Three days to savor Xi'an's iconic street food
Xi'an Food Tour
Xi'an is hailed as the "Carb Capital," home to countless delicacies like pao mo, rou jia mo, liang pi, and biangbiang noodles. Over three days, we explored its streets and alleys to savor the most authentic Xi'an flavors.
Day 1: The Classic Trio
Start your morning at the Xiaonanmen Morning Market with a bowl of piping hot meatball Hu La Tang and You Cha Ma Hua, a breakfast staple for old-time Xi'an residents. For lunch, head to Lao Sun Jia Restaurant for authentic beef and lamb paomo; the act of tearing the bread yourself is part of the experience. In the afternoon, line up at Sajinqiao Street for Ma Er's Sour Soup Dumplings and Liu Xin's Stir-Fried Dish—sour, spicy, fresh, and savory flavors that linger long after the meal.
Day 2: The Kingdom of Noodles
Xi'an boasts an astonishing variety of noodle dishes. In the morning, I enjoyed a bowl of Youpo noodles—wide strips tossed with chili powder and green onions, then drizzled with sizzling hot oil that filled the air with aroma. At noon, I tried biangbiang noodles: extra-wide, long strands served with savory meat toppings for a chewy, satisfying bite. In the evening, I hit up Dongxin Street Night Market for grilled skewers and boiled ox tripe, soaking up the vibrant street food atmosphere.
Day 3: Desserts & Snacks
Dedicated the final day to Xi'an's desserts and snacks: Zengao, soft and sweet; persimmon cakes with a crispy exterior and tender interior; and Jinggao, delicate and bite-sized. At Yongxing Fang, I raised a bowl of wine in a spirited toast, experiencing the bold spirit of Guanzhong culture. Huanggui thick wine, rich and sweet, is a traditional beverage unique to Xi'an.
Pitfall Avoidance Guide
Main Street in Huimin has many tourists and higher prices. For more authentic flavors and better value, explore local favorites like Sajinqiao, Dapiyuan, and Xiaonanmen.
