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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Central City

Salad lunch spots

Made for those who demand a light, efficient, and consistent midday meal that keeps them sharp for the rest of the day.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Old Station Sub Shop image 1
Old Station Sub Shop image 2
Old Station Sub Shop image 3
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Small sandwich shop with vintage decor and a nostalgic, cozy vibe reminiscent of the late 1960s or early 1970s. Offers outdoor patios and indoor seating with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Known for fresh bread and flavorful subs that attract a steady lunchtime crowd.

Salads feature fresh ingredients like chicken, avocado, and pastrami. Options include Italian salad, macaroni salad, and potato salad, all consistently good and hearty.

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.

02
ZeeZ Grill image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small dining area offers a casual and relaxed atmosphere with a friendly vibe. Lunch hours bring a bustling energy while maintaining a quiet and comfortable setting. Regulars include local workers, creating a steady, unpretentious crowd.

Grilled chicken stands out in salads here, especially in the Med Chicken Salad and classic grilled chicken options. The salad selection pairs well with sandwiches and offers a perfect balance of flavors.

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."

"I found the grilled chicken salad to be perfect."

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.

03
Huss Brewing Downtown PHX Brewpub + TOGO image 1

Brewpub combines indoor and outdoor seating with misters for heat relief on the patio. Atmosphere stays chill and relaxed, even when lively after events. Craft beers include unique styles like Coffee Kรถlsch alongside fruity sours and high IBU options.

Salads come with chicken, walleye fish, and Southwestern flavors. Options include a lemon Caesar and a garden salad with chicken.

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

"I thought the garden salad with chicken was great."

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.

04
Huarachis Taqueria image 1
Taco restaurant

Vibrant pink dรฉcor, neon lights, and Mexican trinkets create a modern vecindad vibe with an energetic, lively atmosphere. Music often plays loudly, filling the space with a club-like energy where dancing happens. The crowd is vibrant, and the design feels Instagram-worthy and trendy.

Jicama salad stands out with its slow heat, cucumber, and tomato mix. It pairs well as a starter and complements other dishes like pollo asado and elote.

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."

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

"You have to try their jicama salad; it's the best."

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.

05
Crazy Jim's Restaurant (Washington Street) image 1

Small town diner vibe meets downtown setting with clean, casual atmosphere and family-friendly energy. Patrons gather for reliable meals and people watching near courthouse architecture. The place feels welcoming and maintains a pristine environment despite urban surroundings.

Salads stand out with Greek flavors like feta and creamy homemade dressing. Options include gyro feta salad and feta chicken salad, both consistently good and paired with pita or top sirloin.

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 enjoyed the gyro feta salad."

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.

06
Blue Fin image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, clean Japanese restaurant offers cozy indoor and outdoor seating with views of a light rail platform. Atmosphere feels warm and homey, welcoming to families and pets. Known for generous portions and affordable prices, it serves standout teriyaki dishes and fresh salads.

Salads come with amazing onion dressing that enhances flavors. Options include crab and avocado and tofu avocado salads, often served with extra dressing on request.

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.

07
The Kettle Black Kitchen & Pub image 1

Narrow space with rustic bookshelf bar and wooden interior creates a cozy British pub vibe. Music leans toward 90's rock, and screens show games without overwhelming the atmosphere. Seating suits both large groups and intimate meetings, with a friendly, warm energy throughout.

Salads feature bold flavors like the Bacon Beet Salad and include options such as skirt steak, ahi tuna, and citrus chicken. Side salads maintain good quality and complement main dishes well.

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."

"The steak salad here is delicious."

"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.

08
Omoide Sushi & Noodle image 1
Sushi restaurant

Tiny sushi spot with cramped seating and an outdoor mall setting offers a cozy, unassuming vibe. Energy stays chill and casual, with simple decor and high tables resembling a cafeteria. Popular for fresh sushi and a big soju selection, it draws a steady lunch crowd despite limited space.

Salads feature fresh ingredients with options like a sashimi salad loaded with fish and a grilled chicken salad. Dressings stand out as unique, and customization like adding avocado is available.

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."

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

"I loved the grilled chicken salad; the chicken was cooked perfectly."

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.

09
Potbelly image 1
Sandwich shop

Rustic sandwich shop offers build-your-own sandwiches with a wide selection of breads, meats, and toppings. The atmosphere includes indoor and outdoor seating with a friendly, casual vibe and plenty of open seats. Prices are affordable and competitive, making it a reliable spot for quick, satisfying meals downtown.

Salads come with clear ingredient lists and are made with kindness and care. They match sandwiches in quality and include options like the Farmhouse salad.

Toasted sandwiches serve as the main draw for quick lunches here. Staff remain fantastic even during busy lunch hours, making it a reliable spot for regular midday meals.

People are saying

"The staff made my sandwich efficiently and got complicated orders correct."

"Cythia listed every ingredient in my salad."

"This lunch spot's staff efficiently handled complicated orders perfectly."

Good to know

1

The $7.99 combo includes a toasted sandwich, chips, and a drink.

2

Expect wait times of 20 minutes for in-person orders during busy hours.

3

Parking validation is available, but expect to pay $14.

10
MATCH Market & Bar image 1
New American restaurant

New American restaurant blends art gallery and open-air seating with a hip ambiance and live music. The space feels chill and inviting, attracting a crowd that enjoys a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Unique decor and a market area add to the experience beyond just dining.

Grilled Caesar with chicken stands out with its rich flavor and is served as a shareable appetizer. Maple and date salad pairs well with salmon, offering a sweet and savory balance.

Large portions cover both lunch and dinner needs. The all day happy hour menu on Mondays and Tuesdays offers good value. The lunch counter ordering area sits near the bar and dining space but could work well on its own with lower pricing.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly beyond words."

"The wood fired pizza at this Lunch Spot is piping hot and loaded with mozzarella."

"The Caesar Salad has a lot of dressing and cheese on top."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available all day on Monday and Tuesday.

2

Parking can be challenging, but the lot is large.

3

The restaurant is part of a hotel with a unique atmosphere.

11
Escape Lounges - The Centurion Studio Partner PHX Terminal 3 image 1

Modern lounge offers plentiful comfortable seating and bright, clean design with power outlets throughout. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing, providing a friendly, inviting refuge from busy terminals. A full latte bar and cocktail service add to the upscale, calm environment.

Lots of vegetable options come with the salads, including Mediterranean and mozzarella varieties. Hummus, tabbouleh, and tomato salad add fresh, tasty choices alongside other vegetarian dishes.

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

"The staff here are fantastic, friendly, and helpful."

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.

12
Barrel & Bushel image 1
Bar & grill

Bar & grill offers an airy, contemporary design with indoor and outdoor patio seating featuring heaters, a fire pit, and televisions. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and cozy for conversations to lively and vibrant with live music and sports on display. The space attracts a mix of people looking to relax with cocktails or enjoy energetic evenings in an upscale yet inviting setting.

Salads offer a variety of flavors like the Southwest salad with balanced taste and the spinach salad that is tangy and sweet. Options include the Cobb Salad, Chicken Caesar, and a citrus salad, all noted for their solid quality.

Lunch offers delicious options like the Southwest salad and breakfast sandwiches. Outdoor seating at the bar provides a nice spot to enjoy the pleasant weather during a weekday.

People are saying

"The staff's positivity and professionalism made our outdoor seating experience exceptional."

"The lunch sandwiches here are delicious and a must-try."

"I had the Cobb Salad and it was excellent."

Good to know

1

Barrel & Bushel is cash-free; credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

2

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

3

Parking in the area costs $20 during events; plan accordingly.

13
Nick The Greek image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant offers a spacious, minimalistic design with quiet, relaxed atmosphere enhanced by authentic Greek music. Tables fill both indoor and outdoor areas, attracting diners seeking authentic gyros and traditional flavors in a calm setting.

Salads feature giant chunks of tomato, cucumber, and red onion without lettuce. Dressings lean on olive oil and lemon. Options include a gyro salad with beef and lamb.

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 Greek salad had giant chunks of tomato and cucumber, no lettuce."

"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.

14
Paradise Barbeque image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Small Hawaiian restaurant offers friendly family-style atmosphere with reasonably priced dishes featuring a Korean twist. Grilled beef ribs and chicken katsu stand out as freshly prepared favorites. Limited parking and early closing hours shape the experience.

Macaroni salad stands out with its great flavor and creamy texture, though sometimes it has too much mayo. Meals often include a green salad alongside rice and main dishes.

Offers reliable catering options for lunch and serves as a convenient downtown stop for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The salad here is good, especially with the sweetish chili sauce."

"The Korean food here, especially the Kalbi, is tender, juicy, and perfectly charred."

"This lunch spot's Paradise Combo plates are consistently good."

Good to know

1

Parking in downtown is limited; expect to pay $4 in the adjacent garage.

2

Portion sizes may be small relative to the price.

3

The food is reasonably priced for a downtown restaurant.

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