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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Authentic lunch spots in South Tempe

You want a midday meal that respects the traditions of its origin.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Thaitanic Kitchen, Thai & Pho Restaurant image 1
Thaitanic Kitchen, Thai & Pho Restaurant image 2
Thaitanic Kitchen, Thai & Pho Restaurant image 3
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Small dining area features cozy, clean booths with accessible seating. Atmosphere stays peaceful and inviting, with a casual vibe and appealing aromas. Menu offers authentic Thai flavors with options for vegetarians and gluten-free diets.

Menu features a fantastic variety of authentic Thai flavors. Every dish bursts with authentic flavor and stays true to traditional Thai and Vietnamese cuisine.

Lunch offers generous portions with specials that include soup and spring roll. Meals like Pad Thai with chicken come with sides and often leave enough for multiple servings.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is delicious and bursting with authentic flavor."

"The lunch special offered a great portion and value."

"The Thai food here is bursting with authentic flavor."

Good to know

1

There was accessible parking and an accessible ramp in front of the restaurant.

2

The prices at Thaitanic Kitchen are reasonable for the portion sizes.

3

The menu offers a fantastic variety of authentic Thai flavors.

02
Tradiciones Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious and clean interior features comfortable seating and La Loterรญa table numbers. Prepackaged salsa bar offers a variety of heat levels alongside pickled vegetables. Background Mexican music creates an authentic and inviting atmosphere.

Mexican dishes here have authentic flavors that stay true to traditional recipes. The food tastes delicious and flavorful, capturing genuine Mexican cuisine.

Lunch orders come out quickly, often ready within 10 minutes of calling in. The food impresses enough to enjoy multiple meals, including breakfast and lunch, with a satisfying experience overall.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and the portions were large."

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

"This Lunch Spot has delicious, fresh food that's made with care."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers free soft drinks for seniors dining in.

2

Entrees are priced between $12 and $15, served with rice and beans.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment with wiped tables.

03
Viet Shack image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small Vietnamese restaurant offers a cozy, intimate space with a charming, welcoming atmosphere. The vibe is casual and relaxed, attracting those seeking authentic, fresh flavors in a comfortable setting.

Dishes deliver authentic Asian flavors with tasty, genuine ingredients. Food consistently meets standards for authenticity.

Offers lite and fresh options ideal for midday meals. Serves well for a late lunch after errands or vehicle service.

People are saying

"I experienced the best banh mi I have ever had."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and always tastes so fresh."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant has expanded and now offers plenty of seating.

2

Parking is convenient and easy to find.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

04
Cairos Gyros Tempe image 1
Gyro restaurant

Small gyro restaurant offers a comfortable, clean setting with a sweet setup. Energy stays steady with authentic Mediterranean flavors and generous portions that satisfy cravings. Regulars appreciate the fresh, flavorful shawarma and falafel that stand out from typical offerings.

Fries carry an authentic Greek touch that stands out. The menu offers delicious, authentic Mediterranean dishes at a great price with a clean meal focus.

Quick service and inexpensive prices make it a solid choice for lunch. Offers healthy options and suits those looking for a fast, casual meal.

People are saying

"The Greek food here, especially the gyros, is huge and perfectly seasoned."

"This lunch spot's food is so flavorful and amazing."

"The food here is delicious and truly authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; walk-ins are welcome.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak lunch hours.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred.

05
DOZO Izakaya image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Small, intimate izakaya with a cozy, laid-back atmosphere styled after Japanese cafes. Clean space includes a dog-friendly patio with outdoor seating. Offers authentic Japanese dishes beyond sushi, creating a homey, relaxed vibe.

Menu offers authentic Japanese dishes not common in most places. Sushi and curry rice taste super authentic with many choices available.

Lunch offers excellent and affordable options with several combo specials. Meals come quickly, making it a fast lunch spot.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and amazing."

"The Japanese food here is delicious."

"I found the Japanese food here to be super authentic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted rolls and drinks from 4-6pm daily.

2

The menu features a variety of ramen, rice dishes, and grilled snacks.

3

Lunch combo specials are available for a limited time.

06
Avasa - Pan Asian Cuisine (Indian, Mediterranean, Thai & Indo-Chinese) image 1

Modern dining space offers a stylish ambiance with live music and a spacious bar featuring draft beers. Atmosphere stays lively and inviting, suitable for celebrations or solo visits. Decor includes a photo booth and outdoor seating with misters, enhancing the overall experience.

Food offers authentic South and North Indian flavors with dishes like nawabi biryani standing out for their flavorful and genuine taste.

A daily lunch buffet offers over 20 fresh and flavorful items for $17.99, including naan and hot chai tea. The buffet includes many choices that make for a varied meal.

People are saying

"I found the lunch buffet to be wonderful with over 30 items."

"The lunch spot buffet had so many delicious vegan and vegetarian options."

"I found the Indian food here to be so authentic and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday until 7 PM with great drink specials.

2

DJ night happens every Saturday from 10 PM to 2 AM featuring desi music.

3

The buffet is available daily for lunch with over 20 items for $17.99.

07
Bahaara Indian Kitchen image 1

Elegant Indian restaurant offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with modern decor and authentic tableware. Guests enjoy creative cocktails alongside highly authentic North Indian cuisine known for standout dishes like biryani and pani puri.

Offers a casual yet versatile setting suitable for a business lunch or a family birthday dinner. The atmosphere fits both friendly gatherings and more formal midday meals.

People are saying

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

"The food here is bursting with authentic flavor and is delicious."

"This lunch spot has the most delicious food, full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Making reservations is highly recommended to avoid waiting.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

3

The restaurant does not charge gratuity for groups of five or more.

08
India's Flame image 1
Indian restaurant

Bright, clean interior with modern decor and soft lighting creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Comfortable seating and tasteful Indian artwork add to the pleasant, formal vibe. The space feels well maintained and welcoming for relaxed dining.

Dishes offer authentic heat and use quality ingredients for true Indian flavors. The ambiance and music add to the genuine dining experience.

Lunch features a daily buffet with an impressive variety of dishes. Fresh, beautifully presented naan complements the consistently fresh offerings.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and perfectly spiced."

"This Lunch Spot's naan is fluffy, blistered, and plentiful."

"The food here is outstanding, full of rich, authentic flavors."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a lunch buffet with many items to choose from.

2

Prices for the buffet are very affordable.

3

The restaurant maintains a high level of cleanliness throughout.

09
Frutilandia image 1
Ice cream shop

Ice cream shop offers a clean, welcoming environment with great music that sets a relaxed vibe. The space features cute decorations and a tidy layout, making it ideal for groups to hang out. Customers enjoy fresh fruit desserts alongside a variety of flavorful margaritas and tacos.

Freshwater and food deliver authentic Mexican cuisine with delicious flavors that stay true to tradition.

Lunch offers a very good selection from an enormous menu that covers breakfast, appetizers, desserts, and drinks. The variety makes it easy to find something satisfying for midday.

People are saying

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

"The quesabirra tacos at this Lunch Spot were the best."

"The ramen here is out of this world."

Good to know

1

Frutilandia has a wide variety of treats, ice creams, shakes, beverages, and tacos.

2

This location has a drive-thru, bar, and an easy process to order food.

3

The restaurant had easy access and lots of parking.

10
Anaya's Fresh Mexican Restaurant image 1

Colorful Mexican decor fills the small space with hand-painted chairs and a warm, festive atmosphere. Live mariachi music and a dance floor add to the lively vibe. Bright bar area and outdoor patio offer varied settings within the restaurant.

Mexican food delivers authentic flavors with dishes that taste traditional and fresh. The atmosphere matches the food, creating a truly authentic experience.

Lunch features great specials with options like a two-item lunch that often provides leftovers. The spot suits quick stops during work or before travel.

People are saying

"The cheese enchilada was perfect with its sauce and cheese."

"I thought the salsa was over the top good."

"The tacos here are terrific and filled with meat."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with $1.75 draft beers.

2

The restaurant closes at 9pm, so arrive early for dinner.

3

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

11
Santa Madre Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Small strip mall taco shop with self-service salsa bar offering a wide variety of fresh toppings and sauces. Atmosphere is clean and relaxed with chill Latin music playing. Known for generous portions and highly praised fish tacos.

Tacos, fish, and beef come with authentic flavors and freshness. Beans are runny and delicious, reflecting true Mexican taste.

Lunch costs about $10 for two adults without drinks. Tacos and other lunch options come with consistent quality and service.

People are saying

"These fish tacos are the best I've had in years."

"This lunch spot's chicken tacos are juicy and wonderfully seasoned."

"I loved the authentic food here."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers 3 tacos for the price of 2.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere on Taco Tuesday.

3

The restaurant closes early at 8:00 pm, limiting late-night options.

12
Passage to India image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant offers authentic Hyderabadi cuisine with rich, intense flavors and generous portions. Interior feels dark and somewhat empty due to oversized space and low lighting. Popular spot with many takeout orders and a family-owned, community staple vibe.

Authentic Hyderabadi dishes stand out with real desi taste and high-quality ingredients. Few places offer this level of genuine Indian cuisine in the area.

Weekday lunch buffet offers a variety and quality of dishes with generous serving sizes. Service stays excellent even during late lunch hours.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Hyderabadi food here to be perfect and tender."

"I found authentic Indian food with a really good desi taste."

"The weekday lunch buffet has great variety and quality."

Good to know

1

Apple Pay is accepted, along with other major credit cards.

2

Takeout orders typically take about 30 minutes to prepare.

3

Each dish serves about two people, making it great for sharing.

13
Oscar's Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco restaurant offers self-serve salsa bar with variety of heat levels and fresh, clean setup. Unique wet-look tables add a visual twist to the space. Atmosphere feels authentic and family-oriented with a focus on affordable, flavorful tacos and breakfast burritos.

Food delivers a very authentic taste that stands out. Not many places capture that genuine flavor.

Lunch hours feature special deals combining breakfast and lunch options. Frequent visits highlight the lunch specials as a consistent choice.

People are saying

"I found the burritos here to be absolutely gigantic."

"The salsa bar offered plenty of variety and heat levels."

"I was impressed by the authentic taste here."

Good to know

1

The combo costs $11 for 3 tacos, consommรฉ, a drink, and toppings.

2

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.

3

The drive-through is slow, with a minimum of a 10-minute wait.

14
Garcia's Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with cozy, authentic atmosphere and phenomenal decor features close, crowded tables and a comfortable heated patio. Warm hospitality creates a vibrant vibe where guests can bring their own music. The place serves quality food and drinks at reasonable prices, with standout margaritas and tacos.

Dishes feature authentic Mexican flavors with fresh ingredients and vibrant presentation. The atmosphere feels cozy and genuine, matching the food's traditional style.

Reasonable prices and quick service make lunch here efficient. Meals suit both solo diners and groups, offering a casual atmosphere for a midday break.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot has really friendly service from the host stand to the wait staff."

"The food here is authentic and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Kids eat for $1.25 on Sundays with the purchase of an adult meal.

2

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

3

Parking can be challenging, so arrive early.

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South Tempe, Tempe

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