On the 23rd day of the twelfth lunar month, traditionally known as “Xiaonian” (Little New Year) in northern China, Omar, the manager of Omar Egyptian Restaurant, was busy decorating with his family. They put up the Chinese character “fu” and hung exquisite decorations for the Year of the Horse. Amidst the warm glow of red festive decorations and the bustling activity of the family, the restaurant, which harmoniously blends Eastern and Western elements, was about to welcome a special reunion night.
Just 15 days ago, Omar had flown across three continents with his family, who had been vacationing in his hometown of Cairo, Egypt, and hurried back to Shenyang. “Although Egypt has its own vibrant festivals, the joy, warmth, and sense of reunion during the Chinese New Year truly resonate with me,” said Omar, who has lived in Shenyang for many years. “I had to make sure I returned before the Little New Year. Spring Festival has long become a celebration I simply cannot miss.”
This is a Chinese-Egyptian family that blends Chinese and Egyptian cultures. Omar’s wife Asma, whose Chinese name is Fang Shuai, is a native of Shenyang. From his initial curiosity to his gradual integration, Omar has come to understand the deep emotional significance behind customs like posting Spring Festival couplets, preparing Chinese New Year goods, and sharing reunion dinners. “Since the restaurant is usually busy, our family rarely gets to eat together. These few days of the Spring Festival are a precious time for us to truly reunite.”
In the evening, after seeing off the last group of customers, Omar tied on his apron and stepped into the kitchen. Savory eggplant, stir-fried chicken and traditional Egyptian mashed peas were brought to the table one after another. Meanwhile, the beef dumplings and Laba garlic sent by his mother-in-law arrived. The delightful fusion of Chinese-style dishes and Arabic flavors perfectly reflected the warm and unique character of this family.
“Dinner is ready!” Omar called out cheerfully to his two daughters. The family gathered around the table, conversing in Chinese and Arabic, alternating between chopsticks and knives and forks. Over the meal, they shared their hopes for the Chinese New Year. Omar and his wife plan to open a second restaurant in Shenyang, introducing more people to authentic Egyptian cuisine, while their daughters look forward to learning painting in the new semester, using their brushes to capture the simple daily life in Shenyang.
Outside the window, the soft glow of lanterns flickered gently, while the upside-down Chinese character “fu” on the restaurant’s glass door complemented the Arabic signage, forming a beautiful scene that bridged cultures. On this night of reunion, the Arabic flavors and the spirit of the Chinese New Year blended seamlessly into the warm glow of countless households.
