Xi'an Famous Foods 40th Street
Iconic NYC eatery serving bold, spicy Xi'an-style Chinese fare, famous for hand-pulled noodles and flavorful street food.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Xi'an Famous Foods 40th Street
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic NYC eatery serving bold, spicy Xi'an-style Chinese fare, famous for hand-pulled noodles and flavorful street food.
"Great value and flavor! Totally stop by if looking to have a great meal that won’t break your wallet."
🌶️ Adjust Spice Level
Ask for less spice if you're sensitive. Many dishes pack a punch!
📱 Touchscreen Ordering
Order easily via touchscreen kiosks. It's fast and efficient.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Spicy Cumin Lamb Noodles
Main Menu
Iconic wide, chewy hand-pulled noodles drenched in chili oil with tender cumin lamb. A must-try for spice lovers!
Liang Pi Cold-Skin Noodles
Main Menu
Refreshing, tangy noodles with a nutty, garlicky, and spicy kick. A great contrast to the richer dishes.
Spicy & Sour Pork Dumplings
Appetizers
Thick, chewy dumplings with a juicy filling and a flavorful sauce that balances the heat.
Lamb Burger (Rou Jia Mo)
Sandwiches
A flavorful lamb filling sandwiched in a savory flatbread. A classic Xi'an street food experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Spice
Quick & Casual Dining
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌶️ Adjust Spice Level
Ask for less spice if you're sensitive. Many dishes pack a punch! +1
📱 Touchscreen Ordering
Order easily via touchscreen kiosks. It's fast and efficient.
🤝 Share Dishes
Portions are generous; consider sharing to try more items.
🚶 Grab & Go Ready
Limited seating, so it's perfect for a quick meal on the go.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌶️ Adjust Spice Level
Ask for less spice if you're sensitive. Many dishes pack a punch! +1
📱 Touchscreen Ordering
Order easily via touchscreen kiosks. It's fast and efficient.
🤝 Share Dishes
Portions are generous; consider sharing to try more items.
🚶 Grab & Go Ready
Limited seating, so it's perfect for a quick meal on the go.
✨ Try the Dumplings
Even critics rave about the dumplings – a safe bet!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Xi'an Famous Foods is celebrated for its authentic, bold flavors and incredible value, particularly its signature hand-pulled noodles and dumplings. While many praise the affordability and taste, some find certain dishes lack complexity or are overly spicy, with a few experiencing digestive discomfort. The fast-casual, no-frills atmosphere is perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
"First time to try Xi’An famous foods. We got N1-lamb noodles, F8-Pork Dumplings & B2-lamb burger. After the lunch both ppl stomach have been grouchy for the rest of the day! It seems like the flavor/sauce was full of preservatives and additives. Not particularly healthy ingredients.
Store was clean and organized."
Julie T
"Great value and flavor! Totally stop by if looking to have a great meal that won’t break your wallet. Spent $11 and split the Pork "Zha Jiang" Hand-Ripped Noodles dish among 2 people."
Victor Martinez
"Xi’an Famous Foods is one of those places you hear about so much that by the time you finally go, you expect the heavens to part, chili oil to rain down, and a cumin-scented angel to hand you a steaming bowl of noodles. Instead… I got slapped in the face with mediocrity and a side of regret.
This chain went from a tiny shop in Flushing to 18 locations across NYC, which is impressive. But after eating here, I think they expanded faster than their flavor did. Honestly, the food tasted like someone hit the “mute” button on what Xi’an cuisine is supposed to be: bold, sour, spicy, and unapologetic.
Let’s break it down:
Liang Pi Cold-Skin Noodles: Traditionally, this dish should be tangy, nutty, garlicky, spicy. Basically the life of the party. Mine was bland, boring, and about as refreshing as a room-temperature glass of tap water. Sesame paste? Garlic? Chili oil? Missing. It was like the noodles showed up but forgot to bring their personality.
Hand-Ripped Chicken Noodles: The famous biang biang noodles should be thick, chewy, and glorious but the flavor was all jalapeños and no balance. Spicy? Yes. Tangy and complex? Nope. It felt like the cook ran out of vinegar and just said, “Eh, throw in some green peppers, they’ll never notice.” Spoiler... I noticed.
Spicy & Sour Pork Dumplings: Finally, something that worked. Thick chewy skins, juicy filling, a sauce that actually made me smile. If this meal were a talent show, the dumplings were Beyoncé and everything else was a failed juggler.
Spicy Cumin Lamb Burger (Rou Jia Mo): The star dish of Xi’an, hyped on every TV show and food blog. I was ready for fireworks. Instead, I got dry flatbread and lamb so overcooked it could’ve doubled as jerky. The cumin... the whole point of the dish was MIA. It was like ordering a margarita and getting a Capri Sun. Truly offensive.
Ordering here is touchscreen easy, the space is fast-casual, and I don’t mind that. What I do mind is food this famous tasting this… forgettable.
Maybe I’m just spoiled coming from California, where Asian food actually smacks. But in Midtown, Xi’an Famous Foods felt like the “lite beer” version of Xi’an cuisine: all the calories and carbs, none of the buzz.
Final verdict: Save your hype for something else. Unless you really, really like dumplings, or want to practice disappointment in a controlled environment."
Vay Van
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Xi'an Famous Foods 40th Street is conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan. It's easily accessible via subway, with several stations nearby. The closest subway lines often include the N, Q, R, W, B, D, F, M, and 7 trains, depending on your starting point. Walking from Times Square or Bryant Park is also an option if you're in the vicinity.
Street parking in Midtown Manhattan can be very challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to reach Xi'an Famous Foods 40th Street. If you must drive, look for commercial parking garages in the area, but be prepared for high fees.
Yes, if you're visiting landmarks like Times Square or Bryant Park, Xi'an Famous Foods 40th Street is within comfortable walking distance. This allows you to experience more of the city on foot and avoid transportation hassles.
The closest subway stops typically include Times Sq-42 St (N, Q, R, W, 1, 2, 3, 7) and Grand Central-42 St (4, 5, 6, 7). From these stations, it's a short walk to the restaurant.
As a counter-serve establishment, accessibility can vary. The entrance is usually at street level, but seating might be limited. It's best to check the specific location's setup if you have concerns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Xi'an Famous Foods is a casual eatery, not an attraction requiring tickets. You simply walk in, order at the counter or touchscreen, and pay for your food.
Opening hours can vary slightly by location and day, but Xi'an Famous Foods generally operates during typical lunch and dinner hours. It's always a good idea to check their official website or a reliable online directory for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Xi'an Famous Foods operates on a first-come, first-served, counter-service basis. Reservations are not accepted or needed. You order and pick up your food at the counter.
Xi'an Famous Foods is known for its affordability. Most main dishes, like the hand-pulled noodles, range from $10-$15, making it a great value for a flavorful meal in NYC.
Yes, takeout is a primary way to enjoy Xi'an Famous Foods. Many people opt for grab-and-go. Delivery services may also be available through third-party apps.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Spicy Cumin Lamb Noodles are a signature dish, featuring wide, chewy noodles in a flavorful chili oil sauce.+1 Other popular choices include the Liang Pi Cold-Skin Noodles for a refreshing kick, the Spicy & Sour Pork Dumplings, and the Lamb Burger (Rou Jia Mo).
The spice level can vary, but many dishes are known for being quite spicy, often featuring chili oil and cumin. If you're sensitive to heat, it's advisable to ask for a milder preparation or choose dishes like the dumplings which are often less intensely spicy.
While many signature dishes feature lamb or pork, there are options that can be made vegetarian or vegan. The Liang Pi Cold-Skin Noodles can often be prepared without meat, and some vegetable side dishes might be suitable. It's best to inquire with the staff about specific ingredients.
At Xi'an Famous Foods, you can often see chefs hand-pulling the noodles, which are then cooked and tossed with various sauces and toppings. The noodles are known for their thick, chewy texture, providing a satisfying bite.+1
Portion sizes are generally generous, especially for the noodle dishes. Many reviewers suggest that a single main dish can be a substantial meal, and some people even share larger bowls.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant colors of the noodle dishes, especially the glistening chili oil and fresh toppings.+1 The hand-pulling of noodles by chefs is also a dynamic visual to photograph.
+1 Don't forget to snap a pic of the unique Lamb Burger!
Yes, taking photos of your food and the general ambiance is generally acceptable. However, be mindful of other diners and avoid obstructing staff or the ordering area. Focus on capturing the delicious food itself.
The lighting inside can be typical of a casual eatery. Natural light from windows can be great if available. Otherwise, use your phone's camera settings or a small portable light for food shots, focusing on making the colors pop.
The Spicy Cumin Lamb Noodles, with their rich red chili oil and visible lamb, are very photogenic. The Liang Pi Cold-Skin Noodles also offer a unique visual with their pale noodles and green garnishes. The dumplings are also visually appealing.
Popular hashtags include #XianFamousFoods, #handpullednoodles, #nycfoodie, #nyceats, #chinesefood, #spicynoodles, and #midtown Manhattan.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🍜 Noodle Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Hand-Pulled Noodles
At many Xi'an Famous Foods locations, you can witness this culinary artistry firsthand. Watching the chefs expertly manipulate the dough is a captivating experience, adding an extra layer of appreciation to your meal. The noodles are typically served in flavorful broths or tossed with spicy chili oil, cumin, and various meats, making each bowl a hearty and delicious adventure.
While the term 'hand-pulled' might conjure images of delicate strands, Xi'an style often features wider, ribbon-like noodles, such as the famous 'biang biang' noodles. These are robust enough to stand up to rich, spicy sauces, ensuring every mouthful is packed with flavor and texture. It's this dedication to traditional techniques that sets Xi'an Famous Foods apart and keeps customers coming back for more.
Navigating the Menu: Flavor Profiles of Xi'an
Beyond the heat, expect a delightful tanginess, often from vinegars and citrus, which cuts through the richness of the dishes. Garlic and sesame paste are also key components, adding depth and complexity. The Liang Pi Cold-Skin Noodles exemplify this balance, offering a refreshing, slightly sour, and nutty experience that contrasts beautifully with spicier options.
While the bold flavors are a draw, some diners have noted that the intensity can sometimes overshadow subtle nuances, leading to a perception of 'one-note' spiciness for certain dishes.
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