Xi’an Famous Foods

Named after Xi’an, one of the easternmost cities in China (and last stop on the Silk Road!) Xi’an Famous Foods is not only one of the best restaurants near Central Park, it’s one of the most affordable. Traditional noodle-centric meals are made from family recipes with the motto, “if it’s not spicy it’s not as good”. 

Now the food won’t make your tongue go numb (unless you want it to) but bear in mind the house made chili oil is what adds the kick, but it’s also what packs the flavor. Most dishes have a customizable spiciness level so you’re fully in control. 

Xi’an Famous Foods, named after the easternmost city in China, stands out as one of the best and most affordable Upper East Side restaurants. Their traditional noodle-centric meals, crafted from family recipes, embrace the motto, “if it’s not spicy, it’s not. As good.” The house-made chili oil adds both the kick and the flavor, allowing you to customize the spiciness level.

Best-selling items like the B1 pork burger and B2 spicy cumin lamb burger, priced under $7, contribute to Xi’an Famous Foods’ reputation as one of the top budget-friendly restaurants in the Upper East Side. A personal favorite is the A2 Liang-Pi, a stir-fried noodle dish featuring scallions, bean sprouts, cilantro, cucumbers, and spongy cubes of house-made gluten, an absolute delight.