Senior citizens select dishes at the restaurant. [Photo/Hangzhou Daily]

A neighborhood canteen in Hangzhou has earned the prestigious National Two-Diamond Restaurant rating, becoming the first community dining hall in East China's Zhejiang province to receive the honor.

The canteen, named Modern Fan'er, is located near Shaoxing Road in Gongshu district.

The national diamond rating, guided by the Ministry of Commerce, evaluates restaurants on more than a dozen criteria, including food quality, safety, service standards, hygiene and management, with one to five diamonds awarded based on a detailed evaluation.

The canteen's success is built on strict ingredient sourcing, open-kitchen cooking and a focus on healthy Hangzhou-style cuisine. All dishes are cooked fresh with no pre-made meals, using locally sourced poultry, fish and traditional handmade tofu. The menu features about 30 breakfast items and more than 50 seasonal dishes for lunch, emphasizing light, low-oil flavors and natural taste.

Since its trial opening in October 2024, the canteen has attracted 400 to 500 diners daily, serving both elderly residents and nearby office workers with affordable, nutritious meals.

As the Spring Festival approaches, traditional local specialties such as soy-braised duck, cured meats, sausages and spring rolls have been added to the menu, bringing festive flavors to the neighborhood.

Some dishes served at the restaurant. [Photo/Hangzhou Daily]