The Xingde Restaurant was not exactly close to their university; it was too far to walk.
They hailed a taxi, and the four of them headed straight to Xingde Restaurant.
It was said to be a century-old establishment, supposedly serving Haipai cuisine since the Qing Dynasty.
Upon arrival at Xingde Restaurant, they were greeted not by older aunts, but by slender hostesses in cheongsam, which was a delightful surprise.
This was quite a departure for Bai Xiao, as many restaurants of that era, particularly state-owned ones, had an air of self-satisfaction and an incredibly arrogant attitude that was quite off-putting.
It was almost a ’take it or leave it’ grandpa-kind of attitude.
Seeing the level of service at a place like Xingde Restaurant was surprising to Bai Xiao. From the department store the previous day to the hotel today, she realized that Modu’s development was truly at the forefront of the era and trends in China, even in terms of service.
Truly deserving of its reputation.
The fact that the greeters did not look down on them because of their attire was another pleasant surprise.
"Party of four?"
Bai Xiao nodded, and upon seeing the spacious lobby and the stylish décor, Ma Yao and her friends became like quails hiding behind Bai Xiao. No wonder, they were just ordinary students, how could they not feel intimidated?
"Do you have a private room? We would like a quiet place to talk," Bai Xiao requested with ease.
The request seemed to impress the waiter, thinking that this must be the one footing the bill.
Sharp-eyed people, indeed.
"We just happen to have a room available, perfect for four. Please, follow me."
Once they reached a private room on the second floor, Bai Xiao had already noticed that theirs was probably the most common. The other rooms appeared much more luxurious, even having different names with an air of elegance.
Their room was named Peony Pavilion.
The four of them were seated.
The menu was brought over, and a server poured tea for everyone.
Bai Xiao glanced over the menu while Ma Yao, Lin Xiang, and He Juan were taken aback by the prices listed on it.
The three exchanged looks before unanimously suggesting to Bai Xiao, "Maybe we should forget about this place? We don’t really want to eat such dishes. It might be better to find somewhere else."
A casual look at the menu confirmed dishes like jumbo shrimp and sea cucumber, drunken chicken, and stewed fish – all traditional specialties with distinctive flavors and equally distinctive prices.
"What’s the matter? The dishes look good, and this is all authentic local cuisine! We should try it, since we’re already here, let’s not move elsewhere. This is the place!" Bai Xiao could see through her friends’ concerns; they were probably trying to save her money.
"Look, Bai Xiao, this meal could cost several hundred bucks. Why bother?"
Even as Lin Xiang eyed the menu with desire, the sight of the prices quickly extinguished the flame of her appetite.
They were not shameless swindlers looking to take advantage; accepting a meal was already a bit embarrassing. How would they face each other after such an extravagant meal?
Bai Xiao waved her hand dismissively, "We came out to dine, and we’re not always this extravagant. We’re classmates, after all, and I came to Modu for the first time looking to experience the charm of local dishes. Let’s not hold back today. In the future, once you all become doctors, I’ll definitely make each of you treat me in return, and who knows, I might get to taste foods from all over China."
Ma Yao bit her lip, "Alright! With those words, Bai Xiao, you’ll have everything covered by me whenever you visit our area—lodging and dining, no worries."
He Juan nodded too, "Count me in. I won’t forget this kindness in my lifetime."
Lin Xiang smiled, "Well, if I end up in some remote corner, you can’t blame me for treating you to a meal of wild greens and rice, right?"
The four burst into laughter.