A historic building left by a Qing Dynasty scholar, now transformed into a Shunde restaurant

Here's a 400-word sharing about Huaide Private Kitchen in Shawan Ancient Town: Deep within the cobblestone streets of Shawan Ancient Town lies a stunning Shunde cuisine gem—Huaide Private Kitchen. Converted from the former residence of Qing Dynasty scholar He Wenhan, Huaide Hall, stepping inside feels like a journey through time. The courtyard is shaded by lush trees, with koi fish playing in the pond. Ming and Qing-style furniture blends seamlessly with modern minimalist tableware, creating an atmosphere that’s both rustic and chic. The dishes here are truly exceptional. The signature Huaide-style "Climbing Golden Mountain" features fresh dace as the main ingredient, mixed with water chestnut bits and wood ear strips, hand-beaten for over half an hour to achieve a silky, bouncy fish paste. Diners get to personally slide the fish paste into clear broth to cook, making it a full sensory experience. The Huaide Lo Mein is another must-try—an upgraded version of traditional bamboo-pressed noodles, enriched with abundant shrimp roe for umami, and elevated to perfection by a secret sauce. Also noteworthy are the crispy pork knuckle, with golden, crunchy skin and tender, gelatinous meat inside, and the nine-spiced tangerine peel braised goose, where the citrusy aroma of tangerine peel balances the richness of the goose, leaving a delicate, lingering sweetness. Here, you not only savor authentic Shunde delicacies but also immerse yourself in the rich Lingnan cultural ambiance. Every dish reflects the chef’s reverence for and innovation of traditional Cantonese cuisine, offering a feast for both the eyes and the palate.