The most authentic Xinjiang food in Boston

🍢 Jahunger: Cambridge’s Authentic Xinjiang Gem—Spiced Lamb, Chewy Noodles, and Honey Cake Bliss For anyone craving authentic Xinjiang flavors in Boston, this Cambridge spot is a revelation. From juicy lamb skewers to hand-pulled noodles, it’s a taste of northwest China—bold, aromatic, and packed with the spices that make Xinjiang cuisine unforgettable. Just note: they open at 5 PM, and the afternoon sun can make the space warm, but the food more than makes up for it. 🌟 The Must-Orders (No Skipping!) Karap (Lamb Skewers) 🍖 Boston’s best—no contest. Generous chunks of lamb, grilled to perfection: outer edges charred and smoky, inside tender and juicy. The meat is fragrant with cumin and chili, capturing that “street food in China” vibe. Even the skewers feel substantial (heavy, like the ones back home), adding to the authenticity. We devoured ours and immediately wanted more—do not miss. Not Your Typical Honey Cake 🍯 A sweet surprise. Dense, buttery cake layered with honey-infused cream—rich, moist, and not cloying. Served with a scoop of ice cream, the coolness cuts through the cake’s richness, making every bite feel indulgent but balanced. It’s thick, satisfying, and unlike any honey cake you’ve had—save room for this. Samsa (Baked Lamb Buns) 🥟 Flaky, savory pastries stuffed with spiced ground lamb. The crust is crisp (with a slight crunch on the first bite) and the filling is fragrant with cumin and onion. It’s hearty, portable, and a classic Xinjiang snack—perfect for sharing (or hoarding). 😊 Solid Standouts Jahunger Noodles 🍜 Hand-pulled noodles with a satisfying chew, tossed with tender lamb pieces and a savory sauce. The surprise? (chives) mixed in—whether it’s a house (specialty) or authentic Xinjiang touch, it works, adding a fresh, oniony zing. Lamb on Dry Land 🐑 A simple, bold dish: tender lamb and onions stir-fried with loads of cumin. It’s aromatic, salty, and full of lamb flavor—great with naan (though the naan here is thicker than some might prefer; ask for it thinner if possible). ✨ Vibe & Tips Music: Fun, lively Xinjiang tunes that set the mood—like dining in a little slice of northwest China. Timing: Open at 5 PM, so plan accordingly. The space gets sunny (and warm) early in the evening—opt for takeout if heat bothers you, or trust that the food will distract you. 💰 Value & Verdict Price: Reasonable for the portions (expect $30–$40 per person). Why Go: Jahunger nails Xinjiang’s signature boldness—cumin, chili, and tender lamb take center stage, with surprises like the honey cake to round things out. It’s authentic, satisfying, and a must for anyone missing Chinese street food or curious about regional flavors. If you’re in Cambridge, run (don’t walk) to Jahunger. The lamb skewers and honey cake alone make it a standout—and once you taste the noodles, you’ll be planning your return. 📍 Jahunger 272 Brookline St, Cambridge, MA 02139 #BostonXinjiangFood #LambSkewers #CambridgeEats