Tien Jin was busy as soon as noon arrived and the doors were unlocked. Some diners elected to enjoy the buffet, others were selecting from the luncheon menu, and still others were making their choices from the extensive Chinese menu or needed no menu at all. There were lengthy non-English-language consultations between the staff and some tables of customers. There were lots of noodle dishes and clay pots to be seen. At least one large order was made up to go, and all the menus say that to-go orders are welcomed (call 892-6699).

I love shredded pork in garlic sauce. Nothing has measured up since Pao’s Mandarin decamped from downtown and the Yunnan Dynasty people closed their buffet establishment of another name in the basement of a building on Congress. Along the way, there’s been pork chopped too coarsely or not adequately trimmed; there’s been gelatinous sauce; there’s been worse. Today, I found what I’d been missing. I have nothing but compliments for the potstickers and the hot and sour soup and other items. But it’s the pork in garlic sauce that will lure me back.

Everything came to the table piping hot. This was a comfortable place for solitary diners, male and female, and for families including small children. There are tables and there are booths. In the background, instrumental Chinese music could be heard, but conversation was more prominent. Another time, I’d also like to try one of the fish specials. The buffet was appealing, too, and included fruit. The prices are more than reasonable, and the quality of everything seen or sampled is excellent. My fortune? “You will be showered with good luck tomorrow!” The exclamation point is included. I’m still awaiting fulfillment on this one: “Soon, you will receive an entire new wardrobe of clothing.” I’m so happy that Tien Jin is where a whim took us today. That is indeed an example of good fortune.