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Local picks in California

Art and lunch spots

You prefer to spend your lunch hour surrounded by art rather than sitting in a standard cafe.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sourdough Eatery image 1
Sourdough Eatery image 2
Sourdough Eatery image 3
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Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop with an old school atmosphere and walls covered in the owner's original oil paintings. Shady brick-paved patio and garden area feature outdoor fountains, friendly cats, and dog-friendly seating. The air carries the scent of fresh sourdough bread, creating a relaxing and funky vibe.

Walls inside display owner's oil paintings that create a unique atmosphere. Barbara's paintings add to the visual experience throughout the space.

Shaded, brick-paved patios create a relaxing outdoor dining spot perfect for lunch. The garden seating offers plenty of shade, making it comfortable on hot days.

People are saying

"The bread here is so fresh and warm."

"I loved the fresh sourdough sandwiches on the outdoor seating."

"This lunch spot's sandwiches are delicious on fresh sourdough bread."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accepts only cash, with an ATM available inside.

2

Expect long wait times due to the eatery's popularity.

3

There is no designated parking lot; street parking is available nearby.

02
Hengry image 1
Chinese restaurant

Restaurant combines Guizhou cuisine with a modern art style and mid-century modern seating. Atmosphere feels welcoming and chill with curated pop artwork and colorful sofas. Ordering happens via tablet at the table, and a large private room accommodates groups.

Paintings come from the owner's personal collection and show a Jean Michel Basquiat feel. Abstract and modern art pairs with bright colored sofas and brick-shaped decorations for a Western brunch vibe.

Plenty of seating and no wait make it easy to grab lunch. Ordering multiple dishes suits group meals or special occasions like Father's Day.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The art here is so flavorful and satisfying."

"This Lunch Spot's stir fried beef is delicious with ginger and chili."

Good to know

1

At noon, they serve beef noodles and spicy chicken noodles.

2

At night, they mainly serve Guizhou snacks.

3

Parking is easy due to the small structure behind the restaurant.

03
French Escapade image 1
Arts organization

Studio and hotel spaces offer cool comfort amid warm weather, set in beautiful, inspiring scenery. Positive, upbeat mood prevails with expertly planned activities that blend art instruction, cultural tours, and social moments. Careful attention to details like accommodations, meals, and scheduling ensures smooth, enriching experiences for participants.

Painting workshops focus on plein air sites chosen with great care. These locations offer every artist's dream for capturing natural light and scenery.

Lunches include delicious picnic options arranged thoughtfully during trips. Meals often come with good company, pairing diners with others for shared experiences.

People are saying

"The guides were so helpful and made the fun activities great."

"The art workshop guides handled every detail so smoothly."

"I appreciated having lunch or dinner with other participants."

Good to know

1

The watercolor sketching workshop includes day trips for plein air painting.

2

Lodging, food, and transportation are included in the workshop package.

3

Participants should book early as workshops tend to fill up quickly.

04
Yojimbo image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small cozy space blends minimalist dรฉcor with anime pop culture, featuring Studio Ghibli films and original Japanese art. Atmosphere feels authentic and serene, with a chill vibe enhanced by unique artwork and figurines. Seating is ample, creating a spacious yet intimate environment.

Walls feature black ink drawings and Japanese-style paintings by the owner. Anime figurines and video screens show Studio Ghibli classics and scenes from Akira, Evangelion, and Kurosawa movies.

Staff show attentive service when informed about a quick lunch. The spot works well for a friendly lunch with family and sits in a central downtown area.

People are saying

"The ramen here is perfect and the noodles have a good texture."

"This Lunch Spot has fresh fish and perfectly seasoned sushi rice."

"The art here is amazing, filled with anime figurines and Japanese paintings."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and walk-ins are welcome.

2

Expect a wait time of around 30 minutes during peak lunch hours.

3

Street parking can be challenging; consider arriving early.

05
Tamayo Restaurant and Art Gallery image 1

Hacienda-style building with soaring high ceilings and historic vibe hosts an upscale yet unpretentious atmosphere. Walls display original and print artworks by notable Mexican artists, creating a cultural and artistic ambiance. Quiet and clean environment suits date nights, work parties, or casual lunches.

Soaring high ceilings and a cool hacienda-style building create a historic vibe. Walls display Tamayo paintings by a legit Mexican painter, with some available to watch while eating.

Lunch offers a memorable experience with a gorgeous venue that suits work parties or casual meals. Art on display adds a unique touch to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is served in a stunning, historic hacienda with gorgeous artwork."

"The Mexican food here is in a gorgeous, upscale venue."

"This lunch spot has delicious food, especially the guacamole and salsa."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available for $7.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of menus.

3

Most dishes come with beans and rice.

06
Placita Olvera ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ image 1

Long alley lined with stores and colorful crafts creates a traditional Mexican market atmosphere. Live music and dancing fill the air, offering a joyful community vibe with authentic cultural experiences. Adobe house museum and vibrant decorations add a historical and festive feel to the space.

Beautiful Mexican crafts fill the stores, including several from Michoacรกn. A museum displays one of the oldest paintings in California, painted on a wall.

Lunch includes homemade dishes served at one of the oldest restaurants nearby. Options range from sit-down meals to casual spots across the street, all good for hanging out and watching people.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful historical site that feels like stepping back in time."

"I grabbed lunch and shopped at this great outdoor dining spot."

"I loved the delicious fried tacos and churros."

Good to know

1

The museums and exhibits are free of charge.

2

The next event is the Day of the Dead Celebration on November 2nd, 2025.

3

Expect crowds during the Cinco de Mayo celebration.

07
Re/creation Cafe image 1

Cafe combines indoor and outdoor seating with live music every weekend creating an artsy, community-oriented vibe. The space hosts long community tables and a dog-friendly atmosphere, encouraging both work and socializing.

A large, spacious area dedicated to painting hosts Friday night classes with live music and staff ready to help. The space supports community engagement through diverse activities like music, painting, and private parties.

Great for casual lunches and coffee meetups in the mornings and afternoons. Offers a solid menu for breakfast and lunch with options for later meals and drinks.

People are saying

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

"The food and drinks here are amazing."

"I had an amazing lunch here."

Good to know

1

Attending the Reggae music night requires RSVP because space is limited.

2

The cafe has a 'No Computer' policy from Friday to Sunday.

3

Parking is free and easy next to the cafe.

08
Kalaveras image 1
Restaurant

Nightclub converted into a restaurant features vibrant Mexican-style calavera murals and blacklight menu effects. Loud music creates a lively day party atmosphere but limits conversation and dancing. Outdoor patio offers a quieter spot away from the colorful, music-video-lined interior.

Walls showcase vibrant Mexican-style calavera paintings that create an authentic and festive vibe. Music plays alongside colorful decorations covering every wall.

Taco Tuesdays stand out as a lunch highlight. The spot offers an attentive service with staff sharing happy hour menus and lunch specials, all in a setting suited for work lunches.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and cooked well."

"The art here is amazing, and the service is top-notch."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is so friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

An 18% service fee is automatically added to all bills.

2

Taco Tuesday features a condiment bar and free aguas frescas refills.

3

Happy hour runs from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays.

09
East Los Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Spacious seating with an industrial vibe and Blood In Blood Out murals creates a distinctive atmosphere. The place feels stuffy and warm despite large fans, and the self-serve condiment bar adds a casual touch. A mariachi trio occasionally performs, enhancing the lively environment.

Walls feature Blood In Blood Out paintings that create a cool vibe. Painting events include tacos and agua fresca, adding a fun, creative touch.

Spacious seating handles both breakfast and lunch crowds with ease. Quiet atmosphere allows for long meetings without feeling rushed.

People are saying

"I was passionate about finding the perfect carne asada burrito."

"The asada here is juicy, charred, and perfectly seasoned."

"The food and atmosphere here are great."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited at East Los Tacos, so arrive early.

2

Breakfast is served until 12:00.

3

A fundraiser for staff hired from the closed Pantry is on 4-26 during breakfast hours.

10
Borit Gogae image 1
Korean restaurant

Restaurant features artsy traditional Korean decor with paintings and memorabilia that create a warm, cozy atmosphere reminiscent of a Korean home. The environment feels inviting and peaceful, enhanced by calm music and friendly smiles. It offers a unique dining experience distinct from typical Korean restaurants.

Korean-inspired interior sets a tasteful and quirky vibe with traditional rustic elements. All paintings on display are by the owner, adding a personal artistic touch.

Lunch offers delicious meals with a wait time of about 15 to 30 minutes on weekends. Plenty of free parking is available behind the restaurant on weekdays.

People are saying

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

"The artful presentation of so many delicious veggie dishes is amazing."

"This lunch spot offers a cozy and authentic Korean dining experience."

Good to know

1

Expect a 15-minute wait during weekend lunch hours.

2

Parking costs $3 in the back lot.

3

The restaurant offers a $30 set menu with numerous side dishes.

11
JIN image 1
New American restaurant

Whimsical interior blends Alice in Wonderland theme with floral and fairy-like decor creating a romantic, cozy atmosphere. Space features a mini Ferris wheel serving treats, adding playful charm. Comfortable seating and free wifi support a relaxed, inviting vibe.

Professional-grade tools like brushes and watercolor paints are ready for use. The teacher guides through drawing shadows and highlights, making the artwork more complete. Drawing brings a sense of tranquility and clarity to the inner voice.

Lunch offers a mix of sweet and savory dishes with both international and American flavors. Food takes about 30 to 45 minutes to arrive during lunch hours.

People are saying

"I enjoyed a beautiful afternoon tea in a calm, garden-like atmosphere."

"The art here is beautiful and perfect for taking photos."

"This lunch spot has a charming, cozy atmosphere with unique decor."

Good to know

1

JIN hosts afternoon tea events occasionally.

2

The set for afternoon tea costs $75 for two people, providing only four pieces of sandwich.

3

There is a promotion for a free capybara stuffed animal with fine tea orders from 6-8pm, Monday to Friday.

12
The Huntington Japanese Garden image 1

Japanese garden showcases authentic design and ancient craftsmanship with peaceful, tranquil atmosphere throughout. Visitors find beautiful views resembling paintings and enjoy shaded benches and an authentic tea house for quiet reflection.

Walls display Gainsborough paintings like "Blue Boy" and "Pinky" alongside priceless manuscripts. The collection blends historical artifacts with beautiful artworks, while the Japanese Garden offers views that resemble living paintings.

Lunch offers reasonable prices with a variety of salads, desserts, and ice cream. The setting near the Japanese Garden adds a beautiful backdrop for meals.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful and peaceful escape to immerse yourself in nature."

"The gardens are beautiful and relaxing, a great spot for lunch."

"The gardens here are so beautiful, every view is like a painting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are needed on weekends for visits.

2

The garden is handicap accessible for all visitors.

3

Parking can be difficult, so plan accordingly.

13
Paradise Point Resort & Spa image 1

Resort spreads across a tropical bayfront with lush gardens and multiple pools, including an adult-only jacuzzi. Atmosphere stays romantic and quiet with occasional music until midnight. Guests enjoy beach bonfires and scenic lagoon walks amid stunning water views.

Painting sea shells and rocks on the beach offers a hands-on creative activity. The spot also hosts rock painting sessions that stand out among other artistic options.

People are saying

"The hotel's location is beautiful and serene."

"The barefoot bar is a lively, casual lunch spot with great drinks."

"The staff's thoughtful, colorful drawings on handwritten cards made us feel so special."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay $40 per night for resort fees and $30 for parking.

2

The resort often hosts weekend events like bonfire parties and movie nights.

3

Yoga classes are available outdoors, providing a relaxing experience.

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