During the National Day holiday, the news that the government cafeteria in Quzhou, Zhejiang province, opened its doors to the public quickly caught people’s attention. Utilizing a menu-ordering system, this cafeteria offers dishes that showcase the unique flavors of Quzhou’s famed “Hundred Counties and Thousand Bowls,” with the goal of providing safe and high-quality dining options for both citizens and tourists.
In recent years, Quzhou has emerged as a culinary hotspot in the Yangtze River Delta, drawing food enthusiasts eager to savor its spicy and delicious fare. However, the charm of Quzhou extends beyond its breathtaking landscapes and mouthwatering cuisine; it reflects the city’s hospitality and warm welcome to visitors—perfectly embodying the saying, “Isn’t it a joy to have friends come from afar?”
Many visitors chose Quzhou as their destination during the National Day holiday, making the government cafeteria a must-visit spot. Li Yiyi, a young woman from Jiaxing, shared her experience: “Just after 11 AM, the restaurant was packed. For only 18 yuan, we got a meat dish, a half-meat dish, and a vegetarian dish. I made sure to try the local specialties like ‘three heads and one palm’ and the Jiangshan Twenty-Eight DoFu, which were authentic and reasonably priced.”
Quzhou isn’t the only city pursuing this initiative. Many government cafeterias across China are opening their doors to the public. Cities like Yangzhou in Jiangsu, Jingdezhen in Jiangxi, and Yuhang in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, have experimented with similar programs during holidays, receiving positive feedback from their communities.
This shift from high-walled government buildings to the now trendy “internet celebrity cafeterias” reflects a desire to connect with the public. What does this change signify in terms of flavor?
First, there’s a taste of accessibility. Back in 2019, Quzhou launched the “Demolish Walls, Open Green Spaces” campaign to create shared areas and bring more greenery to the community. By removing physical barriers, they’ve also broken down the metaphorical “walls” between the government and its citizens, resulting in a stronger community and closer relationships.
Next is the focus on convenience. Urban areas often struggle with parking, and in response, the Quzhou municipal government has opened idle parking lots for public use during weekends and holidays. This not only makes efficient use of resources but also fosters stronger connections with citizens and visitors.
Finally, there’s a strong emphasis on public benefit. By opening government cafeterias during holidays and serving affordable local dishes, Quzhou truly embodies the essence of public service. This commitment to its people illustrates that government institutions can also serve as cultural symbols, nurturing shared experiences and providing emotional value for both citizens and tourists, ultimately enhancing the city’s profile.
The phrase “my door is always open” stands as more than mere words; it symbolizes a city’s genuine goodwill and sincerity towards its community.
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