Spicy & Tingly Beef Muscle Hand-Ripped Noodles – Photo by WordRidden via Flickr
Who doesn’t love a good comeback story? Xi’an Famous Foods, renowned for its lamb burger that Anthony Bourdain said hit him “right in the pleasure zone,” is making its return to the Upper West Side after closing its location at 2675 Broadway due to financial struggles during COVID-19.
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The new location will be at 309 Amsterdam Avenue, between 74th and 75th streets, which was previously occupied by Mimi Cheng’s Dumplings.
Thanks to our eagle-eyed tipster who spotted the Xi’an truck!
“We were always looking to find the right opportunity to come back,” said Xi’an CEO Jason Wang, whose father started the business in 2005 in the basement food court of the Golden Shopping Mall in Flushing, Queens. The family hails from Xi’an, China, and the upcoming opening will mark their fifteenth location. Wang also mentioned they are close to announcing another UWS storefront near Columbia University, ensuring plenty more Biang Biang noodles to go around.
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Specializing in Shaanxi cuisine, which uses simple ingredients to create vibrant flavors, Xi’an plans to open its doors for a soft launch next week before holding an official grand opening on Saturday, December 14.
Spicy Cumin Lamb Hand-Ripped Noodles In Soup – Photo by Gary Stevens via Flickr
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“We’re going to do a grand opening promotion, as we typically do for new store openings,” said Wang. You’ll find out exactly what those promotions are if you stop by, but Wang mentioned in the past that they’ve offered gift cards or, more recently, commemorative coins he had commissioned for the Year of the Dragon, featuring their logo. However, anyone who follows Xi’an Famous Foods on social media and reposts their promo announcement on each active platform (X, Instagram, Facebook) will get their choice of a free dish during the promotion period of the day. “I know how it is to come in early to order. I really appreciate that,” Wang said. He added that the giveaways are meant to convey their excitement to see everyone there, similar to the enthusiasm he’s seen from guests lining up out the door.
Anthony Bourdain first visited the original Xi’an Famous Foods while filming No Reservations for the Travel Channel. The beloved celebrity chef, author, and travel documentarian praised the experience, saying, “This place is unbelievable. This place is great. I’ve never had anything like this.” During our conversation, Wang referred to Bourdain affectionately as “Tony” and shared that he returned multiple times. On one occasion, a photo captured Bourdain sampling dishes as Wang’s father, David, experimented with new recipes. “He doesn’t always go by the book. He likes to make new dishes up based on his own creativity,” Wang said of his father. The family-run business continues to value guest feedback, which helps enhance the flavors while preserving the nature of their classic dishes.
Spicy Cumin Lamb Burger – Photo by Jason Lam via Flickr
Liang Pi “Cold-Skin Noodles” – Photo by Gary Stevens via Flickr
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Wang says they’re aiming to maximize the space at their upcoming location, which will include about 15 seats inside. He gave a nod to Mimi Cheng’s for shaping the space, noting that while Xi’an made some tweaks, the foundation of the design remains theirs. Wang described the new spot as having an “airy” feel compared to their typical no-frills locations. Despite the fresh look, the menu will offer the same comforting dishes you’d find at any other Xi’an location, like the spicy cumin lamb hand-ripped noodles in soup and sweet and sour dumplings. They also have an exclusive delivery partnership with DoorDash.
You might spot Wang’s dad at the grand opening, too. While he may be exhausted from the preparations, if he’s there, expect him to be firing things up in the kitchen. “He cannot help but jump in,” the younger Wang said with a smile.
Visit the Xi’an Famous Foods website to check on the hours for their upcoming UWS location.
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This makes me wish I still lived on the UWS. The assaults, gunfire and car jackings make me glad I no longer do anymore, though.
We share your gladness about that. Please continue to hold whatever beliefs are necessary to keep you where you are now.
Took the words right out of my mouth.
Such a clown comment. Like George said, you’re not missed.
Just tell us your scared and fearful.
Wish it was closer to where it was originally. Oh well.
This is such great news!!!! I love their food and was sad when they retrenched during the pandemic. Their food is unlike anything nearby. With all due respect to Mimi Cheng, I didn’t find their food exceptional (it was good…just not very special) and expensive for what it was. This is a huge upgrade in that space.