The Canal Culture and Food Festival was held at the renowned Sen Long Restaurant this month to showcase the signature dishes of Huaiyang cuisine to diners in Beijing.

Sen Long Restaurant was established in Beijing in 1924 by Zhang Sanlong from Jiangsu province. The initial location of the restaurant changed because of subway construction in 2005, and in 2019 it was reopened in Dongcheng district.

According to its general manager Wang Peixin, a master chef was hired specializing in Huaiyang cuisine to preserve the authentic flavors of their traditional dishes and while upholding the essence of Huaiyang cuisine.

"In the past, Sen Long Restaurant positioned itself toward the high-end market, with relatively expensive prices that deterred many ordinary people. After reopening, the restaurant has shifted its pricing strategy to be more affordable, aiming to make it possible for everyone to savor the authentic flavors of Jiangsu and Zhejiang cuisine," Wang said.

Wang said all the ingredients of the dishes of the food festival were gained from the places along the Grand Canal.

In July, the restaurant took part in the food skill competition of "Taste the Canal" in Beijing and won the creative restaurant award.