Top Dishes to Try in Xi’an – My Personal List
As a foodie from out of town, I’ve truly fallen in love with Xi’an’s culinary scene — it’s full of creativity and culture. Here’s my personal ranking of must-try dishes:
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🥇 1st Place: “Calligraphy Brush Pastry” from Chang’an Grand Dining Hall x Shaanxi History Museum Cultural Restaurant
Why it made the list: It’s aesthetic and creative!
This pastry is shaped like the tip of a traditional Chinese calligraphy brush (note: the handle is not edible), complete with “bristle” textures on top. Even the “ink” is made from coffee and is drinkable! Each brush color represents a different flavor — for example, the white one is durian-flavored and tastes just like a durian puff. While the details could be a bit more refined, the overall presentation and ceremony are spot-on and pair beautifully with Xi’an’s artsy vibe. Even someone like me, who usually doesn’t care for sweets, couldn’t help but reach for a few more “brushes.”
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🥈 2nd Place: “King’s Pork Knuckle” from Drunken Chang’an
Why it made the list: A meat lover’s dream dish!
It comes in a huge bowl with the knuckle in the center, laid over a bed of millet (you can also choose Wuchang rice). Pro tip: Make sure the server waits for you to finish taking photos before deboning it. The meat is so tender that it falls apart with just a gentle touch. Mix it into the rice, and you get a heavenly combo of melt-in-your-mouth pork and rice infused with pork fat. Just writing this is making me drool!
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🥉 3rd Place: “Vinegar-Poured Qin Chuan Beef” from Xi’an Fan Zhuang
Why it made the list: Surprisingly addictive!
It tastes like a tangy beef soup, with a slightly thickened broth and incredibly tender beef that practically dissolves in your mouth. The sourness enhances the flavor and makes it super appetizing!
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🏅 4th Place: “Tang Cat Sour Soup Fish Pot” from Tang Cat Courtyard
Why it made the list: As someone from Guizhou who’s obsessed with sour soup fish, finding a similar flavor in Xi’an was a thrilling surprise.
But the real twist is the use of crispy rice, soaked in fish broth! The rice — deep-fried before soaking — softens a bit while retaining a crunch, creating a delightful texture. Just be careful not to eat too much of it, as it can be a bit heavy on the stomach.
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🎖 5th Place: “Shaanxi Biangbiang Noodles” from Xi’an Fan Zhuang
Why it made the list: A must-eat dish in Xi’an!
For those watching their carbs (like anyone on a cutting phase), this ¥8 small-portion bowl is a blessing. It’s affordable, modest in size, and perfect for first-timers. Just one or two thick noodles fill the bowl — a great way to check it off your foodie list without overindulging. I’ve tried Biangbiang noodles in a few places and found the taste quite consistent. Know any spots that serve an especially good version? Drop your recs!
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These dishes left a lasting impression on me, and I always bring them up when talking about my Xi’an trip with friends. I’m sure this list isn’t complete — tell me in the comments what must-try dishes I missed!
As for the “black list” of overrated dishes… stay tuned for the next post 😉
Xi’an, an ancient city with rich cultural heritage, is also famed for its diverse and flavorful cuisine that reflects the history and traditions of Shaanxi province. Beyond the top five dishes featured, there are several other iconic foods that travelers and food enthusiasts should consider trying to fully appreciate the local flavors. One must-try dish is the famous Xi’an Roujiamo, often described as the Chinese hamburger. It consists of a richly marinated meat stuffing, usually pork or beef, sandwiched inside a crisp, flatbread bun. The meat is slow-cooked with aromatic spices and herbs, making each bite juicy and flavorful. Another popular street snack is Yangrou Paomo, a hearty lamb soup served with shredded flatbread pieces. This dish perfectly showcases the rich and savory flavors typical of northwestern Chinese cuisine. Visitors can customize the soup with various toppings and dipping sauces. Xi’an’s local snacks and cold dishes also add to its culinary appeal. Liangpi, cold skin noodles made from wheat or rice flour, are often served with spicy, tangy sauces and garnished with fresh vegetables. It’s a refreshing complement to the city’s typically flavorful and warming meals. The cultural and creative aspect of Xi’an cuisine is highlighted in dishes like the Calligraphy Brush Pastry, where artistry meets gastronomy, offering not only taste but also a visual experience. The use of drinkable coffee “ink” and distinct flavors such as durian reflects the innovative modern take on traditional flavors. For meat lovers, the King’s Pork Knuckle offers a rich and indulgent experience, thanks to its tender, fall-apart texture and the combination of millet or Wuchang rice infused with pork fat. This dish is not only satisfying but also a representation of traditional cooking methods passed down through generations. In addition to these dishes, Xi’an’s vibrant food scene includes a variety of noodle dishes, such as the famous Biangbiang noodles, known for their wide hand-pulled strips and robust flavors. These noodles are a perfect choice for those wanting authentic tastes without overwhelming their appetite. When planning a culinary tour of Xi’an, it is also helpful to consider regional specialties and local dining etiquette. Many restaurants value fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, so exploring smaller eateries and food markets can reveal hidden gems. Moreover, tourists should be adventurous and engage with locals or food bloggers to discover seasonal and lesser-known dishes that showcase the depth of Xi’an’s food culture. Always ask about spice levels, ingredients, and how best to enjoy certain dishes for the most authentic experience. In summary, Xi’an offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern culinary creativity that promises to delight food lovers. Whether savoring the artistic pastries or indulging in hearty meat dishes and refreshing cold noodles, each meal tells a story that is part of Xi’an’s rich cultural tapestry.
