Final answer:
The big surprise is the purchase of a restaurant, which was made possible by years of saving. Descriptions of the restaurant suggest a place steeped in family history and tradition, with a bustling and welcoming atmosphere.
Step-by-step explanation:
The big surprise in the passage is the purchase of the restaurant, as indicated by the phrase "After saving up for years, Papa and I bought this restaurant." The manner in which Nana and Papa made this surprise happen is revealed through the phrase "saving up for years," which shows their dedication and effort toward achieving this goal. The description of the restaurant can be gleaned from various parts of the provided text snippets, which portray it as familiar and nostalgic to the speaker as indicated by the deep familiarity and personal connections portrayed, such as familiarizing ingredients in the kitchen and the recognizable furniture.
The expectant smile suggests a welcoming ambiance, while the scurrying young people and background music convey a bustling atmosphere. Additionally, the smell of something delicious hints at the culinary offerings of the restaurant. Moreover, the narrative includes a history - the migration of family by sailing ship - and a sense of past pride, like the fondness for mahogany furniture, that may also reflect the character of the restaurant.