Amritsar, Sept. 20 : Amritsar is traditionally known for its
‘Kulcha Chole’, ‘Tandoori Chicken’, ‘Dal Makhani’ and ‘Paranthas’. So, it does
come as a surprise to hear that Punjabis are going for Chinese dishes.

A visit to the Chinese Food Festival at the Ranjit Restaurant inside the
city’s Hotel Ritz, reflects a feel of China.

“We wanted to give the people of Amritsar
a taste of Chinese food. We are getting a tremendous response here,” said
Pardeep Vaid, the general manager of the hotel.

The whole restaurant has been given a new look in tune with the cuisine,
keeping red as its theme. The dragon tattoos and the Chinese greetings are a
novel initiative.

The staff too is attired in Chinese dresses.

Over seventy Chinese dishes ranging from soups to desserts are available.

“Real Chinese food can only be prepared by authentic Chinese souses and
spices. We have imported many from China itself. Even, the Chef
has been specially hired from a New
Delhi five star hotel,” Vaid said.

John from Australia
said: “I am big fan of traditional Punjabi food, and it was surprise for me to
see authentic Chinese food.”

Specialties like Phoenix Peeled Prawns, Beijing Duck, Yuxine Fish Cake,
Chilly Chicken and Black Mushroom in Soya Sauce are some of the dishesbeing
offered.

Rashma Puri, a visitor, said that though she does not know the name of the
dishes, she has tasted each one of them with relish.

Chinese food is generally very expensive, but at the Hotel Ritz, it is being
offered at a reasonable price.

From Friday to Sunday, a special buffet has also been organised. This is
available for Rupees 300 a plate.

Joyti Singh, a student of hotel management at Oxford University,
said it is a brilliant idea to create an awareness about food of other
countries.

Singh said such festivals really support the promotion of multi-culture. (With
inputs from ANI)