Step into Urumqi’s Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar after dark, and you’ll find Avanti Barbecue Restaurant—a culinary hotspot where smoky grills and bold spices tell stories of heritage. 🍢 Chef Mao Shupeng, a 30-year veteran of Xinjiang’s food scene, has turned this eatery into a flavor battleground, blending tradition with modern flair.
"We keep the soul of our dishes intact," Mao says, "but we plate them like art." From tender lamb skewers to hand-pulled noodles, every bite reflects Xinjiang’s diverse culture. Even at midnight, the buzz here rivals a K-pop concert—sizzling meats, laughter, and the occasional ‘wow’ from first-time visitors.
🌙 Pro tip: Follow the smoke. It leads to crispy samsa (meat pies) and laghman noodles that’ll make your TikTok feed jealous. For locals, it’s nostalgia; for travelers, a passport to Xinjiang’s heart—no visa required.
