Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Xian
Discover the 6 best local and traditional foods to try in Xian. Get AI-powered recommendations for authentic dishes, traditional cuisine, and the best restaurants.
Biang Biang Noodles
These famous thick, hand-pulled noodles are a signature dish of Xian, served with a spicy sauce and topped with vegetables and meat. The name of the dish is derived from the sound made while pulling the noodles, making it not only a culinary delight but also a cultural experience.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch or dinner
Cultural Significance
Biang Biang noodles are deeply rooted in the local culture, often associated with the Shaanxi province's culinary heritage.
Where to try it
Yangrou Paomo
This traditional lamb soup dish consists of shredded flatbread soaked in a rich broth made from lamb and spices. It's a hearty meal, typically enjoyed in communal bowls, making it a popular choice among locals.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch or dinner
Cultural Significance
Yangrou Paomo is a staple of Xian's culinary scene, commonly enjoyed during family gatherings and celebrations.
Where to try it
Rou Jia Mo
Often referred to as the 'Chinese hamburger', this dish features slow-cooked, spiced pork stuffed inside a flaky bread bun. It's a popular street food choice and showcases the region's love for savory flavors.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Rou Jia Mo is a beloved street food that reflects Xian's history as a trading hub along the Silk Road.
Where to try it
Sweet Osmanthus Cake
This traditional dessert is made from glutinous rice flour, sugar, and sweet osmanthus flowers, providing a fragrant and delicate flavor. It's a popular treat during festivals, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.
Ingredients
Best Time
afternoon tea
Cultural Significance
Sweet Osmanthus Cake is often enjoyed during the Mid-Autumn Festival, representing harmony and unity among families.
Where to try it
Gao Li Mei
These traditional rice cakes are a delightful sweet treat, flavored with various fillings like red bean paste or sesame. They are often enjoyed during celebrations and as a snack throughout the day.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Gao Li Mei is a cherished local pastry that symbolizes good luck and happiness during festive occasions.
Where to try it
Suanmeitang (Sour Plum Drink)
This refreshing beverage made from sour plums, rock sugar, and various spices is a popular drink in Xian, especially during the hot summer months. It's both sweet and tangy, making it a favorite among locals.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Suanmeitang is a traditional drink that reflects the local preference for sweet and sour flavors, often enjoyed during meals or as a thirst quencher.