Xi’an, the historical heart of China, is renowned not just for its ancient landmarks but also for its unique and mouthwatering noodle dishes. From hand-pulled noodles to spicy oil-splashed creations, the city’s noodle culture offers something for every palate. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or a first-time visitor, you cannot miss these top 10 noodle restaurants in Xi’an, each known for their delicious and authentic noodle creations that showcase the rich culinary traditions of this ancient city.
Ai Hua Kudai Noodle Restaurant (Main Branch) 爱骅裤带面馆
- Price: Approx. 30 RMB per person
- A newly popular restaurant in 2024, Ai Hua Kuda specializes in hand-pulled noodles and unique noodle types such as La Tiaozi (pulled noodles) and Lu Ti Zi Mian (donkey hoof-shaped noodles). Their signature Ku Dai Mian is a must-try, served with a variety of toppings like minced meat sauce, quail eggs, potato cubes, carrots, and leafy greens. However, be aware that the portion sizes are on the smaller side, especially with four strands of noodles per bowl.
Guo Lao San Noodle House (Giant Wild Goose Pagoda Branch) 郭老三面庄
- Price: Approx. 25 RMB per person
- With over ten years in business, Guo Lao San is a local favorite. The signature San He Yi La Tiaozi (three-in-one pulled noodles) is deliciously chewy and comes with a variety of meat and vegetable toppings. Located next to the famous Zhangji Meat Sandwich shop on Ziwulu Street, this place attracts a large crowd, making it a perfect spot for those looking to try authentic Xi’an noodles.
Da Xi Ya Biang Biang Noodles (Giant Wild Goose Pagoda North Square Branch) 大嘻咹biangbiang面
- Price: Approx. 35 RMB per person
- Known for its fun atmosphere and customer service, Da Xi Ya Biang Biang Noodles offers a great experience for tourists and locals alike. The owner is particularly friendly, engaging with customers from across the country. Their Biang Biang Noodles, known for their large, wide noodles, are served with a mix of spices, chili oil, and meat sauce, offering a bold flavor profile.
Ye Sai Er Hui Fang Noodle House • Halal (Xi’an Gongguan Branch) 也赛尔回坊面馆·清真(西安公馆店)
- Price: Approx. 30 RMB per person
- A top choice near Zhuque Gate, this halal noodle shop serves up deliciously aromatic You Po La Zi (oil-splashed chili noodles), which are a favorite for many visitors. Their hand-pulled La Tiaozi noodles are fresh and chewy, paired with authentic halal beef that packs a punch in terms of flavor. The open kitchen adds to the authentic, lively dining experience.
Shang Zhai Noodles (Bell Tower Branch) 尚寨嫽扎咧面馆（钟楼店）
- Price: Approx. 13 RMB per person
- A bustling spot with a wide variety of noodle dishes including You Po Mian (oil-splashed noodles), Sao Zi Mian (minced meat noodles), and San He Yi (three-in-one noodles). The restaurant has a large seating area, but it can get crowded, especially around noon. Patrons often have to sit on small stools outside when the restaurant is full. The atmosphere is lively, and the noodles are served fresh and satisfying.
Qing Zhen Ma Hu Noodle House (West 7th Road Branch) 清真马虎面馆(西七路店)
- Price: Approx. 25 RMB per person
- Known for its halal beef noodles, Ma Hu Noodle House is a popular local spot. Their La Tiaozi noodles are made fresh and are neither too thick nor too hard, giving them the perfect texture. The key highlight is their rich beef broth, which is the soul of the dish. If you’re visiting during peak hours, be sure to arrive early to avoid long waits.
Liu Xiang Noodles (Ji Qing Building Branch) 柳巷面(吉庆大厦店)
- Price: Approx. 20 RMB per person
- A long-established noodle shop, Liu Xiang’s fame stems from its humble beginnings—20 years ago, it was run by the owner’s mother. Today, it has become a popular spot on social media. Though the noodle-making process could use a bit more precision, the variety of toppings and the noodles’ chewy texture still make it a good choice for noodle enthusiasts looking to try something traditional.
Wang Ju (Main Branch) 王菊（总店）
- Price: Approx. 25 RMB per person
- Wang Ju is a standout in the high-tech zone, consistently topping local noodle rankings. The restaurant sees a large lunchtime crowd and even has a thriving takeaway business. Their pulled noodles are made to perfection, with a consistent thickness. The chili oil used is particularly fragrant, and the portions are generous, making it a solid choice for a hearty meal.
Guo Ji Noodle House (Long Shou Zhong Road Branch) 郭记面馆(龙首中路店)
- Price: Approx. 20 RMB per person
- Known as a “fly restaurant” (a local, humble spot with basic seating), Guo Ji is a beloved secret among locals. This small and unassuming place specializes in stir-fried pulled noodles (Chao La Tiaozi), which are flavorful and satisfying. The price is low, and while seating is limited, the taste of the noodles makes the wait worthwhile.
Lao Bai Noodle House (Survey East Road Main Branch) 老白家面馆(测绘东路总店)
- Price: Approx. 30 RMB per person
- One of Xi’an’s oldest noodle houses, Lao Bai has been serving traditional local noodles for almost 30 years. Their signature Guan Guan Mian (a type of long noodle dish) and the four-in-one noodle bowl (Si He Yi) with oil-splashed chili, minced meat sauce, tomatoes, and fried sauce are all highly recommended. The flavors are rich and deeply satisfying, making it a great choice for those seeking authentic local taste.