Every now and then, it’s always fun to highlight a business in town that makes our off-campus experience enjoyable. Lili‘s opened this year and has been stealing the hearts and filling the stomachs of Amherst students since.
Lili’s Restaurant is run by a husband and wife team, selling Xian Chinese food. The menu is small and consists of: a pork burger, handmade noodles with choice of veggie or pork, pork dumplings with choice of leek or cabbage, stewed pork, chicken with hot pepper, and fried rice with choice of veggie or chicken. Although there aren’t as many options, each meal is made for the individual by the husband or wife right before your eyes. Customers are charmed watching them make the noodles and interact with each other.
The food is also authentic! Xian is one of the cultural centers of China. Located in Shaanxi Province in mid-west China, Xian it is mostly known for having a large Hui population, most of whom are Muslim. However, with the population still being 91% Han Chinese, when it comes to cuisine, Xian is the best of both worlds. While the food isn’t particularly spicy (at least not in comparison to Sichuan cuisine), the distinct peppers and blend of flavors is one that is hard to explain.
You should honestly try it for yourself!