Skip the tourist restaurants. What do Xining locals eat for breakfast? Who makes the most authentic Lamb? This list of 10 eateries covers breakfast to midnight snacks — the real flavors of Xining.
Breakfast: Lamb is Xining locals' soul food. Try the old spots near 城中, 15-30 RMB/person. Lunch: Local restaurants — order Lamb and seasonal vegetables, 50-80 RMB/person. Dinner: Lamb veteran near 城西, 80-150 RMB/person. Late night: BBQ stalls near 大通, 30-50 RMB/person.
10 recommended spots: ① 城中 old Lamb (20-year veteran); ② 城西 trendy Lamb (good ambiance); ③ 大通 hole-in-the-wall (most authentic); ④ Farmhouse near 塔尔寺; ⑤ Seafood/river fish near 青海湖; ⑥ 多民族-themed restaurant; ⑦ Local breakfast joint; ⑧ Night market BBQ; ⑨ Dessert old shop; ⑩ Souvenir shop. Budget: a full day of eating ~200-400 RMB/person.