Xining Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Xining. Your complete guide to dining in Xining.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Xining! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Xining 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 Xining's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Xining like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Xining 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 Xining.
Sofitel Xining
Highly rated International in Xining with 4.5 stars from 92 reviews.
📍 Chengxi District, Xining, China, 810029
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Maguiyang Yuzhuamian
Highly rated Chinese in Xining with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 14-6 Hu Zhu Xiang, Cheng Zhong Qu, Xi Ning Shi, Qing Hai Sheng, China, 810000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Maxiumei Cold Starch Noodles
Highly rated Restaurant in Xining with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 JQ9J+4VX, Ren Min Jie, Cheng Zhong Qu, Xi Ning Shi, Qing Hai Sheng, China, 810000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Mazhong Restaurant
Highly rated Chinese in Xining with 4 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 22 Nan Da Jie, Cheng Zhong Qu, Xi Ning Shi, Qing Hai Sheng, China, 810000
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
悦宾楼
Highly rated Chinese in Xining with 4 stars from 2 reviews.
📍 China, Qing Hai Sheng, Xi Ning Shi, Cheng Zhong Qu, 南关街39号 邮政编码: 810000
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
KFC
Highly rated Restaurant in Xining with 4.5 stars from 2 reviews.
📍 40 Xi Da Jie, Cheng Zhong Qu, Xi Ning Shi, Qing Hai Sheng, China, 810000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Guanguanxiang
Popular Restaurant in Xining.
📍 JR83+GR2, Qi Yi Lu, Cheng Dong Qu, Xi Ning Shi, Qing Hai Sheng, China, 810007
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
塔尔寺
Highly rated International in Xining with 4.4 stars from 355 reviews.
📍 China, Qing Hai Sheng, Xi Ning Shi, Huang Zhong Qu, 金堂巷2号 邮政编码: 811600
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Qinghai Hotel
Highly rated International in Xining with 4.2 stars from 26 reviews.
📍 158 Huang He Lu, Cheng Xi Qu, Xi Ning Shi, Qing Hai Sheng, China, 810001
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Laoxiangchu Side Dish
Popular Restaurant in Xining.
📍 JQ9J+HMH, Ying Fang Xiang, Cheng Zhong Qu, Xi Ning Shi, Qing Hai Sheng, China, 810000
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Black Tent
Popular Restaurant in Xining.
📍 Chengzhong District, Xining, Xining, China, 810000
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Yang Ai Yu Casserole Sliced Noodles
Highly rated Restaurant in Xining with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Quick service for those on the go.
📍 China, Qing Hai Sheng, Xi Ning Shi, Cheng Zhong Qu, 22, 正东方向50米 邮政编码: 810000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable 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 Xining.
Xining Market
Highly rated International in Xining with 3.8 stars from 1610 reviews.
📍 No. 4號, Xining Rd, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Shuijing Alley Market
Highly rated International in Xining with 3.3 stars from 8 reviews.
📍 JQCG+8MR, Shui Jing Xiang, Cheng Zhong Qu, Xi Ning Shi, Qing Hai Sheng, China, 810000
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Xuri Food Store
Highly rated International in Xining with 4.5 stars from 2 reviews.
📍 China, Qing Hai Sheng, Xi Ning Shi, Cheng Zhong Qu, 劳动巷6号-6 邮政编码: 810000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Xining Xinqian Sightseeing Night Market
Popular Chinese in Xining.
📍 China, Qing Hai Sheng, Xi Ning Shi, Cheng Dong Qu, 66, 正北方向5米 邮政编码: 810007
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Xining Chengdong Jiecuo Food Department Store
Popular International in Xining.
📍 JR25+6PQ, Kang Xi Er Lu, Cheng Dong Qu, Xi Ning Shi, Qing Hai Sheng, China, 810007
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Watsons
Highly rated International in Xining with 4 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 JQCP+4CR, Dong Da Jie, Cheng Zhong Qu, Xi Ning Shi, Qing Hai Sheng, China, 810000
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Ningshi Supermarket
Popular International in Xining.
📍 China, Qing Hai Sheng, Xi Ning Shi, Cheng Xi Qu, Huang He Lu, 82号-8 邮政编码: 810001
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Xining Haoshanghao Supermarket
Popular International in Xining.
📍 China, Xi Ning Shi, Cheng Zhong Qu, CN 青海省 西宁市 城中区 南大街 55 55号青海省红十字医院门急诊外科大楼负1楼 邮政编码: 810000
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Xining.
Dongguan Mosque
Highly rated International in Xining with 4.3 stars from 183 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
塔尔寺
Highly rated International in Xining with 4.4 stars from 355 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
China Tibetan Medicine Culture Museum
Highly rated International in Xining with 4.2 stars from 56 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Qinghai Museum
Highly rated International in Xining with 4.3 stars from 63 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Tulou Temple
Highly rated International in Xining with 3.9 stars from 33 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Holiday Inn Xining Hot-Spring
Popular International in Xining.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Xining.
Dashan Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Xining with 5 stars from 5 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 China, Xi Ning Shi, Cheng Zhong Qu, 正北方向100米 CN 青海省 西宁市 城中区 29-19 邮政编码: 810000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Riyue Renyan Travel Concept House
Highly rated Cafe in Xining with 4.5 stars from 2 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 China, 8, Cheng Zhong Qu, Mo Jia Jie, 8号CN 青海省 西宁市 邮政编码: 810000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Dio Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Xining with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 JQFM+CJG, Bei Da Jie, Cheng Zhong Qu, Xi Ning Shi, Qing Hai Sheng, China, 810000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Zhaomi Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Xining with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 JQ5P+7FX, Cui Nan Lu, Cheng Dong Qu, Xi Ning Shi, Qing Hai Sheng, China, 810000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sofitel Xining
Highly rated International in Xining with 4.5 stars from 92 reviews.
📍 Chengxi District, Xining, China, 810029
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
塔尔寺
Highly rated International in Xining with 4.4 stars from 355 reviews.
📍 China, Qing Hai Sheng, Xi Ning Shi, Huang Zhong Qu, 金堂巷2号 邮政编码: 811600
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Amdo Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Xining with 4.3 stars from 6 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 19 Le Du Lu, Cheng Dong Qu, Xi Ning Shi, Qing Hai Sheng, China, 810000
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
China Tibetan Medicine Culture Museum
Highly rated International in Xining with 4.2 stars from 56 reviews.
📍 36 Jing Er Lu, Cheng Bei Qu, Xi Ning Shi, Qing Hai Sheng, China, 810017
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Xining.
Signature Dish
A must-try Xining specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Xining dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Xining with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Xining specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Xining creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Xining classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Xining specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Xining dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Xining with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Xining specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Xining.
Norbu
Highly rated Bar in Xining with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, Xi Ning Shi, Cheng Zhong Qu, CN 青海省 西宁市 城中区 夏都大道 文化广场夏都家园东区门口 邮政编码: 810000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Xining'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 Xining 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
Xining 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 Xining 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 Xining 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.
Enjoyed this guide? Share it!