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Local picks in Claremont

Food and lunch spots

A midday break for a proper meal is the only way to break up the monotony of the afternoon.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Ginkgo Chinese Restaurant image 1
Ginkgo Chinese Restaurant image 2
Ginkgo Chinese Restaurant image 3
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Chinese restaurant

Modern space with unique table settings and comfortable seating creates an elegant, serene atmosphere. The vibe stays relaxed and professional, welcoming diners seeking authentic Chinese cuisine. Known for highly authentic Sichuan dishes, it offers a clean and tidy environment.

Authentic Sichuan flavors stand out with dishes like Mapo Tofu and House fried rice. The food tastes fresh and has consistently great flavor that appeals even to picky eaters.

Lunch features a buffet priced at $14.95 and small lunch portions like Moo Goo Gai Pan and Pepper Shrimp served with steamed rice. Meals come without extras and lean toward lighter servings compared to dinner.

People are saying

"The seafood, like the walnut shrimp, was amazing and flavorful."

"The Mapo Tofu here is authentic Szechuan with a perfect flavor balance."

"The food here is delicious and authentic Chinese cooking."

Good to know

1

The lunch buffet is priced at $14.95 with a changing menu.

2

They are currently running an anniversary promotion.

3

Ordering online is easy and quick for takeout.

02
Village Grille image 1
American restaurant

Old-school diner with 50's style decor and classic memorabilia creates a homey atmosphere. Seating is crowded but lively, attracting locals who enjoy chatting at the counter and families sharing meals. Outdoor sidewalk dining adds a casual option with street views.

Food comes out quick and tastes fresh and delicious. Expect traditional diner-style dishes with a friendly atmosphere that complements the old school food options.

A cool old diner serves hearty lunch options and closes by 3 pm. It offers a solid spot for breakfast or lunch with consistently good food.

People are saying

"The diner food, like omelets and pancakes, is delicious and generously portioned."

"The food, especially the veggie omelette, was delicious and perfectly cooked."

"This lunch spot has great food and quick, attentive service."

Good to know

1

The restaurant serves breakfast and lunch and closes by 3 pm.

2

Expect a 20-minute wait during busy hours, especially on weekends.

3

Outside seating is dog friendly but accommodates only two people.

03
Union On Yale image 1
American restaurant

Mid-century style dining space offers both indoor and dog-friendly outdoor seating with heaters and shading. Atmosphere stays upbeat and casual, lively enough for socializing but not quiet for intimate conversations. Skilled bartenders craft high-quality cocktails, complementing a menu known for notable biscuits and gravy and diverse dishes.

Food features delicious and fresh flavors with consistently great quality. Cocktails complement the menu well, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Lunch offers well presented and yummy dishes with a great vibe suitable for dates or casual meals.

People are saying

"The Caesar salad here is great, served with top-notch care."

"The food here is fresh, high quality, and full of flavor."

"This lunch spot has amazing food, especially the spinach dip."

Good to know

1

Sunday brunch features a special fried chicken option available only on weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

3

The restaurant charges a 19% gratuity for groups of six or more.

04
El Ranchero Mexican Food & Margaritas image 1

Mexican restaurant with an authentic theme and ample indoor and outdoor seating creates a warm, cozy atmosphere that feels comfortable and inviting. The space includes a large event room with a DJ setup and dance floor, supporting lively gatherings. Margaritas stand out as a distinctive feature, often praised for their taste and value.

Authentic Mexican food shines with flavorful dishes like El Plato Zacatecas pork. The menu pairs well with affordable margaritas, and the service stays consistently friendly and attentive.

Buffet lunch offers a variety of options and tastes very good. Lunch service includes happy hour and banquet choices alongside regular meals.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was always good."

"The mole enchiladas here are wonderfully balanced with just enough spice."

"You should get a margarita; they're tasty and inexpensive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4pm to 8pm, Monday through Thursday.

2

The happy hour menu includes all drinks at discounted prices.

3

Expect large portion sizes; many guests leave with leftovers.

05
Elvira's Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with authentic decor featuring Dia de los Muertos sculptures and carved wood seating creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere with high ceilings and glowing chandeliers. Large patio with ample shade offers lively outdoor seating accompanied by loud music, making conversation challenging indoors. Signature large margaritas complement the vibrant setting.

Mexican food stands out with consistently delicious dishes and fantastic drinks. The food satisfies everyone in the group and pairs well with attentive service.

Shrimp fajitas come with a nice char on the vegetables and shrimp, served very hot. It works well for family lunches and holds special meaning for some.

People are saying

"The Mexican food's fajitas were sizzling hot and delicious."

"The food here is so flavorful and satisfying."

"This lunch spot's food was delicious and I plan to return."

Good to know

1

Elvira's Grill does not accept reservations.

2

Dogs are not allowed even outside dining areas.

3

They charge $3.25 for an extra bowl of spicy salsa.

06
Casa Maguey image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patio offers pleasant seating with views of a plaza square, creating a friendly atmosphere suited for groups or solo visits. Live music on weekends adds lively energy, though volume and style lean toward bar vibes. Inside features tables, booths, and a long bar, but seating comfort is limited.

True Mexican cuisine shines with handmade tortillas and super fresh ingredients. The menu features a variety of seafood, salads, omelettes, and a taco bar, plus notable pozole and menudo.

Lunch offers a buffet with pozole, menudo, ceviche, and mole for $17. Service stays attentive and efficient, making it easy to enjoy a quick meal outside.

People are saying

"The brunch buffet had an omelet bar and taco bar."

"The food here is amazing and authentic Mexican flavor."

"The lunch buffet had pozole, menudo, and ceviche."

Good to know

1

Brunch is served from 9am to 2pm on weekends.

2

Taco Tuesday happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM.

3

Sunday brunch costs $38 and includes unlimited mimosas.

07
Go to Go Chicken image 1
Korean restaurant

Small Korean takeout spot offers crispy fried chicken with a variety of flavorful sauces and freshly made orders. Limited or no seating means food is best enjoyed immediately after pickup. Family-owned vibe with solid pricing and a focus on quality over dine-in experience.

Food comes out freshly made right in front of you and tastes delicious. It is best enjoyed immediately after preparation.

Lunch specials run on weekdays for $10.95 and include options like Korean spicy wings. Rice may run out around noon during the lunch combo.

People are saying

"I thought the Korean fried chicken here was the best I ever had."

"This lunch spot is takeout only, with no seating available."

"I thought the food here was delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is takeout only with no seating available.

2

Expect a 10-15 minute wait for freshly made food.

3

They offer a weekday lunch special for $10.95.

08
Sanamluang Cuisine image 1
Thai restaurant

Modern space with spacious layout and classy tile work creates a lively and cozy atmosphere. High ceilings and hard surfaces make it quite noisy, especially when crowded. Popular spot known for authentic Thai food with a clean, well-lit interior.

Food here is consistently fresh and tasty, featuring both Northern and Southern Thai cuisines. Dishes stand out for their authentic flavors and variety not found in many other places.

Busy atmosphere signals a popular lunch spot with steady crowds. Service stays good even during peak hours. Known for stewed pork hock over rice as a quick meal option.

People are saying

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

"The Thai food here is delicious and authentic."

"This lunch spot has great food and fast service."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, and finding a spot can take 30 minutes.

2

Avoid the adjacent lot near the dentistโ€™s office to prevent towing.

3

They close at 10 pm on weekends.

09
Petiscos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating resembles a cozy backyard with rustic decor and ambient lighting creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The space includes a hidden patio and kid-friendly games, making it relaxed and family-friendly. Guests often enjoy chilling with drinks like micheladas while soaking in the festive, park-like vibe.

Food here is consistently fresh and made on the spot, featuring delicious salsas and fantastic Mexican dishes. The flavors are vibrant and the overall taste is absolutely satisfying.

Lunch features shared tables and a relaxing outdoor vibe. Options include three types of tacos like asada, al pastor, and fish, though phone orders often go unanswered.

People are saying

"I loved the pleasant and relaxed outdoor seating area."

"I found the food here to be great."

"This Lunch Spot's outdoor seating is so relaxing and pleasant."

Good to know

1

Petiscos only has outdoor seating.

2

Each taco costs $5.00 and each side costs $4.00, with no drink included.

3

The area is popular for food, so expect wait times.

10
Boca Burger With A Bit of Argentina image 1

Hamburger restaurant blends Argentinian and Middle Eastern flavors with a menu featuring empanadas and kebabs. Atmosphere feels smoky and dimly lit, with some reports of grimy conditions. Offers vegetarian and vegan options alongside meat dishes.

Mediterranean dishes feature tahini and garlic sauce that even picky eaters enjoy. Food quality stays immaculate and delicious with warm, attentive service enhancing the experience.

Lunch rush creates pressure on staff, especially an older woman working there. Meals can cause sickness. Spending around $68 for two feels not worth it.

People are saying

"I found the empanadas to be great, especially when eaten hot."

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The empanadas at this lunch spot are delicious."

Good to know

1

They offer vegetarian and vegan options on the menu.

2

All the meat served is halal, making it a good choice for Muslim diners.

3

The prices are reasonable considering the portion size and quality of food.

11
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant image 1

Interior features cluttered antiques and narrow walkways with a dated 1990s decor. Atmosphere is loud and lively, often with music and birthday serenades. The setting suits larger groups more than small parties.

Food here is consistently delicious and homely, with dishes served promptly. The overall experience includes great service alongside tasty meals.

Lunch offers delicious food with portions large enough to take home. The menu provides great value for the price.

People are saying

"The kids loved their delicious, shareable meals."

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

"The pasta dishes here are outstanding, with rich, flavorful sauces."

Good to know

1

Expect large portion sizes; sharing is common and encouraged.

2

Meatball Mondays feature special pricing on meatball dishes.

3

Birthday celebrations include a special song for guests.

12
La Popular Claremont image 1

Contemporary decor with dim warm lighting and a large outdoor patio decorated with string lights creates an elegant, inviting space. Live music plays regularly, adding energy, though game audio can be loud inside. The atmosphere feels welcoming and trendy, attracting a busy crowd early in the evening.

Delicious mole enchiladas stand out among the very good Mexican dishes served here. The food consistently tastes fresh and satisfying.

Outdoor patio offers a pleasant setting on warm days. The enchiladas stand out as a delicious lunch option.

People are saying

"The margaritas here are truly yummy and worth every penny."

"The Date Spots here have amazing queso fundido and short rib tacos."

"The enchiladas at this lunch spot were amazing and tasty."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect wait times of 45 minutes to an hour during busy nights.

3

Happy hour features $5 margaritas and $2 tacos on Tuesdays.

13
NORMS Restaurant image 1

Diner showcases Googie style design with a spacious, open layout and retro diner feel. Atmosphere ranges from calm and family-friendly to occasionally loud due to music and crowd noise. Outdoor seating adds to the large, inviting space.

Food here is consistently good and delicious with generous portions. Meals offer great value with plenty of food for the price.

Lunch includes a special priced at $7.99. Meals serve all day and night, covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Groups like seniors often come for lunch here.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The pancakes were so fluffy and delicious."

"This lunch spot has great food, especially the chicken sandwich."

Good to know

1

NORMS Restaurant is open 24 hours for dine-in service.

2

The restaurant closes at 9pm every last Tuesday of the month.

3

Cashiers require separate payments for each order, which can cause delays.

14
The Back Abbey image 1

Small gastropub with a bistro-style design and lively energy fueled by live German music. Offers a unique Belgian and Trappist beer selection alongside highly rated burgers and duck fat fries. Patio seating expands capacity and provides a casual spot despite occasional loud music and nearby vent noise.

Food features schnitzel, pretzels, pommes frites, and hearty sandwiches like steak and burgers. Dishes elevate typical bar food with variety and consistently great taste.

Lunch here involves some wait times, sometimes over half an hour. It serves as a spot for casual meals and business meetings, with a history of regular visits over many years.

People are saying

"I found an incredible selection of European beers here."

"I found the food here to be really good."

"The beer selection at this Lunch Spot is huge."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $2 off drafts from 2 to 5 PM on weekdays.

2

They have all-day happy hour on Mondays and Tuesdays.

3

Expect live music on weekends while dining on the patio.

15
Revโ€™d Up Coffee & Classics image 1

Coffee shop blends vintage racing car and motorcycle memorabilia with Route 66 and motorbike culture for a unique, loud and lively atmosphere. Space attracts motorcycle enthusiasts and local crowd, featuring indoor and outdoor seating. Music complements the laid-back, community-oriented vibe.

Food features great taste and generous portions with consistent quality. Coffee and drinks complement the menu well, creating a satisfying dining experience.

Offers morning coffee and lunch sandwiches that are absolutely delicious.

People are saying

"The coffee here has a cool, authentic vintage motorcycle vibe."

"The food here tastes great and the portions are generous."

"The coffee and lunch sandwiches here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking at Revโ€™d Up Coffee & Classics is limited, but spots are available on busy days.

2

A 12oz coffee costs $5.25, a 16oz is $6.00, and a 20oz is $7.75.

3

Chips are included with a sandwich, but ask the cashier for details.

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Claremont, California

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