Xi’an Dining Guide: Best Places to Satisfy Your Cravings

Xi’an, the ancient capital of China, is not just a treasure trove of history but also a paradise for food lovers. From sizzling street food to luxurious banquet halls, the city offers a culinary journey that blends tradition with innovation. Whether you’re craving the iconic Biang Biang noodles or eager to try lesser-known local delicacies, this guide will lead you to the best spots to satisfy your hunger.

The Must-Try Dishes in Xi’an

Before diving into the best dining spots, let’s highlight the dishes you absolutely cannot miss:

1. Roujiamo (Chinese Hamburger)

Often called the "Chinese burger," this savory snack features tender braised meat stuffed inside a crispy, flaky flatbread. It’s a staple of Xi’an street food.

2. Biang Biang Noodles

These thick, hand-pulled noodles are a Xi’an specialty, served with chili oil, garlic, and sometimes minced meat. The name comes from the sound of the dough being slapped against the counter.

3. Yangrou Paomo (Lamb Soup with Bread)

A hearty dish where diners tear pieces of flatbread into a bowl, which is then topped with rich lamb broth and tender meat.

4. Cold Noodles (Liangpi)

Perfect for hot days, these chewy wheat or rice noodles are served with a tangy, spicy sauce and fresh vegetables.

5. Persimmon Cakes (Shizi Bing)

A sweet treat made from local persimmons, often stuffed with nuts or red bean paste and pan-fried to perfection.

Top Dining Spots in Xi’an

Now that you know what to eat, here are the best places to find these dishes:

1. Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie)

No visit to Xi’an is complete without exploring the bustling Muslim Quarter. This historic area is packed with food stalls, restaurants, and vendors serving authentic Hui Muslim cuisine.

Best Eats Here:

• Lao Sun Jia’s Roujiamo – One of the most famous spots for this iconic snack.
• Jia San Guan Tang Bao – Known for its juicy soup dumplings.
• Various Liangpi Stalls – Grab a refreshing bowl from any of the street vendors.

2. Defachang Dumpling Restaurant

If you love dumplings, this legendary restaurant is a must-visit. They serve over 100 varieties, each with unique fillings and flavors.

What to Order:

• Imperial Dumpling Banquet – A lavish spread of dumplings shaped like animals, flowers, and even historical figures.
• Sour & Spicy Dumpling Soup – A comforting bowl with a bold flavor profile.

3. Tong Sheng Xiang Restaurant

A favorite among locals for its authentic Shaanxi cuisine, this restaurant offers a more upscale dining experience without losing traditional flavors.

Signature Dishes:

• Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou) – Melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
• Crispy Fried Fish with Sweet & Sour Sauce – A crowd-pleaser.

4. Xi’an Biang Biang Noodles (Various Locations)

Several restaurants specialize in this dish, but the one near the Bell Tower is particularly famous. Watch chefs hand-pull the noodles before your eyes.

Pro Tip:

Ask for extra chili oil if you like it spicy!

5. Fanji Lazhi Roujiamo

Another top contender for the best roujiamo in town, this spot is beloved for its juicy, flavorful meat and perfectly baked bread.

Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

Beyond the tourist hotspots, Xi’an has plenty of lesser-known eateries worth discovering:

1. Wei’s Noodle House

A small, family-run spot serving some of the best hand-pulled noodles in the city.

2. Qin’s Lamb Soup

Tucked away in a quiet alley, this place serves an unforgettable bowl of yangrou paomo.

3. Auntie Li’s Persimmon Cakes

A tiny stall near the Great Mosque, where you can watch the cakes being made fresh.

Food Markets & Night Bites

For those who love exploring food markets, Xi’an won’t disappoint:

1. Sajinqiao Night Market

A lively spot where you can sample everything from grilled skewers to sweet desserts.

2. Dongxin Street Food Street

Less touristy than the Muslim Quarter but equally delicious, with a focus on local flavors.

Tips for Dining in Xi’an

• Cash is King: Many small vendors don’t accept digital payments.
• Spice Levels: Xi’an food can be spicy—ask for "wei la" (mild) if needed.
• Peak Hours: Popular spots get crowded around lunch (12-2 PM) and dinner (6-8 PM).

With this guide in hand, you’re ready to embark on a culinary adventure through Xi’an. From historic alleys to modern eateries, every bite tells a story of this ancient city’s rich flavors.