When visiting Huashan Mountain, your adventure doesn’t just stop at breathtaking views and thrilling hikes. The mountain’s base and surrounding area also offer an array of local delicacies that are sure to satisfy your hunger and enhance your experience. From hearty breakfasts to flavorful dinners, Huashan’s food scene is as diverse and delightful as its landscapes. Here’s a guide to the must-try dishes and where to find them at the foot of Huashan Mountain.
Breakfast at Huashan Mountain: Start Your Day Right
- A Qiu Ji Sheng Quan Wanzi Soup (阿邱记生汆丸子汤): Known for its rich, flavorful broth, this soup is made with tender, juicy meatballs. It’s the perfect meal to kickstart your day with warmth and comfort.
- Pickled Rice Noodles (泡菜米线): A delightful dish of sour and spicy rice noodles paired with crunchy pickles, offering a refreshing and flavorful morning treat.
- Zeng Gao, Tofu Pudding, Oil Tea, Ma Shi Cai, Shui Jian Bao (甑糕、豆腐脑、油茶、麻食菜、水煎包): These are all traditional breakfast favorites that are quick, filling, and packed with local flavors. Any of these will give you a true taste of the region!
Lunch Options: Hearty Dishes for the Hiker’s Appetite
- Zan Jia Yuanzi (咱家院子): This is a local favorite, where you can enjoy a wide variety of dishes like the famous Guokui Spicy Chicken (锅盔辣子鸡), Beef Tripe Hot Pot (涮牛肚), crispy Hulu Chicken (香酥葫芦鸡), Braised Eggplant (红烧茄子), and Stir-Fried Vermicelli with Cold Noodles (铁锅炒粉炒凉皮). The free congee (稀饭) here is especially popular with locals and is a must-try.
- Feng Jia Rou Jia Mo (冯家肉夹馍): A delicious take on the traditional meat sandwich, this dish features flaky bread filled with tender, flavorful meat. Pair it with a refreshing egg soup for a complete meal.
- Shen Xian Dou Hua Zhuang (神仙豆花庄): Known for its Roast Duck (烤鸭), Sour Cabbage Tofu Soup (酸菜豆花), and Red Bean Paste Eggplant (豆沙茄排), this hidden gem is perfect for a cozy meal with friends or family. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but the food is well worth the visit!
- Meng Ji Da Dao Mian (孟记大刀面): While the Da Dao Mian (大刀面) (knife-cut noodles) might be average, the Fatty Intestine Sandwich (肥肠夹馍) here is truly remarkable and worth the try.
- Lao Zhang Jia Pao Mo (老张家泡馍), Wan He Qiang Guo Yu (万和炝锅鱼), Pang Nv Ren Shao Bing Jia Rou (胖女人烧饼夹肉), Si He Shou Gan Mian (四合手擀面), and Long Long Gan Mian Pi (龙龙擀面皮): These local stalls serve up a variety of savory dishes that are reliable, delicious, and loved by locals.
- Special Tip: Buckwheat Cold Noodles (荞麦凉粉) are unique to Huashan and not found in Xi’an. Look for these at any local stall for a healthy, filling, and low-calorie option that’s perfect for any time of day.
If You’re Dining on the Mountain: Enjoy a Meal with a View
- Wu Yun Feng Restaurant (五云峰饭店): For a more traditional mountain dining experience, this restaurant offers a delicious selection of stews and hot pots that are perfect after a day of hiking. The aroma of their clay pot dishes will tempt you as you approach.
- Xin Yi Xian Tea House (馨益仙茶): Located just across from Wu Yun Feng, this cozy tea house is ideal for enjoying a warm, aromatic tea after a hike.
Dinner: The Perfect Way to End Your Day
- Ying Jun BBQ (迎君烤菜): This night market stall is a must-visit for anyone craving grilled skewers. The variety of meats and vegetables is impressive, and everything is grilled to perfection.
- Jiang Bo Spicy Chicken (江波辣子鸡): The large, flavorful Big Plate Chicken (大盘鸡), served with a portion of handmade La Tiao Zi (拉条子) (noodles), is a crowd favorite and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and spicy.
- Ji Jia Zhou Pu (冀家粥铺): This local favorite is famous for its Stir-Fried Pancakes (炒菜卷饼) and a variety of congee dishes. Be prepared to wait in line, but it’s definitely worth it for the delicious, comforting meals.