Who in Bianjing Hasn’t Eaten Yet? (Gourmet Delicacies)

Xue Li, a former food influencer from the twenty-first century, transmigrates into the body of a young woman in the Song Dynasty after dying from gastric perforation caused by overeating for her livestreams. The original owner was an orphan who lost her parents and committed suicide by jumping into a well. Xue Li decides to revive the family’s culinary legacy, using her modern knowledge to create unique dishes. She starts by selling mutton buns near Xingguo Temple in Bianjing, but faces immediate hostility from a rival shopkeeper, Zhang, who bribes thugs to frame her for food poisoning, forcing her to close her first stall. Undeterred, she relocates to a new spot, adopting a veil to maintain an air of mystery and attract customers with her innovative "Ziying Rolls" and later, "Cloud Flaky Buns," which feature thin, layered pastry and diverse fillings.

Her business success draws the attention of Qi Xun, the Marquis of Ningwu, a decorated general recovering from severe battle wounds and a chronic stomach ailment. The Emperor has issued a proclamation seeking a master chef for the Marquis, but previous attempts by famous chefs have failed due to Qi Xun’s挑剔 palate and strict dietary restrictions. Qi Xun’s close guard, Yun Feng, accidentally discovers Xue Li’s stall after enduring a grueling culinary trial at the Marquis’s manor. Captivated by the Cloud Flaky Buns and a perilla drink, Yun Feng becomes a loyal advocate for Xue Li’s food, frequently visiting her stall and praising her skills to his comrades. His enthusiasm eventually reaches Qi Xun, who, despite his initial skepticism and cold demeanor, becomes intrigued by the aroma and reputation of Xue Li’s cooking.

Xue Li expands her menu to include health-focused items like the "Seven-White Beauty Broth" and "Drunken Immortal Sobering Soup," catering to the social trends and needs of Bianjing’s residents. Her marketing strategies, such as limited-time offers and strategic pricing, generate significant buzz and long queues. Meanwhile, Qi Xun’s condition remains precarious, and his household is fraught with political tension and suspicion of spies. The Marquis’s manor is under scrutiny, and the chef selection process is partly a test of loyalty and security. Yun Feng’s repeated visits to Xue Li’s stall raise suspicions among the manor’s guards, but he remains devoted to securing her culinary expertise for his lord.

The narrative intertwines Xue Li’s entrepreneurial journey with the political and personal struggles of the imperial court. Her food becomes a bridge between the common people and the nobility, challenging social barriers. As Qi Xun’s health deteriorates, the pressure to find a suitable chef intensifies. Xue Li’s unique approach to cooking, combining taste with medicinal benefits, positions her as a potential solution to the Marquis’s ailments. The story highlights her resilience against local bullying, her clever business acumen, and the growing interest from powerful figures like Qi Xun. Her path is fraught with challenges, from regulatory hurdles in the night market to the high stakes of serving the nobility, yet she remains determined to build a prosperous future and honor the memory of her predecessors.

Key turning points include Xue Li’s recovery from the loss of her initial stall, the introduction of her signature Cloud Flaky Buns, and the accidental discovery of her food by Yun Feng. These events set the stage for her potential entry into the Marquis’s manor. The contrast between her humble stall and the grandeur of the Marquis’s residence underscores the social mobility achievable through talent and perseverance. The narrative also explores the cultural significance of food in Song Dynasty society, from street vendors to imperial kitchens. Xue Li’s modern perspective allows her to innovate within traditional constraints, creating a niche that appeals to diverse clientele. Her interactions with customers, from commoners to guards, reveal her charisma and business savvy.

As the story progresses, the connection between Xue Li and Qi Xun deepens, though their interactions remain indirect through Yun Feng. The Marquis’s growing curiosity about the mysterious veil-wearing chef adds tension and anticipation. Xue Li’s dual life as a street vendor and a potential court chef creates dramatic irony, as she navigates the dangers of the culinary competition while maintaining her independence. The political intrigue surrounding Qi Xun’s recovery and the Emperor’s intentions adds a layer of suspense, suggesting that Xue Li’s culinary skills may play a crucial role in broader court dynamics. Her journey is one of survival, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence in a challenging historical setting.