CHINA GOURMET – Route 2, Greenfield, MA
Zoe D.  October 28 2007

   China Gourmet in Greenfield, Massachusetts, is definitely at the top of my list of favorite restaurants, and for numerous reasons. I walk in from a hard day at school or work to a place filled with soothing music, gorgeous Asian décor, and the mouth-watering smell of Chinese food, and sit down in a comfortable booth, excited to order. I am always so ready to eat the second I walk inside. An interesting aspect of this place is that it also serves wonderful Japanese food.  So depending on your taste, you can choose one or the other, or what I do sometimes – a little of both!  The prices are very reasonable and there is a great selection of both kinds of food.

   Just last week I went to China Gourmet with my parents after a long school day. The waiter who took our order was very nice. He had waited on us previously. He recognized me, smiled, and commented this time on how tall I was getting. This is just one example of the friendly and welcoming waitstaff at this restaurant. They often remember you when you return, giving you a sense of comfort and familiarity whenever you show up.

      This time I ordered scallion pancakes for an appetizer. (I highly recommend these - they are absolutely delicious!), shrimp with mixed vegetables (my usual, which is very tasty and soothing), a bowl of white rice, and a small dish of shrimp sushi. I also ordered a mango smoothie to drink with it, though I usually have a Shirley Temple. They also serve many kinds of bubbling tea.  My Dad ordered the Sizzling Salmon with ginger, and the waiter brought out with a dish steaming so much that it was hard to see for a moment when he set it on the table. Everyone in the place turned to look. My Mom chose two different kinds of sushi, one with pickled plums and one with vegetables.  My sushi and shrimp with vegetables came in delicate dishes, and my smoothie came in a tall glass with an array of orange slices, cherries, and paper umbrellas at the top. Halfway through our meal, the waiters sang Happy Birthday to someone sitting in another part of the restaurant and everyone in the place joined in.

   After devouring the meal, my stomach was full and happy, and my formerly-watering mouth was fully satisfied, just as it is every time I eat there. I highly recommend China Gourmet if you’re looking for a relaxing place to eat, celebrating a birthday, or just plain HUNGRY!