Article By Demi Edwards
52F, Crown Plaza Xi’an, No.1, Zhu Que Zhong Road, Beilin District.
碑林区朱雀中路1号西安皇冠假日酒店52楼
(029) 8866 8888-6768
5:30pm – 0:30am
Average Price per Person /人均消费: 115RMB
PROS: Surprising views from the top of Xi’an. Well done local-style food.
CONS: Slightly tricky to find.
Taking the elevator up to the 50th floor of the Crowne Plaza Xi’an is just a small taste of the amazing view of Xi’an you’ll enjoy for the evening. You are greeted by friendly staff who will point you in the right direction and guide you through the viewing area to an unassuming staircase. From there you walk up to the 52nd floor to one of the best views in Xi’an.
As you walk through the lobby, it seems intimidating and fancy, but once you get to the patio there is a relaxed casual environment that any group of friends to enjoy. Rooftops can be a little precarious when choosing to eat at one, but this restaurant is ready for all weather. Glass windows surround the sheltered patio, so even on a rainy day the area keeps dry. While upper windows give the patio a fresh open-air feel.
As ordering goes, it could not be made easier. Staff members are kind and helpful as they answer any questions as best as possible. Not to mention, the menu is available in English next to pictures. The food needs no modification, non-spicy is an option readily available. The local-style small rolled noodle dish with vinegar and green salad on top was refreshing and light. The typical beef and corn skewers were well seasoned and expertly cooked. The best dish of the night was the roasted fish. The sauce around the fish was something I could not get enough of, and a dish to go back for. These are just a few examples of the variety of delicious local food available on the menu.
As you look out the windows you can see all the way from the light show at the Dayanta to the amazing lit-up buildings in Gaoxin. On a truly clear day you can see all the way to the Qinling Mountains. The prices on the menu are pretty typical of a Chinese barbecue establishment. Maybe the alcohol is a little pricier as compared to a typical barbecue, but the views and the food are definitely worth it. Cloud Bar is an interesting place to introduce new/visiting friends to the layout of Xi’an and to the local food. On the other hand, those who have been around the city for a while, I would have to recommend taking the opportunity to sit on top of Xi’an for an evening.
Demi Edwards is an unfortunate lover of cold water and short walks on the beach.