Travel4Food

Nestled in the bustling heart of Joy City, near Xi’an’s famed Big Wild Goose Pagoda, lies a true gem of gastronomy: Chang An Da Pai Dang (长安大排档）- The Food Gallery of Xi’An . This culinary haven, renowned for offering some of the finest Xi’An Culinary Delights, is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. As one of the eight distinctively themed branches in Xi’an, our visit to the ‘Journey to the West’-inspired location was met with the excitement of discovery and the promise of unparalleled flavors. The long queues, a testament to its popularity, hinted at the exceptional dining journey that awaited us, a journey deep into the rich tapestry of Xi’an’s culinary culture.

Despite a 40-minute wait, the restaurant’s tech-savvy approach, featuring an app to track queue progress, adds a modern touch. However, we missed our queue number due to a sudden jump in the sequence.

Xi’An Culinary Delights”: Appetitisers

The menu, boasting over 50 items with a focus on Chang Xi specialties, offers a wide selection. We ordered ten items, including rice, drinks, and lychee wine.

1. Liang Pi (28 RMB): A cold salad made of gluteus flour, chicken, egg, and cucumber strips, served with a mildly spicy ‘mala’ sauce. The dish was soft, chewy, and flavorful.
2. Chilled Braised Pork Slices (39 RMB): Tenderly braised pork accompanied by cucumber and garlic for added texture.

Xi’An Culinary Delights”: Main Course

1. Hulu Chicken – Gourd Chicken (78 RMB): A fried whole chicken cooked in a gourd. The chicken was tender inside with crispy skin, making it exceptionally flavorful.
2. Lychee Ball (68 RMB): Artistically presented, these are minced pork and prawn balls coated with crispy corn, resembling lychees.
3. Beef Skewers (29 RMB): A dozen tender and juicy skewers, grilled with a hint of char and marinated in cumin.
4. Soup (68 RMB): A nourishing pot filled with fresh prawns, fried pork, vegetables, and mushrooms.

Xi’An Culinary Delights”: Staples and Dessert

1. Biang Biang Mian (18 RMB): A dried noodle dish served with braised meats, vegetables, and tomatoes.
2. Chinese Brush Pastry (68 RMB): An innovative dessert, resembling paintbrushes and served with sauces styled as ink bottles, inviting diners to create their own edible Chinese painting.

Overall Experience of “Food Gallery of Xi’An”

In conclusion, Chang An Da Pai Dang is not just a restaurant; it’s a vibrant showcase of Xi’An Culinary Delights. With its blend of quality food, inventive presentation, and excellent value, it stands as a beacon for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this culinary hotspot is a must-visit destination for anyone eager to immerse themselves in the rich, flavorful tapestry of Xi’an’s gastronomic offerings.

The Verdict (ave of 2.67 out of 3 thumbs up)