Xi'an Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Xi'an. Your complete guide to dining in Xi'an.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Xi'an! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Xi'an has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Xi'an's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Xi'an like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Xi'an offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Xi'an.
W Xi'an
Highly rated International in Xi An with 4.6 stars from 47 reviews.
๐ 333 Qujiang Chi East Road, ้ๅกๅบ Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China, 710061
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Isola Del Nord (Belfry Branch)
Highly rated Restaurant in Xi An with 4.7 stars from 42 reviews.
๐ China, Xi An Shi, Lian Hu Qu, ่ฟ้ๆฅผ CN ้่ฅฟ็ ่ฅฟๅฎๅธ ่ฒๆนๅบ ่ฅฟๅ้จ 1 1ๅทๅฏ็ฑๅคงๅฆBๅบง ้ฎๆฟ็ผ็ : 710003
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Building North Tower Restaurant
Highly rated Chinese in Xi An with 4.7 stars from 12 reviews.
๐ 131 Bei Yuan Men, Lian Hu Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710003
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Chinese cuisine
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
3rd Sister Dumplings
Highly rated Chinese in Xi An with 4.6 stars from 90 reviews.
๐ China, Shan Xi Sheng, Xi An Shi, Bei Lin Qu, ้ๆฅผๅๅ Dong Mu Tou Shi, 192ๅท็งฆ้ฃๅคงๅฆ ้ฎๆฟ็ผ็ : 710008
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Chinese cuisine
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Old Xi'an Restaurants
Highly rated Restaurant in Xi An with 4.2 stars from 18 reviews.
๐ 97PP+X88, Qin Tang Da Dao, Lin Tong Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710611
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Fanji Braised Meat In Preserved Sauce
Highly rated Chinese in Xi An with 4.6 stars from 52 reviews.
๐ 7W5V+5FH, Zhu Ba Shi, ้ๆฅผๅๅ Bei Lin Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710008
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Chinese cuisine
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
The Westin Xian
Highly rated International in Xi An with 4.5 stars from 483 reviews.
๐ 66 Ci En Road, ้ๅกๅบ่ฅฟๅฎๅธ SA, China, 710063
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Zui Chang'an (Belfry Branch)
Highly rated Chinese in Xi An with 4.6 stars from 19 reviews.
๐ China, 7, Bei Lin Qu, Nan Yuan Men Jie Dao, Zhu Ba Shi, 7ๅทCN ้่ฅฟ็ ่ฅฟๅฎๅธ ้ฎๆฟ็ผ็ : 710008
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Chinese cuisine
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Ernaisi Saute Spicy Chicken
Highly rated Restaurant in Xi An with 4.8 stars from 5 reviews.
๐ 7W8V+Q59, Mai Xian Jie, ้ๆฅผๅๅ Lian Hu Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710003
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Haidilao Hot Pot
Highly rated Restaurant in Xi An with 4.7 stars from 33 reviews.
๐ Xincheng, Xi'An, China, 710005
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Yi Zhenlou
Highly rated Chinese in Xi An with 4.4 stars from 7 reviews.
๐ 18 Da Pi Yuan, Lian Hu Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710003
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Chinese cuisine
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
ๆกๅๅก
Highly rated Restaurant in Xi An with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
๐ 38 Ke Ji Lu, ้ซๆฐๅๅ Yan Ta Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710075
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Xi'an.
Huimin Street
Highly rated International in Xi An with 4.2 stars from 368 reviews.
๐ 1 Xi Da Jie, ๅ้ข้จๅฐๅไธๆก่ก Lian Hu Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710007
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Xiaonanmen
Highly rated International in Xi An with 4.8 stars from 38 reviews.
๐ 7W2P+PF2, Si Fu Jie, ้ๆฅผๅๅ Bei Lin Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710008
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Muslim Street Tourist Service Station
Highly rated International in Xi An with 4.4 stars from 87 reviews.
๐ 167 Xi Yang Shi, ้ๆฅผๅๅ Lian Hu Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710007
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Baihui Market
Highly rated International in Xi An with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
๐ 22 Chang An Zhong Lu, ๆฒๆฑๅๅ Yan Ta Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710064
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Xi'an Yanta Market Service Center
Highly rated International in Xi An with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
๐ 6WRP+74Q, You Yi Xi Lu, Bei Lin Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710064
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Kangfu Road Wholesale Market
Highly rated International in Xi An with 4.3 stars from 4 reviews.
๐ 7XCM+2Q6, Kang Fu Lu, ๅบทๅค่ทฏๅๅ Xin Cheng Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710033
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Meitianxian Fruit Supermarket
Highly rated International in Xi An with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
๐ 6XP9+8QH, Jian She Lu Dong Duan, ้ๅก๏ผฉ๏ผดๅๅ Bei Lin Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710064
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
He Ma Xian Sheng Xi'an Minleyuan Branch
Highly rated International in Xi An with 4 stars from 1 reviews.
๐ 258 Jie Fang Lu, 258, Xin Cheng Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710005
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Xi'an.
Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum
Highly rated International in Xi An with 4.6 stars from 7495 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
Ancient City Wall
Highly rated International in Xi An with 4.6 stars from 386 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
Fortifications of Xi'an
Highly rated International in Xi An with 4.6 stars from 982 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
Yongxingfang
Highly rated International in Xi An with 4.4 stars from 143 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
Bell Tower of Xi'an
Highly rated International in Xi An with 4.5 stars from 586 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
Zhiliang Steamed Dumplings
Highly rated Chinese in Xi An with 4.5 stars from 4 reviews.
- โขBook in advance, especially during peak season
- โขArrive 10-15 minutes early
- โขWear comfortable walking shoes
- โขBring a camera for memorable moments
- โขAsk your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Xi'an.
Nanshi Specialty Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Xi An with 5 stars from 3 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ 100 An Xi Jie, Bei Lin Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710001
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Cafe cuisine
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Waiting for You Cafe and Pub
Highly rated Cafe in Xi An with 5 stars from 2 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ 7W5V+867, Zhu Ba Shi, ้ๆฅผๅๅ Bei Lin Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710008
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Cafe cuisine
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
W Xi'an
Highly rated International in Xi An with 4.6 stars from 47 reviews.
๐ 333 Qujiang Chi East Road, ้ๅกๅบ Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China, 710061
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
ๆกๅๅก
Highly rated Restaurant in Xi An with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
๐ 38 Ke Ji Lu, ้ซๆฐๅๅ Yan Ta Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710075
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธWelcoming atmosphere
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Maan Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Xi An with 5 stars from 4 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ 7W2X+9Q3, Huan Cheng Nan Lu Dong Duan, ้ๆฅผๅๅ Bei Lin Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710068
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Cafe cuisine
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Fortifications of Xi'an
Highly rated International in Xi An with 4.6 stars from 982 reviews.
๐ Xincheng, Xi'An, China, 710003
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
The Westin Xian
Highly rated International in Xi An with 4.5 stars from 483 reviews.
๐ 66 Ci En Road, ้ๅกๅบ่ฅฟๅฎๅธ SA, China, 710063
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธEstablished local favorite
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Cangwei Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Xi An with 5 stars from 3 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
๐ 53 Xu Shi Miao Jie, Lian Hu Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710003
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Cafe cuisine
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Xi'an.
Signature Dish
A must-try Xi'an specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Xi'an dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Xi'an with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Xi'an specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Xi'an creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Xi'an classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Xi'an specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Xi'an dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Xi'an with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Xi'an specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- โขAsk locals for their favorite spots to try this
- โขBest enjoyed fresh and in season
- โขDon't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- โขTry it at multiple places to compare
- โขPair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Xi'an.
Xiangzi Craft Beer
Highly rated Bar in Xi An with 5 stars from 11 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ China, Xi An Shi, Bei Lin Qu, CN ้่ฅฟ็ ่ฅฟๅฎๅธ ็ขๆๅบ 100 ็ฑณ ้ฎๆฟ็ผ็ : 710008
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
3 as4 Bar
Highly rated Bar in Xi An with 4.3 stars from 8 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ 7W3V+8G4, De Fu Xiang, ้ๆฅผๅๅ Bei Lin Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710008
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Bar TakeFive
Highly rated Bar in Xi An with 4.3 stars from 7 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ 7W2Q+X7C, Tai Yang Miao Men, ้ๆฅผๅๅ Bei Lin Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710008
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Zun
Highly rated Bar in Xi An with 5 stars from 5 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ 30 Zhu Que Da Jie Bei Duan, 30, Bei Lin Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710068
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Wei Xun Music Bar
Highly rated Bar in Xi An with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ China, Xi An Shi, Lian Hu Qu, CN ้่ฅฟ็ ่ฅฟๅฎๅธ ่ฒๆนๅบ ๅๅปถ่ทฏ 1 ๅ1ๅท่ฑๅฎ้ธๅขไธๆฒๅนฟๅบ ้ฎๆฟ็ผ็ : 710075
- ๐ฝ๏ธHighly rated by customers
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Niwowo Pub
Highly rated Bar in Xi An with 4.4 stars from 31 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
๐ 7W2V+R9J, Shun Cheng Nan Lu Xi Duan, ้ๆฅผๅๅ Bei Lin Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China, 710008
- ๐ฝ๏ธWell-reviewed establishment
- ๐ฝ๏ธAuthentic Bar cuisine
- ๐ฝ๏ธKnowledgeable staff
Essential Tips
- ๐ฝ๏ธMake reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- ๐ฝ๏ธTry local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- ๐ฝ๏ธAsk locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- ๐ฝ๏ธVisit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- ๐ฝ๏ธDon't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- ๐ฝ๏ธTake a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- ๐ฝ๏ธCheck restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- ๐ฝ๏ธBring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- ๐ฝ๏ธPace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- ๐ฝ๏ธDocument your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Xi'an's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Xi'an vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Xi'an is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Xi'an offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Xi'an specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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