Must-Try Foods In Xi'an City Wall (Xi'an) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Xi'an City Wall, Xi'an, China

The ancient city of Xi'an, encircled by its iconic City Wall, has long been a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. As the starting point of the Silk Road, Xi'an's food has been influenced by the convergence of different ethnic groups, including Muslim traders who left their culinary mark on the city. It is well known for its unique blend of Chinese flavors and spices, and its food scene is a mix of traditional Shaanxi cuisine merged with Muslim and other regional influences.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Xi'an

When touring Xi'an, there are several local dishes you simply must try. Here's a list of the top 10 dishes, with indications of whether they are vegetarian (Veg) or contain meat (Non-Veg):

1. Liáng Pí (凉皮) - A cold noodle dish made from wheat or rice flour, generally topped with cucumber, bean sprouts, and a tangy, spicy sauce. [Veg]
2. Ròujiāmó (肉夹馍) - Often referred to as "Chinese hamburger," it's a bread filled with braised meat, although there are now variants without meat as well. [Non-Veg]
3. Biáng Biáng Miàn (油泼扯面) - These are thick, hand-ripped noodles served with a variety of toppings, such as stir-fried vegetables and chili oil. Veg adaptations are available. [Non-Veg/Veg]
4. Qīngzhēng Miànpiàn (清蒸面片) - Steamed rice noodles, usually served as a light and healthy option, often accompanied by a variety of vegetarian toppings. [Veg]
5. Guan Tang Baozi (灌汤包子) - Steamed buns filled with juicy meat and rich broth, a hearty breakfast choice. [Non-Veg]
6. Húlútóu (葫芦头) - A hearty stew that typically contains meat, veggies, and bread pieces; vegetarian versions are also available. [Non-Veg/Veg]
7. Paomo (泡馍) - This is a bread soup typically made with either lamb or beef broth. Vegetarian versions substitute meat broth with mushroom or vegetable stock. [Non-Veg/Veg]
8. Shānzhā (山楂) - Hawthorn berry snacks, such as candied fruit sticks known as tanghulu, are popular and vegetarian-friendly treats. [Veg]
9. Zēng Gāo (甑糕) - A sticky rice cake, made sweet or savory, is a traditional Shaanxi snack. [Veg]
10. Xī’ān Pancakes (西安煎饼) - These pancakes come in many varieties, including ones filled with various vegetables, making them a perfect vegetarian street food. [Veg]

Top Famous Restaurants in Xi'an City Wall, Xi'an, China

While exploring the City Wall area, here are some of the top restaurants you can visit for a taste of local cuisine:

1. Fan Ji La Zhi Roujiamo (樊记腊汁肉夹馍)
   Address: 53 Zhubashi, Beilin, Xi'an
   Famous for: Roujiamo (pork burger, can be substituted for non-cow meats) [Non-Veg]
2. King Town No.1 Restaurant (王府井大酒店)
   Address: 176 East Street, Beilin District, Xi'an
   Famous for: Hulutou and a variety of traditional Chinese dishes, with vegetarian options [Non-Veg/Veg]
3. Tong Sheng Xiang (同盛祥肉夹馍)
   Address: 10-1 Beiyuanmen Street, Beilin, Xi'an
   Famous for: Lamb Paomo [Non-Veg]
4. First Noodle Under The Sun (日光广场)
   Address: 78 Chang'an North Road, Beilin, Xi'an
   Famous for: Biáng Biáng Miàn, with both meat and vegetarian options available [Non-Veg/Veg]
5. Old Sun Family's Paomo (老孙家泡馍)
   Address: 2 West Street, Lianhu, Xi'an
   Famous for: Mutton Paomo and vegetarian Paomo [Non-Veg/Veg]

Please note that while the dishes listed here are typical of the area's cuisine, some of the classics, notably those involving meat, may not have cow meat as an exclusion, highlighting the diverse protein bases used in the region. When in doubt, always inquire with the restaurant about the ingredients if you have dietary restrictions.