Man Han Quan Xi that incorporates all the very best of Man and Han Cuisine is held in high esteem involving as it does countless dishes, each with its own distinctive flavor and appeal. This veritable banquet in its preparation and presentation typifies all of the culture and culinary arts that have been perfected over centuries and is a comprehensive amalgam of tastes, instruments and manners.

It is said without exaggeration that Chinese cuisine is dainty, in its items, esthetics, atmosphere and effects.

The diversity of geography, climate, costumes and products has led to the evolution of what are called the “Four Flavors” and “Eight Cuisines”. But as catering is a living art, sub-classifications continue to increase. For example in each field of cuisine, adept chefs can utilize something as simple as a melon to create dozens of dishes with dozens of flavors. Meanwhile, local specialties and snacks with their origins steeped in the mists of time are also an important progeny and indicate a profound philosophy and taste. As well as the cuisine of the majority Han people, many minorities have their own fantastic traditions and appeal.

Cuisine in China is a harmonious integration of color, redolence, taste, shape and the fineness of the instruments. For the cooking process, chefs pick choice and various ingredients and seasonings while employing unparalleled complicated skills handed down from their fathers, ever aspiring to their ideal of perfection for all the senses. The methods they use are boiling, stewing, braising, frying, steaming, crisping, baking, simmering and so on. When they finish their masterpieces, they are arranged on a variety of plates and dishes so that it is a real pleasure to appreciate, to smell and ultimately to savor them. The utensil to partake of these delicacies is also distinctive – chopsticks! To see even the smallest child eat with such dexterity is quite amazing for many foreigners. The use of two simple sticks in this way is an art itself and chopsticks have determined the way in which Chinese food is presented at table.

Cuisine presents many different occasions from luxury court feasts, fetes, holy sacrificial rites, joyous wedding ceremonies to simple daily meals and snacks. The Excellency of a good cook is to provide a wholesome and satisfactory dish to suit the occasion.