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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Central City

Lunch spots

A lunch spot that makes a midday meal feel like a break from the day rather than just fuel for the afternoon.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tacos Los Vales image 1
Tacos Los Vales image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Tiny Mexican spot shines with fresh salsa bar and unlimited guacamole. Bright lights and reggaeton set a trendy, cozy vibe. Perfect for lunch with delicious meals that suit groups like students or family.

Lunch here features very delicious options that suit groups like students or family. Meals come in a casual setting ideal for sharing time with others.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is amazing."

"The food here is fresh and flavorful."

"This lunch spot's carne asada tacos are a flavor explosion."

Good to know

1

The location is very convenient, right in front of Chase Field.

2

Parking can be a little hard to find near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and welcoming staff.

02
El Zaguan Bistro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers authentic decor and a warm vibe that feels like home. Great lunch deals attract locals daily. Friendly staff and lively music create a genuine cultural experience in a cozy setting.

Walk down from nearby hotels for breakfast and lunch. Lunch offers great deals that bring people back daily.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and authentic Mexican."

"This lunch spot has amazing, authentic Mexican street tacos."

"I had the best jackfruit or birria burrito I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers three tacos and a small beer or margarita for $10.99.

2

Happy hour specials are available all day.

3

The restaurant has late hours on Fridays.

03
Trans Am Cafe image 1

Eclectic cafe offers a Super Nintendo gaming station and cool art displays for a unique vibe. Lunch feels like a homemade meal with simple options like vegan nachos and pesto sandwiches. Atmosphere stays relaxing and welcoming, perfect for chilling or working quietly.

Lunch feels like a homemade meal at someone's home with a limited menu that suits casual stops rather than business meetings. Coffee is available alongside simple lunch options.

People are saying

"I felt like I was at the owner's home having a lovely lunch."

"I loved the cold, fruity smoothies here."

"I found the decor really cool, with lots of art on the walls."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a limited food menu, not ideal for a full meal.

2

Tangerines are available as a healthier snack option.

3

The patio is a nice spot for outdoor seating.

04
Condesa Phoenix image 1
Restaurant

Vibrant Sonoran decor and murals create a hipstery vibe. Tacos and margaritas are fresh and well-balanced, perfect for a quick lunch with a $15 taco deal. Clean, relaxed atmosphere with great music makes it a solid casual spot.

Offers a solid lunch deal with 3 tacos, chips or duros, and a drink for $15. Casual spot to grab a quick, filling meal.

People are saying

"I loved their expertly crafted cocktails made with fresh ingredients."

"The atmosphere here is vibrant and welcoming."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is so good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2pm to 6pm, Monday to Friday.

2

During happy hour, tacos are $4 and margaritas are $10.

3

Parking can be tricky; consider using rideshare services.

05
Los Cuatro Nietos AZ image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small hole-in-the-wall Mexican spot offers authentic birria tacos and house-made hot sauces in a warm, family-oriented atmosphere. Busy lunch rush draws locals and travelers alike, thanks to its close airport location and friendly owners.

Lunch draws a steady crowd with a busy rush and friendly, attentive owners. The spot sits just minutes from the airport, making it a solid choice for a quick, satisfying meal before or after travel.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and authentic."

"The owner Alberto makes you feel like family with his friendly conversation."

"This Lunch Spot's tacos and burritos are amazing and authentic."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special deals on tacos every Tuesday.

2

Wings are discounted on Wednesdays, making it a great midweek option.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended during busy hours.

06
The Larry image 1
Restaurant

Lively and trendy atmosphere makes it a great lunch spot. Small portions like smashed burgers pack bold flavors. Limited parking adds to the hipster vibe that draws a social crowd for casual coffee chats.

Lively and trendy atmosphere sets the tone for lunch here. Great spot for a quick lunch or a coffee chat.

People are saying

"It's a lively and trendy lunch spot."

"The food and coffee here were delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

The venue operates as a food hall, offering diverse dining options.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere, popular for socializing and casual meetups.

07
Dora's Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican eatery inside a convenience store offers fresh burritos and drive-thru service. Friendly, family-run vibe with comfortable seating fits quick lunch breaks well. Bulk orders make it a reliable lunch spot for many.

Quick pickup requires calling orders ahead, fitting short lunch breaks well. Bulk lunch and breakfast orders are available, making it a reliable lunch regular spot for many.

People are saying

"The food at this Convenience Store is insanely good and authentic."

"I had the best breakfast burrito I've ever tasted."

"This lunch spot has excellent food and service."

Good to know

1

Call ahead to ensure quick pickup during busy lunch hours.

2

Dora's Kitchen is located inside a liquor store, which may be unexpected.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly, allowing pets on the patio.

08
Old Station Sub Shop image 1

Small sandwich shop offers fresh bread and flavorful subs in a cozy vintage setting. Quick service suits busy lunches, with outdoor patios and indoor seating adding to the friendly vibe.

Quick service and a good atmosphere make it a solid choice for lunch. Its convenient location fits well into a busy midday schedule.

People are saying

"This sandwich is amazing and super fresh."

"The Lunch Spot subs are generously filled with fresh, high-quality ingredients."

"The salads here are amazing and super fresh."

Good to know

1

The meal costs less than $20 for two people.

2

The shop is busy near noon, but the wait isn't long.

3

Online ordering for pickup is available.

09
Arizona Deli Company image 1

Sandwich shop serves fresh ingredients with Boar's Head products and offers filling portions under $10. Atmosphere has a great vibe perfect for work lunch breaks. Reasonable prices make it a popular lunch spot choice.

Offers sandwiches and chips for under $10, making it a reasonable choice for work lunch breaks. Food portions are filling enough to satisfy midday hunger.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and tastes amazing."

"I thought the pastrami sandwich was the best I ever had."

"The sandwiches at this Lunch Spot always tasted fresh and were filling."

Good to know

1

Sandwiches and chips cost under $10, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

The ingredients used in the sandwiches are fresh and of high quality.

3

Each sandwich comes with a choice of side, enhancing the meal experience.

10
Thor's Skyr image 1
Icelandic restaurant

Bright blue and white decor sets a fun, eclectic vibe in an open, modern space. Bowls serve as a quick, healthy lunch that keeps you full for hours. Enjoy complimentary waffles and coffee in a chill, welcoming atmosphere with popular music.

Bowls offer quick and healthy lunches that keep you full for hours. Many find it a solid choice for a satisfying and nutritious meal during the workday.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's skyr bowls are delicious and healthy."

"This Club Sandwich is huge, served on grilled flatbread with fresh chicken."

"It's a chill spot with a super cute atmosphere."

Good to know

1

They offer complimentary waffles and coffee with purchases.

2

Parking is surprisingly easy to find nearby.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food.

11
Midwest Wings XL image 1

Offers fresh lunch specials made to order, perfect for a quick downtown meal. Features a warm, welcoming vibe with Midwest charm and casual atmosphere. Plenty of outdoor seating and soft R&B music create a relaxed, community-driven spot.

Fresh lunch specials are made to order, offering a quick and tasty option. Walking distance from the convention center, it serves as a reliable go-to spot for downtown lunch.

People are saying

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

"The staff at this Lunch Spot is so friendly and helpful."

"These honey hot wings are incredible and perfectly crisp."

Good to know

1

Validated parking is available with a restaurant receipt.

2

Expect a wait during busy hours as food is made fresh.

3

They have a Taco Tuesday special that offers discounts.

12
Helpings Café at UMOM New Day Centers image 1

Cafe offers large portions on disposable dishes with choices for carnivores and vegetarians. Staff manage short lunch breaks well, making it easy to eat quickly in a welcoming atmosphere. It supports a social cause through training shelter residents.

Staff handle short lunch breaks well, making it easy to eat quickly. The spot offers great lunch options and allows about 50 minutes to enjoy a meal without rush.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and the staff is super friendly."

"The coffee here is delicious."

"I thought the lunch spot food was great."

Good to know

1

Helpings Café serves as a training spot for shelter residents to prepare for employment.

2

The café offers options for both carnivores and vegetarians.

3

A vegan attendee found a good selection of food available.

13
ZeeZ Grill image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small dining area creates a casual atmosphere with a friendly vibe. Lunch specials offer solid value with sides and drinks, perfect for a quick meal. Staff manage orders well, keeping wait times short in a quiet setting favored by local workers.

Quiet atmosphere suits lunch well with good wait times. Lunch specials come with a side and drink, offering solid value. Staff handle large orders efficiently.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and came in good size proportions."

"This lunch spot's reuben sandwich is delicious."

"Their homemade salsa is heavenly and always hits the spot."

Good to know

1

Street parking is usually available near ZeeZ Grill.

2

ZeeZ Grill offers a different lunch special dish every day.

3

The lunch special includes a side and a drink, making it a good value.

14
Huss Brewing Downtown PHX Brewpub + TOGO image 1

Brewpub offers a chill atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating cooled by misters. It serves unique craft beers like Coffee Kölsch and fruity sours. Located across from the convention center, it’s a convenient lunch spot with satisfying food and brews.

Located across from the convention center, it offers a convenient spot for lunch during busy days. The food and brews consistently satisfy, making it a frequent choice for midday meals.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is really impressive and large."

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful with the nachos."

"The food at this lunch spot is great, especially the fries."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm with pitchers priced at $8.

2

Expect limited parking options, typical for downtown areas.

3

The brewery closes at 9pm, which is early for a nightlife spot.

15
The Kettle Black Kitchen & Pub image 1

Cozy British pub vibe shines with rustic bookshelf bar and wooden interior. Fish and chips make a popular lunch choice, served fast despite the busy lunch rush. Friendly energy suits both large groups and intimate meetings.

Fish and chips stand out as a lunch choice, drawing repeat visits. Staff work hard to serve quickly during the busy lunch rush, but it gets crowded fast. Good for a late lunch stop.

People are saying

"The fish and chips here are crispy perfection."

"I found the pub atmosphere to be warm and cozy."

"The fish and chips here are phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Expect longer wait times during major events like Diamondbacks games.

3

They charge a fee for credit card payments, so bring cash if possible.

16
Crazy Jim's Restaurant (Washington Street) image 1

Small town diner vibe blends with downtown charm for a clean, casual atmosphere. Quick lunch options shine with the gyro feta salad. Family-friendly energy makes it a welcoming spot near courthouse views.

Offers a quick lunch option with a friendly spot to meet friends. The gyro feta salad stands out as a lunch choice.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and cooked quickly."

"The Greek food here is honest, real-deal, and delicious."

"I had the best omelet for breakfast, it was so fluffy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

2

Expect a lot of foot traffic during lunch hours.

3

Crazy Jim's offers Mediterranean/American cuisine with a variety of sides.

17
Cheba Hut "Toasted" Subs image 1

Sandwich shop shines with marijuana-themed decor and a lively vibe. Fast, friendly service makes Toasted Subs a great lunch choice. Cozy bar area with Mario Kart and outdoor seating with pretty lights add to the chill atmosphere.

Lunch here features fast, friendly service even during busy times. The menu includes Toasted Subs that make for a solid late lunch option.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were incredible."

"The vibe here is so chill and laid-back, perfect for unwinding."

"This lunch spot's subs are fantastic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is challenging; consider using side streets for better availability.

2

Expect a 45-minute wait if ordering directly; use delivery apps for faster service.

3

Self-serve ordering is available for a quicker experience.

18
Omoide Sushi & Noodle image 1
Sushi restaurant

Tiny sushi spot shines with fresh sushi and a big soju selection. Cozy, cramped seating fits a casual vibe perfect for lunch. Popular lunch specials like spicy Korean chicken offer good portions at reasonable prices.

Small setting offers reasonable prices and good portions for lunch. Sushi lunch specials and spicy Korean chicken combos stand out as popular choices.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is delicious and nicely prepared."

"The seafood here is so fresh and well-prepared."

"This lunch spot's food, especially the sushi, was amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times if ordering sushi during peak hours.

2

Parking can be difficult to find in the area.

3

Take-out is recommended over dining in due to limited seating.

19
Blue Fin image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant offers generous portions and affordable prices with a cozy atmosphere perfect for families and pets. Lunch features teriyaki beef bowl and quick specials ideal for midday breaks. Seating includes indoor and outdoor views of a light rail platform.

Lunch offers teriyaki beef bowl and specials with great value. The spot suits quick meals or picking up dinner, with a nice atmosphere for midday breaks.

People are saying

"I thought the teriyaki chicken here was the best I ever had."

"I loved the outdoor seating with its city view and Phoenix weather."

"This lunch spot has the best teriyaki in Phoenix."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open weekdays only until 8 pm, so plan accordingly.

2

Online ordering for pickup is available, making it convenient for takeout.

3

The menu includes many vegetarian options alongside traditional Japanese dishes.

20
Testal Mexican Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small taco eatery blends authentic Mexican food with a dive bar feel and coffee shop style. Quick lunch options like burritos pair well with cocktails. Chill vibe with lively music and karaoke draws a casual crowd.

Offers quick lunch options like burritos and light meals. Also serves cocktails for a casual midday break.

People are saying

"These burritos taste homemade, fresh, and incredibly authentic."

"I found so many delicious vegetarian options here."

"This lunch spot's burritos are savory, flavorful, and comforting."

Good to know

1

Friday night is karaoke night, starting at 8pm.

2

Breakfast burritos are only served before 11am.

3

The venue is clean and organized, enhancing the dining experience.

21
Wong's Chinese Dining image 1
Chinese restaurant

Old brick walls create a nostalgic vibe perfect for groups. Lunch serves huge portions at prices under $10. A small free newsstand outside adds a unique touch to the lively atmosphere.

Lunch offers huge portions at super inexpensive prices, often under $10. Specials provide good value with a generous amount of food.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is always fresh, hot, and flavorful."

"The seafood here is so flavorful and delightful."

"This lunch spot has reasonable prices and generous portions."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable, with lunch options under $10.

2

Portion sizes are large, offering great value for the price.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment for dining.

22
Escape Lounges - The Centurion Studio Partner PHX Terminal 3 image 1

Modern lounge features comfortable seating and a quiet atmosphere perfect for relaxing. Enjoy a full latte bar and cocktails with no wait at lunch on Fridays. Bright, clean design and power outlets make it an inviting spot before flights.

No wait appears around lunch time on Fridays. The spot offers a leisurely lunch with cocktails and wine available before flights.

People are saying

"Alexander makes unique drinks, like the best Old Fashioned I've had."

"The staff here are so friendly and make it a truly relaxing spot."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is amazing and prepared to perfection."

Good to know

1

The lounge opens at 4:30 AM.

2

The kitchen closes at 7:30 PM, which is inconvenient for travelers with late flights.

3

Expect a waitlist if arriving later in the morning.

23
Huarachis Taqueria image 1
Taco restaurant

Vibrant pink décor and neon lights create a modern vecindad vibe perfect for lunch with family. Loud music and a lively crowd bring a club-like energy where dancing is common. Warm greetings add to the family-friendly and casual dining atmosphere.

Warm greetings set the tone for lunch here. The spot offers a family-friendly vibe with a focus on casual dining.

People are saying

"The tacos here are superb, especially the tripa and asada."

"The house-made tortillas here are fresh and packed with flavor."

"This Lunch Spot's papas tacos and quesadillas are savory and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets busy quickly.

2

Parking costs $30 for two hours due to limited free options.

3

The restaurant often runs out of popular menu items, so check availability.

24
Nick The Greek image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant serves authentic gyros in a quiet atmosphere with authentic Greek music. Spacious, minimalistic design suits a workweek meal or late lunch downtown. Indoor and outdoor seating offers a calm spot for traditional flavors.

Lunch offers a solid Greek menu with reliable options. The spot works well for a workweek meal or a late lunch downtown.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and very healthy."

"The gyro meat here is so flavorful, I found it addictive."

"This lunch spot's chicken gyro bowl was delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is validated for one hour with a purchase.

2

Customers can build their own bowls with various fresh ingredients.

3

Expect higher prices compared to typical fast food options.

25
la Madeleine Country French Cafe image 1

Small space with Parisian café style offers a friendly vibe. Quick lunches shine with Croque Monsieur and rich raisin bran muffins. Location near gates suits travelers seeking quality food and friendly service without rush.

Friendly service stands out during quick lunches. Options include a Croque Monsieur and a raisin-filled bran muffin with rich flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was surprisingly good."

"The French food, especially the croque monsieur, is delicious."

"The service at this lunch spot is exceptionally friendly and patient."

Good to know

1

La Madeleine is located right next to the B18 gate, making it convenient for travelers.

2

Expect to pay around $34 for a breakfast combo including a croissant and coffee.

3

The restaurant is open early in the morning, starting at 9:30 AM.

26
Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel image 1

Spacious rooms offer a quiet atmosphere except near the light rail side. Lunch serves excellent meals with timely service and outdoor seating on the 5th floor. The lobby impresses with an open design and a speakeasy bar in the basement.

Lunch features excellent meals served with timely service and great customer care. Outdoor seating on the 5th floor adds a nice touch when weather is good.

People are saying

"This hotel's location is great for walking to downtown events and restaurants."

"The Day Lounge staff, especially Suzi, are friendly and brighten your day."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot were so friendly and accommodating."

Good to know

1

On-site parking costs $50 per night, which is considered overpriced.

2

The hotel experienced a water outage, with only brown water available by 6 PM.

3

Happy hour in the hotel bar runs from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

27
El Norteño image 1
Mexican restaurant

Old building offers a simple, cash-only setup with colorful mural adding charm. Lunch specials at $7.99 with drink make it an affordable lunch spot. Outdoor seating faces a busy street but keeps a family-oriented atmosphere inside.

Lunch specials come with a drink and cost around $7.99, making them very affordable. Weekly specials cover breakfast, lunch, and dinner with consistently great pricing.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be really very good and authentic."

"I thought the carne asada tacos were the best I've ever had."

"This lunch spot's food is authentic and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

El Norteño offers daily lunch and dinner specials.

2

The restaurant accepts only cash payments.

3

Customers may have to wait outside in the heat for their orders.

28
Knock Kneed Lobster image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood shines with fresh catches in a nautical-themed dive setting. Quick service suits a casual lunch crowd, while the laid-back vibe feels homey and relaxed. Self-serve stations add to the easy, no-fuss experience.

Food arrives quickly even during the lunch rush with large groups. The spot suits a casual lunch vibe and stays quiet for late lunches during the week.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh, golden fried fish and chips."

"It's easy to find plenty of parking here."

"This lunch spot's fried fish is crispy and tastes so fresh."

Good to know

1

They close at 7:00 p.m. during the week and till 9:00 p.m. on weekends.

2

There is ample parking available, including handicapped spots.

3

30 minutes before closing, only takeout orders are accepted.

29
Mrs. White’s Golden Rule Cafe image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Southern restaurant with 1960s decor offers a cozy, nostalgic vibe and great R&B music. Lunch shines with amazing food and standout cornbread. A mural honors African American legends, adding a rich sense of history and warmth.

Lunch features amazing food with cornbread as a notable highlight. Friends enjoy the experience, making it a solid spot for midday meals.

People are saying

"I loved the fried chicken and amazing sides like sweet potatoes."

"You have to try the peach cobbler, it's unforgettable."

"This lunch spot's catfish is out of this world, the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

All entrées cost $23 and come with two sides.

2

Expect a wait time as food is made to order from scratch.

3

Portion sizes are generous for the price, typically $25-$30 per plate.

30
Sticklers cafe image 1
Sandwich shop

Spacious sandwich shop offers fresh toasted sandwiches and customizable salads with a laid back vibe. Quick lunches feature BLT specials and a cookie deal for a tasty, fast meal. Limited seating and downtown views make it great for people watching.

Quick, tasty lunches come with lunch specials that include items like a BLT with all the fixings. Fresh vibes and a cookie deal add to the experience when time is limited.

People are saying

"I thought the Italian sandwich was delicious."

"I enjoyed the amazing coffee here."

"It's a great lunch spot for a quick, tasty bite."

Good to know

1

Online ordering is available for easy and convenient pickup.

2

The cafe has both indoor and outdoor seating options.

3

Breakfast menu is available only until 3pm.

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