Cultural Mansplaining

(Four Caucasian customers enter the restaurant and get promptly seated. They are served immediately by the restaurant’s Chinese staff and place orders. One customer has spent some years in Beijing.)

Caucasian Customer: “…and white rice for everyone, please.”

(Moments later, when dishes are brought out:)

Chinese Server: “Here is a bowl of rice for you all.”

Caucasian Customer: “Uh, pardon me, but shouldn’t we each get a small bowl of rice rather than a giant bowl for us to share?”

Chinese Server: “I’m sorry, but our restaurant policy is for a large, shareable bowl for parties of three or more. However, I can go back and bring you guys each a separate bowl of rice, if you’d like.”

Caucasian Customer: “No. That’s not what I’m saying. I’m just surprised that you guys don’t give separate bowls of rice by default.”

Chinese Server: “I’d be happy to—”

Caucasian Customer: “No, that’s okay. I just want you to know that it’s how rice is served in China.”