What Food To Try in Xi'an and Food Prices

Yangrou Paomo - Lamb Stew with Bread - Shredded lamb cooked in a rich broth, served with torn pieces of unleavened bread soaked in the stew. This hearty dish is best enjoyed at breakfast when locals gather in shops, tearing bread together to soak in the flavor.

Roujiamo - Chinese Hamburger - Chopped and spiced braised pork stuffed inside a crispy, flatbread-like bun. Often sought after as a filling street food option, you’ll find vendors during lunchtime with long lines of hungry locals eager for a quick bite.

Da Pan Ji - Big Plate Chicken - A sprawling dish of tender chicken, potatoes, and noodles simmered in a robust, spicy sauce. This communal feast is typically served for dinner, perfect for sharing with friends and paired with flatbreads to mop up the sauce.

Biangbiang Mian - Wide Noodles - Thick, hand-pulled noodles served with a spicy sauce, topped with scallions and sometimes vegetables. This dish is a local specialty you'll find in casual eateries, ideal for a late lunch when the noodles are freshly stretched.

Hui Mian - Hui-style Noodles - Savory homemade noodles topped with a surprising mix of roasted beef and spiced cilantro sauce. Surprisingly delicious, it’s common to eat these as a hearty meal during hot summer days when spices are preferred.

Guan Tang - Hot and Sour Soup - A seasonal dish featuring a mix of tofu, mushrooms, and greens in a tangy, spicy broth. Best enjoyed in winter when you crave warmth, it’s often shared by locals as a starter or main dish.

Jiaozi - Dumplings - Juicy pork and vegetable-stuffed dumplings, boiled or pan-fried for crispiness. They hold a special place during family gatherings, traditionally eaten during Chinese New Year - remember to dip them in chili sauce for an extra kick!

Yangrou Pao Mo - 羊肉泡馍 (lamb soup with bread) - A hearty lamb stew with chewy bread pieces soaked in a rich, savory broth. It's typically enjoyed during cold winter evenings while gathering with family and friends around the dining table, making it a comforting winter staple.

Baijiu - 白酒 (Chinese liquor) - A strong spirit made from fermented grains, particularly sorghum, often served in small glasses at room temperature. It's common during celebrations or dinner parties where locals toast with friends, though always be cautious—its potency can sneak up on you!

Milk Tea - 牛奶茶 (fresh milk tea) - A smooth blend of black tea and whole milk, often sweetened with sugar, served hot or over ice. Locals might sip it while socializing at small tea shops, particularly during chilly afternoons when a warm beverage feels comforting.

Ice Cream - 冰淇淋 (local flavor) - Creamy ice cream made with fresh milk and unique flavors like lychee or red bean, served in cups. Popular on hot summer days, it's a refreshing treat enjoyed at parks or festivals when the sun is out.

Mooncakes - 月饼 (traditional pastry) - Flaky pastry filled with sweet red bean or lotus seed paste, often enjoyed during the Mid-Autumn Festival. These treats are commonly shared among family and friends, symbolizing unity and togetherness, making them an essential part of celebrations.

By the way, a common mistake is assuming mooncakes are just desserts; they’re actually a significant part of cultural gatherings, so be sure to embrace their meaning!