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The question of whether foreigners genuinely enjoy Chinese cuisine or are merely "performing" for social media has once again sparked heated discussions among Chinese netizens. The debate follows observations that many foreigners enthusiastically film themselves devouring iconic Chinese dishes, earning praise and attention online. However, critics argue that much of this is just for show, as many foreigners struggle to adapt to China’s diverse and often heavily spiced food culture.
In recent years, countless social media influencers - both local and foreign - have gained popularity by sharing videos of foreigners gleefully eating “exotic” Chinese dishes. From hot pot to pig intestines, beef tongue, and Chongqing spicy noodles, the videos typically show smiling foreigners appearing delighted with every bite. The exaggerated enthusiasm, complete with wide grins and even plate-licking antics, has left many Chinese netizens suspicious.
“These foreigners are just acting,” one Chinese commenter wrote. “For the right amount of money, they’ll eat anything and pretend to enjoy it.”
An anonymous writer shared his personal observations of foreign students during his university years in China. “When foreign students first arrive, you’ll see them trying food in the campus cafeteria,” the post described. “While we enjoy rich, spicy dishes like stir-fried pork with chili, red-braised eggplant, or noodles drenched in sesame paste and chili oil, foreign students often avoid these dishes. They prefer simpler options like carrot slices, stir-fried potatoes, or egg fried noodles. Some even stick to cold dishes like steamed broccoli or purple cabbage salad.”
The post went on to describe how, by mid-September, the campus cafeteria would see fewer foreign students altogether. “Maybe they couldn’t adapt,” the author speculated. Instead, foreigners were often spotted in smaller eateries ordering plain noodles or familiar foods, and, surprisingly, buying oversized sausages from campus grocery stores.
The mixed reactions from netizens highlight how perceptions vary. Some sympathized with the foreigners' struggles, pointing to stark differences in eating habits and flavor preferences. One user commented, “It’s no surprise they can’t handle it - Chinese food is bold and diverse, but not everyone’s stomach can keep up!”
Others, however, criticized the apparent “performative” trend. “They’re just pandering to us,” wrote another user. “I don’t believe they really like pig intestines or spicy frog legs - they’re playing a role for views.”
Interestingly, businesses catering to foreigners’ preferences have thrived. The post recounts how a university near a foreign student dormitory opened a fusion restaurant offering both Chinese and Western dishes. The restaurant became a hit, attracting foreign students who found comfort in familiar flavors. “Some people simply prefer what they know,” the author concluded.
The debate also extended to observations beyond China. The writer described encountering a group of Indian workers in a company cafeteria, visibly struggling with the unfamiliar food. The sight reminded them of foreign students in university, once again reinforcing the idea that cultural and dietary habits are deeply rooted.
In response to the viral discussion, one netizen summed up the sentiment: “It’s true - food reflects culture. What delights one person may be unbearable for another. It’s not about faking it, but understanding that every place has its own tastes.”
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