If this restaurant were a laboratory—and it looks very much like one, with its sterile white-tiled walls and stools for chairs (casually pulled up to counters built into the wall)—the scientists working here would be studying just how much spice the human tongue can take before it explodes. Yes, this is a restaurant for chili heads, and its menu doesn’t lie: “Spicy and tingly beef with hand-ripped noodles,” the house specialty, will make your entire body heat up. This is truly authentic Sichuan food, family recipes of a caliber rarely tasted in the U.S. For those who can’t take the heat, there are less fiery choices that are nearly as delish. Brave the line to get in: It moves quickly.
New York City
Travel Guide
New York City› Restaurant
Xi'an Famous Foods
328 E. 78th St. or 45 Bayard St.

Our Rating
Neighborhood
Upper East Side & Financial District
Hours
Daily 11am–8:30pm
Transportation
Subway: 4, 5, 6 or S to Grand Central, or B, D, F, or M to Rockefeller Center
Prices
Main courses $8–$16
Cuisine Type
Chinese
Other
Reservations not accepted. Other branches around the city

Map
328 E. 78th St. or 45 Bayard St. New York CityNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.