The Muslim Quarter food market, known locally as Huimin Jie (回民街), is arguably the most famous culinary destination in all of Xi'an — and for good reason. Stretching through a network of narrow, bustling streets near the Drum Tower in the heart of the city's historic center, this vibrant market has been serving up an extraordinary fusion of Chinese and Islamic culinary traditions for centuries. If you're visiting Xi'an and wondering what to eat, taste, and take home from this legendary food street, this guide will walk you through the absolute must-buy items that will make your visit unforgettable.
The first item on any visitor's list should be roujiamo (肉夹馍), often called the "Chinese hamburger." This ancient sandwich features slow-braised, spiced meat — typically lamb or beef in the Muslim Quarter — stuffed inside a crispy, freshly baked flatbread. You'll find vendors preparing them fresh throughout the day, and a single serving typically costs between 15 and 25 CNY (roughly $2–$3.50 USD). The combination of tender, aromatic meat with the crunchy bread is a quintessential Xi'an experience that you simply cannot leave without trying.
Next, seek out yangrou paomo (羊肉泡馍), Xi'an's most iconic comfort dish. This hearty lamb soup comes with a bowl of rich, flavorful broth and a large piece of flatbread that you're expected to tear into tiny pieces yourself before the vendor adds the broth, sliced lamb, glass noodles, and toppings. A bowl usually costs between 28 and 45 CNY ($4–$6 USD). Be prepared to spend a few minutes crumbling your bread — it's part of the experience and the locals will appreciate your effort.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Muslim Quarter offers some extraordinary options. Guangbing (镜糕), or mirror cake, is a small, delicate steamed rice cake served on a stick and topped with sweet rose, sesame, or chocolate sauce. These adorable treats cost just 5 to 10 CNY ($0.70–$1.40 USD) and make for perfect on-the-go snacks as you explore the market streets.
You should also try persimmon cakes (柿子饼), which are made from local persimmons mixed with flour and stuffed with sweet fillings before being fried to golden perfection. They cost around 5 to 8 CNY each and are a seasonal delicacy best enjoyed in autumn and winter when persimmons are at their freshest. Another beloved sweet treat is tanghulu (糖葫芦), candied hawthorn berries on a skewer — a visually stunning snack that costs just 5 to 15 CNY.
If you enjoy bold, savory flavors, do not skip the barbecue skewers (烤肉串) that fill the air with intoxicating smoke as you walk down Beiyuanmen Street. Vendors grill lamb, beef, and chicken skewers seasoned with cumin, chili flakes, and sesame. Prices range from 3 to 10 CNY per skewer depending on the meat and size. Order a handful and eat them fresh off the grill while watching the market buzz around you. Liangpi (凉皮), or cold skin noodles, are another refreshing option, especially during Xi'an's hot summers. These chilled, chewy noodles are dressed in a tangy, spicy sauce with vinegar, chili oil, and sesame paste. A serving costs approximately 8 to 15 CNY ($1–$2 USD) and is both satisfying and refreshing.
For the adventurous eater, hulatang (胡辣汤) — a thick, peppery soup with chunks of meat, vegetables, and tofu — is a breakfast staple for locals. It costs around 8 to 12 CNY and provides a warming, spicy start to your morning.
Beyond the fresh street food, the Muslim Quarter is an excellent place to buy edible souvenirs. Dried fruits and nuts are sold everywhere, with vendors offering samples of jujubes (red dates), walnuts, raisins, and dried apricots at prices that are very negotiable. A bag of mixed dried fruit typically costs 20 to 50 CNY. You can also purchase vacuum-packed roujiamo and other preserved snacks that travel well and make wonderful gifts for friends and family back home. Muslim-style pastries are another popular take-home item. These beautifully crafted sweets, often filled with nuts, dates, or sesame, come in decorative boxes that make them perfect gifts. Prices range from 30 to 80 CNY per box depending on the size and quality.
The Muslim Quarter is busiest during evenings and weekends, so arrive early if you prefer a less crowded experience. Most vendors accept mobile payments through WeChat and Alipay, but many also take cash — bring smaller bills as some stalls may not have change for larger notes. The market is located just behind the Bell Tower and Drum Tower, easily accessible by taking Metro Line 2 to Bell Tower Station. The streets are open throughout the day, but the best atmosphere — and freshest food — can be found between 5:00 PM and 10:00 PM.
While exploring, keep an eye on your belongings as the narrow streets can get very crowded. Also, be mindful that this is a Muslim community, so all food is halal and pork is not served anywhere in the quarter.
For more Xi'an travel inspiration and guided food tour options, explore our curated experiences on tour.bridza.com and discover why the Muslim Quarter remains one of China's most beloved culinary destinations.
--- This FAQ is part of our comprehensive Xi'an Travel Guide. For more information about visiting Xi'an, explore our Xi'an Tours or contact us directly. Last updated: May 2026