Uncover Xi'an's Hidden Gems and Encounter the Unique Charm of Ancient Chang'an
When people think of Xi'an, they often picture the grandeur and mystery of the Terracotta Army, the profound history of the Ancient City Wall, and the bustling crowds of Huimin Street. However, if you explore deeper, you’ll find that this ancient capital of thirteen dynasties hides countless unknown delightful corners—nestled in old alleys and woven into the daily lives of locals. Today, join me, a "half-native Xi'an local," on an off-the-beaten-path journey to discover the best local spots for eating, drinking, and having fun that only insiders know about!
Breakfast: Start a Vital Day with Street Vitality
"Have a warm bowl!" As the morning light breaks, Xi'an’s streets and alleys come alive with this Shaanxi dialect greeting. The Xiaonanmen Morning Market is the perfect start to this lively feast of daily life. Unlike the tourist-packed Huimin Street, this market is a local’s hidden breakfast paradise. Located near Wumu Gate (also known as Xiaonanmen), between Hanguang Gate and Zhuque Gate on Xi'an’s South City Wall, it stretches 342 meters along Shuncheng Lane, with 120 stalls. One end leans against the ancient city wall, while the other blends into the vibrant daily bustle.
Here, you’ll hear endless cries of vendors: "Zenggao (glutinous rice cake), hot Zenggao!" "Youcha Mahua (fried dough twists in creamy tea), want a bowl?" These calls are like a wake-up call for your taste buds. For Crispy Beef Pancakes, the chef rolls out the dough, spreads a thick layer of savory beef filling, folds and flattens it skillfully, then fries it until golden and crispy. When you take a bite, the "crunch" reveals a burst of beef aroma. Pair it with Youcha Mahua: the rich, creamy tea is made from carefully roasted flour, beef tallow, sesame, and peanuts, with a mellow texture and fragrant aroma. Soak the crispy dough twists in the tea, sprinkle with sesame and peanut crumbs, and every bite is a joyful celebration of carbs—pure old Xi'an flavor.
If you want to try more, don’t miss Zenggao: layers of glutinous rice, red dates, and sweet beans steamed until soft and fragrant, with a sweet taste that brightens your whole day. There’s also Jiangshui Yuyu (sour浆 noodles shaped like small fish), smooth and refreshing with a tangy soup, perfect for cutting through richness. Steamed Pork Sandwich is another must-try: tender steamed pork, aromatic and juicy, is stuffed into a crispy bun. One bite combines the aroma of meat and wheat, leaving a lasting impression.
The Xiaonanmen Morning Market is not just a food hub, but also a window into Xi'an’s street culture. You’ll see elderly locals buying groceries, kids with schoolbags, and tourists who’ve heard the word. People weave through stalls, picking their favorite foods, while haggling and laughter blend into a lively symphony of daily life. The fruits and vegetables here are directly sourced from farms—fresh and affordable. Many locals shop here for daily ingredients and chat with vendors about life. This simple human connection is what makes the market uniquely charming.