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Taste of Urumqi
Master Critic Review
Taste of Urumqi
7.8
Taste of Urumqi brings Xinjiang-style halal cooking to the Northern Boulevard stretch, with skewered meats, hand-pulled noodles, and spice-forward stir-fries. It attracts groups and families looking for shareable platters that sit somewhere between old-school Chinese and broader Middle Eastern flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cumin lamb skewers, Da pan ji (big plate chicken), Hand-pulled noodle stir-fry
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Halal Xinjiang dishes that blend Chinese technique with Middle Eastern spices.
Who should go: Groups wanting shareable halal skewers and noodle platters
When to visit: Dinner hours when the full menu and grill are active
What to order: Cumin lamb skewers, da pan ji, hand-pulled noodles
Insider tip: Ask for extra naan or flatbread to soak up the sauces from big plate chicken and braised dishes.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Northern Boulevard and side streets is possible but competitive during peak dinner hours; no dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; most guests come in everyday wear suitable for a relaxed group meal.
Noise level: Moderate—lively during dinner but still manageable for conversation at a normal volume.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes depending on party size, especially for groups of four or more.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, with plenty of tables available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options including vegetable stir-fries and noodle dishes, though the menu leans meat-heavy overall.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 dishes can be made vegan, but expect fewer choices compared to vegetarian diners.
Gluten-free options: Some rice-based and grilled items are naturally gluten-free, but there is no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual meetups than intimate dates; portions are large and the atmosphere is more lively than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common. Arriving before peak dinner hours improves your chances, especially for larger groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are frequent here. The menu includes mild dishes, and the spacious seating works well for children.
Best For
Better for: Shareable platters, bold lamb dishes, and authentic Xinjiang flavors served in a relaxed, group-friendly setting.
Skip if: You want a quiet or upscale environment, extensive vegan options, or a highly curated fine-dining experience.