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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of US

Interesting lunch spots

A lunch spot that offers something genuinely different from the usual rotation of sandwiches and salads.

Based on 788 Opinions
+785
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Updated April 2026
01
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Thai restaurant

Thai restaurant offers Michelin-starred dishes and rare regional specialties in a beautifully designed space with a charming backyard garden. Atmosphere feels chill and welcoming with Thai country music setting a relaxed tone. Indoor space is cozy, while outdoor seating provides a peaceful retreat.

Lunch features a great deal with soup, appetizer, and entree. The menu offers excellent value and delicious selections.

Northern Thai specialties stand out with unique flavors not commonly found elsewhere. The menu offers a diverse and exciting range of dishes in a nice environment.

People are saying

"I loved the flavorful Thai food entrees, especially the Sai Oua."

"I found the lunch specials here to be really great."

"The menu here is interesting and diverse."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers authentic Northern Thai cuisine, which is not common in the city.

2

Customers receive a 10% discount for paying with cash.

3

The weekday lunch special is a special treat.

02
Sandwich Girl Cafe image 1

Small cafe with cozy indoor seating and ample outdoor space offers a calm, comforting vibe with local art displays and pleasant music. It attracts a neighborhood crowd looking for a relaxed spot to eat or work with free Wi-Fi. The atmosphere feels more serene compared to busier nearby cafes.

Offers quick lunch options including sandwiches, wraps, burgers, and salads. Staff handle large orders efficiently, making it a reliable spot for weekday lunches.

Menu offers unique options with a variety of interesting dishes. Food stands out as distinctive and flavorful compared to others in the city.

People are saying

"I had one of the best breakfast sandwiches ever."

"This lunch spot's food is unique, full of flavor, and amazing."

"The food here is delicious and interesting, with filling portions."

Good to know

1

You should order ahead if you are in a rush.

2

The restaurant provided a list of options for vegan customers.

3

The prices are reasonable.

03
Xisan de Classic image 1
Thai restaurant

Sleek interior blends modern design with Asian touches in a spacious setting that suits couples and groups. Soft piano music creates a quiet, cozy atmosphere where conversation flows easily. The vibe feels welcoming and sophisticated, making it a comfortable spot for family and friends.

Lunch specials offer solid value and variety. Weekend visits show consistent quality and fresh options for a midday meal.

Lunch deals stand out as very interesting even on weekends. The menu offers a mix of excellent and interesting options.

People are saying

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

"The green curry here has a great, balanced coconut flavor."

"The lunch spot food was super tasty and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers good deals on drinks and appetizer combos.

2

Prices are very reasonable for the quality of food provided.

3

The menu features a variety of Isaan dishes beyond typical Thai options.

04
Malii Gramercy image 1
Thai restaurant

Marble tables and elaborate decor create a gorgeous, classy interior that feels like a Thai monarch's court. The atmosphere stays romantic and chill with beautifully curated music enhancing the vibe. The space fills quickly, making it small and intimate with a lively energy.

Lunch specials offer great deals with quick and easy options. The menu includes dishes like pad see ew with tender beef that are well prepared and satisfying.

Fusion Thai food blends sophisticated flavors with traditional elements. Dishes like lychee duck curry and Thai mussels stand out for their unique and interesting taste.

People are saying

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

"The lunch here is amazing and the food tastes delicious."

"The food here is an interesting fusion with sophisticated flavors."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a three-course dinner during restaurant week for $30 per person.

2

Happy hour includes two cocktails and a selection of appetizers.

3

Lunch specials are available on weekdays and weekends.

05
Cali Chilli Downtown LA image 1
Indian restaurant

Stylish interior blends modern elegance with rich Indian heritage in a spacious, intimate setting. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, balancing upscale vibes with family-friendly comfort. Unique Indian fusion menu complements the thoughtful, well-lit décor.

Lunch features a chef's special sampler that changes daily, paired with naan and rice. The thali lunch special includes daal, naan, and salad for a balanced meal.

Menu offers interesting flavors and innovative combinations with a mix of familiar tastes. Regular selections stay approachable yet creative.

People are saying

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

"This Lunch Spot has amazing, fresh food made to order."

"I found the menu here to be interesting and innovative."

Good to know

1

There is 90-minute parking available in the complex.

2

Parking validation is available up to $35 in a nearby parking garage.

3

The average wait time for food is 30 to 45 minutes.

06
Saucy Chick Indi-Mex Eatery image 1

Small indoor space with extensive outdoor patio seating creates a casual, LA chill vibe with friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Busy with takeout and delivery but remains unhectic and pleasant for dining in. Decorated with taste, featuring live music and henna art during visits.

Owners take an interesting fusion risk and pull it off. Menu offers unusual combos like lamb tacos and eclectic flavor combinations.

People are saying

"The food here is a delicious and fun fusion of Indian and Mexican flavors."

"This Lunch Spot's flavors are an explosion, blending cultures beautifully."

"I found the flavor combinations and fusion risk really interesting."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

2

There is a parking lot available at the restaurant.

3

The restaurant provides Halal options for diners.

07
Mozaik cafe image 1

Antique-style cafe with a cozy atmosphere and bright, comfortable space offers a homey, welcoming vibe that feels like family. The environment stays friendly and inviting, making it ideal for quiet meals or casual gatherings.

Cozy atmosphere pairs well with decent prices for lunch. Sandwiches and coffee come with flavorful, tasty dishes that suit breakfast, brunch, or lunch.

People are saying

"I had one of the best iced lattes I've ever had."

"The Mediterranean food here, especially the shakshuka, is amazing."

"It's a cozy lunch spot with a kind and welcoming environment."

Good to know

1

The food is 100% halal, catering to dietary preferences.

2

The menu has a nice selection of different kinds of items.

3

There are great vegetarian options available.

08
Sushi Yuen image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi bar seats about 9 guests in an intimate, quiet setting with a simple, refined design. The atmosphere suits romantic dinners with a slow, deliberate pace. High-quality Japanese ingredients and artisan ceramics enhance a kaiseki-style omakase experience.

Lunch offers a walk-in omakase with about 14 courses and no reservations. Two seating options exist for this omakase lunch experience.

Dishes come with detailed descriptions of ingredient origins like uni, crab, wagyu, and tuna. Chef Ryan highlights seasonal fish from specific regions, adding an educational touch to the presentation.

People are saying

"The sake here is thoughtfully curated, highlighting seasonal fish."

"Chef Ryan's knowledge about ingredients and seasonality was really interesting."

"I loved the omakase lunch experience here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to limited seating with only 9 seats available.

2

The omakase experience offers around 14 courses and is available for lunch.

3

Expect a wait of over 30 minutes before opening on busy days.

09
Tempura Matsui image 1
Tempura restaurant

Small, intimate space with open frying area that avoids strong oil smells creates a cozy, relaxing atmosphere. Simple yet elegant decor supports an authentic Japanese omotenashi spirit. The vibe is quiet and welcoming, offering a unique, high-end tempura experience.

Lunch offers a smaller version of tempura omakase that feels surprisingly fulfilling and great value for money. The set is filling and provides a traditional, memorable experience.

A pretty interesting soup starts the meal and the overall experience feels interesting and fun.

People are saying

"The tempura here is elevated and perfectly cooked."

"This Lunch Spot's tempura is crispy, light, and expertly prepared."

"The food here was pretty interesting and tasty."

Good to know

1

Lunch costs $160 per person for the set menu.

2

Reservations need to be made at least one month in advance for lunch.

3

The restaurant has a capacity of around 12 people, making reservations essential.

10
LALIKO image 1
Georgian restaurant

Expansive murals and a blend of traditional and modern design create a cozy, inviting space with true Georgian vibes. The atmosphere feels vibrant yet tasteful, attracting a pleasant crowd that complements the setting.

Lunch offers a quieter atmosphere with special dishes not found at dinner. Prices are great and meals end with a light, sweet treat that balances the experience.

A dessert blends vanilla ice cream with grains for a unique, balanced taste. The drink menu includes a cocktail list with several interesting options alongside a good wine selection.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"This Lunch Spot's khinkali and khachapuri are outstanding and full of flavor."

"The Georgian food here is delicious and a must-try."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $500 for two dishes.

2

Portions may be smaller than expected for the price.

3

Real Georgian traditions are featured in the menu.

11
Wolfnights® image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small Mediterranean spot with homemade wraps made fresh on an iron stove visible at the entrance. Atmosphere feels homey with a strong, distinctive aroma from cooking dough and a chair swing adds a unique touch. Mostly takeout-focused but offers limited indoor and covered outdoor seating.

Lunch here offers a fast service with about a 7-minute wait. It provides a refreshing change from typical midtown options and a pleasant spot to enjoy a midday meal.

Wraps showcase interesting flavors and unique combinations. Gluten-free options mix flavor and texture in an engaging way. The entire menu offers a variety of interesting choices.

People are saying

"The dough for the wraps is delicious and made from fresh ingredients."

"I found the wraps to be delicious with unique flavors and fresh ingredients."

"The wraps at this Lunch Spot are delicious and chewy."

Good to know

1

There are only 2 seats inside and 3 outside, so arrive early.

2

If you're paying in cash, bring the exact amount as they don't provide change.

3

The prices for wraps range from $13 to $15, reflecting their size and quality.

12
Oliva image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant blends modern elegance and rustic charm with a cozy, intimate atmosphere featuring traditional games and musical instruments for guests to enjoy. Evening shifts transform the space into a hookah lounge with outdoor seating by a water fountain, creating a peaceful and stylish environment.

Lunch offers a tasty local menu with options that suit both breakfast and midday meals. The atmosphere feels like a mini 30-minute vacation, making it easy to relax during a break.

Social setting feels very interesting with a cute design. Clean space features interesting decorations and unique seating arrangements.

People are saying

"The food here is pure magic, hitting all the senses."

"It's a great lunch spot with amazing food and tasty options."

"The social setting and decorations here are really interesting."

Good to know

1

Karaoke nights are held on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

2

Game nights feature board games and Mafia on Sundays.

3

Poetry nights take place every Tuesday, turning dinner into an event.

13
Cafe Mado image 1
Restaurant

Open, airy space with natural light and a relaxed garden ambience creates a calm atmosphere. Friendly energy supports quiet conversation and casual gatherings. Passing through a pristine kitchen to reach seating adds a unique architectural touch.

Lunch offers a full sit-down experience with dishes that highlight seasonal Mediterranean flavors. Seating includes a garden area that adds a relaxed vibe to the meal.

Meals feature interesting flavors and combinations. Non-alcoholic beverages also stand out as unique. Turkey, poblano, and avocado dish tastes good but is less distinctive.

People are saying

"The food at this cafe is phenomenal and very fresh."

"This lunch spot has inventive and delicious food."

"The food here is excellent, especially the pasta and skate wing and pasta."

Good to know

1

The breakfast sandwich is only available starting at 11AM.

2

The entire backyard area is closed and only open for lunch and dinner.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner service on weekends.

14
Sami & Susu image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Tiny indoor space with about 20 seats creates an intimate atmosphere that feels cozy and romantic. The vibe stays chill and unpretentious, supported by thoughtful design and a quiet setting. Creative natural wines complement standout Mediterranean dishes in a setting suited for close conversation.

Lunch features stuffed pita sandwiches with standout options like the lamb kabob pita that is juicy and flavorful. The spot offers an affordable and inventive menu suitable for both takeout and dine-in.

Complex and evolving menu offers interesting flavors and unique pairings. Olive chicken stands out with its unexpected taste, and the wine selection by the glass adds to the variety.

People are saying

"The wine selection here is delicious and memorable."

"You have to try the lamb kebab pita at this lunch spot; it's awesome."

"It's a cozy spot with a warm, candle-lit atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating with only twelve indoor tables.

2

The happy hour special runs from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

The Tuesday night Pita Party features unique menu items and live music.

15
Hashi Market image 1
Japanese grocery store

Massive space filled with Asian snacks, kitchen supplies, and matcha bar offering premium drinks and soft serve. Atmosphere feels immersive and fun, inviting exploration. Shoppers find a wide variety of packaged goods and household items, with a focus on Japanese and Asian products.

Sushi options stand out for a quick and easy lunch, available for dining in or takeout. The spot offers a convenient place to grab lunch alongside grocery shopping.

An interesting array of pastries and sweets fills the shelves. Every corner reveals unique finds that catch the eye.

People are saying

"I found this grocery store has a great variety of Japanese snacks and products."

"I found so many interesting snacks, ramen, and frozen goods here."

"I found the largest selection of Asian groceries here."

Good to know

1

They offer 50% off on sushi and hot foods after 8pm.

2

The store has a large selection of Asian snacks, ramen, and frozen goods.

3

Expect a slippery floor on rainy days due to a steep entry.

16
The History Restaurant image 1

Space showcases traditional Georgian decor with portraits and royal clothing, creating an authentic cultural atmosphere. Live performances blend Georgian dance and jazz music, adding refined entertainment to the elegant setting.

Setting suits both casual lunches and special celebrations. Booking ahead for lunch or dinner is common.

Authentic Georgian flavors come with creative twists and unusual tastes. Interesting cocktails complement the food, while Georgian dancing and music add a unique cultural touch.

People are saying

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

"The food's unique combinations of flavors are really interesting."

"The atmosphere at this lunch spot is amazing and elegant."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to secure a table.

2

Live shows and music are hosted from Tuesday to Sunday.

3

Prices are fair for the quality and Manhattan location.

17
Greywind image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers elegant minimalist Asian-themed decor with marble bar and deep booths creating a comfortable, low-key atmosphere even when crowded. A hidden speakeasy downstairs adds a unique dimension, while inventive cocktails and well-spaced tables enhance the experience.

Prix fixe lunch offers a starter and entree for $35 with dessert for an extra $5. Service stays top-rated and attentive throughout lunch hours, even without a reservation.

Food features creative and elegantly prepared dishes with interesting cocktails. The menu offers a variety of unique options that stand out.

People are saying

"The staff here make you feel so welcome during dinner."

"The food here is creative and delicious."

"The cornbread here is dense and a little dry."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least two weeks in advance for dinner service.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait if you arrive without a reservation.

3

The restaurant offers a plant-forward menu with gluten-free options.

18
Bica Coffee Shop image 1
Coffee shop

Courtyard patio with shade sails and outdoor seating creates a chill and welcoming vibe. Space suits hanging out, working, or meeting friends, often lively with live performances on weekends. Friendly atmosphere blends cozy charm with community energy.

Fresh, locally sourced lunch tartines and sandwiches stand out here. The spot offers a casual vibe perfect for working or meeting friends while enjoying coffee and seasonal food.

Interesting bites come with tasty flavors. An interesting mix of people hangs around regularly.

People are saying

"This cafe is my favorite spot in San Diego."

"It's a great spot for coffee and tasty bites."

"The coffee and tasty bites here are truly top-tier."

Good to know

1

Bica Coffee Shop hosts a monthly dinner with tapas, music, and a welcoming community atmosphere.

2

Starting at 4 on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, they offer Portuguese tapas-style share plates.

3

The food items sell out quickly, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

19
Sushi Lin SoHo image 1
Restaurant

Counter seating creates an intimate, cozy setting with a serene, simple ambiance. The space feels welcoming and elegant without being stuffy, offering a top-tier sushi experience with flavorful omakase twists.

Lunch offers a 9 course Omakase that stands out as a great deal. The menu updates regularly, keeping the lunch experience fresh and incredible.

Sushi features super fresh fish paired with interesting flavors like tomato, scallion, and garlic. The king salmon topped with tomato stands out as a delicious twist.

People are saying

"The sushi here is art, with unique flavor combinations."

"This Lunch Spot's sushi is super fresh and creative."

"The sushi fish was super fresh with interesting flavor combinations."

Good to know

1

The 12-course Omakase is available for Saturday brunch.

2

A meal can easily run $200 per person.

3

There is a fee to use a credit card, with a 3% surcharge.

20
Sing NYC 星财记 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Open kitchen and low tables create an intimate, casual setting with a mix of space-themed and camping-style decor. Cozy outdoor greenhouse and back patio offer a warm, peaceful escape from city bustle. The vibe blends modern Hong Kong café energy with laid-back charm.

Efficient service handles the lunch rush smoothly. Lunch combos come with Hong Kong style milk tea and offer affordable, tasty options perfect for a quick meal.

The menu features a pineapple bun chicken sandwich that stands out as an interesting choice. Other dishes like the Vegetable over Rice in Malaysian Curry feel more standard and less distinctive.

People are saying

"I loved the perfectly balanced Hong Kong-style milk tea."

"You have to try the slippery eggs with shrimp over rice."

"The pineapple bun chicken sandwich is surprisingly interesting."

Good to know

1

This place is walk-in only, so be prepared for potential wait times.

2

The digital order option allows for no contact service.

3

The meal for two package includes an appetizer, two meals, a dessert, and two drinks.

21
Charoen Krung Thai image 1
Thai restaurant

Elegant decor and cozy ambiance create a warm, inviting atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. Upstairs party space adds a lively dimension on weekends, while a well-stocked bar offers unique cocktails like lychee martinis and refreshing soju blends. The place balances authentic Thai flavors with a comfortable, airy setting.

Lunch features a Lunch Special with good portions and a solid deal. Options include pad thai, spring rolls, and salad, making it a reliable spot for midday meals.

Drinks inspired by Thai coconut chicken soup blend coconut and spice without any chicken taste. Many unique entrée options and the music add to the interesting atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"I loved their lunch special; it was a great deal."

"Their Thai-inspired drinks are so interesting and well-flavored."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Sunday to Thursday from 4-7 PM with specials under $10.

2

Lunch specials include a meal for low $20s with salad and dumplings.

3

Reservations are recommended to avoid long waits, especially for lunch.

22
KJUN image 1
Korean restaurant

Small space with fewer than 25 seats creates an intimate atmosphere where the chef's passion is visible. Jazz music sets a lively, soulful vibe that complements the home-cooked meal feel. The crowd enjoys a fun, communal energy in a cozy, hole-in-the-wall setting.

Lunch features a chicken sandwich and a filling lunch special with large fried chicken, bread, and a choice of gumbo, honey butter chips, or kimchi soup. Tables stay ready even during a busy lunch rush.

The menu features a Korean-Cajun fusion that blends familiar dishes with fresh, vibrant flavors. Fried chicken carries a subtle sansho pepper undertone, making the fusion experience both seamless and flavorful.

People are saying

"The food here is a delicious Korean and Cajun fusion."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is phenomenal and delicious."

"The Korean-Cajun fusion food here is surprisingly successful and tasty."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended because the restaurant is often fully booked.

2

The lunch special is time-sensitive and can be missed if not planned properly.

3

KJUN is BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle), so bring your favorite drink.

23
La Dong image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant showcases charming contemporary design with rattan lotus-shaped light fixtures and tranquil, authentic decor. Atmosphere feels classy and friendly with good acoustics and a welcoming vibe. Patrons enjoy exceptional pho and grilled turmeric branzino, complemented by a unique selection of Vietnamese gin and crafted cocktails.

Lunch offers a reasonably priced menu with clearly marked gluten-free options. Seating happens quickly, making it easy to enjoy a fantastic meal without long waits.

Dishes feature a well-balanced mix of fishy, sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. Options include unique calamari and Bun Bo Hue, plus cocktails with interesting twists.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing."

"This Lunch Spot's pho is warming to the soul."

"The food here is an interesting, unexpected Thai-influenced take on Vietnamese."

Good to know

1

Make sure to make a reservation before visiting.

2

La Dong charges almost $30 for its bún bò Huế.

3

The restaurant could accommodate a big party of 20 people.

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