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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Downey

Lunch dinner spots

Restaurants that serve a proper meal whether you are stopping by for a quick lunch or settling in for a full dinner.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mariscos Choix image 1
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Seafood restaurant

Live mariachi music creates a vibrant energy throughout the space, which includes a chic, recently remodeled interior with lush tropical greenery. Different areas offer varied moods, from a lively bar to a calming outdoor section and a cozy main dining room. The atmosphere feels safe and welcoming, blending festive sounds with comfortable, stylish seating.

Lunch features friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere. It suits casual meetups with friends.

Dinner service features polite and attentive staff who check on diners regularly without rushing them. Solo diners receive respectful treatment and can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere even during early hours.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and really well prepared."

"The service at these dinner spots is attentive and kind."

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

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, up to five hours, during peak dinner hours.

2

Parking is available on the side street, but can be limited.

3

Live music is featured on Friday nights, enhancing the dining experience.

02
Pieloon image 1
American restaurant

Classic American diner with retro decor and checkered floors creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. The place feels authentic and homey, welcoming groups for casual meals and gatherings. Music from the 80s plays softly, adding to the nostalgic vibe.

Lunch servings come in very generous portions and offer a delicious variety. Options include satisfying meals paired with fresh pies.

Dinner features Sunday ham, red snapper, and turkey options. The vibe stays nice and inviting for evening meals.

People are saying

"I thought the breakfast here was great and the food tasted amazing."

"The dinner spots here taste homemade and comforting."

"This lunch spot is known for its awesome pies, a perfect finish."

Good to know

1

Parking at Pieloon is very limited, so arrive early.

2

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible with designated parking.

3

Expect large portions, making it a good value for families.

03
Benihana - Downey image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers lively teppanyaki performances with chefs entertaining guests while cooking at the table. The atmosphere is energetic and loud, making it suitable for groups and celebrations. Spacious dining area features tall ceilings and comfortable seating.

Lunch offers attentive service with staff like Cynthia and Veronica enhancing the experience. For a small upcharge, diners can upgrade to the full lunch menu and enjoy the hibachi show during their meal.

Dinner features a lively teppanyaki show with chefs like Carlos and Vanessa creating an engaging atmosphere. Staff such as Joseph provide attentive service, and seating is prompt to start the meal quickly.

People are saying

"The food here is seasoned and cooked to perfection."

"The chefs' entertaining shows make it really Kid Friendly."

"The service at this lunch spot is super friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 11 pm.

2

Reservations are recommended for busy weekends.

3

Expect a wait time of 30-40 minutes for online orders.

04
R&J Southern Homecooking image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant with a homey, down-to-earth atmosphere and live jazz music on Saturday nights. The vibe is friendly and lively, with good sports and entertainment on TV. The interior feels aged and cluttered but maintains a clean and positive energy throughout.

Offers affordable lunch specials with a chill atmosphere that suits quick meetups. Friendly hospitality encourages lingering through meals.

Southern cooking shines with smothered steak, catfish dinner, and tilapia options. Large portions suit family dinners and holidays like Thanksgiving.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The dinner spots here are delicious, especially the oxtail and candied yams."

"This lunch spot's food is always hot, fresh, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every Friday night.

2

The restaurant is handicap accessible.

3

They can accommodate dietary restrictions with vegetarian-friendly options.

05
The Olive RestoBar image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with live jazzy Spanish music and an energetic patio featuring heaters for comfort. Soft lighting and calming music create a romantic vibe inside, though tables are placed closely together. The bar area adds brightness and elevates the space, making it lively and inviting.

Stylish yet cozy ambiance creates a relaxed vibe for lunch dates. Quick, delicious Mediterranean food pairs with outstanding service for a great midday meal.

Dinner offers amazing, flavorful dishes that suit both casual meals and special occasions. The setting works well for client or business dinners and relaxed sit-down meals.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and flavorful."

"This lunch spot has flavorful, well-seasoned chicken and fresh-cut fries."

"The dinner dishes here are flavorful and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 3 PM to 7 PM.

2

The happy hour menu includes $7 kabobs and various drink specials.

3

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant tends to be busy.

06
Golden Corral Buffet & Grill image 1

Buffet restaurant with indoor seating and close tables creates a loud, chaotic atmosphere reminiscent of a cafeteria. The vibe is family-oriented, with a mix of calm moments and busy, crowded times. Self-serve options and an omelet station add to the casual dining experience.

Wide all-you-can-eat selection makes lunch varied and satisfying. The place stays calm and not too crowded, offering a relaxed spot for lunch with family or friends.

Dinner offers a buffet with special request steak included in the price. The atmosphere stays calm and family-friendly, making it easy to enjoy a meal with friends or family.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and suitable for all tastes."

"The dinner spots here have great steaks cooked to your liking."

"This lunch spot has a wide variety of fresh food, like moist chicken and non-greasy fried fish."

Good to know

1

Dinner is the best time to come for the unlimited Sirloin steak.

2

Expect cleanliness issues in the restrooms during busy hours.

3

Dogs are allowed inside the restaurant, which may be a concern for some.

07
Fatima's Grill image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small Mediterranean restaurant with cozy seating and wall-to-wall art and decor creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. TVs show sports, adding a laid-back vibe for casual hangouts. Space feels intimate but lively, suited for relaxed dining and socializing.

Lunch here offers quick service and a casual vibe. The food is consistently delicious for both lunch and dinner.

Dinner feels cozy, like eating at grandma's house on a Sunday. Jose handles the dinner rush well, keeping service smooth during busy times.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The owner's hospitality makes this Lunch Spot feel so welcoming."

"The service at these dinner spots was great, especially during the rush."

Good to know

1

Fatima's Grill is open late until 2am.

2

Taco Tuesday specials offer discounted tacos all day.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but a surcharge may apply.

08
La Barca Restaurantes image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with a high ceiling and authentic decor creates an airy, intimate atmosphere. Seating favors large tables, supporting family-friendly and group dining. The vibe blends modern style with quietness, suitable for private conversations and date nights.

Lunch offers a very good meal with a quiet atmosphere during the week. It suits gatherings with family and friends for a relaxed midday break.

Dinner offers a quiet atmosphere during the week and a chance to enjoy drinks in the bar area. Meals suit both family and friends, providing a comfortable spot for evening gatherings.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and came with good portions."

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

"The food here is delicious, especially the molcajete."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available at the restaurant.

2

The restaurant does not accept American Express for payment.

3

On Fridays and weekends, expect a wait for seating and food.

09
Tropicana Bakery & Cuban Cafe image 1

Large bakery showcases fresh pastries and authentic Cuban cuisine in a quaint, cool decor setting. Atmosphere feels lively and festive, often filled with music and positive energy. Tables sit close together, creating a bustling, crowded vibe.

Lunch offers authentic Cuban flavors that stand out from typical options in the area. The cafe serves as a go-to spot for those seeking genuine Cuban cuisine during midday meals.

Dinner plates offer a homemade taste and come in a variety of options from sandwiches to desserts. The cafe serves delicious meals suitable for both lunch and dinner in a lovely setting.

People are saying

"I loved their pastries; they were heavenly and consistently good."

"This lunch spot serves authentic, flavorful Cuban food that reminds me of home."

"The dinner plates here taste homemade and are delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back, but it can be difficult to navigate.

2

A 3% fee applies for credit card transactions, disclosed only on the receipt.

3

The bakery offers small birthday celebrations with staff singing and playing bongos.

10
Acapulco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a spacious layout and vibrant bar atmosphere featuring a DJ and lively music. The front patio offers a warm fire feature ideal for relaxing while watching sports. Music varies from upbeat rhythms to reggaeton, creating an energetic vibe that fills the space.

The lunch buffet offers all you can eat options with affordable pricing from 11am to 2pm. Service is attentive and personable, enhancing the overall experience.

Dinner options vary, with some recommending drinks over food. Others find the dinner quality consistent and the prices reasonable across meals.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and delicious."

"Juan made our lunch experience so special and attentive."

"I loved the tasty food and great drinks for dinner."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is available on weekdays in the bar only.

2

Sunday brunch features an all-you-can-eat buffet.

3

Expect long wait times during busy brunch hours.

11
OLA Restobar Downey image 1
Nuevo Latino restaurant

Nuevo Latino restaurant combines loud DJ music with a club-like vibe and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating including a small patio with quieter music. The atmosphere suits hanging out with friends or watching sports on multiple TVs. The decor is stylish and the energy stays lively throughout.

Lunch features friendly service with staff like Chris helping out. The spot serves brunch, lunch, and dinner, making it versatile for midday meals.

Dinner features a beautiful setting but comes with loud music that can affect conversation. The atmosphere stays consistently noisy during dinner hours.

People are saying

"I found the food to be great and well-portioned."

"The dinner spots here have great food and drinks."

"This Lunch Spot has great service, Chris really helped us out."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; seating is first-come, first-served.

2

Expect a one-hour wait during peak hours on weekends.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with larger portions for food and drinks.

12
DIOSA Downey image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a stunning interior with elegant decor and a relaxed yet fancy atmosphere. Lively music and an entertaining bar with a tequila cart add energy to the space. The place balances luxury with comfort, creating an inviting setting for intimate evenings or celebrations.

Lunch specials and happy hour offer good value. The spot suits small business meetings well and provides a thoughtful atmosphere for celebrations.

Dinner features tasty dishes with good portions and attentive service. The vibe suits celebrations and meetings, making dinners pleasant and well-presented.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and well proportioned."

"The dinner spots here are delicious and beautifully presented."

"Priscilla, our waitress, was the best part of our Lunch Spot experience."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with many sharable food options and drinks.

2

Valet parking is available throughout the shopping center area.

3

A 3% surcharge is added to the check, which may be unexpected.

13
Buena Mesa Downey Mariscos and Steaks image 1

Speakeasy-style restaurant with a warm, inviting atmosphere and live Whitney Houston cover performances. Interior features include a wall of TVs and a dancing Super Mario hologram, creating a unique blend of cozy and upscale vibes. The space balances relaxation with distinctive entertainment elements.

Offers both mariscos and steaks for lunch. Opened recently but serves as a solid spot for a midday meal.

Offers a casual atmosphere suitable for both romantic dinners and gatherings with friends. Serves a mix of mariscos and steaks for dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is cooked to perfection, especially the steaks."

"The food at these dinner spots is delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The waitress seemed confused about using my Groupons for this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to ensure seating.

2

Expect limited menu options due to frequent stock shortages.

3

Happy hour features 14 tap beers with discounted prices.

14
Black Bear Diner Downey image 1
American restaurant

Rustic cabin-style interior creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with bear-themed decor and a gift shop featuring themed merchandise. The environment feels clean and inviting, offering a relaxed vibe suitable for casual dining.

Lunch offers a good selection of tasty options alongside breakfast and dinner. Meals come out delicious and satisfying for a casual midday stop.

Dinner offers great food with consistently excellent meals. The Thanksgiving turkey dinner plate stands out as very good and reasonably priced.

People are saying

"I thought the diner food here was even better than IHOP or Denny's."

"Our server Mike was so attentive and helpful during dinner."

"This lunch spot has a good selection of breakfast and lunch options."

Good to know

1

They offer a free breakfast on your birthday.

2

Breakfast and brunch wait times are long.

3

Expect long lines for breakfast, especially on Sundays.

15
NORMS Restaurant image 1
Family restaurant

Family restaurant with retro decor and neon lights creates a nostalgic setting. Atmosphere varies from quiet and friendly with old school music to occasionally chaotic with loud music and lively crowds. Seating accommodates large parties, and parking is ample.

Busy lunch hours come with great service. Meals are consistently tasty and satisfying.

Dinner offers immediate seating and consistent quality across meals. Service includes attentive staff like Rafael, enhancing the dining experience.

People are saying

"Martha made our breakfast so smooth and pleasant."

"The dinner spots here have delicious food and are fairly priced."

"The service at this lunch spot is great, even when it's crowded."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-45 minute wait during busy hours.

2

Parking is available in front and back of the restaurant.

3

Prices are affordable, offering good value for meals.

16
Gaucho Grill Downey image 1
Argentinian restaurant

Argentinian restaurant offers warm, romantic atmosphere with tasteful decor reflecting cultural heritage and live music enhancing the vibe. Indoor and outdoor seating include a bright outdoor screen for added ambiance. The setting suits both casual dinners and special occasions.

Lunch offers flavorful Argentine dishes like hanger steak, grilled salmon, and skirt steak. Options include lentil soup and specials that make for a relaxed lunch experience.

Dinner here suits romantic evenings, celebrations with friends, or a quiet meal alone. Staff support adds to the warm ambiance during special occasions.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The grilled salmon lunch special is perfectly grilled and seasoned."

"The service at these dinner spots is so friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are only available at the bar.

2

The restaurant can host events like birthdays and baby showers.

3

Expect a 30% automatic gratuity added to your bill.

17
The Chicken Koop image 1

Gastropub offers quiet and chill vibes with a dog-friendly patio and upscale, clean design. Music can be loud, especially on the patio, affecting conversation. Food and drinks focus on Latin flavors with generous portions and well-crafted cocktails.

Lunch happens best on weekdays to dodge the weekend rush. Arriving around 2:30 PM offers a quieter lunch experience with fewer crowds.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The wonton nachos for dinner spots were loaded and flaky."

"The chicken and waffles at this Lunch Spot were delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers food and drink specials from Monday to Friday.

2

Mimosas pitchers are available from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at low prices.

3

Valet parking costs $7, and it's the only parking option available.

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