chinese food damascus md, a seemingly simple phrase, unlocks a world of flavors and experiences. It’s a gateway to exploring the vibrant tapestry of Chinese cuisine woven into the fabric of this Maryland community. From the comforting familiarity of classic dishes to the exciting discovery of regional specialties, the options are as diverse as the people who savor them.
This exploration will delve into the heart of Damascus’s Chinese food scene. We’ll uncover the popular restaurants, their unique offerings, and the dining experiences they provide. Prepare to be transported on a journey that celebrates the essence of Chinese food in Damascus, Maryland, revealing not just the food, but the culture, community, and traditions that make it so special.
Overview of Chinese Food in Damascus, MD
Alright, fam! Let’s spill the tea on the Chinese food scene in Damascus, MD. We’re talkin’ chow mein, General Tso’s, the whole shebang. Basically, if you’re craving some serious takeout, you’ve got options, and we’re here to break it down for ya.
Availability of Chinese Food Restaurants
Damascus ain’t exactly a concrete jungle, but you can still find your fix. While it might not be a Chinatown-level explosion of options, there are definitely a few spots in town ready to serve up some deliciousness. Think of it as a solid selection for a small town – enough to satisfy those late-night cravings without having to drive for hours.
Typical Cuisines and Dishes, Chinese food damascus md
These spots are usually slinging the classics, ya know? Think:* General Tso’s Chicken: The ultimate crowd-pleaser. Crispy, sweet, and a little bit spicy. A must-try for sure.
Lo Mein/Chow Mein
Noodles, veggies, and your choice of protein. Perfect for a satisfying meal.
Sweet and Sour Chicken
A classic for a reason. That tangy sauce is addictive.
Fried Rice
The perfect side dish, or a meal on its own.
Spring Rolls/Egg Rolls
Gotta have some appetizers to get things started.Basically, you’re gonna find the Americanized Chinese food that everyone knows and loves. Expect generous portions and that familiar flavor profile.
Price Range for a Meal
Budget-friendly eats, mostly! You can generally expect to feed yourself (and maybe a friend) without breaking the bank. Prices vary, of course, but here’s a rough idea:* Appetizers: Usually in the $3-$8 range.
Entrees
Most dishes will fall between $10-$20.
Combo Meals
These are your best bet for value, often offering a main dish, rice, and an egg roll for around $12-$18.So, yeah, it’s a pretty affordable option for a quick and tasty meal.
Popular Chinese Restaurants in Damascus, MD
Damascus, MD, offers a tasty selection of Chinese restaurants, each bringing its own flavor to the table. Whether you’re craving classic takeout or a sit-down dining experience, you’ll find options to satisfy your cravings. This section dives into the top spots, highlighting what makes each one special.
Restaurant Showcase
Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular Chinese restaurants in Damascus, MD, along with their key features:
| Restaurant Name | Address | Cuisine Type | Customer Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| China King | 26020 Ridge Rd, Damascus, MD 20872 | Classic Chinese Takeout | 4.0 stars (based on Google Reviews) |
| Peking Chinese Restaurant | 26030 Ridge Rd, Damascus, MD 20872 | Traditional Chinese Cuisine | 3.8 stars (based on Yelp) |
| Great Wall Chinese Restaurant | 26201 Ridge Rd Ste 104, Damascus, MD 20872 | Americanized Chinese Dishes | 4.2 stars (based on Google Reviews) |
| Hong Kong Chinese Restaurant | 26201 Ridge Rd, Damascus, MD 20872 | Combination of Chinese & American Food | 3.5 stars (based on Yelp) |
Unique Selling Points
Each restaurant brings something unique to the Damascus dining scene.
- China King: Known for its quick service and consistently tasty dishes, China King is a go-to for takeout. They have a vast menu with familiar favorites. Expect generous portions and a focus on speed and convenience, making it ideal for a busy weeknight.
- Peking Chinese Restaurant: Offers a more traditional dining experience with a cozy atmosphere. They are known for their classic dishes, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. Peking provides a slightly elevated experience compared to a typical takeout spot, making it suitable for a casual dinner or a family gathering.
- Great Wall Chinese Restaurant: Appeals to those seeking a more Americanized Chinese food experience. They offer a broad menu of well-known dishes with large portions. The restaurant is usually praised for its friendly service and family-friendly environment, perfect for a casual meal.
- Hong Kong Chinese Restaurant: Offers a combination of Chinese and American dishes. This provides a variety of options for diverse tastes. This makes it a suitable choice for groups with varying preferences, as it caters to both Chinese food lovers and those who might prefer more familiar American options.
Finding Online Reviews
Discovering what others are saying about these restaurants is simple using online platforms.
- Google Reviews: The most accessible way to find reviews is to simply search the restaurant’s name on Google. You’ll find ratings, reviews, and photos. This is often the first place people go to get a quick overview.
- Yelp: Yelp is another popular platform for reviews, often providing detailed insights into the dining experience, including the quality of food, service, and ambiance. Search for the restaurant’s name to find reviews and ratings.
- Other Platforms: Facebook and other review websites might also have information about these restaurants.
Menu and Cuisine Styles
Yo, let’s dive into the chow mein scene in Damascus, MD! We’re gonna break down what kinda flavors you can expect when you hit up those Chinese spots. From the spicy stuff to the sweet treats, we’ll cover the different regional styles and dish deets so you know what you’re getting into. Get ready to drool!
Regional Cuisine Styles
Damascus, MD, probably won’t have every single regional Chinese cuisine style, but you’ll definitely find a mix of the popular ones. These restaurants typically aim for a broader appeal, catering to a variety of tastes. Expect to see these influences on the menus:* Cantonese: This is the OG. Cantonese cuisine is known for its light sauces, fresh ingredients, and emphasis on natural flavors.
Think steamed fish, dim sum, and stir-fries with subtle seasonings.
Szechuan (Sichuan)
Get ready for the heat! Szechuan cuisine is all about the chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns, which give a numbing sensation. Expect dishes like Kung Pao Chicken and Mapo Tofu.
Hunan
Similar to Szechuan, Hunan cuisine brings the spice, but it’s often a bit bolder and oilier. It uses a lot of chili peppers, garlic, and shallots.
Americanized Chinese
This is the stuff you probably grew up with – General Tso’s Chicken, sweet and sour pork, and egg rolls. It’s a blend of different regional styles, tweaked to suit American palates.
Common Dishes and Ingredients
Here’s a breakdown of some classic Chinese dishes you’ll likely find in Damascus, MD, and the key ingredients:* General Tso’s Chicken: Crispy, deep-fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce.
Ingredients
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Chicken, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, chili peppers, cornstarch, ginger, garlic.
Kung Pao Chicken
Diced chicken stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers.
Ingredients
Chicken, peanuts, chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, vegetables (usually bell peppers, onions, and celery), soy sauce.
Sweet and Sour Pork
Deep-fried pork pieces served with a vibrant sweet and sour sauce.
Ingredients
Pork, pineapple, bell peppers, onions, sugar, vinegar, ketchup.
Mapo Tofu
Silky tofu simmered in a spicy, savory sauce, often with ground meat.
Ingredients
Tofu, ground pork (or beef), chili bean paste, Sichuan peppercorns, soy sauce.
Lo Mein
Egg noodles stir-fried with vegetables and your choice of protein.
Ingredients
Egg noodles, vegetables (e.g., carrots, cabbage, broccoli), protein (chicken, pork, shrimp), soy sauce.
Spring Rolls
Deep-fried rolls filled with vegetables and sometimes meat.
Ingredients
Thin wrappers, vegetables (e.g., cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts), meat (optional), dipping sauce.
Fried Rice
Rice stir-fried with vegetables, egg, and often your choice of protein.
Ingredients
Rice, egg, vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, onions), soy sauce, protein (optional).
Dumplings (Potstickers)
Dough pockets filled with meat and vegetables, steamed or pan-fried.
Ingredients
Dough wrappers, ground meat (e.g., pork, chicken), vegetables (e.g., cabbage, chives), ginger, garlic.
Sample Menu: “Dragon’s Delight”
A Fictional Damascus Eatery
A Fictional Damascus Eatery
This menu is just a vibe check – what a hypothetical restaurant might offer. Prices are estimates, and actual menus will vary. Appetizers:* Spring Rolls (3 for $6.99): Crispy rolls with a veggie filling, served with sweet chili sauce.
Dumplings (6 for $8.99)
Pan-fried pork dumplings with a soy-ginger dipping sauce.
Crab Rangoon (6 for $7.99)
Cream cheese and crab-filled wontons, deep-fried to perfection. Entrees:* General Tso’s Chicken ($14.99): Crispy chicken in a sweet and spicy sauce, served with white rice.
Kung Pao Chicken ($15.99)
Diced chicken, peanuts, and vegetables in a spicy sauce.
Beef with Broccoli ($16.99)
Tender beef stir-fried with broccoli in a savory sauce, served with white rice.
Shrimp Lo Mein ($17.99)
Egg noodles with shrimp and mixed vegetables in a flavorful sauce.
Vegetable Fried Rice ($12.99)
Classic fried rice with a mix of fresh veggies. Add chicken, pork, or shrimp for an extra charge. Desserts:* Fried Bananas ($6.99): Deep-fried bananas with honey.
Fortune Cookies (Complimentary)
Because, duh!
Dining Experience and Atmosphere: Chinese Food Damascus Md
Damascus, MD’s Chinese restaurants offer a range of dining experiences, catering to diverse preferences. From the traditional sit-down meal to the convenience of takeout and delivery, the atmosphere and service styles contribute significantly to the overall enjoyment of the cuisine.
Service Styles: Dine-In, Takeout, and Delivery
Chinese restaurants in Damascus, MD, typically provide multiple service options to accommodate customer needs. Each option presents unique advantages and disadvantages that impact the dining experience.
Dine-in:
Dine-in service allows customers to enjoy their meals within the restaurant’s ambiance. This often includes table service, allowing for a more relaxed and social experience. The service style typically involves:
- Table service by waitstaff, taking orders and serving food.
- Opportunity to experience the restaurant’s full atmosphere, including decor and music.
- Freshly prepared food, served immediately after cooking.
Takeout:
Takeout offers a convenient way to enjoy Chinese food at home or elsewhere. It’s a popular choice for busy individuals and families. Key aspects of takeout include:
- Ordering via phone, online, or in person.
- Food packaged for easy transport.
- Reduced wait times compared to dine-in.
Delivery:
Delivery provides the ultimate convenience, bringing the food directly to the customer’s location. This service often utilizes online ordering platforms and delivery drivers. Features of delivery service include:
- Ordering through the restaurant or a third-party service.
- Food delivered to the customer’s doorstep.
- Delivery fees and potential wait times, depending on demand and distance.
Atmosphere and Ambiance
The atmosphere of a Chinese restaurant in Damascus, MD, can significantly enhance the dining experience. The decor, music, and overall ambiance contribute to the restaurant’s identity and appeal.
Restaurant Decor:
The decor often reflects Chinese cultural elements, such as:
- Red and gold color schemes, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.
- Traditional Chinese artwork, including paintings and calligraphy.
- Lanterns and other decorative lighting.
Music and Ambiance:
The music selection can set the tone for the dining experience. Often, the music consists of:
- Soft instrumental music, creating a relaxing atmosphere.
- Contemporary pop music or themed playlists.
- Volume levels adjusted to allow for conversation.
Overall Ambiance:
The combination of decor, music, and lighting creates the restaurant’s overall ambiance. This contributes to the customer’s perception of the dining experience.
Comparing Dine-In with Takeout or Delivery
The choice between dine-in, takeout, or delivery depends on individual preferences and circumstances. Each option presents a different set of trade-offs.
Dine-in vs. Takeout/Delivery:
The dine-in experience offers a more immersive experience, with the benefits of:
- Freshly prepared food, served hot and directly from the kitchen.
- Enhanced social interaction, with the opportunity to dine with friends and family.
- The full restaurant atmosphere, including decor and music.
Takeout and delivery provide convenience and flexibility, offering:
- The ability to enjoy Chinese food at home or elsewhere.
- Faster service, especially during peak hours.
- Reduced costs, as there is no need to tip.
However, the downsides include:
- Potential for food to cool down during transport.
- Limited interaction with the restaurant’s staff.
- Missing out on the full dining experience.
The best choice ultimately depends on the individual’s needs and preferences.
Ordering and Payment Methods
Damascus, MD’s Chinese food scene caters to convenience, offering various ordering and payment methods. From classic phone orders to streamlined online platforms, restaurants strive to make the experience as smooth as possible. Understanding these options is key to enjoying your favorite dishes without a hitch.
Typical Ordering Methods
Chinese restaurants in Damascus offer a range of ordering methods to suit different preferences and situations. Here’s a breakdown:
- Phone Orders: This remains a popular choice, especially for those who prefer a personal touch or have specific dietary requests. Simply call the restaurant, browse the menu (often available online or via a physical menu), and place your order with a staff member.
- Online Ordering: Many restaurants have embraced online platforms, either through their own websites or third-party apps. This offers the convenience of browsing menus, customizing orders, and making payments from your computer or mobile device.
- In-Person Ordering: Traditional dine-in or takeout ordering is still available. Walk into the restaurant, review the menu at the counter or in a dining area, and place your order with a staff member.
Payment Options Available
Chinese restaurants in Damascus provide diverse payment options to accommodate customer preferences:
- Cash: This is a universally accepted payment method, offering simplicity and directness.
- Credit/Debit Cards: Most restaurants accept major credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. This provides convenience and often allows for tracking of expenses.
- Mobile Payment: Some restaurants are starting to adopt mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay, offering a quick and contactless payment experience.
Placing an Online Order for Takeout or Delivery
Online ordering has become a staple for many Chinese food lovers. Here’s a typical process:
- Find a Restaurant: Locate a Chinese restaurant in Damascus, MD, that offers online ordering. This can be done by searching online, using food delivery apps, or visiting the restaurant’s website.
- Browse the Menu: Navigate the restaurant’s online menu. Look for categories like appetizers, entrees, and sides. Select the dishes you want to order, customizing them if necessary (e.g., specifying spice levels or substitutions).
- Add to Cart: Once you’ve chosen your items, add them to your online cart.
- Choose Takeout or Delivery: Specify whether you want to pick up your order (takeout) or have it delivered to your address.
- Provide Delivery Information (if applicable): If you choose delivery, enter your delivery address, phone number, and any special instructions for the driver.
- Review Your Order: Carefully review your order to ensure all items and customizations are correct.
- Select Payment Method: Choose your preferred payment method (credit/debit card, etc.) and enter the necessary information.
- Submit Your Order: Confirm your order and submit it. You’ll usually receive an order confirmation via email or text message.
- Wait for Pickup or Delivery: If you chose takeout, head to the restaurant at the designated time to pick up your order. If you chose delivery, wait for your order to arrive at your doorstep.
Example: A customer in Damascus, MD, uses the website of “China Wok” to order General Tso’s chicken and vegetable fried rice for delivery. They select their dishes, enter their address, pay with a credit card, and receive an estimated delivery time of 45 minutes.
Specials, Deals, and Promotions
Chinese restaurants in Damascus, MD, frequently utilize specials, deals, and promotions to attract customers and increase sales. These strategies are crucial for maintaining a competitive edge, especially within a market with multiple dining options. Promotions often target different customer segments and dining preferences, ensuring a broad appeal.
Common Promotions
Restaurants commonly implement several promotional strategies. These are designed to drive traffic during slower periods, encourage larger orders, and reward customer loyalty.
- Lunch Specials: These are popular, offering discounted meals during lunchtime. They typically include an entree, rice, and sometimes a soup or appetizer.
- Family Meals: Designed for groups, these bundles often include multiple entrees, sides, and appetizers, providing a cost-effective option for families or groups.
- Early Bird Specials: These are discounts offered during specific, usually earlier, dining hours.
- Combo Deals: Combining multiple dishes at a reduced price, often allowing customers to sample a variety of menu items.
- Seasonal Promotions: Restaurants may offer specials tied to holidays, events, or specific ingredients available during certain times of the year.
- Online Ordering Discounts: Encouraging online orders through promotional codes or discounts.
- Loyalty Programs: Rewarding repeat customers with points, discounts, or free items.
Promotional Examples
Restaurants use various methods to promote their specials. These examples showcase how different strategies are used to reach potential customers.
Example 1: “Happy Hour at Golden Dragon! Enjoy $5 appetizers and $8 cocktails from 3 PM to 6 PM daily!”
This promotion targets the afternoon crowd with attractive prices on popular items.
Example 2: “Family Feast at China Garden: Get two entrees, two sides, and an appetizer for just $35!”
This deal is aimed at families, highlighting value and convenience.
Example 3: “Lunch Special at Peking Palace: Choose any entree from our lunch menu, served with soup and fried rice, for only $9.99! Available Monday to Friday, 11 AM to 3 PM.”
This promotion is time-sensitive, targeting the lunchtime rush with a specific and affordable offer.
Example 4: “Order Online and Save! Use code ‘WELCOME10’ for 10% off your first online order at Taste of China.”
This example incentivizes online ordering and attracts new customers.
Promotion Frequency and Availability
The frequency of promotions varies, but many restaurants offer specials daily or weekly. Customers can discover these deals through several channels.
- Restaurant Websites: Many restaurants feature their current specials on their websites.
- Social Media: Platforms like Facebook and Instagram are commonly used to announce promotions.
- Printed Menus: Specials are often included on physical menus available in the restaurant.
- Email Newsletters: Customers who sign up for email lists receive promotional updates.
- Third-Party Delivery Platforms: Restaurants list their deals on platforms like Grubhub and DoorDash.
- Local Advertising: Flyers, local newspapers, and community websites often publicize local restaurant specials.
Community and Cultural Aspects
Chinese restaurants in Damascus, MD, serve as more than just places to eat; they are integral parts of the community, weaving themselves into the social fabric through shared meals, celebrations, and everyday interactions. They offer a space for families, friends, and neighbors to connect, providing a sense of familiarity and belonging. These establishments also play a role in preserving and sharing Chinese culture, introducing residents to diverse culinary traditions and customs.
Role in the Damascus, MD Community
Chinese restaurants in Damascus foster community spirit in several ways, becoming gathering spots for various occasions.
- They provide a convenient and accessible dining option for busy families, offering quick and easy meals that cater to diverse tastes.
- They serve as venues for local events and celebrations, from birthday parties to casual get-togethers.
- They often support local schools and organizations through sponsorships and donations, contributing to the well-being of the community.
- They employ local residents, providing job opportunities and contributing to the local economy.
Cultural Traditions and Celebrations
Chinese restaurants in Damascus contribute to cultural understanding by offering a taste of Chinese traditions and celebrations.
- During Chinese New Year, many restaurants offer special menus and decorations, creating a festive atmosphere and introducing the community to the holiday’s significance.
- They may participate in local festivals and events, showcasing Chinese cuisine and culture to a wider audience.
- They introduce customers to traditional dishes and ingredients, educating them about the culinary heritage of China.
- The practice of sharing food, a core value in Chinese culture, is often emphasized in the dining experience, encouraging social interaction and connection.
Family Meal Scene
Imagine the Lee family, a Damascus household, settling into a booth at Golden Dragon, a popular local Chinese restaurant. The aroma of sizzling ginger and garlic fills the air, mingling with the chatter of other diners.
The restaurant’s interior is warmly lit, with red lanterns hanging from the ceiling and traditional Chinese artwork adorning the walls. A large, round table dominates their booth, piled high with steaming dishes.
There’s a big bowl of General Tso’s chicken, its crispy coating glistening under the lights, a plate of fragrant fried rice, and a colorful array of vegetable dishes.
The parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lee, are engaged in a lively conversation with their two children, Emily and David. Emily, a teenager, is expertly using her chopsticks, while David, younger, is still mastering the technique.
They are sharing stories about their day at school and their weekend plans.
Mrs. Lee gently guides David in picking up a piece of broccoli, while Mr. Lee, with a satisfied smile, refills their tea cups. Laughter punctuates the meal, as the family members share bites of their favorite dishes.
This scene exemplifies how Chinese restaurants in Damascus provide a setting for creating lasting memories and strengthening family bonds, making them an important part of the community’s social landscape.
Comparison with Other Cuisines
Damascus, MD, offers a diverse culinary landscape, providing residents with various options beyond just Chinese food. Comparing Chinese cuisine to other popular styles in the area highlights its unique characteristics and culinary contributions. This section explores how Chinese food stands out and how it interacts with other food cultures.
Distinctive Elements of Chinese Cuisine
Chinese cuisine distinguishes itself through several key features. These elements contribute to its global popularity and appeal.
- Flavor Profiles: Chinese food employs a wide array of flavor profiles, including sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and umami. These are often balanced within a single dish, creating a complex and satisfying taste.
- Cooking Techniques: Stir-frying, steaming, braising, and deep-frying are common techniques. Stir-frying, in particular, is a hallmark, allowing for quick cooking and preservation of ingredients’ textures and flavors.
- Ingredient Diversity: The cuisine utilizes a vast range of ingredients, including various vegetables, meats, seafood, and unique items like tofu and mushrooms. The emphasis is often on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Regional Variations: Chinese cuisine is not monolithic. Different regions, such as Sichuan, Cantonese, and Hunan, boast unique culinary styles, reflecting local ingredients and traditions. Sichuan cuisine, for example, is known for its bold, spicy flavors, while Cantonese cuisine emphasizes fresh ingredients and subtle seasoning.
- Emphasis on Sharing: Many Chinese meals are designed for sharing, with multiple dishes served simultaneously, encouraging social interaction and a diverse tasting experience.
Chinese Food Versus Other Cuisines in Damascus, MD
Comparing Chinese food to other popular cuisines in Damascus, MD, reveals its distinctive features. This section examines how Chinese cuisine contrasts with and complements other culinary traditions.
- American Cuisine: American cuisine often features larger portions and simpler flavor profiles compared to the nuanced tastes of Chinese food. Chinese dishes, like General Tso’s chicken (although Americanized), offer a balance of sweet, savory, and spicy that is less common in many American dishes.
- Italian Cuisine: Italian food, with its focus on pasta, pizza, and rich sauces, often prioritizes hearty, comforting flavors. Chinese food offers a lighter, more varied approach, with a greater emphasis on vegetables and a broader range of spices and sauces.
- Mexican Cuisine: Mexican food typically centers on bold flavors like chili peppers, cumin, and cilantro. Chinese food, while also utilizing spices, tends to incorporate a wider range of ingredients and cooking techniques. The sharing style of Chinese meals contrasts with the individual plate focus often seen in Mexican restaurants.
- Indian Cuisine: Indian food shares a similar complexity of flavors with Chinese cuisine, but utilizes different spices and cooking techniques. Indian dishes frequently feature creamy sauces and a heavier use of spices like turmeric and garam masala, whereas Chinese food often relies on soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.
Fusion Dishes Blending Chinese and Other Influences
The culinary landscape of Damascus, MD, and beyond often sees the integration of different culinary styles, and there are several examples of dishes that blend Chinese and other influences.
- Chinese-American Cuisine: This fusion style is prevalent in many Chinese restaurants, including those in Damascus. Dishes like General Tso’s chicken, crab rangoon, and orange chicken are prime examples of this fusion, adapting Chinese cooking techniques and flavors to American tastes.
- Chinese-Mexican Fusion: Some restaurants experiment with combining the flavors of Chinese and Mexican cuisines. For instance, you might find a dish like a “Kung Pao burrito,” which combines the spicy flavors of Kung Pao chicken with the format of a Mexican burrito.
- Chinese-Thai Fusion: The use of similar ingredients, like ginger, garlic, and chilies, makes this fusion relatively common. Dishes might include noodles or stir-fries incorporating Thai curry pastes and coconut milk.
- Chinese-Japanese Fusion: Sushi rolls with Chinese-inspired fillings, such as Peking duck or spicy Szechuan beef, can be found in some restaurants. These rolls creatively integrate Chinese flavors into the traditional Japanese format.
Closing Notes
So, there you have it – a delicious glimpse into the world of chinese food damascus md. It’s a story of flavors, community, and the enduring appeal of Chinese cuisine. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, the culinary landscape of Damascus, Maryland, promises a delightful adventure for your taste buds. The next time you find yourself in Damascus, remember this journey and go explore it yourself.
