GINKGO 银杏

Written by Jack Marshall and Tracy

Recently I have been finding it impossible to get some peace and quiet in this big city of ours. That is, until, per suggestion from a co-worker, I wandered into the “res” at the Xi’an Architectural University. “That’s strange.” I heard myself think! Tucked away through an arch and up some stairs, I found Ginkgo.
Known as a living fossil, the Ginkgo tree was the inspiration for this great restaurant. You’ll find these trees scattered throughout the university casting their ancient shadow. First impression…bliss. I felt instantly relaxed and welcome. I was greeted by the manager, Della. I took off my coat and sat back to admire. Warm and peaceful would best describe the décor and layout. I ordered my favorite Belgium beer and flipped open the impressive menu.
Smoked chicken and avocado salad, imported T-bone steak, prawn and asparagus risotto…and the list goes on. Naturally I went for the T-bone, and was not disappointed.  Staying true to its name sake, Ginkgo offers all the food we are used to in its own unique way. Also worth mentioning is the “micro bakery” producing delicious croissants and buns. Every bite – in a word – delicious, and at competitive prices. In the summertime you can enjoy drinks with friends or a quick lunch out in the garden. The Kitchen is open from 10am – 8:30pm weekdays, 10am – 9pm weekends
I finished my beer to the sounds of a professor rustling papers around, coffee in one hand, pen in the other. On my way out I caught a glimpse of the Christmas menu, talk about bells and whistles…the set menu was perfect (by the time this comes out, my friends and I would have had our X-mas party here, and boy, what a spread) they also cater for birthday parties etc.
As the sounds of the city engulfed me, I thought back to something the manager told me, “it’s my little hiding spot.” That’s exactly what Ginkgo is, a place to get away from it all, a place to enjoy great food, a place to relax…finally.
Pros: The menu and how unique each dish is. The service is amazing.
Cons: it’s a little tricky to find.
Average Price per person/人均消费:                       Drinks: 35RMB Food: 50RMB
Address /地址:
Xi’an Architecture University (South Campus), Jian She East Road. ( 碑林区建设路东段西安建筑科技大学南院 )
Tel /电话: 029-8220 5043                                         Hours /时间: 10:00am – 9:30pm