Foodie’s Pilgrimage – Xi’an’s Legendary Culinary Trail
The Muslim Quarter Street is known for its authentic street food with modernised and traditional food available. It also showcases traditional craftsmanship, such as shadow puppets. It is a combination of awesome food and traditional crafts, you get the best of both worlds.
There are plenty of options for you to choose.
First, there are beef versions of roujiamo.
Second, Yangrou paomo has both the beef and mutton option.
Pretty much everything that involves meat in Xi'an have options of pork, beef, and lamb, so there is need to worry. Just make sure to ask if you are not sure.
There are various types of chili oil that is available for purchase. There are the ones which are sold in souvenir shops which are readily packaged. You can also get them when you are strolling in the Muslim Quarter Street, where the chilies are grind on spot and packaged for you too.
Yes, there are toilet around every corner. Just watch out for toilet signs, search on a Chinese verision google maps, known as "GaoDe" (高德), or ask someone.
You need to have tissues handy, as most vendors do always run out of tissues very quickly.
Xi’an isn’t just China’s ancient capital—it’s also the birthplace of some of the country’s most flavorful and historic dishes. As the eastern starting point of the Silk Road, Xi’an’s culinary scene is a fusion of Chinese, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian influences, making it a dream destination for foodies.
From the sizzling grills of the Muslim Quarter to hidden alleyway noodle shops, this culinary pilgrimage will take you on a journey through the most iconic and mouthwatering flavors of Xi’an.
Roujiamo (Chinese Burger) – Xi’an’s Answer to the Hamburger
Foodie Tip: Try the Shaanxi-style “Bai Ji Mo” (白吉馍) bread for an authentic experience. Also, the locals here pair it with cold noodles (凉皮) and a local drink called Bingfeng (冰峰).
Biang Biang Noodles – The Iconic Xi’an Noodle Dish
Yang Rou Pao Mo (Crumbled Flatbread in Lamb Soup)
A hearty Xi’an Muslim dish, this involves crumbing flatbread into a rich lamb or beef soup, creating a flavorful, umami-packed broth. It is probably the best lamb soup in Xi’an!
Foodie Tip: Break the bread into tiny pieces before handing it to the chef for the best texture! But now most places have it already broken into tiny pirces for you!
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Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November) – Comfortable weather for exploring street food markets and night snacks.
Evenings & Night Markets (6 PM–10 PM) – The Muslim Quarter comes alive after sunset, offering the best food experience.
Choose busy stalls with a high turnover of food.
Avoid raw or undercooked meat at street vendors.
Bring tissues – many street food spots don’t provide napkins.
A food tour in Xi’an isn’t just about eating—it’s a journey through history and culture, tasting the influences of the Silk Road and dynastic China. Whether you’re slurping spicy Biang Biang Noodles, biting into a crispy Roujiamo, or sipping warm Eight-Treasure Tea, every dish tells a story.
Want to experience Xi’an’s flavors for yourself? Join our guided food tour or contact us to create your perfect itinerary!
Since you are already planning to visit Xi’an, why not also travel to neighbouring cities like Chengdu, Zhangjiajie, or Luoyang? Check out below on the combination tour routes and do enquire! We won’t bite!
Chengdu Foodie Trip Idea
Eat a mouthful of mapo tofu or endulge in lamb or beef skewers. Come take a look!
Chongqing Foodie Trip Idea
Take a look at the scrumptious authentic Chongqing Hotpot, Chongqing XiaoMian and many more.
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