Today we went to Chinatown to explore Chinese culture. Chef Joseph Poon gave us a walking tour of Philadelphia’s Chinatown and told us about Chinese history, culture, and food. First, he introduced the gate of Chinatown, explaining every character’s meaning and the colors’ meanings in Chinese culture. Then, he guided us to a herb store discussing herbal medicine in China. We also went to Buddhist Temple to learn about Buddhism and worship. After that, we went to an Asian supermarket. Chef Poon introduced to us many ingredients of highly nutritious value in China; he also talked about his experience as a chef traveling around the world. Throughout the speech, he also gave us life lessons: to work hard and to think positively about life. We also went to a Chinese bakery to taste pastries with custard paste and bubble tea. Chef Poon also showed us his sculpture skills by carving out a heart using a cucumber and a rose from a radish. He handed out red packets (with money inside) to wish us happy Chinese New Year and good luck. Finally, we went to eat dim sum with a variety of dishes, including egg drop-soup, shrimp dumplings, egg rolls, and beef lo mein. We said goodbye to Chef Poon after taking photos with him. It was really an inspirational tour with him.
