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New Yorkers 1st Choice
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Affordable lunch spots

Made for those who want to eat out frequently during the work week without blowing their budget on midday meals.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
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Takeout Restaurant

Small hole-in-the-wall takeout spot operates through a walk-up window with a tiny kitchen inside. Atmosphere is casual and busy, especially at lunchtime when lines form outside. Known for affordable sushi burritos, fresh ingredients, and simple yet flavorful Korean kimbap, it offers quick service without seating.

Quick, affordable lunches come with spicy tuna and avocado options that suit busy lunch hours. Meals are filling and easy to grab on the go, making it a solid choice for a midday break.

Food comes at a very affordable price with good quality and perfect portions. Meals are quick and loaded, making it a solid choice for a fast, budget-friendly stop.

People are saying

"The food here is so comforting and affordable."

"This lunch spot is fast, fresh, and very affordable."

"I found the food to be fresh, quick, and affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is only open at lunch and during the week.

2

The restaurant closes early at 4pm.

3

For $10, you can get a delicious meal to go.

02
Hot Grill (Halal) image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small mom and pop hamburger restaurant offers a clean, peaceful atmosphere with family-friendly vibes and outdoor living room decor. The space feels welcoming and wholesome, enhanced by relaxing background sounds. It attracts those seeking a low-key, authentic dining experience.

Lunch here features a one flavored wings lunch special that stands out. Pickup during lunch breaks is common, with meals that satisfy quickly and leave you feeling well taken care of.

Prices stay very affordable while serving flavorful and tasty food. Meals come at a cost that works well for families and quick dining.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and super flavorful."

"This lunch spot's food is freshly prepared and delicious."

"I was always shocked by how affordable the prices were."

Good to know

1

All menu items are halal certified.

2

Prices for burgers are very reasonable, often under $10.

3

Expect a wait time of under 10 minutes for pickup orders.

03
Oyishi Sushi 80 ST image 1

Small, intimate sushi spot tucked below street level offers a cozy, casual vibe with limited seating and a friendly atmosphere. Background music includes a Rihanna playlist, adding a fun touch to the experience. Known for fresh, high-quality sushi served at very reasonable prices, it feels like a hidden gem with a welcoming, unassuming environment.

Quick lunches come with options like the chefโ€™s selection and sushi rolls. The spot suits both dropping in for a bite and taking food to go.

Prices stay very affordable for omakase style sushi with large serving sizes. Quality remains solid while keeping costs low compared to other shops.

People are saying

"I thought the sushi here was delicious and fresh."

"I found the sushi here to be fresh and affordable."

"This lunch spot has incredibly fresh, high-quality fish."

Good to know

1

The prices at Oyishi Sushi are very affordable for high-quality sushi.

2

The seating area is limited, making takeout a better option.

3

Omakase boxes offer great value and a chance to taste various fish.

04
Rollicious image 1
Restaurant

Small dining space features cute lanterns and watercolor paintings that create a cozy, welcoming vibe. Atmosphere feels casual and relaxing, suitable for date nights or casual meals. The setting combines charm with a hole-in-the-wall feel and a porch-style dining room.

Close to campus, it serves Japanese-style food ideal for lunch or a quick snack. Options fit well for a quick bite before class or work.

Food comes at surprisingly inexpensive prices with portions that match the cost. Sushi items, sashimi, and street food all stay within an affordable range compared to most restaurants.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is fantastic, with fresh, flavorful rolls."

"I was surprised by how affordable the food was."

"The owners here are so nice and amazing."

Good to know

1

Rollicious is located within a hallway to the right of Shuang Chengs.

2

The location is ideal for those on the go who need something quick.

3

The prices at Rollicious are reasonable for the serving size.

05
The Lunch Box image 1
Lunch restaurant

Outdoor seating surrounds a 5-meter-high waterfall, creating a tranquil oasis amid the city. The space feels intimate and relaxing, with loud water sounds that make phone calls difficult. The setting offers a small green oasis perfect for a quiet lunch away from street noise.

A quick outdoor lunch spot with friendly staff offers amazing burgers at reasonable prices. The menu features fresh, high-quality items and some of the lowest prices in the area.

Meals come at very affordable prices without sacrificing quality. The spot offers quick service and a great outdoor dining area for lunch.

People are saying

"I ate the best burger I've ever had at this Lunch Spot."

"You can sit outside in a peaceful courtyard with a waterfall."

"I found the food here to be tasty and affordable."

Good to know

1

The prices at this restaurant are well below average, with fries costing only $3.50.

2

The wait time for a wrap is over 45 minutes during lunch rush at 1 PM.

3

There is no interior seating.

06
Bao Bao Cafe image 1
Chinese restaurant

Spacious setup with glass dividers and adorable decorations creates a clean, peaceful atmosphere. Music plays well, adding to the vibey and relaxed mood. Seating feels comfortable and the environment offers phone charging stations for convenience.

Offers quick bento-style lunches with tasty options like crispy salted chicken. Lunch specials provide great value near transit and office areas.

Food offers great value with affordable prices and generous portions. Meals like Beef Noodle Soup combine taste and cost-effectiveness in a busy urban setting.

People are saying

"This is a great lunch spot for fast, delicious food."

"It's a cozy place with a welcoming atmosphere."

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

Good to know

1

The total cost for two people, including two drinks, is under $30.

2

The price for the noodles is $10.

3

Expect a quick service during lunch hours.

07
Pita Central image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant offers a casual, family-friendly atmosphere with an authentic feel and phenomenal food. Outdoor and second-level seating provide stunning skyline views and a quiet, shaded environment. Owners work closely with guests, creating a mom-and-pop vibe that feels welcoming and genuine.

Offers fresh, healthy lunches with large portions priced around $12-14. Quick service suits those seeking a fast lunch spot with options like Avgolemono soup and baklava.

Food offers fresh ingredients and generous portions at prices that stay inexpensive for the area. Options remain simple yet satisfying, making it a solid choice for affordable meals.

People are saying

"The pork gyro here is insanely good."

"This is a great lunch spot for fast, fresh, and affordable food."

"The food here is great and affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour prices are great, offering discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant serves generous portions, making it a good value for the price.

3

Most ingredients are imported from Greece, ensuring authentic flavors.

08
Sushi W - UWS image 1
Sushi restaurant

Counter-only seating fits about 10 people, creating an intimate setting with a clear view of chefs preparing sushi. The atmosphere feels cozy and minimalist, with a quiet energy that focuses on the quality and presentation of fresh fish. Sake selections complement the experience, adding a refined touch to the meal.

Lunch offers a $38 omakase deal that includes gratuity. The meal features affordable, high-quality sushi with a delicious, satisfying experience.

Omakase here costs about $39 for lunch, making it one of the most affordable options in the city. The sushi quality stays great despite the low price, offering a nice value for the experience.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the omakase, is fresh and amazing."

"The lunch special here is an amazing deal."

"I found the omakase here to be affordable and a great value."

Good to know

1

The Omakase sushi experience requires a reservation.

2

Make sure you arrive on time because this is an exactly one hour food experience.

3

The total price for the meal is $68, inclusive of tip.

09
Redefine Meals image 1
Health food restaurant

Health food restaurant offers convenient, healthy meals with great value pricing and a clean, welcoming atmosphere. It attracts people looking for fast, fresh options suitable for meal prep and work lunches.

Meals offer healthy and convenient options ideal for work lunches. Choices suit quick, easy meals that work well for meal prep and daily lunch routines.

Meals offer affordable prices while staying healthy and filling. Options focus on convenience without sacrificing freshness.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

"I found the healthy food options here to be delicious and convenient."

"The meals here are affordable and filling."

Good to know

1

Redefine Meals offers a variety of healthy meal options for busy schedules.

2

Pricing is considered good value for the quality of meals provided.

3

The location is convenient for those working nearby.

10
Arelita Authentic Cuban Food image 1

Interior features warm peach walls and decor inspired by South Florida Cuban mom-and-pop spots, creating an authentic Cuban atmosphere with live music enhancing the welcoming vibe. The space feels inviting and family-like, with a large dining area suited for groups. The exterior appears modest, contrasting with the vibrant and detailed interior.

Lunch features authentic Cuban flavors prepared with care. The setting suits small group meetings and evokes a homey, nostalgic vibe.

Prices stay very affordable with specials that offer great portions and quality. Cuban dishes come at an exceptional price point without sacrificing taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and packed with authentic Caribbean flavor."

"This lunch spot serves the most authentic Cuban food I've had."

"The food here is delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant features daily specials that change each day of the week.

2

Wednesday is pork ribs night, a popular choice among regulars.

3

Salsa dancing happens after dinner, creating a lively atmosphere.

11
Grab&Go Kabob "Begiro Bebar" image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open kitchen reveals fresh grilling, filling the air with rich aromas. Atmosphere stays warm and welcoming despite being takeout-only, with authentic Persian hospitality. Known for exceptional kabobs and use of saffron instead of food coloring.

Tons of free parking spots make it easy to grab lunch or takeout quickly. The spot serves healthy, tasty food at great prices all day, not just at lunch.

Prices stay incredibly affordable with large portions neatly packed. Food offers a reasonable value for a fast, tasty kabob meal.

People are saying

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

"The food here is really affordable and priced right for today's market."

"This lunch spot's Italian subs have perfectly crunchy bread."

Good to know

1

The place is only for takeout and does not offer dine-in options.

2

Expect quick service as food is made to order.

3

Prices are very reasonable for the quality of food offered.

12
Teriyaki Express Fullerton image 1
Fast food restaurant

Small fast food restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly vibe. Music varies from mellow to loud, creating different moods. Known for cleanliness and a quaint, welcoming environment.

Affordable prices and delicious meals make this a solid choice for lunch. Food comes at a good pace, allowing time to enjoy without rushing.

Most plates cost around $14, making meals very affordable. Portions are well-sized and suitable for a quick lunch.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"This lunch spot's teriyaki plates are delicious and affordable."

"The food here is delicious, well-portioned, and affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers generous portions for a reasonable price.

2

Parking is convenient and easily accessible.

3

Most plates cost around $14, making the food very affordable.

13
Gaia Masala & Burger New York image 1

Indian fusion restaurant offers wide variety of dishes including burgers, shawarma, and tikka masala with adjustable spice levels. Space feels old school and simple with generous portions and reasonable prices. Atmosphere is chill and friendly despite somewhat loud music and dim lighting.

Lunch specials offer great value with a sandwich, fries, and drink for $14. The Chicken Tikka Masala lunch special stands out with a large portion and excellent taste.

Prices stay consistently affordable with food that tastes good. Meals offer solid value without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"I found the food to be amazing and fresh."

"This lunch spot has amazing deals and generous portions."

"The food here is amazing and affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a wide variety of Indian-themed menu options.

2

Vegetarian and vegan options are available on the menu.

3

You can adjust the spice level on many dishes.

14
Zorba's Greek Kitchen image 1

Small, cozy restaurant with authentic Greek decor and classic Greek music playing in the background. Atmosphere feels homely and inviting, transporting diners to Greece. Offers a unique, intimate dining experience with a few tables and a friendly vibe.

Lunch features kebab platters and chicken skewers with strong Greek flavors. Quick, tasty meals suit a casual or romantic setting.

Greek meals come at very affordable prices here, cheaper than most other Greek spots in the area. Food stays fresh and authentic while keeping costs low.

People are saying

"The food here tastes so authentic and fresh."

"The food here is delicious and perfectly affordable."

"This Lunch Spot's food is delicious and quite flavorful."

Good to know

1

Pastitsio is available every Monday.

2

Takeout and delivery options are available.

3

The restaurant has limited seating, so expect a wait during busy times.

15
Yakiniku Gen East Village image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese yakiniku restaurant offers private booth seating with large partitions and tabletop grilling for an interactive meal. Atmosphere stays intimate and calm with lovely music enhancing the experience. Spacious, clean interior reflects authentic Japanese style with modern touches.

Lunch specials offer delicious meat options with a $15 price point that feels like a great deal. The yakiniku lunch sets stand out for being both tasty and affordable.

Affordable prices stand out here, especially for meat cuts and lunch specials. The menu offers good quality yakiniku without high costs.

People are saying

"The Wagyu steak here is so tender and flavorful."

"The lunch special here is a great value with good meat."

"The lunch specials are a great deal and super affordable."

Good to know

1

This month, the Wagyu Tasting Course is 50% off, reduced from $140 to just $70.

2

Expect no ventilation, which may affect your dining comfort.

3

The meat quality is exceptional, enhancing the dining experience.

16
Original Deli image 1
Restaurant

Small hole-in-the-wall restaurant tucked away in an alley offers a cozy, home-style atmosphere with friendly, welcoming vibes. Indoor seating includes comfortable tables and a big couch, complemented by plants and flowers that add charm. The space feels like a calm oasis with a grandma-core deli style.

Lunch features beef bulgogi with solid quality and reasonable prices. Korean owners serve delicious breakfast and lunch items in a casual deli setting.

Food comes with very affordable prices and good portions. Korean comfort dishes and poke bowls are simple, tasty, and fast.

People are saying

"The Bulgogi bowl was seriously good and so filling."

"This lunch spot's food is simple, filling, and seriously delicious."

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

Good to know

1

The deli is accessible from the alley parallel to 4th Street.

2

Breakfast costs under $10, while lunch costs under $15.

3

The restaurant is located half a block east of the Symphony light rail station.

17
Myrtle Thai image 1
Thai restaurant

Elegant space filled with rich Thai cultural elements creates a cozy yet sophisticated vibe. Music playlist adds to the warm and inviting atmosphere. Small, clean dining room features simple and elegant decor enhancing the overall experience.

Lunch specials come with complimentary Tom yum soup and offer perfect portion sizes for one. Food arrives quickly and prices stay very reasonable, making it a solid choice for a midday meal.

Prices stay very affordable across the menu with authentic flavors in every dish. Lunch deals offer good-tasting food at a nice price point.

People are saying

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

"I found the food bursting with authentic Thai flavors and beautifully presented."

"I found the prices to be affordable for the quality."

Good to know

1

The lunch special costs only 11 dollars.

2

The restaurant gets busy around 8 PM.

3

Lunch specials are available during the weekend.

18
Mitsuki Japanese Market image 1
Japanese grocery store

Japanese grocery store offers a cozy atmosphere with pleasant background music and excellent lighting. It features a wide variety of fresh onigiri and authentic snacks, alongside a small seating area for eating. The space feels clean and comfortable, with artistic wall decor enhancing the vibe.

Affordable hot lunches and sushi make it a solid choice for a quick midday meal. Fresh packaged food and snacks add variety for a casual, convenient lunch spot.

Offers affordable prices on hot meals and snacks like onigiri. Provides budget-friendly options suitable for quick lunches and imported drinks.

People are saying

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

"I found this market to be super cute and charming with great snacks."

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

Good to know

1

Food is 50% off after 6 PM, including sushi and onigiri.

2

They offer a variety of hot foods and snacks.

3

Expect a wide variety of affordable imported drinks and food.

19
Wiseguy Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza restaurant offers a cozy, warm atmosphere with good R&B music that keeps a steady groove. The place feels inviting and vibrant, reminiscent of NYC, with a friendly, pleasant vibe throughout the day and night.

Offers fast, affordable lunch options with consistently great service. Serves as a reliable spot for a quick work break or casual meal with friends.

Slices come at very affordable prices making it the most budget-friendly lunch spot downtown. Quick service pairs well with inexpensive, good pizza for a fast, affordable meal.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza was good, thin, and NY style."

"I found it to be a great lunch spot for a fast, affordable meal."

"I found it to be a quick and affordable lunch option."

Good to know

1

Wednesday offers a 50% discount on pizza between 2-6 PM.

2

Happy hour prices on beer are available from 4-6 PM.

3

The restaurant offers a combo deal of 2 slices for $10 that includes chips and a fountain drink.

20
Pranam Restaurant & Bar image 1
Indian restaurant

Spacious Indian restaurant with hand-painted murals and Nepali music creates a cozy, warm atmosphere that stays gentle and not loud. Clean, comfortable space features large TV screens showing mountain trails or sports. Guests enjoy a relaxed vibe with authentic Nepali and Indian influences.

Lunch offers excellent specials with great value. Options like the vegetarian platter and chicken tikka masala lunch box come with sides and enough food for leftovers.

High quality food comes with affordable prices here. The menu offers a great variety without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, full of flavor, and made with care."

"This Lunch Spot's food is so flavorful and fresh."

"The drinks and meals here are really affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

Lunch specials provide excellent value for money.

3

There is ample free street parking available outside.

21
ONGI (23rd St/Park Ave) image 1
Korean restaurant

Minimalist Korean restaurant with small seating and a focus on quick pickup. Atmosphere is lively and chill, enhanced by awesome music and a clean, modern aesthetic. Popular for bold, fresh flavors and generous portions, especially in bowls and bulgogi dishes.

Offers fast and satisfying lunch options with a focus on takeout. Stands out as a tasty alternative to typical salad bowl spots and serves as a reliable go-to lunch spot during the workday.

Generous bowls cost around $13, making meals super filling and affordable. Quality stays good while prices stay low, fitting well for a college student budget.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and full of flavor."

"I found the food here to be super filling and affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is very small and not catered toward dine-in except for 3 seats.

2

You should only get pickup or delivery.

3

The restaurant is suitable for a to-go meal.

22
Little Greek Fresh Grill- Boca Raton image 1

Greek-style decor with white and blue interior and tasteful images of Greece creates an authentic and cozy atmosphere. The space feels clean and welcoming, with outdoor tables adding to the relaxed vibe. Friendly energy makes it a comfortable spot for casual meals.

Lunch offers Greek Chicken Pita and Greek potatoes with lunch specials that provide quick, tasty options. Warm service supports both dine-in and office catering needs.

Fresh food comes with affordable prices here. The place stays family friendly while keeping meals delicious and budget conscious.

People are saying

"The Greek food here, especially the gyro, is huge and overflowing with meat."

"The pitas here are amazing, so fresh and delicious."

"I thought the food was fresh and affordable."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays and Thursdays, buy a pita and get a free side.

2

The Monday special is $9.99 for a meal.

3

Enjoy gyro deals on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

23
The Salty Burrito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean space with outdoor seating and wooden beams creates an upbeat, family-friendly atmosphere. A complimentary salsa bar offers multiple salsas and pickled veggies, adding a distinctive touch. The dining room tends to be loud even with few guests, making conversation challenging.

Offers a quick work lunch option with reliable service. Serves as a solid choice for a once-a-week lunch spot on weekdays.

Gigantic burritos come at very affordable prices. The spot offers casual Mexican food that is both delicious and budget-friendly.

People are saying

"The food here is great and served quickly."

"This lunch spot's food was so delicious, I had to go back."

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

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday is a popular event at the restaurant.

2

The pricing is around $10 for a meal and drink.

3

Parking in the area is paid parking.

24
Palm Street image 1
Asian restaurant

Asian restaurant offers an elegant tropical atmosphere with beautiful decor and carefully chosen dishware. Music plays a great role in setting a lively, buzzing vibe. Cocktails stand out as phenomenal and refreshing additions to the experience.

Lunch offers a delicious special served quickly and at a great deal. The spot has a relaxing ambiance even when busy, making it good for work lunches or casual outings.

Food and drinks come with affordable pricing that feels like a high-end restaurant. The menu offers tasty and incredible options without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"The food here is really, really good."

"This lunch spot's food is flavorful and delicious."

"The food here is delicious and surprisingly affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3:30pm to 6:30pm with great drink deals.

2

Takeaway options are available for those in a hurry.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan options on the menu.

25
Eaton Cafe image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Spacious Asian fusion restaurant with bright ambiance and friendly atmosphere featuring authentic music and a cute teddy bear photo spot. Seating is plentiful and the environment feels cozy and calm. The layout combines casual cafe elements with table service, creating a relaxed dining experience.

Cozy, welcoming vibes make it a solid spot for a chill lunch or hanging out with friends. The volcano ramen stands out as a lunch choice, and the place works well for a quick work break or a casual meal.

Menu items come at very affordable prices that are hard to find elsewhere. Options include coffee, snacks, ramen, gado-gado salad, and Indonesian dishes, all priced accessibly.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and rich with flavor."

"This lunch spot has amazing ramen, especially the volcano ramen."

"You can get delicious Asian home-cooking food affordably here."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of ramen dishes and small appetizers.

2

Expect generous portions at affordable prices.

3

The drink menu is still being developed, so options may be limited.

26
Chomp Chomp Thai kitchen image 1

Small, cozy space with affordable prices and generous portions creates an inviting atmosphere. The vibe is warm and charming, often busy enough to recommend reservations. Guests enjoy authentic Thai flavors with dishes that balance spice, sweetness, and freshness.

Lunch offers a reasonably priced special that includes soup or a spring roll. The special features tasty options like red curry and dumplings and provides a good deal for a satisfying meal.

Huge portions come with affordable prices. The value matches the taste well.

People are saying

"The drunken noodles here are amazing and spicy enough."

"The food prices were really affordable and the portions were huge."

"The lunch special here is a great value for the price."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating for four people.

2

Chomp Chomp Thai kitchen is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own drinks.

3

The prices are affordable, making it a good value for the quality of food.

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