Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Culver City

Lunch date spots

A midday meal should be a chance to slow down and actually talk to the person you are with.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Merka Saltao - Peruvian Bowls & Burritos image 1
Merka Saltao - Peruvian Bowls & Burritos image 2
Merka Saltao - Peruvian Bowls & Burritos image 3
View all

Restaurant offers playful decor with llamas and a clean indoor and outdoor seating area. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting with a fast casual vibe. Crowd enjoys authentic Peruvian dishes with fresh ingredients and affordable prices.

Offers a quick lunch option with a focus on healthy dishes. Popular for both lunch and early dinner in a downtown setting.

Flavors stand out with steak bowls and burritos that come with sauces like green sauce and avocado lime ranch. Sharing dishes works well for a casual date experience.

People are saying

"This food's lomo saltado is flavorful and tender."

"The food here is incredible; I loved the flavorful dishes."

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

Good to know

1

Prices for dishes range from $15 to $20, with some items considered overpriced.

2

Portion sizes are smaller than expected, especially for the $18 Lomo Saltado.

3

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

02
Baja Catch and Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, including a dog-friendly patio. Atmosphere feels casual and welcoming, with a bar-like environment and a relaxed, inviting vibe. Popular for generous fish and shrimp tacos and a simple, unpretentious setup.

Quick service suits a short lunch break with tacos as a main option. The spot fits well for a fast, casual lunch nearby work.

Offers a down-to-earth vibe that suits casual mini dates. Atmosphere feels relaxed and fun for couples looking to keep things simple.

People are saying

"I loved the fish and shrimp tacos and ceviche."

"The seafood here is super bomb and addicting for Date Spots."

"The fish tacos at this Lunch Spot really hit the spot."

Good to know

1

Parking is tight, so visit during off hours for easier access.

2

The patio is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

Expect limited nearby dining options if you're looking for quick meals.

03
The Brothers Sushi Culver City image 1

Small sushi restaurant with intimate seating facing sushi chefs and a small bar at the entrance. Atmosphere is lowkey and authentic with low lighting and simple decor. Known for high-quality sushi and excellent sake, it offers a quiet, focused dining experience.

Lunch specials include a Lunch Sashimi set that stands out for its quality. The menu offers a variety of options that make for a great lunch experience.

Omakase offers a shared experience that suits special occasions. Multiple visits for birthdays show it fits well for celebratory dates.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is super fresh and mouthwatering."

"The Lunch Spot's fish is super fresh and high quality."

"I thought the sushi here was some of the best I'd ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Parking is validated in the Trader Joe’s garage for customers.

2

Lunch meals are considerably less expensive than dinner options.

3

Expect to pay around $600 for five people, including tip.

04
MENSHO TOKYO image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, cozy dining venue with indoor and outdoor seating and minimalist Japanese design creates a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. Music adds a quiet storm jazz vibe, making it a chill spot for solo dinners or casual gatherings. Space feels comfortable and refined, offering a more elevated ramen experience than typical shops.

Lunch offers a Toripaitan ramen and a W Chashu Ramen with wagyu. The menu differs from dinner and holds up well during midday.

Elevated decor creates a suitable atmosphere for date night. The setting feels intimate and welcoming, making it a solid choice for couples.

People are saying

"I considered this the best ramen I ever had."

"The ramen here is phenomenal, rich, and flavorful for date spots."

"This Lunch Spot's ramen broth is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $7 for the first hour and $1 for every 30 minutes afterward.

2

Expect long wait times during dinner hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant offers a limited but affordable lunch menu.

05
iEight おいしい SUSHI image 1

Small space with counter seating and Japanese-Hawaiian decor creates a cozy, charming vibe. Jazz and city pop music play softly, adding to the warm, welcoming atmosphere. Shelves display global items, giving a homey, eclectic feel.

Lunch features huge rolls that fill one person easily. Rice bowls also appear as a lunch option worth trying.

Sushi stands out with a variety of maki rolls and a notable Szechuan tofu dish. The atmosphere includes Japanese city pop music and anime visuals, creating a unique vibe for dates.

People are saying

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

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious, perfect for Date Spots."

"I loved the cozy vibe of this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger groups.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so feel free to bring your own drinks.

3

Takeout sushi is served in a pizza box for easy transport.

06
Super Dumpling Culver City image 1

Massive restaurant with spacious seating and a modern-traditional design offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere with great music. Separate areas include a bar for single diners and a private prayer space. The vibe suits large gatherings and casual meals alike.

Lunch offers great value with portions about half the size of a full serving but enough for a decent meal. The lunch specials come at about half the price and provide excellent deals.

Juices burst from the internal bao system, creating a memorable experience. The shrimp siu mai packs a lot of shrimp, adding to the appeal for couples.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings, is amazing and fresh."

"The lunch specials here are a great value and a budget-friendly option."

"The crab beef xiao long bao here are amazing."

Good to know

1

All the food is halal.

2

A $55 'party charge' is added to the bill for large groups.

3

The lunch special offers great value.

07
esme image 1
Restaurant

Cozy space with minimalist design and intimate atmosphere offers a quiet setting for dining. The vibe blends stylish decor with a sense of community, featuring fresh, organic food and eclectic flavors. Lighting and music create a pleasant mood, making it suitable for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

Offers a quiet, intimate setting ideal for lunch. Serves a menu suited for brunch, lunch, or dinner with a consistent appeal for midday meals.

Cozy atmosphere suits date night or casual breakfast. Works well for both special occasions and relaxed hangouts.

People are saying

"The dinner dishes here are beautiful and delicious."

"The food at these Date Spots is delicious and incredible."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is insanely flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

The café does not offer coffee to go, only dine-in service.

3

Expect larger protein portions than average for the price.

08
Breakaway Cafe image 1

Cozy cafe with a west coast surf vibe and relaxed atmosphere invites quiet chats and focused work. Tables suit small groups, and outdoor seating welcomes dogs. Regulars and newcomers enjoy a friendly, charming setting with a clean, simple interior.

Offers a casual spot with a delicious breakfast and lunch menu featuring Mediterranean flavors. Works well for office and production lunches with solid, tasty options.

Menu offers burritos, Avocado Tartine, and pulled Pesto chicken sandwich paired with drinks like Hibiscus tea and Chai latte. Staff interactions can affect the mood during visits.

People are saying

"The Cafe's breakfast and lunch options are delicious and satisfying."

"I found the breakfast here to be excellent and delicious."

"I found the best breakfast burritos for our date spot."

Good to know

1

This is a non-cash cafe; only card payments are accepted.

2

Parking is available in a small lot east of the cafe or via street meters.

3

The cafe offers both indoor and outdoor seating, and the outdoor seating is dog friendly.

09
Arth Bar & Kitchen - Indian Restaurant in Culver City 🇮🇳 image 1

Modern Indian restaurant blends lounge and sports bar vibe with heated outdoor patio and live performances. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, suitable for casual meals or special nights. Menu offers authentic dishes alongside innovative cocktails and vegetarian options.

Lunch comes with garlic naan that pairs well with the meal. Portions of naan feel generous enough to eat more than the lunch special includes.

Upscale yet casual vibe fits both chill nights and date nights. Atmosphere balances elegance with comfort for relaxed celebrations.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is great, with creative and flavorful fusion dishes."

"The Date Spots here have flavorful chicken tikka and paneer masala."

"The garlic naan at this Lunch Spot is perfect."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right across the street in the public parking space.

2

Happy hour offers 50% off appetizers during the afternoon.

3

The restaurant is open late on Friday evenings.

10
Velvet Lounge image 1

Indoor bar and outdoor patio offer chill spots with live jazz performances creating a beautiful, elegant atmosphere. Outdoor garden area invites relaxation with birds singing overhead and a gentle breeze. Music volume varies, sometimes making conversation difficult during performances.

Outdoor seating includes a couch for lunch. The lunch menu offers very few options.

A spot with a lingering vibe that suits a first date or casual night out. Offers good food and drinks that fit a relaxed, enjoyable evening.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating here is so relaxing in the sunshine and breeze."

"The food here is incredible, especially the French onion soup."

"You have to try the croquets; they're delicious deep-fried potato balls."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Live jazz performances happen every Wednesday evening, starting at 8pm.

3

High tea is a prepaid event with no refunds; adjustments require a phone call.

11
JULIET image 1
Restaurant

Large, beautifully designed space blends chic upscale dining with a European-inspired ambiance. Music features an eclectic mix that complements the welcoming atmosphere. Seating includes a farm table for large groups, though the layout feels tight due to many tables packed closely.

Tranquil and beautiful space suits a chill lunch or business meal. Course after course with champagne creates a luxe noon experience.

Warm and cozy atmosphere creates an ideal setting for date night. The spot suits catching up or enjoying a dinner date with a partner.

People are saying

"The Dinner Spots here are phenomenal, especially the duck."

"The food here is beautifully prepared and flavorful."

"The food here is a masterpiece, truly delicious and gorgeous."

Good to know

1

Having a reservation is necessary to dine at JULIET.

2

Valet parking costs $20 for the first 3 hours.

3

Champagne by the glass is priced at $32 and $40.

12
Denny's image 1
Restaurant

Corner location with open kitchen and LA Skyline decor creates a true diner atmosphere. The space feels spacious and comfortable with classic bench seating and amazing lighting. Energy varies from family-friendly and welcoming during breakfast to crowded and noisy on weekend nights.

Lunch service moves quickly with prompt seating and attentive servers. Options include classic breakfast items served at lunch, making it a familiar spot for a casual midday meal.

Friendly service stands out, with staff treating couples well. Breakfast experiences here create a welcoming spot for dates.

People are saying

"The breakfast service from Luz was so nice and energetic."

"The Date Spots here have such friendly and cheerful staff."

"Luz was so friendly and attentive during our Lunch Spot visits."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times between 10am and 12pm due to high traffic.

2

The restaurant is open 24 hours for flexible dining options.

3

Parking is easy and accessible for all visitors.

13
Johnnie's Pastrami image 1

Retro diner with 1950s Googie-style design and vintage counter seating creates a nostalgic atmosphere. Two outdoor patios feature fire pits and small jukeboxes at tables, adding to the old-school vibe. The space is small and cozy, inviting a relaxed, classic dining experience.

Lunch here stays clean with no grease on work clothes. Plates like the hot pastrami come with juicy meat, fries, and coleslaw. Options include a French dip and chili cheese fries.

Pastrami sandwiches stand out with rich, flavorful meat that many find memorable. Sharing a Pastrami and Chili Fries combo works well for a casual, tasty date experience.

People are saying

"I loved the place and felt a vintage feeling."

"The pastrami sandwiches here are stacked, juicy, and the best I've ever had."

"This lunch spot's pastrami is steamed and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a dedicated lot behind the restaurant.

2

Credit cards are accepted, along with cash payments.

3

Prices for two pastrami combos are around $60.

14
Westfield Culver City image 1

Vast, open mall with cool architecture and a distinctive zig zag stair design that draws attention. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, offering spacious food courts and cozy lounges for families. Unique amenities include a barber shop on the second floor and multiple massage chairs scattered throughout.

Lunch options include Massis Kabob with good value and quality. The spot handles lunch time rush hours well, making it easy to stop for a meal during busy times.

Offers a mix of casual dining and shopping that suits a small date night. The atmosphere feels relaxed and enjoyable for couples looking to spend time together.

People are saying

"This mall is huge and great for walking around and browsing shops."

"It's a great place for date spots with good food options."

"It's a great place to stop for lunch."

Good to know

1

On Wednesdays, burgers are discounted at BJ's.

2

The wheelchair lift was off and needed repair, which violated the ADA.

3

Parking was terrible and I drove around for 40 minutes looking for a parking spot.

15
Bianca image 1
Restaurant

Romantic vintage European decor and cozy courtyard with fires create an elegant, warm atmosphere. Quiet mornings and comfortable outdoor seating invite peaceful dining, while small, intimate tables foster close gatherings. Evening ambiance varies, with lighting and sound levels affecting the mood.

Lunch offers a variety of salads, sandwiches, pizzas, pastas, and daily specials. Staff often accommodate early seating before the lunch menu starts, making it easy to get a spot.

Decorations create a pleasing ambiance that suits dates well. The spot works for a date or a casual catch-up, especially if taking photos is part of the plan.

People are saying

"I found the bread and pastries here to be excellent."

"I would stop by and get a slice of the chocolate cake again."

"The pastries here are basically art, truly memorable."

Good to know

1

The brunch menu is only available until 11am on weekends.

2

Dine-in prices are higher than takeout prices for some items.

3

Parking can be challenging to find in the area.

16
Sweet Wheat image 1

Spacious bakery with classic French design and an inviting outdoor patio featuring authentic tables and chairs. Warm, high-end atmosphere blends coziness with friendliness, making it suitable for meet-ups and work. Known for beautifully presented pastries and a vibe reminiscent of a French café.

Lunch offers a great vibe and a spot for a long meal or quick coffee. It gets busier around lunch hours but remains a solid choice for midday dining.

Pairs can enjoy fresh baguettes and sourdough country loaves regularly. Options like chicken pesto sandwiches, pain au chocolat, and apricot tartlets complement hot lattes for a cozy date.

People are saying

"The sandwiches here are phenomenal, made with real food."

"The sandwiches at this Lunch Spot taste like France."

"The food here is amazing for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Sweet Wheat opens at 6:30am, perfect for early meetings.

2

The bakery offers a buy 3 get 1 free promotion on pastries.

3

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially on weekends.

17
Ugo image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor patio offers al fresco seating with live guitar music on weekends, creating a lively and casual atmosphere. The space feels like a European cafe in a busy city center, ideal for people watching and unwinding. Indoor bar seating contrasts with the patio, providing a different vibe that suits a lounge setting at night.

Food, service, and atmosphere create a fitting setting for special lunches. The cappuccino stands out, crafted by a bartender who works during lunch hours. Outdoor dining is less recommended for lunch.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta and pizza, is delicious."

"The food here is delicious and perfectly cooked for Date Spots."

"This is a great Lunch Spot for Neapolitan style pizza."

Good to know

1

Reservations can be made easily through Resy, but expect outdoor seating.

2

Street parking is challenging; use the nearby Culver City parking structure.

3

Happy Hour offers excellent prices on drinks and appetizers.

Discover more

Culver City, California

Area guide
Loading Map...