Centuries of prominence and outside influence has lead Luoyang to be a veritable culinary capital of central China. The city's most popular dish, river carp, is not only delicious, but also appealing in appearance. The cheaper choices are Zhangji Roast Chicken and Sour and Spicy Soup. For those with a bit of time on their hands, or those traveling in group, the Water Banquet (Luoyang Shuixi)—a 24 course banquet of dishes served in soup—is not to be missed. Try it at the Baxiangong Restaurant near Luolong Dajie. Another interesting side to Luoyang dining is brought about by the mix of Han and Muslim (Xinjiang) people here, giving much of the food a certain Muslim piquancy. Kebabs and Muslim noodles can be found in almost every small restaurant bearing Muslim script.

Like most cities in China, the railway station in Luoyang is the place enjoy good cheap food. Of the many places around town, the restaurants on the left side of the Tianxiang Hotel (Tianxiang Binguan), just down the road from the railway station, serve some of the best dishes with both an English menu and cheap prices. There is also a good restaurant at number 4 Anhui Lu, Ya Xiang Lou, that has some good chicken with fruit, stir fried beancurd and fried rice, all for under RMB 20. The nicest of the Luoyang restaurants is also near here. HM on Zhongzhou Zhonglu, oozes exotic charm and has some tasty dishes for which you will have to pay more, around RMB 50 a person.