Xi’an cuisine blends bold flavors and ancient traditions!
Come Hungry, Leave Amazed
The Xi'an food Guide

When it comes to Xi’an cuisine, we’re talking about a thousand-year culinary legacy! This ancient capital doesn’t just serve up mouth-watering “flavors of thirteen dynasties” – it’s packed with the authentic street food vibes that make your heart sing.
From steaming hot lamb soup with bread to crispy Chinese hamburgers, from spicy and aromatic hot soup to refreshing cold noodles, Xi’an’s food scene perfectly mirrors the city itself: steeped in rich history yet totally down-to-earth and approachable.
When you visit Xi’an, don’t just see the Terracotta Warriors and climb the City Wall – let your taste buds experience the most authentic side of this incredible city!
Morning Markets – Dawn’s Authentic Xi’an Vibes
Morning markets typically open at dawn, offering various local snacks, delicious food, fresh fruits and vegetables.They’re the soul of experiencing that authentic “Chang’an street life atmosphere.” Here are three genuinely local morning markets, each with its own unique character.

Sajinqiao Morning Market – A Food Lover’s Paradise
Hours: 6:00-9:00 AM
Location: Sajinqiao Road, Lianhu District (Exit B of Sajinqiao Station, Metro Line 1)
Must-Try Foods: Fatty’s Steamed Glutinous Rice Cake, Yang Tianyu’s Cured Beef Sandwich, Li Weiyi’s Meatball Hot Soup
What Makes It Special: This place brings together Xi’an’s most authentic breakfast stalls, with most vendors carrying on family recipes passed down through generations – the flavors are absolutely genuine.

Xiaonanmen Morning Market – Feast Under the Ancient City Wall
Hours: 6:00-9:00 AM
Location: West Section of Huancheng West Road, Beilin District (near Guangming Gate of the old city wall)
Must-Try Foods: Pork Elbow Sandwich, Jasmine Soy Milk, Oil Tea with Fried Dough Twists, Honey Cold Rice Dumplings, Imperial Crispy Meat Pie
What Makes It Special: Enjoying delicious food at the foot of the ancient city wall – perfect for foodies who love lively atmospheres and Instagram-worthy shots.

Dongcang Morning Market – The Locals’ Hidden Gem
Hours: 6:00-9:00 AM
Location: Dongcangmen Road, Beilin District (Heping Gate Station, Metro Line 4)
Must-Try Foods: Hot Soup + Pan-fried Buns, Sticky Sweet Steamed Rice Cake, Hu Family Steamed Buns, Song’s Secret Recipe Bean Skin
What Makes It Special: Mostly locals, fewer tourists, perfect for those seeking a more authentic, quieter experience with budget-friendly prices.
Night Markets – A Foodie’s Never-Sleeping Paradise
Muslim Quarter Area - The Soul of Xi'an's Night Markets



The Muslim Quarter, historically known as Huifang, sits near the famous Bell Tower. It’s actually a collective name for over ten streets and alleys including Beiyuanmen, Xiyangshi, Dapiyuan, and Sajinqiao.When evening lights come on, this area transforms into a bustling food wonderland.
Tip: The main street is great for soaking up the atmosphere, but the real gems are hidden in the side alleys off the main drag. These spots offer better flavors, more reasonable prices, and aren’t as commercialized as the main street. Dapiyuan Street is especially worth exploring – it’s home to many century-old establishments and is a local favorite with fewer tourists.
Getting There: Located near the Bell Tower, take public transport to Bell Tower/Drum Tower Station or Guangji Street Station.






Must-Try Signature Dishes
Chinese Hamburger (Roujiamo)
Slow-braised pork or beef is chopped up and stuffed into crispy, freshly baked bread, then drizzled with rich, flavorful juices. Crispy outside, tender inside, absolutely bursting with meaty goodness.
Lamb Soup with Bread (Yangrou Paomo)
You tear the flatbread into small pieces by hand (the smaller, the better for absorbing flavors), then it’s covered with piping hot lamb broth and topped with tender meat and seasonings. The bread-tearing process is half the fun!
Minced Meat Noodles (Saozi Mian)
Hand-pulled noodles topped with a mix of diced pork, eggs, wood ear mushrooms, carrots, and other ingredients, then mixed together for a deliciously tangy and savory flavor.
Spicy Soup (Hula Tang)
Beef broth loaded with gluten, tofu skin, wood ear mushrooms, and plenty of white pepper, thickened to a hearty consistency. It’s spicy, warming, and a Xi’an breakfast favorite.
Cold Noodles (Liangpi)
Rice-flour noodles steamed and cooled, served with gluten, cucumber strips, and a tangy-spicy sauce. Refreshingly smooth and especially perfect for beating the summer heat.
You can also pick up traditional crafts like paper cuttings, persimmon cakes, and specialty baked goods along the streets.
Here’s a Local Secret: If there’s a long line, the food is definitely worth it – just follow the crowds!
Helpful Tips:
- The old shops in the side alleys off the main street offer better value – definitely worth exploring
- Peak times (weekends, holidays) get crowded, so be prepared to wait
- Try to avoid prime meal times for a better experience
Xi’an’s Top-Rated Restaurants (2025 Edition)
Fine Dining with Local Character (Black Pearl Certified)


Chang’an Hui – Authentic Shaanxi Cuisine(Around $50 per person)
Rating: 2025 Black Pearl One-Diamond
This restaurant blends traditional Shaanxi recipes with a modern flair, earning it a spot among just 370 Black Pearl restaurants globally. Expect top-tier local ingredients, skillful cooking, and an atmosphere perfect for savoring regional culture. Ideal for travelers wanting an authentic yet upscale Shaanxi dining experience.
Signature dishes:
- Gourd Chicken (Hu Lu Ji) – Tender chicken simmered inside a gourd, praised for its depth of flavor and comforting aroma .
- Braised Lamb Leg (Zhu Rou Tui) – Rich and succulent, travelers noted the meat “falls right off the bone”.
- Hand-Pulled Biang‑biang Mian – Broad, chewy noodles in spicy chili oil – locals call it a must-try for noodle lovers


Cai Feng Lou (Tanghua Hualuxe Hotel)(Around $50 per person)
Rating: 2025 Black Pearl One-Diamond (4th year in a row)
Set inside a five-star hotel, Cai Feng Lou delivers a premium experience with beautifully presented Chinese dishes inspired by local traditions. With its consistent quality and international-friendly service, it’s a top choice for business dinners or a polished night out.
Signature dishes:
- Kung Pao Shrimp – Extra‑large breaded shrimp in a tangy-sweet sauce, described as “deliciously balanced with cashews”
- Abalone & Chicken in Cast Iron Bowl – Tender abalone and chicken with garlic—reviewers highlighted its “perfect seasoning and texture”
- Steamed Stuffed Pumpkin with Fried Rice – Delightful presentation; diners loved the savory balance and light sweetness .


Da Dong Sea Cucumber Restaurant (Xi’an SKP-Around $60 per person)
Rating: 2025 Black Pearl One-Diamond
Famous across China, Da Dong is known for modern, creative Chinese cuisine, especially premium seafood. Located conveniently inside the SKP luxury mall, it’s a great spot for pairing shopping with a memorable meal. Bonus: the presentation is as Instagram-worthy as the taste.
Signature dishes:
- Braised Spiny Sea Cucumber – Prepared tableside from Japanese sea cucumber; diners rave about its soft, chewy texture
- Signature Peking Duck – Crispy skin, succulent 22-day-old duck served with traditional condiments; described as “phenomenal”
- June Drunken Crab – A seasonal special noted for its rich, aromatic sauce and visual flair


Lian Western Cuisine(Around $80 per person)
Rating: 2025 Black Pearl One-Diamond
If you’re craving something familiar with a local spin, Lian combines Western-style dishes with Chinese flavors, offering a unique fusion menu that’s both comforting and adventurous.
Signature dishes:
- Soy‑Glazed Duck Breast – A Chinese-West fusion that earned praise for its crispy skin and balanced sauce.
- Truffle-infused Mushroom Risotto – Creamy, aromatic, and lauded for marrying Italian technique with local ingredients.
- Chili‑flavored Roasted Cauliflower – A hit with vegetarians; spicy, smoky, and bold.


Mingjia Family Banquet (Qujiang Branch-Around $40 per person)
Rating: 2025 Black Pearl One-Diamond
Located in the scenic Qujiang district, Ming’s focuses on high-quality ingredients and refined Chinese cuisine. It’s perfect for those seeking a quieter setting with an emphasis on technique and taste.
Signature dishes:
- Steamed Whole Yellow Croaker – Fresh and tender fish; diners love the light soy-ginger taste and presentation.
- Braised Pork Belly with Preserved Vegetables (Mei Cai Kou Rou) – Soft, richly flavored, and repeatedly praised for melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Stir‑fried Seasonal Greens – Simple yet expertly cooked veggies that perfectly complement richer dishes.


Beijing Kitchen (Xi’an SKP-Around $30 per person)
Rating: 2025 Black Pearl One-Diamond
Craving Northern Chinese flavors? This elegant restaurant brings Beijing-style dishes to Xi’an, all served in a modern, globally-minded setting. Bonus: it’s also located in SKP, making it super convenient after a day of retail therapy.
Signature dishes:
- Beijing-style Roast Duck – A northern classic delivered with modern flair; skin and meat earn top marks
- Crispy Salted Pork Ribs – Well-seasoned, crispy on the outside, juicy inside—frequent hits with diners.
- Scallion-Fried Sea Cucumber – Highlighted by reviewers for its sticky texture and scallion aroma