Xi An isn’t just about ancient walls and terracotta warriors — it’s also a city that excels in offering memorable dinner experiences. Whether you’re after an evening of cultural entertainment, a taste of local cuisine, or a mix of both, Xi An has options that will satisfy your curiosity and your appetite. We particularly like the Tang Dynasty Show with dinner because it combines a stunning cultural performance with accommodating menus for Muslim and vegetarian guests, all with the convenience of English captions and friendly service. Plus, the stories and costumes bring the Tang Dynasty vividly to life.
If you’re interested in exploring Xi An’s most famous sights and then settling in for a lively dinner, our list has a lot to offer. From private tours that include the Terracotta Army to full-day itineraries that combine history, culture, and food, you’ll find plenty of options to make your evenings as engaging as your days.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of dinner experiences: some focus on spectacular cultural shows like the Tang Dynasty Show with Dinner, others combine top sights like the Terracotta Army with lively evening entertainment. There are day tours that incorporate history and local cuisine, plus private options perfect for a more personalized experience. Whether you’re after a relaxed night out or a full immersion into Xi An’s cultural scene, there’s a tour on this list to match your style.
1. Xi’An: Tang Dynasty Show Ticket w/ Transfer or Dinner
At number one, this Tang Dynasty Show offers a unique blend of historical performance and cuisine that makes for a lively evening in Xi An. The show is set against the backdrop of the Tang Dynasty (618-906 AD), famous for its arts, music, and dance. It features incredible costumes, captivating choreography, and an engaging storyline, all with English captions to help you follow along.
What sets this experience apart is its flexibility: you can opt for just the show, add a dinner with dumplings, hotpot, or a traditional table set-up, or include transfer from your hotel. The dinner is especially accommodating for Muslim and vegetarian guests, which is a major plus for travelers with dietary restrictions. The service is attentive, and the evening flows smoothly, making it suitable whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family.
Highlights include the stress-free arrangement of seats (thanks to the organizer Ping, who often secures front-row views), the culture through dance and costumes, and the delicious food options. One reviewer mentioned, “The show is full of history and interesting stories,” highlighting how engaging the performance is. The evening typically lasts 1 to 3 hours, making it a manageable and memorable outing.
Bottom Line: A perfect option if you want a lively, culturally rich evening with flexible dining choices and a touch of elegance.
2. Top 3 Xi’an Sites to Terracotta Army & Dinner Show w/ Options
Number two on our list is a comprehensive day tour that combines top sights with an evening dinner and dance show. This private guided tour hits the Terracotta Army, visits the Great Mosque, and features a bike ride on the Xian City Wall. After a full day of exploring these iconic landmarks, you’ll enjoy a Tang Dynasty Dancing Show paired with a banquet at a premier theatre restaurant.
This tour is ideal if you want to see Xi An’s highlights without juggling multiple bookings. It’s especially popular for its unparalleled access to the UNESCO-listed Terracotta Warriors, with many reviews praising the knowledgeable guide who explains the history as you explore all three pits. The city wall bike ride offers a chance to see the city from a different perspective, and the local restaurant serves authentic dishes that give you a taste of Xi An cuisine.
The evening show is a highlight, with performances blending music, dance, and costumes that vividly recreate the Tang Dynasty’s splendor. Several reviews rave about the guide’s enthusiasm and the seamless logistics, making it a top pick for first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one day tour perfect for history lovers who also want a lively cultural show and local food—great value for a full day of sightseeing.
3. Xi’an: Afternoon Tour Terracotta Army, Muslim Street w/Dinner
Number three on our list offers a more relaxed, private experience—starting at noon, perfect for travelers wanting a blend of history, food, and local culture in one afternoon and evening. The Terracotta Army is the star attraction, with your private guide explaining its significance as you explore all three pits. Then, as dusk falls, you’ll head to Muslim Street, famous for its lively atmosphere and street food stalls.
This tour is especially good for those who want to experience Xi An’s culinary scene firsthand while soaking in its history. The local snacks like roujiamo and yangrou paomo are included, providing an authentic taste of local flavors. The flexibility of a private guide and car makes it easy to customize your experience, whether you want more time at certain spots or to explore specific foods.
One reviewer called it “a perfect mix of history and folk culture,” appreciating the private guide’s insights and the chance to try local snacks in a vibrant setting. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time who still want depth and flavor.
Bottom Line: A private, flexible tour combining the Terracotta Army, Muslim Street, and local snacks—great for those who want a personalized, cultural evening.
$173 per person
4. Xi’an: History and Culture Day Tour with Lunch and Dinner
Number four takes you deep into Xi’an’s cultural heritage with a guided day tour that includes the Shaanxi History Museum, city walls, and calligraphy lessons. It’s a full-day experience that offers a well-rounded look at the city.
Starting with the museum, you’ll learn about the centuries of history shaping Xi An. The city walls are a highlight, allowing you to walk or bike along the ancient ramparts. The tour also includes a traditional Chinese calligraphy lesson, giving you a hands-on cultural activity. Lunch and dinner are at local restaurants, featuring traditional dishes, making for a complete day of exploration and culinary delight.
This tour is perfect for history and culture enthusiasts who want a detailed picture of Xi An’s past and present. The professional guides provide a thorough overview, and the meal options are designed for an authentic experience. The reviews praise the tour’s educational value and the opportunity to learn new skills like calligraphy.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting an in-depth cultural day combined with good food, especially suitable for history buffs and art lovers.
$198 per person
5. Xi’an: Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show with Dinner Option
Number five offers a splendid Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show, with two dinner options: a dumpling banquet or a royal 6-course banquet. It’s ideal for travelers seeking cultural entertainment paired with a tasty meal.
During the performance, you’ll see traditional music, dance, and costumes that bring the Tang Dynasty’s elegance to life. The dinner choices allow you to indulge in either a casual dumpling feast or a more luxurious royal banquet, making it adaptable to different budgets and tastes. The show is designed to educate as well as entertain, with performers skilled in traditional arts.
While reviews are not provided, the focus on authentic costumes and musical performances suggests a high-quality cultural experience. It’s suitable for families, couples, or anyone interested in traditional Chinese arts with a relaxed dining experience.
Bottom Line: A lively, educational show paired with flexible meal options — perfect for a culturally immersive night out.
$34 per person
6. Xi’an Terracotta Army, Dumpling Dinner & Tang Dynasty Show
Rounding out our list is a comprehensive evening that combines the iconic Terracotta Army, a dumpling dinner, and a Tang Dynasty dance show. This is the ultimate cultural introduction for first-time visitors wanting a full evening of history, food, and entertainment.
Starting with the Terracotta Army, your private guide explains the significance of each part of the site while you marvel at the lifelike soldiers and horses. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a dinner featuring exquisite dumplings, a signature dish in Xi An. The night ends with a dance performance showcasing traditional costumes and music, giving you a taste of ancient Chinese artistry.
Reviews highlight how well-organized and immersive this experience is, making it ideal for travelers new to Xi An. The value lies in combining three key cultural elements into one evening, making it a great introduction to the city.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one cultural experience—fantastic for first-timers who want to see the highlights and enjoy local cuisine in a single night.
$203 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Dinner Experience
When selecting the best dinner experience in Xi An, consider your priorities: Do you want a detailed cultural show or a full-day sightseeing tour with dinner? Budget also plays a role — some tours are more inclusive and comprehensive, while others focus on a single evening performance. If you’re after a relaxed evening combined with authentic local food, the Tang Dynasty Show with Dinner offers a lively performance with flexible dining options.
For those wanting an in-depth exploration of Xi An’s sights plus evening entertainment, the Top 3 Xi’an Sites to Terracotta Army & Dinner Show is ideal. If you prefer a private, customized experience that mixes history and food, the Afternoon Tour including the Terracotta Army and Muslim Street is perfect.
Consider your fitness level and interest in walking or biking — tours like the City Wall bike ride suit active travelers, while others are more leisurely. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred time and ensure a smooth, enjoyable evening.
Final Thoughts
Xi An offers a wide range of dinner experiences that blend entertainment, history, and local cuisine. For a cultural spectacle, the Tang Dynasty Show hits all the right notes. For a comprehensive day with top sights, the Top 3 Xi’an Sites tour is hard to beat. And for personalized, private evenings, options like the Afternoon Tour give you flexibility and authenticity.
Whether you’re after a lively dance performance, an educational history tour, or simply a good meal with stunning entertainment, Xi An has something to satisfy your appetite for culture and fun. Be sure to book ahead and choose the experience that best matches your interests and travel style.