Shihezi Xinjiang, China Travel Guide
Shihezi's cuisine draws influences from its position in Xinjiang, a crossroads of Central Asian and Han Chinese cultures. It incorporates flavors from Uyghur, Kazakh, and Han Chinese culinary traditions.
The city’s Bingtuan history also brings a blend of culinary styles from various parts of China, specifically northern regions, due to the diverse origins of its settlers.
Chopsticks are standard for most dishes; use spoons for soup and grains of rice.
Sharing dishes is common in group settings, enhancing the communal dining experience.
Tea often accompanies meals, a tradition across Chinese cultures.
A large platter of chicken pieces, potatoes, bell peppers, and chili stewed in a savory, spicy sauce, often served over hand-pulled noodles.
Widely available in local restaurants.
Thick, chewy hand-pulled noodles stir-fried with lamb or beef, vegetables, and spices.
A staple dish, found in many eateries.
Rice cooked with carrots, onions, and chunks of lamb or sometimes chicken, often with raisins.
A rich and flavorful experience.
Tea (black, green, brick tea), doogh (salty yogurt drink), juices from fresh fruit.
Xinjiang Black Beer, local Baijiu (Chinese liquor). Local wines are sometimes available.
Fine dining establishments are limited. Upscale hotels offer a more refined local or Han Chinese menu.
Numerous options cater to everyday dining, blending Xinjiang cuisine with general Chinese dishes.
Abundant choices, especially near markets, bus stations, and university areas, offering authentic local flavors.
Farmers' markets stock fresh produce, dried goods, and some prepared foods.
A nice spot to observe local life and samples.
Market stalls within markets offer quick and tasty local snacks.
Taste a variety of small bites.
KFC and McDonald's are commonly found.
Basic Western or other Asian dishes are sometimes available.
Menus may lack English translations.
Local residents can direct you to assorted cuisines.
Food permissible under islamic law is common due to the large Muslim population in Xinjiang.
Seek restaurants marked "Halal" (清真 qingzhen) or those operated by Uyghur or Hui communities.
Kosher food is generally not available in Shihezi.
Communication with kitchen staff can be hard without Mandarin.
Not typically available for international tourists in Shihezi.
Shihezi is an agricultural hub. Visits to fruit orchards might be possible.
No organized food tours for visitors from abroad in Shihezi.
Walnuts, raisins, and apricots are local specialties.
Excellent for healthy snacking.
Hami melon and Xinjiang watermelon are especially delicious in season.
A refreshing treat during warmer months.
Discover a range of fruits in season and vegetables.
Find unique Xinjiang spices to take home.
Eat freshly baked Nang and other traditional breads.
For specific dietary needs, carrying a translation card or by means of a reliable translation app is highly recommended.
