Dining Institutions of the Ancient Capital
Plan My Trip →Xi'an is home to some of China's most famous time-honoured restaurants — institutions that have served the city's legendary dishes for generations. Here's where to taste history.
Xi'an's most famous dining institutions include the great dumpling restaurants — where hundreds of varieties of dumplings are served in elaborate banquets. These are experiences as much as meals.
Paomo (lamb and bread soup) is Xi'an's iconic dish, and the city's paomo houses are institutions — some serving the same recipe for over a century. Tearing the bread yourself is part of the ritual.
The city's famous noodle shops — for biangbiang and hand-pulled noodles — have fed Xi'an for generations. Their recipes are closely guarded family traditions.
The Muslim Quarter's long-established eateries — for kebabs, soups, and snacks — have drawn loyal customers for decades. They're the soul of Xi'an's food scene.
Some of Xi'an's grandest restaurants celebrate the Tang dynasty heritage — recreating the imperial cuisine and performances of the city's golden age.
Most time-honoured restaurants have branches around the city — the original locations are often the best. Go early to avoid queues. Ask for the house specialties.