Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Lunch spots with food in Union Square

A midday break is the only chance to step away from the desk and actually sit down with a meal.

Based on 887 Opinions
+884
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Pizzazz image 1
Pizzazz image 2
Pizzazz image 3
View all
Pizza restaurant

Small pizza shop shines with fresh-quality ingredients and a stone spinning oven that cooks pies evenly. Stylish, modern interior with upbeat music makes it a warm, inviting spot perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Food features fresh-quality ingredients and high-quality products. Options suit quick lunch, dinner, or dessert with consistently great taste and well-prepared dishes.

Offers fresh-quality food that suits a quick lunch or dinner. Consistently maintains high quality and works well for grabbing food on the go.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I ever had."

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's pizza has an incredible chewy, pillowy crust."

Good to know

1

There isnโ€™t any indoor seating available at this pizza spot.

2

The entire process from placing the order to leaving takes only 5 minutes.

3

The restaurant imports almost all of their ingredients from Italy for quality.

02
Le Basque French Vegan Restaurant image 1

Elegant dining space with an open glass ceiling creates a calm, romantic vibe perfect for intimate moments. Cocktails impress with unique flavors, while the fully vegan menu offers exceptional quality dishes. Lunch feels peaceful and inviting, ideal for busy days.

Food here is uniquely crafted and consistently absolutely delicious. Vegan options stand out with exceptional quality and service.

Lunch offers a lovely and peaceful atmosphere that stands out on busy days. The experience feels mind-blowing with its calm and inviting vibe.

People are saying

"The vegetarian food here is outstanding and incredibly flavorful."

"I experienced some of the best vegan food I've ever had."

"This lunch spot's vegan cheese board is exquisite."

Good to know

1

Reservations are suggested for the upper level to ensure a comfortable experience.

2

The restaurant offers a unique vegan menu inspired by the Basque region.

3

Casual wear is acceptable, making it a relaxed dining option.

03
Palermo Argentinian Bistro Gramercy image 1

Argentinian restaurant offers modern design and cozy, romantic atmosphere with live music enhancing the experience. The space attracts those seeking top-class steakhouse vibes and authentic Argentinean flavors. Lighting and energy create a warm, welcoming environment ideal for intimate dining.

Food here is consistently delicious and authentic, with starters through desserts impressing every time. Steaks come cooked to perfection, complementing a cozy, romantic atmosphere.

Lunch offers amazing and delicious dishes served with care. Service by Carlos stands out as exceptional.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The beef empanadas are just like the ones in Argentina."

"The Lunch Spot service was so attentive and terrific."

Good to know

1

Reservations are encouraged, especially on weekends.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for tips.

04
La Dong image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant shines with stellar quality food and gluten-free lunch options. Charming decor features rattan lotus lights creating a classy, friendly vibe. Quick seating and excellent service make lunch a breeze.

Vietnamese food here stands out for its stellar quality and excellent service. The dining experience feels consistently well-executed and satisfying.

Lunch offers a reasonably priced menu with clearly marked gluten-free options. Seating happens quickly, making it easy to enjoy a fantastic meal without long waits.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing."

"The Wagyu Pho here has an excellent, flavorful broth."

"This Lunch Spot's pho is warming to the soul."

Good to know

1

Make sure to make a reservation before visiting.

2

La Dong charges almost $30 for its bรบn bรฒ Huแบฟ.

3

The restaurant could accommodate a big party of 20 people.

05
LOS TACOS No.1 image 1
Taco restaurant

Bright red-and-white design creates a fresh and colorful space with standing tables only. Lively atmosphere features Mexican music and a vibe that feels like eating in Mexico. Known for authentic, flavorful tacos that highlight quality corn tortillas and well-prepared meats.

Food here is authentic and tasty with standout items like pollo asada tacos and chicken quesadillas. The dishes are flavorful and affordable, making for a satisfying meal.

Quick-moving lines appear during peak lunch hours despite sometimes being long. Offers reasonably priced meals suitable for a fast lunch or dinner.

People are saying

"These tacos are the best I've ever had."

"The carne asada quesadilla was juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor."

"The service here is amazing, truly the best I've experienced."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines between 11:00AM and 11:30AM; arrive early to avoid waits.

2

The restaurant has no seating available; plan to eat standing or take out.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also an option.

06
Pokeworks image 1
Poke bar

Small space offers cozy seating and a modern yet welcoming atmosphere with a quiet, pleasant vibe. Casual setup suits quick, grab-and-go dining with friendly, warm energy from staff. Focus on fresh poke bowls with notable vegan and seafood options.

Food stays consistently fresh and delicious with a variety of options. Service complements the meals well, making the overall experience enjoyable.

Offers a plant-based tuna bowl with vegan "Impact Tuna" and customizable options like kale noodles. Stays clean and organized even during busy lunch hours, making it a reliable spot for a quick, tasty lunch.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's bowls are delicious, fresh, and packed with flavor."

"The Yuzu Ponzu Salmon tasted savory and light."

"The food here is amazing and fresh."

Good to know

1

The Poke Bowl costs $20, while a bowl with salmon and tuna is $16.

2

The wait time for lunch is about 15 minutes during peak hours.

3

The restaurant is very clean and takes health measures seriously.

07
Mission Ceviche Union Square image 1

Peruvian restaurant offers authentic ceviche and expertly crafted cocktails in a chic, minimalist space with nautical accents. Lunch specials at $35 provide great value and end with a light chirimoya mousse. Live DJ and vibrant bar add energy to the laidback vibe.

Amazing Peruvian food shines with fantastic flavors and top-tier hospitality. Every dish delivers a memorable dining experience with great service.

Lunch offers excellent food with a lunch special priced around $35 providing good value. Desserts like the chirimoya mousse with orange granita and berries finish the meal with a light, fresh touch.

People are saying

"The ceviche here is outstanding and tastes so fresh."

"The food here is amazing, bursting with authentic flavors."

"This lunch spot's ceviches are fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations may be canceled without notice, so confirm before visiting.

2

Expect high prices for dishes, reflecting elevated Peruvian cuisine.

3

Mocktails advertised may not be available, so check beforehand.

08
Chopt Creative Salad Co. image 1

Salad shop with wide variety and fresh ingredients offers a friendly atmosphere and runs with efficient lunch pickup. Lines get long at midday but the process stays smooth. Dressings stand out as flavorful additions to customizable salads.

Food arrives quickly and is consistently fresh and delicious. Staff handle orders with courtesy and accuracy, making the experience smooth and reliable.

Lunch pickup runs smoothly with a friendly, quick staff who keep the line moving even during rush hours. The process is reliable, making it a solid choice for a work lunch break away from the office.

People are saying

"I thought the salad here was amazing and delicious."

"The staff at this lunch spot is always super friendly and helpful."

"I thought the food here was the best I had."

Good to know

1

You can customize your salad with a variety of fresh ingredients.

2

Prices are reasonable, making it a great lunch option.

3

All dressings are made in-house and are highly rated.

09
Pierre Loti Mediterranean Restaurant image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Outdoor seating features covered patio with plants and flowers and overhead heaters creating a quiet, chill atmosphere reminiscent of a European piazza. Interior spaces are stylish and gorgeous, offering a mix of lively bar areas and quieter dining spots. The vibe blends Mediterranean charm with a relaxed yet vibrant energy.

Food features unique and flavorful dishes made with super fresh ingredients. The quality is consistently excellent, making meals delicious and fresh.

Offers an amazing lunch special priced at $19.95. Provides a pleasant atmosphere suitable for casual celebrations like birthdays.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and flavorful."

"The food at these Date Spots is so flavorful and great."

"I found the lunch deal to be the best."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is $19.95 and offers great value.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm.

10
smashy burger | new york image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small spot with live cooking views offers quality hamburgers better than fast food. Quick service suits a lively lunch spot, and nearby park seating adds a nice outdoor option. Loud music and a bustling crowd create energetic vibes.

Hamburgers stand out with quality better than typical fast food. Food arrives immediately and offers great value for the money.

Typical American lunch options fit well for a quick midday meal. Seating across the street in the park offers a nice spot to eat outside.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were the best and juiciest."

"I found the food here to be really good and fresh."

"I found the smash burgers here to be delicious and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

The menu offers only cheeseburgers (regular or double), fries, and a couple of drinks.

2

Prices are $5 for a single burger, $7 for a double cheeseburger, and $3 for fries.

3

There is no indoor seating; it's grab-and-go only.

11
Laut image 1
Malaysian restaurant

Small space with old school Malaysian home decor creates a cozy and warm atmosphere filled with friendly chatter. Outdoor seating features heat lamps and offers a chill vibe despite close tables inside. Cocktails come with unique presentations, complementing flavorful, phenomenal Malaysian dishes.

Malaysian and Thai dishes stand out with consistently excellent flavors. The food offers a fantastic dining experience with great service.

Speedy service fits meals into a tight lunch hour. Lunch specials offer a budget-friendly way to try various dishes. Outdoor seating adds a pleasant atmosphere for midday meals.

People are saying

"The duck curry and soft shell crab curry were rich and flavorful."

"The food here is so tasty and fresh."

"This Lunch Spot's dishes are amazing, full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as people without them were leaving due to a long wait.

2

There is a 90 minute cap on the table due to high bookings.

3

The restaurant charges a $20 cancellation fee for each person if you cancel a reservation.

12
Pasta Eater image 1
Italian restaurant

Fresh pasta preparation happens in full view, creating an engaging start to the meal. Lively atmosphere fills the spacious basement setting, with live 80s music supporting loud, joyful conversations. Seating arrangements are close, encouraging a bustling, communal vibe.

Italian food stands out with dishes that impress from appetizer through dessert. The menu offers amazing flavors and consistent quality that satisfies every meal.

Lunch offers a variety of sandwiches and pasta with many options to choose from. The lunch special salad with poached pear stands out as a work of art. Service includes attentive waitstaff during meals.

People are saying

"The pasta here is fresh and tastes just like Italy."

"The food here is unbelievably fresh and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's fresh pasta is delicious and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must at Pasta Eater due to the cramped space and increasing popularity.

2

Expect to wait 30 minutes after your reservation time to be seated.

3

The prices on the website are about $10 lower than the price in store.

13
Kanyakumari image 1
South Indian restaurant

South Indian restaurant offers a cramped space with a mix of traditional decor and modern touches. Loud music fills the air, creating a vibrant but noisy atmosphere. Unique features include brassware highlights and an extensive dessert platter served on a seashell.

Authentic South Indian cuisine shines with exceptional coastal flavors and divine taste. The food delivers a memorable and amazing dining experience.

Lunch starts with chicken and beef starters and a cup of filter coffee. A serving of rasam awakens the senses early on.

People are saying

"The food here is super flavorful and tastes so fresh."

"The Indian food here is full of flavor and spice."

"This Lunch Spot's authentic South Indian cuisine is full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Brunch specials are popular and well-liked by customers.

3

Special dessert shows are available for birthdays upon request.

14
Barn Joo Union Square image 1

Two-level Korean restaurant with large bar area and inviting decor offers an energetic, loud atmosphere that suits lively nights. Guests enjoy interactive wheel spin for prizes and a mix of casual dining and drinks. The space balances cozy ambiance with a fast-paced, fun vibe.

Food features delicious flavors and good quality ingredients. Prices stay reasonable for the quality served.

Generous lunch portions come with delicious flavors and quiet atmosphere. Lunch specials like the uni bibimbap offer a satisfying and tasty midday meal.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is elevated and creative."

"I found the stone bowl bibimbap with spicy pork very satisfying."

"I always ordered the crispy fish filet sandwich from the lunch special."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is from 3 PM to 6 PM every day.

2

Oysters are $1 during happy hour on Sundays and Mondays.

3

Draft beer is $6 during happy hour.

15
Rainbow Falafel image 1
Falafel restaurant

Tiny take-out only spot with old NYC feel and family-run charm offers authentic falafel and vegan options. No seating inside, but nearby outdoor tables provide a casual place to eat. Food quality varies, but falafel stands out as fresh and crispy.

Food comes out fresh and delicious with a high-quality falafel platter, falafel sandwich, and lentil soup served warm. Prices stay affordable while hosts keep things friendly.

Falafel sandwiches offer a reliable and affordable lunch option. This spot fits well among other corporate lunch spots and suits a nice day for eating out.

People are saying

"The falafel here is so fresh and crispy outside, soft inside."

"The falafel here is so fresh and delicious."

"This lunch spot's falafel is so fresh and crispy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant takes cash only or Venmo.

2

There are no seats, tables, servers, or bathrooms at the falafel shop.

3

The restaurant is a take out falafel place.

16
Cafe Zaffri image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Elegant dining room under a peaked glass ceiling creates a bright, dramatic space with gorgeous seating. Atmosphere feels cozy and chic, blending lounge and cocktail areas with an inviting vibe. Frequented by groups and pairs, it offers a balanced mix of dining and drinks in a stylish setting.

Food features elevated Middle Eastern dishes with highlights like lobster saffron pasta. Service is knowledgeable and personal, complementing the well-balanced ambiance.

Lunch features a burger with a Middle Eastern twist that stands out. Light bites come with fast service, making it a solid spot for a quick work lunch.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are amazing and unique."

"The food here is amazing and unique."

"This lunch spot's food is uniquely flavorful and tasty."

Good to know

1

The food and drink menus are extensive without being overwhelming.

2

There are gluten-friendly options and substitutions available.

3

The menu is perfect for sharing, making it great for larger groups.

17
Tompkins Square Bagels | Union Square Bagel Shop image 1

Small bagel shop with crowded layout and fast-moving lines creates a lively, controlled chaos atmosphere. Eclectic decor and a hip vibe blend with a clean, professional environment. Standing tables and limited seating encourage quick visits amid a busy, welcoming crowd.

Food comes out freshly made and fast, featuring moist bagels with a good schmear. The rainbow bagels stand out with bright spiral patterns made from layers of food coloring.

Lunch features NY bagel with lox and a breakfast sandwich with eggs and cheese. The Grive stands out among the lunch options.

People are saying

"I thought these bagels were some of the best I ever had."

"I found the food to be amazing."

"The bagels here are amazing, packed with fillings and served warm."

Good to know

1

The wait time for a bagel is typically 30-45 minutes on sunny Sundays.

2

There is no seating available at the bagel shop.

3

It is better to order to-go at this bagel shop.

18
Edo Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy, rustic space with cramped seating and dim lighting creates an intimate atmosphere. Lunch hours bring loud, crowded energy while jazz music plays at a comfortable volume. Sushi quality is fresh and tasty, complemented by good sake options.

Food features fresh, flavorful, and artfully prepared dishes with an intense and balanced flavor. Every bite offers a crunchy touch and subtle spiciness that stands out.

Lunch offers great prices with a menu featuring both sushi and non-sushi options. Eel is not available during lunch hours.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh and spectacular."

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and artfully prepared."

"The sushi at this Lunch Spot is super fresh and yummy."

Good to know

1

It is suggested to make a reservation.

2

The lunch menu provides great options for sushi and non-sushi items at a good price.

3

The restaurant is great for gluten-free customers.

19
La Tazza D'Oro NYC image 1

Spacious cafe with elegant Italian design and authentic European atmosphere offers a bright, relaxed vibe with ample seating and thoughtfully spaced tables. Aromas of coffee and fresh pastries fill the air, creating a welcoming environment that blends casual dining with upscale touches.

Food features real Italian high-quality ingredients and preparation. The menu offers great food and coffee in a relaxed setting.

Quick service suits a lunch break with real Italian dishes served in a casual cafe setting. Options include pastries, coffee, and lunch that fit well for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The pastries here are flaky, flavorful, and feel like Italy."

"This lunch spot's lasagna is the best I've ever had."

"The food here was delicious and super light."

Good to know

1

The cafe serves lunch from 12โ€“3 pm and offers fresh salads all day.

2

Expect the cafe to be busy, especially around lunchtime.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

20
Poke Bowl NY image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Poke bowls come with varied topping options and fresh seafood selections like spicy tuna and teriyaki salmon. Outdoor seating offers shaded comfort with good music enhancing a chill atmosphere. The place balances affordable prices with quality and fast service in a casual setting.

Food here is consistently fresh, delicious, and made to perfection. Options like Teriyaki Salmon offer great variety, with meals that are healthy and free from fat or sugar.

Offers a quick lunch with options centered around rice bowls. Serves tasty meals suitable for a fast midday break.

People are saying

"I found the poke here to be really fresh and delicious."

"This lunch spot is great for a quick, tasty meal."

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Ordering for pick up allows you to skip the line and get your food faster.

2

The line moves quickly during peak hours.

3

There are many options for protein and toppings available.

21
Breads Bakery - Union Square image 1

Fresh bread aroma fills the lively bakery with exceptional pastries like almond croissants. Spacious back seating offers a relaxed lunch experience with great options and quick service. Food tastes like art, showing clear baker pride and freshness.

Food shows clear pride of the baker with tastes that feel like art. Dishes come out fresh and tasty with little to no wait time.

Spacious seating in the back supports a relaxed lunch experience. A variety of great lunch options exist, though the spot also suits grab-and-go meals well.

People are saying

"I found the bread and pastries here to be delicious and fresh."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The breads and pastries here are fantastic, especially the croissant."

Good to know

1

Breads Bakery offers sandwiches, salads, bakery items, and coffee.

2

The caraway rye bread is only available on weekends.

3

They sometimes have items on the menu only for that particular month, like the cheesecake babka in May.

22
4 Union Square image 1
Shopping mall

Three-level market combines cafeteria-style dining with playground and garden spaces for children under five. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and sociable to lively and crowded, hosting diverse groups and street vendors. Large windows offer great views including the Empire State Building.

Affordable options come from the salad bar and hot food vendors in the park. A variety of bread choices and fresh market items add to the food selection. Dining areas feel comfortable and safe.

Lunch includes vegetables and turkey, with options like chicken chopped into smaller portions. Seating by the window adds a nice touch to the meal.

People are saying

"The farmers market here has delicious produce and great personal care vendors."

"The staff at the Lunch Spot helped me fix a billing mistake."

"I enjoyed the good food and great selections here."

Good to know

1

The square connects to the L, N, R, W, Q, 4, 5, 6 subway lines.

2

Parking is hard to find.

3

Visitors can sit in the park and get hot food from vendors.

23
Tsuru Ton Tan - Union Square image 1
Japanese restaurant

Space features unique textured walls and a beautiful bar with ample seating arranged tightly for group dining. Atmosphere ranges from hip and lively to noisy, with music and chatter filling the air. Decor varies across floors, creating distinct visual experiences within the same venue.

Food features delicious flavors and timely service. Options include all-you-can-eat dining and happy hour deals.

Lunch offers set specials combining udon or rice with sushi or sashimi. Meals come fast, taste good, and cost around $24 for a large portion. The spot works well for a casual lunch with friends.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the udon and sushi, is amazing."

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and amazing."

"This lunch spot's Wagyu truffle udon is so soft and melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for groups.

2

The restaurant has a B rating from the health department.

3

Happy hour runs after 8pm until closing with cheaper food and drinks.

24
Subway image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop offers fresh food with a variety of sandwiches and satisfying cookies. Atmosphere feels comfortable and clean, though portions tend to be small. Staff communication can vary, and some locations nearby provide different experiences.

Food stays consistently fresh and delicious here. Service is quick, and meals arrive on time with a clean presentation.

Close proximity to work makes it a common choice for quick lunches. Staff may ask diners to leave early for cleaning purposes after purchase.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and yummy."

"The service at this lunch spot is great."

"I thought the sandwich here was the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Subway accepts coupons from the app.

2

The place was very clean.

3

There is another Subway location not too far from here.

25
Potbelly image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop offers a wide variety of options with a clean and comfortable seating area. The atmosphere is efficient and busy during lunch hours, featuring toasted sandwiches that many find satisfying.

Food comes fresh and of good quality with a focus on Italian subs. The spot offers quick service and a casual vibe for grabbing a bite.

Quick service handles a busy lunch crowd efficiently with a team of about 8 staff. The menu offers fine lunch sandwiches and enough variety to keep things interesting.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, tasty, and good quality."

"I found the sandwiches here to be amazing and fresh."

"This lunch spot is quick and delicious, my sandwich was ready in 2 minutes."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during peak lunch hours due to high traffic.

2

Sandwich prices start at $17 for a 7" size, which may be considered pricey.

3

The establishment maintains a clean environment, including restrooms.

26
Lillie's Victorian Establishment image 1

Restaurant offers unique Victorian decor with seasonal themes like Halloween and Christmas that create a distinctive atmosphere. Music ranges from 60s and 70s hits to louder 2000s pop, affecting the vibe. Crowds fill the space, making it lively and busy.

Food includes a burger with seasoned fries, nachos with spinach dip, fried shrimp, and steak with fries. Drinks and dishes come with a fantastic presentation and rich flavors.

Offers a Victorian atmosphere ideal for a relaxed lunch after shopping. Lunch feels like a highlight of the day, preferred over afternoon tea.

People are saying

"The food here is solid, especially with the festive holiday vibes."

"The cocktails here are festive and beautifully decorated."

"This lunch spot is gorgeously decorated for the holidays."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during holidays and special events.

2

Happy hour offers well-priced drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

The kitchen opens at 2pm, but afternoon tea is available from opening until 5pm.

27
Sweet Chick image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines fast-food setup with fancy dining utensils and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Loud hip hop music creates a vibey atmosphere that requires raising voices to converse. Busy and crowded, it serves a mix of individuals, friends, and families in a clean, well-kept space.

Food features moist chicken waffles, a hot honey sandwich, and truffle fries served on real plates with salt flakes and lemon. The food tastes great and the service feels friendly and attentive.

Lunch here involves a wait due to the kitchen's slow pace. The classic chicken and waffles stands out as a lunch option.

People are saying

"The chicken and waffles here are so juicy and delicious."

"The food here is so tender and juicy."

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful with the Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7 PM with discounted sliders and drinks.

2

This location doesn't have waiter service; you order and pick up your food.

3

A 20% tip is added to your bill by default at checkout.

Discover more

Union Square, New York

Area guide
Loading Map...