Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Popular Dishes and Their Cultural Significance

1.1. Biang Biang Noodles (Biángbiáng Miàn, 油泼扯面)

Description: Known for their wide, hand-pulled noodles, Biang Biang noodles are topped with a spicy, tangy sauce made from chili oil, garlic, soy sauce, and vinegar, often accompanied by vegetables and sometimes meat.
Cultural Significance: The dish is a staple of Shaanxi cuisine and reflects the region’s love for bold, spicy flavors. The character for "biang" is famously complex, symbolizing the intricate nature of the dish.
Where to Try: Visit First Noodle Under the Sun (天下第一面) or Tong Sheng Xiang (同盛祥) for authentic versions.
Cost: Around 15–30 RMB per bowl.

1.2. Roujiamo (肉夹馍)

Description: Often called the "Chinese hamburger," this dish consists of a crispy, baked flatbread stuffed with tender, slow-cooked meat (usually pork or lamb) and seasoned with spices.
Cultural Significance: Roujiamo is one of the oldest sandwiches in the world, with origins tracing back to the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE). It’s a quick, affordable street food beloved by locals.
Where to Try: Fan Ji Roujiamo (樊记肉夹馍) is a famous spot.
Cost: 8–15 RMB per sandwich.

1.3. Yangrou Paomo (羊肉泡馍)

Description: A hearty soup made with lamb or beef, served with crumbled flatbread that diners break into small pieces themselves before the broth is poured over.
Cultural Significance: This dish is a symbol of Xi’an’s Muslim Hui community and reflects the city’s Silk Road heritage. It’s a communal dish that encourages diners to take their time and savor the experience.
Where to Try: Tong Sheng Xiang (同盛祥) near the Bell Tower is a classic choice.
Cost: 30–50 RMB per bowl.

1.4. Liangpi (凉皮)

Description: Cold, chewy noodles made from wheat or rice flour, served with a tangy sauce of vinegar, chili oil, garlic, and sesame paste, often topped with cucumber and bean sprouts.
Cultural Significance: A refreshing summer dish, Liangpi is a testament to the region’s love for wheat-based foods and bold flavors.
Where to Try: Hui Min Jie (Muslim Quarter) is the best place to sample this dish.
Cost: 10–20 RMB per serving.

1.5. Pomegranate Juice (石榴汁)

Description: Freshly squeezed pomegranate juice is a popular drink in Xi’an, thanks to the region’s abundant pomegranate orchards.
Cultural Significance: Pomegranates are a symbol of prosperity and fertility in Chinese culture.
Where to Try: Street vendors in the Muslim Quarter.
Cost: 10–15 RMB per cup.

1.6. Dumplings (Jiaozi, 饺子)

Description: Xi’an is famous for its dumpling banquets, where diners can enjoy a variety of dumplings stuffed with meat, seafood, and vegetables, often shaped to resemble animals or flowers.
Cultural Significance: Dumplings are a traditional food for celebrations and family gatherings in China.
Where to Try: De Fa Chang Dumpling Restaurant (德发长饺子馆) near the Bell Tower.
Cost: 50–100 RMB for a banquet.

2. Food Streets, Markets, and Must-Visit Spots

2.1. Muslim Quarter (Hui Min Jie, 回民街)

Overview: The heart of Xi’an’s street food scene, this bustling area is home to countless stalls and small restaurants offering local specialties like Roujiamo, Liangpi, and skewered lamb.
Cultural Insight: The Muslim Quarter reflects the influence of the Hui ethnic group, who brought Islamic culinary traditions to Xi’an via the Silk Road.
Tips: Visit in the evening for the liveliest atmosphere.

2.2. Yongxingfang Food Street (永兴坊)

Overview: A modern food street showcasing traditional Shaanxi snacks and dishes, with live performances and cultural displays.
Highlights: Try the Shaanxi-style cold noodles and steamed buns.

2.3. Beiyuanmen Street (北院门)

Overview: Located near the Drum Tower, this street is lined with vendors selling everything from Biang Biang noodles to exotic snacks like fried persimmon cakes.

3. Dining Etiquette and Local Customs

Sharing Dishes: Meals in Xi’an are typically shared family-style. It’s polite to serve others before yourself, especially elders.
Chopstick Etiquette: Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this resembles incense used in funerals.
Breaking Bread for Yangrou Paomo: If you order Yangrou Paomo, you’ll be given flatbread to break into small pieces. This is part of the dining experience, so take your time.
Spicy Food: Many dishes in Xi’an are spicy. If you prefer milder flavors, you can ask for “less spicy” (少辣, shǎo là).
Cash and Mobile Payments: Most street vendors accept cash or mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay. Carry small bills if you’re paying with cash.

4. Approximate Costs

Street Food: 5–20 RMB per item.
Casual Restaurants: 30–60 RMB per person.
High-End Restaurants: 100–200 RMB per person.

5. Recommendations for Authentic Experiences

Xi’an Dumpling Banquet: Visit De Fa Chang for a luxurious dumpling feast.
Cooking Classes: Join a local cooking class to learn how to make Biang Biang noodles or dumplings.
Night Markets: Explore the Muslim Quarter at night for a vibrant street food experience.
Local Tea Houses: Pair your meal with a cup of Shaanxi-style black tea or green tea.

Xi’an’s cuisine is a journey through history, culture, and flavor. Whether you’re savoring a bowl of Yangrou Paomo or exploring the lively Muslim Quarter, you’ll find that food is an integral part of the city’s identity. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Xi'an

Local Cuisine