The phrase refers to a hypothetical or aspirational list of dishes that could be offered by a Chinese restaurant. This represents an expansive and potentially innovative selection that goes beyond the typical, commonly found items. For example, a establishment might create a collection featuring rare regional specialties or modern interpretations of classic recipes to gauge customer interest or to inspire future menu development.
The development of such a listing is valuable for several reasons. It can facilitate brainstorming sessions, allowing culinary teams to explore new flavors and techniques. Furthermore, it may serve as a tool for market research, identifying potential demand for unique offerings and giving a competitive advantage. In the past, restaurants have used similar strategies to gauge customer reaction before investing in new ingredients or equipment.