After Transmigration, I Picked Up A Husband and Daughter
Chapter 172: Turning the Tide

Chapter 172: Chapter 172: Turning the Tide

Strong Guy, upon hearing this, his expression changed from anger to surprise, then swiftly followed by a wave of embarrassment.

Under Su Yu’s calm and sharp gaze, his large frame somehow appeared constrained.

The surrounding murmurs included some that agreed with Su Yu’s words; evidently, many had already formed their judgments.

"Hmph, sharp-tongued girl, then tell me, what exactly is lacking in the dishes at Food Taste Restaurant?"

Strong Guy suppressed the displeasure in his heart but was ultimately spurred by curiosity and defiance, his tone carrying a challenging edge.

Su Yu stood up, lightly straightened her skirt, her demeanor elegant and composed.

"It’s not that the dishes are poor, but rather a subtle imbalance in cooking time and seasoning. Take the honey-glazed roast duck, for instance, its skin is crispy and the meat tender, certainly a fine dish, but the sweetness is slightly overpowering, masking the natural deliciousness of the duck; the pine nut corn as well, the aroma of the pine nuts hasn’t fully integrated, lacking a touch of harmony."

Her voice was calm, yet each word was precious and precise, every critique spot on, revealing her profound culinary background.

Strong Guy’s face underwent several changes, finally settling into deep contemplation.

The diners around nodded along, some even began tasting the dishes on their tables anew, trying to verify Su Yu’s comments.

Just then, a warm yet authoritative voice came from deeper within the restaurant, "Forgive our indiscretion, I am Manager Li Chengze of Food Taste Restaurant. My young apprentice was reckless, I hope for your understanding. Miss Su’s critiques are exceedingly apt, and Food Taste Restaurant is willing to humbly accept them, furthermore hoping to be fortunate enough to receive more guidance from the young lady."

As his words concluded, a middle-aged man slowly came into everyone’s view.

He was dressed in an elegant long robe, his face gentle, eyes sparkling with wisdom.

His appearance seemingly instantly dissolved the tension in the room.

Su Yu slightly bowed, as a sign of respect.

"Manager Li is too kind. I merely spoke on impulse. If my words are of any help to your esteemed restaurant, it would be my honor."

An unexpected critique session ended with mutual respect and learning.

That day, Food Taste Restaurant not only welcomed a discerning yet sincere diner but also allowed the people of Clear Water Town to once again witness the unexpected beauty brought about by humility and communication.

Su Yu slightly raised an eyebrow, a hint of surprise flashing in her eyes, not expecting her spontaneous remarks to stir such an upheaval.

She slowly began to speak, her voice clear and carrying a subtle hint of amusement, "Shopkeeper He thinks too highly of me. Casual remarks hardly count as ’genuine knowledge and skill’. Moreover, my expertise lies in medical skills, not culinary arts."

He Maohong’s expression remained unchanged, his attitude even more sincere, "Miss is too modest. Having heard how incisive and pinpoint Miss’s words are, such insight and meticulousness could only come from a deep understanding of the essence of ingredients and the art of cooking. Besides, medicine and food share the same origin, cooking is also an art of healing the spirit, and I presume Miss might have unique insights into this as well."

Su Yu pondered for a moment, her gaze sweeping over the well-trained entourage standing behind He Maohong, silently admiring the strength and grandeur behind Drunken Immortal Inn.

She smiled slightly, having made up her mind, "Since Shopkeeper He is so sincere, I might as well boldly give it a try, but I must clarify beforehand, cooking is not my profession, and what I say and do should only be for entertainment, not to be taken seriously."

He Maohong was visibly delighted, repeatedly agreeing, then immediately instructed his entourage to lead the way, the group moving majestically toward Drunken Immortal Inn.

Along the way, the hustle and bustle of the market gradually receded, with the evening sun’s afterglow casting a warm and mysterious light on the cobblestone road, adding a touch of warmth and mystery to this sudden invitation.

Upon reaching Drunken Immortal Inn, the place was bustling like a market, with guests filling the seats, the aroma of wine mingling with that of fine dishes, creating an exceptionally lively scene.

He Maohong personally led Su Yu through the crowd, right up to the kitchen’s heart, where the fires blazed fiercely, and several chefs were busy with their work, knife and spatula shadows flashing as each displayed their culinary skills.

"This place is the heart of Drunken Immortal Inn. I hope Miss Su can find inspiration here and explore the mysteries of food with us."

Having said this, He Maohong stepped aside, giving Su Yu enough space to take in everything.

Su Yu looked around, her eyebrows gradually relaxing, a playful smile hanging on her lips.

She gently rolled up her sleeves, seemingly ready to cook herself and face this unusual challenge.

"Well, since I’m here, I might as well see if my medical knowledge can shine in a different light in this culinary world."

Drunken Immortal Inn—this name sounded somewhat transcendent, but in reality, it was a fierce competitor contending for the town’s diners’ favor against Food Taste Restaurant.

Su Yu thought to herself that since the other party had come to her, why not take this opportunity to give Food Taste Restaurant a bit of a challenge? However, even in helping others, Su Yu knew her time and skills were equally precious and by no means free of charge.

"Let’s talk business. If I agree to help you, what benefits can you offer me in return?"

Su Yu’s tone was straightforward, clear-cut, her penetrating eyes seemingly able to see into one’s soul.

Upon hearing this, He Maohong’s lips curved into a knowing smile, aware that in this world, there is no contribution without reason.

"Miss Su, rest assured, I, He Maohong, never engage in losing deals. Your help will definitely be rewarded generously."

Years of business ups and downs had taught him that behind every assistance, there should be a correlative value.

Su Yu appreciated his candor and continued, "Then, Manager He, how would you like me to assist? Do you need me to coach your chefs on-site with a salary, or are you more interested in the recipes I possess?"

Originally, He Maohong merely wanted to use Su Yu’s culinary wisdom to bring a glimmer of hope to Drunken Immortal Inn’s dire situation, like a drowning man grasping at the last straw.

However, when he heard the word "recipes," a gleam of excitement flashed through his eyes.

Compared to the traditional teaching methods that required one to learn through personal insight, recipes were direct and specific, undoubtedly reducing error rates and ensuring the authenticity of the dishes.

Of course, the premise was to acquire a manual compiled by a true master, not just any mediocre individual.

"Recipes are certainly the ideal option, but..."

He Maohong spoke carefully, fearing that any careless word might upset the woman who might hold the key to their survival.

He knew that if they missed this opportunity, Drunken Immortal Inn might truly be beyond salvation.

Su Yu, seemingly able to perceive what was in his mind, lightly laughed and said, "Don’t worry. I’ll cook personally, using the dishes from the cookbook to host a banquet for everyone to taste. If satisfied, we can then discuss the transfer details."

With those words, the last of He Maomao’s doubts evaporated.

"In that case, it couldn’t be more appropriate."

He nodded repeatedly, filled with joy.

Su Yu then suggested, "It’s already late today, and tomorrow is the Dragon Boat Festival. How about we set it the day after tomorrow,"