Top 3 Places to Eat in Xi'an

Written by Alexander Kopp, Wei Li
18/08/2025
Majestic view of the illuminated Bell Tower in Xi'an, China against a twilight sky.
molin liu, Pexels

Xi'an's culinary landscape is a dynamic reflection of its Silk Road heritage, offering a rich fusion of traditional Shaanxi and Hui Muslim flavors. It caters to diverse palates, from vibrant street food experiences to refined gourmet settings.

1. Jia San Halal Soup Dumplings (贾三清真灌汤包子馆)

Cuisine: Halal Soup Dumplings (Tangbao), especially beef and mutton fillings, and other Muslim Quarter specialties.

Nestled within the lively Muslim Quarter, one experiences a bustling atmosphere, often sharing tables with local diners. The establishment is renowned for its signature soup-filled dumplings, featuring a savory broth encased within delicate wrappers. Exploring the surrounding Muslim Quarter, one can also find iconic street foods like Roujiamo (Chinese Hamburger), Yangrou Paomo (mutton and bread soup), Biang Biang Mian, and flavorful lamb skewers.

Price: CNY 20-50 per person / USD 3-7 per person for a simple meal. Street food prices in the Muslim Quarter are generally very affordable.

Getting There: Located on Beiyuanmen, Huimin Street, near the Drum Tower. It is easily walkable from the city center and attractions like the Drum Tower.

2. De Fa Chang Dumpling (德发长饺子馆)

Cuisine: Dumplings, traditional Shaanxi dishes.

Situated at the base of the historic Bell Tower, this long-established restaurant offers a grand setting for a unique dumpling experience. The highlight is the extensive dumpling banquet, presenting a diverse array of creatively shaped dumplings with various fillings, from meats to vegetables. It provides a more formal, sit-down dining environment.

Price: CNY 100-200 per person / USD 14-28 per person for a full meal or dumpling banquet.

Getting There: Found at the base of the Bell Tower. It is easily accessible on foot from the city center.

3. Chang'an Hui (长安荟)

Cuisine: New school Shaanxi cuisine, gourmet.

This restaurant offers a refined take on Shaanxi cuisine, blending traditional ingredients with modern culinary techniques. The ambiance is elegant, providing a sophisticated setting for a gourmet meal. Dishes like the Gourd-Shaped Fried Chicken and the Chang'an Nine Snacks Plate offer a creative exploration of local flavors. Reservations are advisable.

Price: CNY 250-500+ per person / USD 35-70+ per person.

Getting There: Located inside Xi'an Film Studio, No. 512 Xiying Road, Yanta District. A taxi ride from the city center would typically cost around CNY 20-40.

Check out our other pages on Xi'an

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