Xian, located in the Shaanxi Province, quickly became one of our favorite food destinations in China. With street food vendors and bustling local eateries offering a variety of delicious dishes, it surpassed our expectations by far. The city is known for its unique flavors, particularly from the local Muslim Quarter, where you’ll find a wide selection of Xian’s signature street food. While Beiyuanmen Street is the most famous for its food stalls, don’t miss out on exploring the rest of the city to truly experience the diversity of Xian’s culinary offerings.
1. Xian Gourd Chicken (Hu Lu Ji, 葫芦鸡)
Xian Gourd Chicken is one of the standout dishes in the city. This crispy yet tender chicken is cooked to perfection—first boiled to achieve a juicy interior, then deep-fried to create a golden, crunchy skin. The dish is often served with a dip made from chili, fennel, salt, and pepper, though the chicken is so flavorful on its own that the dip is almost unnecessary. Despite the name “gourd,” the chicken doesn’t actually involve any gourds; the term refers to the shape of the chicken. If you’re in Xian, this dish is a must-try, and it’s commonly served whole at larger restaurants.
2. Mutton Flatbread Stew (Yang Rou Pao Mo, 羊肉泡馍)
A comforting dish popular in the Muslim Quarter, Mutton Flatbread Stew consists of pitta-like flatbread soaked in a rich meat broth and topped with tender mutton. The texture is unique, with a mix of chewy bread and gooey vermicelli noodles, which may take some getting used to. While the initial taste might seem odd, adding chili dip enhances the flavor, making it a delicious and filling meal. Typically found in restaurants along Beiyuanmen Street, this dish is a hearty and satisfying experience.
3. Cold Noodles (Majiang Liang Pi, 麻酱凉皮)
Although cold noodles might not have been high on my list of favorites, after trying Majiang Liang Pi, I was converted. These noodles are served at room temperature and dressed in a flavorful combination of chili oil, soy vinegar, and a rich sesame seed paste. The balance of flavors is fantastic, making it a refreshing change from the usual spicy dishes I tend to gravitate toward. These noodles are popular in Xian’s Muslim quarter, where you can find various regional variations, each with its own twist on the seasoning and toppings.
4. Qishan Noodles (岐山臊子面)
Qishan Noodles quickly became one of my favorites in Xian. The chewy wheat noodles are perfect for slurping, and they’re complemented by an assortment of meaty toppings like sausage or chicken drumsticks. The dish is further enhanced with pickled long beans, which I became addicted to during our time in Xian. The broth is hot, sour, and savory, often with a touch of Sichuan pepper for that signature numbing effect. With so many variations of noodle dishes available, I spent my days wandering from noodle shop to noodle shop, sampling whatever the local menus had to offer. It’s an experience you can’t miss.
5. Chinese Hamburger (Rou Jia Mo, 肉夹馍)
The Chinese hamburger, or Rou Jia Mo, is a must-try street food in Xian. The dish features stewed meat—usually pork, mutton, or beef—chopped into small pieces and stuffed into a soft flatbread. The meat is richly flavored with chili, cumin, and Sichuan pepper, making each bite incredibly satisfying. While pork is the most common filling in the city, the Muslim Quarter offers more mutton and beef versions (Halal). Rou Jia Mo is one of the easiest street foods to find in Xian, and its popularity across China proves just how delicious it truly is.
Xian’s food scene is a true reflection of its rich history and cultural diversity. From street snacks to hearty stews, the city offers a wide variety of delicious dishes that showcase the best of Shaanxi cuisine. Whether you’re exploring the bustling Muslim Quarter or wandering through the quieter streets of Xian, these top 5 foods should definitely be on your list to try.
