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Lunchtime pasta spots

A midday break is best spent over a plate of pasta.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
CERES Pasta image 1
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Outdoor seating fills a quaint alleyway with shaded picnic tables and green vines creating a cozy, European vibe. The atmosphere stays chill and relaxing, enhanced by music from nearby venues. Lines form early as the spot is known for excellent pasta and renowned gelato.

Fresh pasta comes with perfect texture and is cooked just right. Unique sauces and daily specials offer a variety of flavorful combinations.

Fresh and delicious lunch options focus on pastas and sandwiches. Outdoor seating at picnic tables offers views of wall mural art. Popular items sell out quickly, so arriving early helps.

People are saying

"I thought the pasta here was out of this world."

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

"This lunch spot has amazing handmade pasta and gelato."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only has outdoor seating, which is kid and pet friendly.

2

Popular pastas and sandwiches often sell out, so arrive early.

3

The restaurant is only open a few days a week.

02
Noodies image 1
Restaurant

Casual restaurant with cute decor and paintings of pasta regions creates a cozy, friendly atmosphere. Small kids play area and patio seating offer comfortable options for families and groups. The vibe stays relaxed and welcoming, making it a nice spot for casual dining.

Homemade pasta stands out with its quality and freshness. The vodka sauce adds an incredible touch that elevates the dishes beyond typical Italian fare.

Lunches come plentiful and good with options like a tuna sandwich. The spot suits a chill lunch near work or a relaxed weekend meal.

People are saying

"I loved their handmade pasta, especially with the vodka sauce."

"I loved that the gelato flavor changed weekly."

"The pasta at this lunch spot is fresh and handmade."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get packed.

2

Noodies offers weekly gelato specials that change regularly.

3

The restaurant is kid-friendly with a play area for children.

03
Kahu Hawaiian BBQ image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Small dining area offers laid-back atmosphere with calming ukulele music and authentic Hawaiian aromas. Drive-thru service adds convenience alongside indoor seating. Crowd includes locals, some wearing Hawaiian shirts, enhancing the relaxed vibe.

Macaroni salad stands out with a sweet flavor and creamy texture. Pasta dishes show skillful cooking, especially in the mac pasta served alongside BBQ and fried chicken combos.

Offers a healthier lunch option with generous portions like the BBQ & Katsu Mix that can cover multiple meals. Provides value with enough food for lunch and dinner at a price below a Big Mac meal.

People are saying

"The food here tastes amazing and is delicious."

"The Kalbi short ribs were so tender and full of flavor."

"I thought the macaroni salad pasta was the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

Meals are around $10, offering great value for the portion size.

2

Portion sizes are large enough for leftovers.

3

The restaurant is clean and well-maintained.

04
L&L Hawaiian BBQ - Tucson image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Open, clean interior with warm lighting and island music creates a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. Friendly staff and a welcoming dog add a personal touch, making the space feel like home in Hawaii. Decor includes surfboards and scenic videos, enhancing the authentic Hawaiian vibe.

Macaroni salad stands out with its cold, fresh preparation and daily made quality. Adding soy sauce gives it a full Hawaiian flavor that complements the yummy pasta salad options.

Lunch offers authentic Hawaiian plate lunches with fluffy rice and creamy macaroni salad. Service is quick and food quality stays consistent around noon.

People are saying

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

"The staff at this Lunch Spot are super friendly and helpful."

"The macaroni salad here is so yummy and made daily."

Good to know

1

Reservations are available for catering events and luncheons.

2

The restaurant offers a clean and new environment for dining.

3

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible.

05
Mario's Pizza Tucson image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small, old-school pizza shop with a quiet, New York-style vibe and outdoor seating that welcomes dogs. The atmosphere feels cozy and unhurried, with simple decor including booths and a TV. Known for authentic, delicious pizza and affordable prices, it offers a quick, satisfying experience.

Classic pasta dishes include lasagna with balanced ingredients, meat and cheese ravioli praised for its flavor, and spaghetti with meatballs that pairs well with pizza. The menu sticks to traditional Italian-American pasta options.

Quick service stands out with orders ready in about 15 minutes even during busy lunch hours. The spot suits those needing a fast lunch without long waits.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be delicious and hot."

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

"This lunch spot has huge, delicious pizza slices."

Good to know

1

The order is typically ready in 15 minutes for pickup.

2

The large single-topping pizza costs only $12.

3

You can get pizza by the slice or a whole pizza.

06
Miramonte image 1
Restaurant

Open dining room with a long bar creates a lively, sometimes loud atmosphere with dimmed lights for a cozy, moody vibe. Thoughtful interior design includes a mountain view through window walls and a quaint table area near the bar. Drinks like craft cocktails and sharp steak knives add to the upscale, detailed experience.

Rigatoni pasta stands out with its light texture and pairs well with grilled chicken. The dish offers a tasty balance that complements other items like grilled cheese.

Reservations through Resy secure a spot for a comfy lunch experience. The setting suits both casual meals and lunch dates with friends.

People are saying

"The American Food here is outstanding, with knowledgeable service."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is excellent and professional."

"I found the rigatoni pasta tasty and light."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend evenings.

2

The restaurant is located next to Whole Foods with ample parking available.

3

Expect food to arrive within 7 to 10 minutes after ordering.

07
By The Bucket image 1
Italian restaurant

Takeout-only Italian spot with a homey vibe and affordable, filling portions. Spaghetti and meatballs stand out for their fresh sauce and tender meatballs, paired with soft, crispy garlic bread. No seating or parking for large vehicles, making it a simple place to grab pasta on the go.

Spaghetti stays hot in the family bucket and comes with soft garlic bread. The meatballs pair well with the simple, delicious pasta served on the go.

Lunch offers a $6 lunch bucket that delivers great value and good taste. The lunch spaghetti and meatballs and catered options receive positive feedback for quality and price.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great tasting."

"The spaghetti and meatballs were perfectly cooked and plentiful."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is amazing, especially the meatballs."

Good to know

1

By The Bucket offers takeout only and does not have inside dining.

2

The portion-to-price ratio is great, with big servings.

3

The $6 lunch bucket offers a very good deal.

08
HiFalutin Rapid Western Grill image 1

Rustic design blends with a cozy, Western vibe that feels more like a comfortable hacienda. Live Western music plays near a covered patio that suits group dinners, while bourbon selection rivals specialized bars. Tables sit close, making conversation challenging during busy times.

Tomato basil angel hair and tortellini stand out with smooth texture and balanced flavors. General's Pasta mixes chicken, artichoke hearts, pesto, and walnuts for a flavorful combination.

Stops for lunch include a Blackjack Burger and a HiFalutin Margarita. The spot works well for casual meetups and gift exchanges.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and delicious."

"I've never tasted pasta so flavorful and cooked to perfection."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers special pricing on select items from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Live country music is featured every Friday night.

3

The restaurant has a special gluten-free menu for those with dietary restrictions.

09
Gusto Osteria image 1
Italian restaurant

Quiet, dark-lit space offers a homey, upscale atmosphere with tasteful decor and outdoor seating. The setting feels tucked away and peaceful, creating a calm dining experience. Guests often enjoy the full bar and a mix of small and large tables in a cozy corner.

Penne with Italian sausage matches traditional home cooking with rich flavor. Pasta Primavera offers an interesting twist while fettuccine Alfredo balances sauce and noodles perfectly.

Generous lunch portions come with a friendly service vibe. The spot serves solid Italian meals suitable for midday dining.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and full of flavor."

"The pasta dishes here are delicious and well done."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour on the patio offers half-off wine bottles every Tuesday.

2

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

Parking is ample in the plaza, making it easy to find a spot.

10
Red Lobster image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere and nautical decor that feels both relaxed and quiet. Interior leans toward a dark, dated look with a touch of fanciness. Guests enjoy a calm dining experience away from loud crowds.

Shrimp pasta dishes stand out with delicious presentation and consistent flavor. Crab pasta and shrimp fettuccine also feature as popular options alongside coconut shrimp.

Lunch offers great prices with good portions and specials that sometimes run slightly higher than advertised. Service can be attentive, making for a tasty and enjoyable midday meal.

People are saying

"The food here was excellent, fresh, and hot."

"The lunch spot service here is so attentive and friendly."

"Misty's awesome attitude and happy vibes made our pasta night great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour ends at 4:10pm, so plan accordingly.

2

Birthday celebrations can include complimentary ice cream with a candle.

3

Expect to spend over $150 for two people with cocktails.

11
Kettle Restaurant image 1
Buffet restaurant

Buffet restaurant with vintage nostalgic charm and eclectic decor featuring clocks showing times from ingredient sources. Atmosphere feels like a family home, relaxed and quiet with spacious seating. Staff are welcoming, creating a cozy and friendly environment.

Buffet includes spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna, and fettuccini Alfredo. Pasta dishes come alongside home-cooked style options like stuffed peppers and meatloaf.

Lunch features an extensive, rich menu with homemade flavors and a variety of daily changing buffet meals. Every dish tastes just right, making it a solid choice for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The buffet staff are so friendly and make you feel welcomed."

"The staff here offers stellar service with big smiles."

"The owner's so nice and attentive, it's awesome."

Good to know

1

The buffet costs $16 and offers a large selection of dishes.

2

Taco Tuesday features enchiladas and is a popular event.

3

All meals are served buffet style at reasonable prices.

12
Bacio Italiano image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant combines upscale yet comfortable atmosphere with an inviting, chill vibe popular among college students. Outdoor seating features cooling misters and offers a lovely street view ideal for people watching. Every detail feels intentional, creating an elegant but relaxed setting.

Spaghetti with marinara sauce and fettuccine alfredo with crispy chicken stand out with house-made noodles and fresh cilantro that pops with flavor. Penne Alla Vodka and grilled shrimp pasta offer tender, well-grilled shrimp and rich sauces.

Lunch features a special combo letting you pick a pasta and a salad. Options include spaghetti with garlic bread and salmon with risotto. The spot stays quiet with few diners, fitting for a quick hour-long break.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tastes so fresh."

"The pasta here is delicious and tastes so fresh."

"The food at this lunch spot was excellent and hot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to avoid extra charges.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added for parties of six or more.

3

The restaurant offers plant-based options on the menu.

13
Giuseppe's image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a cozy, old-school vibe with elegant yet laid-back atmosphere and well-lit, quaint decor. Seating includes a small bar and outdoor patio, creating a comfortable space that feels like home. The environment stays quiet and peaceful, making conversation easy without raising voices.

Penne Alla Vodka stands out with rich flavor. Other pasta options include Fettuccine Alfredo, Pesto Penne, and a spicy pasta that kids enjoy. Spaghetti and angel hair are not on the menu.

Lunch features tasty meals that invite interaction with the chef and assistant chef. It serves as a preferred spot for lunch or dinner dates.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and the portions are large."

"This lunch spot's homemade bread is incredible and fresh from the oven."

"The pasta dishes here are truly amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long waits.

2

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with discounted food and drinks.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during weekends; arrive early for seating.

14
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant image 1

Italian restaurant offers a warm, family-like atmosphere with soft lighting and Italian love music creating a mellow, romantic vibe. The dining area feels warm and inviting, often busy yet maintaining a relaxing environment without loud noise. Outdoor seating adds variety to the experience.

Spaghetti and meatballs come with a meat sauce that tastes like an Italian grandmother made it. Lasagna and ravioli are very good, and Alfredo pasta dishes, including shrimp and fettuccine, are truly delicious and well cooked.

Lunch offers huge portions with soup, salad, and breadsticks included. The spot suits casual meals or family celebrations with good value and a pleasant atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the pasta."

"The pasta here is delicious, especially the Alfredo."

"The soup and salad lunch spot is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

You cannot make a reservation ahead of time, but can join their waitlist on the day of.

2

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.

3

The restaurant has accessible facilities, including handicap parking and restrooms.

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Tucson, Arizona

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