Top 3 Places to Eat in Dunhuang

Written by Alexander Kopp, Wei Li
19/08/2025
A stunning vista of Crescent Lake surrounded by Mingsha Sand Dunes in Dunhuang, China.
Lovesa Chang, Pexels

Dunhuang's dining scene primarily features robust Northwestern Chinese cuisine, with a focus on noodle dishes and various preparations of lamb, offering authentic local flavors.

1. Shazhou Night Market (Dunhuang Night Market)

Cuisine: Local street food, noodles, lamb skewers, snacks

This vibrant market comes alive in the evening, offering an extensive selection of local specialties and street snacks. Visitors can explore stalls selling noodles, such as Dunhuang Rang Pizi and Saozi noodles, along with popular lamb kebabs and beef pancakes. It is a bustling spot for tasting diverse, inexpensive local food and experiencing the city's lively atmosphere.

Price: Inexpensive (e.g., Noodles/snacks: CNY 10-30; Skewers: CNY 5-20 per skewer / Approximately USD 1.50-4.00 per dish/snack)

Getting There: Located on Yangguan East Road, it is central and often within walking distance or a short taxi ride from most accommodations.

2. Shunzhang Yellow Noodles House (顺张黄面馆)

Cuisine: Donkey Meat with Yellow Noodles

A historic eatery passed down through five generations, Shunzhang Yellow Noodles House is celebrated for its signature Donkey Meat with Yellow Noodles. The hand-pulled yellow noodles are chewy and served with tender, flavorful donkey meat and a special sauce. This establishment provides a taste of a unique local delicacy in a time-honored setting.

Price: Mid-range (e.g., Noodles: CNY 30-60 per person / Approximately USD 4.00-8.00)

Getting There: Situated in the bustling alleys, it is generally accessible by walking from the city center or a short taxi ride.

3. Jinyuan Galiu Delicious Lamb (靖远尕六美味羊羔肉)

Cuisine: Hand-grabbed lamb (手抓羊肉)

Known as one of Dunhuang's premier destinations for 'hand-grabbed lamb,' this restaurant serves freshly cooked, steaming hot, and tender lamb. It is a popular choice for those seeking a substantial and high-quality local lamb dish, offering a more formal yet authentic dining experience compared to street food.

Price: Mid-to-Expensive (e.g., Main lamb dishes: CNY 80-200+ per person, depending on portion / Approximately USD 11.00-28.00+)

Getting There: Conveniently located within the city, it can be reached easily by taxi or on foot from central areas.

Check out our other pages on Dunhuang

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