Xi'an Famous Food Guide

There is an ancient Chinese remark still going around like this "Food is the paramount necessity of people." Food is one of the most important parts of your journey. Shaanxi Cuisine which is known as Qin Cuisine is the culinary representative in northwest China. Especially, Xi'an has its own diversity and is proud of its unique cuisine. That will be best described as a fusion of Middle Eastern and Chinese foods.
Must-Try Dishes in Xi'an
Xi'an famous foods include the Liang Pi (Cold Skin), Mutton Paomo, Rou Jia Mo, Guan Tang Baozi, and Xi'an Dumplings. Where could you find these Xi'an snacks? The Muslim Quarter is a good place to look for Xi'an restaurants.
Biángbiáng Noodles
Biángbiáng noodles are one of the most famous dishes of Shaanxi cuisine, and when you try them you will have a fascinating mix of taste and texture. These noodles are known for their wide, thick, and belt-like shape, which is complemented by a rich and spicy sauce that typically includes ingredients such as chili oil, garlic, and vinegar, and is sometimes topped with vegetables and braised meat. The exact origin of Biángbiáng noodles is shrouded in mystery, with stories ranging from creative peasants crafting the noodles as a quick, filling meal, to more poetic tales involving historical figures. What sets these noodles apart is not just their unique taste but also the complex character "Biáng", used to represent them, which is one of the most intricate characters in the Chinese language, suggesting a deep cultural significance.
Xi'an, being the capital of Shaanxi province, is the undisputed home of Biángbiáng noodles. The best places to enjoy these noodles are often found in local eateries and street food stalls throughout the city. The Muslim Quarter is particularly famous for its authentic Shaanxi dishes, including Biángbiáng noodles. For travelers seeking the most authentic experience, restaurants like "Biángbiáng Mian" specialize in this dish, offering a taste that is both traditional and unforgettable. Another recommended spot is "Xi'an Biang Biang", known for its adherence to traditional cooking methods and quality ingredients, ensuring a genuine taste of Shaanxi's culinary heritage. Whether you're navigating the bustling streets of the Muslim Quarter or exploring the numerous dedicated noodle houses, Xi'an offers an abundance of choices to savor the authentic flavor of Biángbiáng noodles.

Mutton Paomo (Lamb Stew with Bread)
Mutton Paomo is one of the signature dishes of the area. There is a saying: You must do two things when traveling to Xi'an: One is to see the Terracotta Warriors and the other one is to taste Mutton Paomo. It consists of a piece of thick, chewy bread and a kettle of lamb soup. It will be better if the bread is shredded into pieces that are as small as possible. Then it will look like the size of the peanut. In some restaurants, they have already shredded the bread for you. It is normally also served with pickled garlic and chili. If you do not like lamb, they will offer a beef version for you.
Cultural Significance
Yangrou Paomo holds a special place in the heart of Xi'an's food culture, embodying the city's history and communal spirit. Its origins are steeped in legend, with stories dating back to the Tang Dynasty, reflecting the dish's deep roots in local traditions. Beyond its delicious taste, Yangrou Paomo is a symbol of hospitality and warmth in Shaanxi province, often served to guests and during special occasions. It represents a culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations, maintaining its status as a beloved staple of Xi'an cuisine.
Recommended Eateries
- Tong Sheng Xiang: Renowned for its beef and lamb Paomo, Tong Sheng Xiang, located near the Bell Tower, is a historic restaurant that offers one of the most authentic experiences of this dish. Its broth is rich and aromatic, a result of simmering for hours to achieve the perfect depth of flavor.
- Lao Sun Jia: Another venerable establishment, Lao Sun Jia has been serving Yangrou Paomo to locals and tourists alike for over a century. The restaurant prides itself on its traditional cooking methods and the quality of its ingredients, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
- Laosunjia Restaurant on Zhubashi Street: Known for its traditional Shaanxi dishes, this restaurant offers a flavorful and genuine Yangrou Paomo, prepared with meticulous care and served in a setting that evokes the historic charm of Xi'an.
Rou Jia Mo (Chinese Hamburger)
Rou Jia Mo, also known as the Chinese Hamburger is a delicious street food in all of Mainland China, specifically in Xi’an. This simple yet flavorful dish consists of a hearty filling of braised meat, typically pork or beef, shredded and tucked into a crispy, toasted wheat flour bun. The meat is slow-cooked in a mixture of spices and seasonings, resulting in a tender, flavorful filling that contrasts beautifully with the bun's crunchy exterior.
What Makes It Unique
What makes Rou Jia Mo so unique? The slow-cooked meat is mixed with rich aromas and spices, and all that is perfectly served in a crispy bun. Unlike Western hamburgers, Rou Jia Mo focuses on the profound flavors developed through long hours of braising, highlighting the depth of Chinese culinary techniques.
Top Places to Try It
In Xi'an, several spots are famed for their rendition of Rou Jia Mo, each with its own secret recipe and loyal following. Some of the top places to enjoy an authentic Rou Jia Mo include:
- Laoyan Rou Jia Mo on East Street: Known for its succulent pork filling and perfectly toasted buns, Laoyan is a must-visit for first-timers.
- Fan Ji Rou Jia Mo: Located in the bustling Muslim Quarter, Fan Ji offers a delicious lamb version that's rich in flavor and spices, reflecting the area's Muslim heritage.
- Tong Sheng Xiang: This establishment, situated near the Bell Tower, is renowned for its beef Rou Jia Mo, offering a unique taste that sets it apart from the pork and lamb versions.

Liángpí (Cold Skin Noodles)
Liángpí, in Chinese, translates to "cold skin noodles," is a refreshing and flavorful dish that originates from Shaanxi Province, home to the ancient city of Xi'an. The main components of Liángpí are wheat or rice flour noodles, which are served cold and accompanied by a variety of toppings and sauces. Key ingredients include thinly sliced cucumber, bean sprouts, and sometimes sliced tofu, which add a crunchy and fresh contrast to the chewy noodles. The dish is dressed in a tangy and spicy sauce made from vinegar, chili oil, garlic, and sometimes sesame paste, creating a complex flavor profile that's both bold and refreshing.
Taste Profile
Liángpí offers a unique taste experience that is characterized by its bold, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. The sauce, a vital component of the dish, combines the acidity of vinegar with the heat of chili oil, the aroma of garlic, and the richness of sesame paste, creating a multi-layered flavor that is both invigorating and satisfying. The noodles themselves are smooth and chewy, providing a delightful texture that complements the crunchiness of the fresh vegetables. The overall taste profile is a harmonious blend of spicy, tangy, savory, and fresh flavors, making Liángpí a perfect dish for hot summer days or whenever one desires a light yet flavorful meal.
Where to Find the Most Authentic Liangpi in Xi’an
To experience the most authentic Liángpí, one should head to Xi'an, where this dish has been perfected over generations. Here are some top spots where you can find exemplary versions of Liángpí:
- Xi'an Muslim Quarter: This bustling area is not only a cultural and historical site but also a culinary haven for traditional Shaanxi dishes, including Liángpí. Small street food vendors and eateries dot the area, offering authentic and homemade Liángpí that captures the essence of this traditional dish.
- Jia San Guan Tang Baozi: Located in the Muslim Quarter, this popular eatery is known for its traditional Shaanxi cuisine. While famous for its dumplings, it also serves one of the best Liángpí in Xi'an, praised for its perfectly textured noodles and flavorful sauce.
- Qin Tang Fu: Another must-visit restaurant that specializes in Shaanxi cuisine, Qin Tang Fu offers a memorable Liángpí experience with its attention to the authentic flavors and ingredients of the dish.
Each of these places in Xi'an offers a unique take on Liángpí, staying true to the traditional methods of preparation and ingredients. Sampling Liángpí in its city of origin allows diners to experience the rich culinary heritage of Shaanxi Province and enjoy this refreshing dish at its best.

Qishan Saozi Noodles
The unique aspect of Qishan Saozi Noodles lies in their meticulous preparation and the harmonious balance of sour, spicy, and savory notes. The dish is characterized by its thin, slightly chewy noodles and a broth that is a complex blend of garlic, vinegar, tomato, and various spices, including star anise and Sichuan pepper. The inclusion of ingredients like tofu, carrot, potato, and scrambled egg enriches the dish, adding multiple layers of texture and flavor. Unlike many other noodle dishes that might prioritize either spice or umami, Qishan Saozi Noodles masterfully combines a broad spectrum of tastes, making each bite an intricate experience.
Best Spots to Enjoy It
In Xi'an, several eateries are famed for their authentic Qishan Saozi Noodles, each offering a unique take on this traditional dish:
- Qishan Saozi Noodle Restaurant: With branches across Xi'an, this restaurant specializes in the dish, serving up bowls that are true to the traditional recipe, offering a genuine taste of Qishan's culinary heritage.
- Lao Sun Jia: Established over a century ago, Lao Sun Jia is renowned for its historical recipes and offers a version of Saozi Noodles that is both authentic and rich in flavor.
- Fang Ji Qishan Saozi Noodles: A favorite among locals, Fang Ji provides a hearty, flavorful bowl of Saozi Noodles, praised for its authentic taste and balanced seasoning.

Guan Tang Baozi
Guan Tang Baozi is a kind of steamed bun served with sauces inside. It is one of the most famous specialties and it is another Xi'an snack which highly recommended to try. A filling of ground beef and chopped vegetables is mixed with gravy before the paper-thin skin is sealed. It makes these dumplings delightfully juicy.
Guan Tang Baozi, or soup-filled buns, is a celebrated snack in the vibrant culinary landscape of Xi'an, distinguished by its unique preparation and delightful taste. These buns are meticulously crafted, enclosing a savory broth and a variety of fillings, such as minced pork, beef, or lamb, combined with seasonings and vegetables. The magic of Guan Tang Baozi lies in its ability to encapsulate a rich, flavorful soup within a soft, delicate dough, offering a burst of taste with each bite.
Where you can try it
Xi'an's streets and eateries offer authentic Guan Tang Baozi, with several notable spots famed for their version of this delicacy:
- Jia San Guan Tang Baozi: Located in the Muslim Quarter, Jia San is one of the most renowned places to try Guan Tang Baozi in Xi'an. Their baozi are known for their rich, savory soup and perfectly seasoned fillings.
- Tong Sheng Xiang: With a long history and a reputation for traditional Shaanxi cuisine, Tong Sheng Xiang offers Guan Tang Baozi that are beloved by both locals and tourists for their delicate dough and flavorful broth.
De Fa Chang: Another staple in Xi'an's culinary scene, De Fa Chang is celebrated for its wide variety of baozi, including the soup-filled Guan Tang Baozi, which is praised for their juicy fillings and aromatic broth.
Street Food and Night Markets
Overview of Street Food Culture in Xi'an
Xi'an, a city with a rich historical tapestry, is equally renowned for its vibrant street food culture, a living showcase of its diverse culinary heritage. The bustling streets and alleyways of Xi'an come alive with the aromas of countless delicacies, offering a sensory journey through flavors that have evolved over centuries. Street food in Xi'an is not just about eating; it's an integral part of the city's identity, reflecting the blend of Chinese and Silk Road influences that have shaped the region's cuisine.
Highlighting famous street food areas and night markets.
- Muslim Quarter: The Muslim Quarter is one of the most popular attractions in Xi'an. The Xi'an snacks here attract a large number of tourists every day. The Muslim Quarter is so close to the Drum Tower that it is easy to find it. The restaurants here serve their food at relatively cheap prices. You also can find many street foods here. It is mostly sold after sunset or near the nightclubs after 11:00 PM. The street food offers a variety of local dishes, ranging from noodle soups, dumplings, and hot pots. The area of street food has an incredibly strong scent mixed from all the surrounding kitchens and street food vendors all so close to each other. Most of these snacks and dishes can date back hundreds of years and each with its own story.
- Yongxingfang: Unlike the bustling Muslim Quarter, Yongxingfang focuses on showcasing traditional Shaanxi cuisine in a more organized and thematic setting. This area is a cultural and culinary park that recreates ancient Xi'an streets, offering a taste of authentic local dishes like Qishan Saozi Noodles, Guokui, and various types of traditional dumplings. Yongxingfang is an excellent place for food enthusiasts to delve deeper into Shaanxi's culinary heritage in a more relaxed environment.
Tips on navigating street food markets and what to look out for
- Explore with Openness: The diversity of Xi'an's street food can be overwhelming. Approach with curiosity and openness to try new and unfamiliar dishes.
- Safety First: Stick to busy stalls with high turnover, a sign of freshness and popularity among locals.
- Carry Cash: Many vendors do not accept digital payments or credit cards, so having small denominations of cash on hand is essential.
- Ask Locals: Engage with residents or vendors for recommendations on what to try or where to find the best version of a dish. Locals are often proud to share their culinary culture with visitors.
- Mindful Eating: Be cautious with spicy or particularly exotic foods if you're not accustomed to them. Start small to see how your stomach reacts.
Navigating the street food markets and night markets of Xi'an is an adventure in itself, offering not just a taste of the city's best flavors but also a glimpse into its soul. Whether it's the lively Muslim Quarter or the traditional Yongxingfang, each bite tells a story of history, culture, and community that is essential to the Xi'an experience.

Traditional Restaurants in Xi’an
Xi'an, a city with a profound historical legacy, is also home to a rich tapestry of culinary traditions. Amidst its modern growth, several traditional restaurants have stood the test of time, serving as custodians of authentic Xi'an cuisine. These establishments not only offer a taste of the city's gastronomic delights but also embody the cultural and historical essence of Xi'an. They provide a culinary journey back in time, offering dishes that have been perfected over generations.
Featured Traditional Restaurants
- Defachang Dumpling Restaurant: A name synonymous with Xi'an's culinary scene, Defachang is celebrated for its extensive variety of dumplings. This venerable establishment has carved a niche for itself by serving dumplings that are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the palate. Each dumpling is meticulously crafted, with fillings that range from traditional pork, beef, and vegetable mixes to more elaborate and unique combinations, reflecting regional flavors and ingredients. Dining at Defachang offers an immersive experience of the art of dumpling making, where each piece tells a story of flavor and tradition.
- Tong Sheng Xiang: Established in 1898, Tong Sheng Xiang holds a revered place in the heart of locals and travelers alike, famed particularly for its Beef and Lamb Paomo. This dish, a comforting stew served with torn pieces of flatbread soaked in the broth, is a hallmark of Shaanxi cuisine. Tong Sheng Xiang's version is lauded for its rich, aromatic broth and tender meat, a recipe that has been refined over decades. The restaurant's enduring popularity is a testament to its commitment to maintaining the authentic taste and high quality of traditional Xi'an dishes.

Exploring the Xi'an famous food is akin to embarking on a journey through time, where each dish tells a story of cultural confluence and ancient traditions. In a city where "Food is the paramount necessity of people," the diverse and rich flavors of Shaanxi Cuisine, particularly Qin Cuisine, stand as a testament to the historical depth and cultural significance of Xi'an. The fusion of Middle Eastern and Chinese culinary practices has given rise to unique gastronomy that is both intriguing and delightful, inviting travelers and food enthusiasts to indulge in an unparalleled dining experience.
The bustling streets, especially in areas like the Muslim Quarter, serve not just as a hub for gastronomic delights but as vibrant canvases showcasing the city's living culture. Eateries like Tong Sheng Xiang and Lao Sun Jia, with their deep-rooted histories and commitment to tradition, offer more than just meals; they provide a connection to the past, enveloping diners in the warmth of authentic Xi'an hospitality.
The Muslim Quarter brings all the taste of history food and the tradition of Xi’an. This journey through Xi'an's streets and its traditional restaurants is not just a culinary adventure but a voyage into the heart of Chinese culture, where food is celebrated as the paramount expression of human connection and cultural identity. In Xi'an, every dish, every flavor, and every aroma invites you to explore, understand, and appreciate the rich tapestry of stories that make up this ancient city's essence.