Xi'an Cuisine: A Feast Shaped by the Silk Road

Xi'an's cuisine is a living fossil of its history as the Silk Road's start, known for hearty noodles, robust lamb and beef flavors, and unique snacks.

The Soul of Noodles

uBiangbiang Noodles: Famous for their belt-wide noodles and unique Chinese character. Chewy and served with chili, meat, and vegetables.

uRoujiamo (Chinese Hamburger): A must-try street food featuring shredded stewed or roasted meat stuffed in a crispy, flatbread.

uYangrou Paomo (Pita Bread Soaked in Lamb Soup): A Xi'an signature. You break the bread into tiny pieces before the vendor adds a rich, boiling lamb broth.

Flavors of the Muslim Quarter

The Muslim Quarter is the epicenter for food exploration. Here you'll find:

uLiangpi (Cold Skin Noodles): Refreshing rice or wheat noodles with chili oil, vinegar, and bean sprouts.

uPersimmon Cakes: A sweet dessert made from local persimmons, fried to a crispy exterior and soft interior.

Drink Experiences

uBingfeng Orange Soda: A iconic local soft drink, the perfect accompaniment to any Xi'an snack.

uSuanmeitang (Sweet Plum Drink): A sweet and sour chilled beverage that is perfect for cutting through rich or spicy foods.

Traveler's Tips:

uBe bold and explore the Muslim Quarter and Sajinqiao (more popular with locals) for snacks.

uYou can often request the level of spiciness for noodle dishes.

uWhen trying Yangrou Paomo, observe how locals break the bread—the smaller, the better it soaks up the soup.

In a nutshell: In Xi'an, eating is not just sustenance; it's an experience that lets you taste thousands of years of history and cultural fusion.