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Comprehensive Guide to Street Food in Xi’an, China

Xi’an, the ancient capital of China and the starting point of the Silk Road, is a paradise for food lovers, especially those interested in street food. The city’s rich history and cultural diversity have given rise to a vibrant street food scene that reflects its unique blend of Chinese, Muslim, and Silk Road influences. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate Xi’an’s street food offerings.

Popular Street Food Dishes in Xi’an

1. Roujiamo (肉夹馍) – Chinese "Hamburger"

Ingredients: Slow-cooked, spiced pork or beef (often stewed with over 20 spices) stuffed into a crispy, pan-fried flatbread.
Preparation: The meat is cooked for hours until tender, shredded, and then packed into a freshly baked flatbread. Variations include lamb or beef for halal options.
Cost: Around 8–15 RMB ($1–2 USD) depending on the filling.
Where to Find: Muslim Quarter (回民街), especially at stalls like Fan Ji Roujiamo.
Tips: Ask for the "la jiao" (chili sauce) if you like it spicy. Be prepared to eat it on the go as it’s a handheld snack.

2. Yangrou Paomo (羊肉泡馍) – Lamb Soup with Crumbled Bread

Ingredients: Lamb or beef broth, flatbread, glass noodles, and tender meat.
Preparation: Diners traditionally crumble their own flatbread into small pieces, which are then soaked in the rich, aromatic soup.
Cost: 25–40 RMB ($3.50–5.50 USD).
Where to Find: Muslim Quarter or local restaurants specializing in Shaanxi cuisine.
Tips: This dish is more of a sit-down meal. If you’re unsure how to crumble the bread, don’t hesitate to ask for help.

3. Biangbiang Noodles (油泼扯面)

Ingredients: Wide, hand-pulled noodles topped with chili oil, garlic, soy sauce, and sometimes vegetables or meat.
Preparation: The noodles are hand-pulled to a wide, belt-like shape, boiled, and then topped with a sizzling chili oil mixture.
Cost: 15–25 RMB ($2–3.50 USD).
Where to Find: Muslim Quarter or small noodle shops around the city.
Tips: The word "biang" is famously complex to write in Chinese, and you’ll often see it displayed prominently on signs. Be ready for a spicy kick!

4. Kao Rou Chuan (烤肉串) – Grilled Meat Skewers

Ingredients: Lamb, beef, or chicken seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and salt.
Preparation: Meat is skewered and grilled over open flames, often brushed with oil and spices during cooking.
Cost: 2–5 RMB ($0.30–0.70 USD) per skewer.
Where to Find: Muslim Quarter, especially at night.
Tips: Look for stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness. Pair with a cold local beer for the full experience.

5. Huasheng Tanghulu (花生糖葫芦) – Candied Peanut Skewers

Ingredients: Peanuts coated in a hard sugar glaze.
Preparation: Peanuts are skewered, dipped in molten sugar, and left to harden.
Cost: 5–10 RMB ($0.70–1.50 USD).
Where to Find: Street vendors in the Muslim Quarter or near tourist attractions.
Tips: These are a sweet treat and make for a great snack while walking around.

6. Zeng Gao (甑糕) – Glutinous Rice Cake

Ingredients: Glutinous rice, red dates, and red bean paste.
Preparation: Steamed in a large pot until the layers of rice and filling are soft and sticky.
Cost: 5–10 RMB ($0.70–1.50 USD) per slice.
Where to Find: Muslim Quarter or near the Bell Tower.
Tips: This is a filling and sweet snack, perfect for breakfast or dessert.

7. Liangpi (凉皮) – Cold Noodles

Ingredients: Wheat or rice noodles, sesame paste, vinegar, chili oil, and cucumber.
Preparation: Noodles are served cold and mixed with a tangy, spicy sauce.
Cost: 8–15 RMB ($1–2 USD).
Where to Find: Muslim Quarter or small noodle shops.
Tips: This is a refreshing dish, especially during the hot summer months.

Where to Find Street Food in Xi’an

Muslim Quarter (回民街)
- The heart of Xi’an’s street food scene, located near the Drum Tower.
- Open from late morning until late at night, but the best time to visit is in the evening when the atmosphere is lively.
- Popular streets: Beiyuanmen Street (北院门), Huimin Street (回民街), and Xiyangshi Street (西羊市街).
Yongxingfang Food Street (永兴坊)
- A more modern food street showcasing traditional Shaanxi cuisine.
- Located near the city wall’s East Gate.
- Offers a cleaner and more organized environment, ideal for tourists concerned about hygiene.
Small Wild Goose Pagoda Area
- A quieter area with authentic local food stalls.
- Great for those looking to avoid the crowds of the Muslim Quarter.

Cultural and Practical Tips for Enjoying Street Food in Xi’an

Hygiene Considerations:
- Look for stalls with high turnover, as this indicates fresh ingredients.
- Avoid raw or undercooked items, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.
- Bring hand sanitizer or wet wipes, as seating and handwashing facilities may be limited.
Local Customs:
- It’s common to eat street food while walking, but some stalls may have small seating areas.
- Be polite and patient when ordering, as some vendors may not speak English. Pointing to the food or using translation apps can help.
- Bargaining is not typical for street food, as prices are usually fixed.
Best Times to Visit:
- Evening is the best time for street food, as most stalls open in the late afternoon and stay busy until late at night.
- Weekends and holidays can be crowded, so visit on weekdays if you prefer a quieter experience.
Payment:
- Most vendors accept cash, but mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay or Alipay are widely used. If you don’t have these apps, carry small bills and coins.
Dietary Restrictions:
- Many dishes in the Muslim Quarter are halal, making it a great option for Muslim travelers.
- Vegetarians should ask for dishes without meat (不要肉, "bu yao rou") and confirm ingredients.
Language Tips:
- Learn a few basic phrases to make ordering easier:
  - "How much is this?" (这个多少钱? Zhège duōshǎo qián?)
  - "I don’t want it spicy." (不要辣 Bù yào là.)
  - "Thank you." (谢谢 Xièxiè.)

Conclusion

Xi’an’s street food scene is a must-experience for any visitor, offering a delicious window into the city’s history and culture. From the bustling Muslim Quarter to quieter food streets, you’ll find a wide variety of dishes to suit every palate. By following the tips above, you can enjoy the flavors of Xi’an safely and authentically. Don’t forget to bring your appetite and a sense of adventure!

Xi'an

Street Food