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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Downey's best

Lunch spots

A quiet lunch spot is necessary to reset before the afternoon rush.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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Updated May 2026
01
Subway image 1
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Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop offers a peaceful atmosphere with a strong sense of nostalgia. Fresh ingredients and careful allergy precautions create a reliable dining experience. Prices stay reasonable, and free cookies add a small bonus.

People are saying

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful with your sandwich."

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

"The service at this lunch spot is always great."

Good to know

1

Subway opens at 10:00 am and stays open late.

2

A foot-long sandwich costs about $14.

3

They take precautions with allergies by changing gloves.

02
One Twelve Caffe image 1

Robot barista crafts custom coffee art that stands out. Chic decor and elegant lighting create a cozy, modern vibe. Spacious seating fits both lively groups and casual lunches with a full menu perfect for midday meals.

Beautiful ambience creates a great setting for lunch or catching up over coffee. A full menu offers a variety of breakfast and lunch items to choose from.

People are saying

"You have to try the viral Dubai chocolate strawberries and unique matcha drinks."

"The eggs Benedict here are delicious with perfectly poached eggs."

"This lunch spot's Biscoff latte and chicken pesto panini are amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during busy brunch hours, especially on weekends.

2

Seating is limited, so arrive early to secure a table.

3

Prices for pastries and sandwiches are on the higher side, with croissants at $9.

03
Pieloon image 1
American restaurant

Classic American diner with retro decor and checkered floors offers generous lunch portions and fresh pies. Cozy, family-friendly vibe with soft 80s music makes it perfect for casual meals and gatherings.

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

People are saying

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

"You can't go wrong with any of the amazing homemade pies here."

"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.

04
Acapulco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with a spacious layout and a vibrant bar atmosphere featuring a DJ. Lunch buffet offers all you can eat options at great prices. Front patio's warm fire feature makes it perfect for relaxing and watching sports.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"I loved the happy hour, the food and drinks were excellent."

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.

05
PITA GR image 1
Greek restaurant

Bright dining room blends modern Greek design with soft lighting for a welcoming feel. Online ordering makes lunch quick and easy, with dense, filling food perfect for leftovers. Casual energy comes from rap music and games on TV, creating a relaxed vibe.

Online ordering makes lunch breaks easy and fast. Food is dense and filling, good for a solid lunch with enough for leftovers.

People are saying

"The Greek food here is delicious, especially the juicy gyro meat."

"The pita here is so fresh and fluffy."

"This Lunch Spot's food is delicious, nutritious, and well-seasoned."

Good to know

1

Online ordering is convenient for lunch breaks.

2

The restaurant is spacious with plenty of parking available.

3

Vegan options are available, but ask for modifications.

06
Fatima's Grill image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small Mediterranean spot shines with quick service and delicious food for lunch and dinner. Cozy seating and wall-to-wall art create a warm vibe. TVs showing sports add a laid-back atmosphere perfect for casual hangouts.

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

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The seafood here is so good and full of flavor."

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

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.

07
Benihana - Downey image 1
Japanese restaurant

Lively teppanyaki performances create an energetic vibe perfect for groups and celebrations. Attentive staff like Cynthia and Veronica enhance the lunch experience. Spacious dining with tall ceilings offers comfortable seating and a chance to enjoy the hibachi show.

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.

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.

08
Tropicana Bakery & Cuban Cafe image 1

Large bakery offers fresh pastries and authentic Cuban cuisine in a lively, festive setting. Lunch features genuine Cuban flavors that stand out. Tables are close, creating a bustling vibe full of positive energy.

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.

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."

"I enjoyed the rich, smooth Cuban coffee here."

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.

09
Mariscos Choix image 1
Seafood restaurant

Live mariachi music fills the chic space with vibrant energy. Friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for casual lunch meetups. Lush tropical greenery adds a calming outdoor vibe alongside a cozy dining room.

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

People are saying

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

"The octopus and marlin tacos here are tender and unforgettable."

"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.

10
R&J Southern Homecooking image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food shines with affordable lunch specials and a homey atmosphere perfect for quick meetups or lingering. Live jazz on Saturdays adds a lively vibe while friendly staff and good sports on TV keep energy positive and welcoming.

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

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The fried seafood here is crispy, light, and perfectly seasoned."

"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.

11
Bar Louie - The Promenade at Downey image 1

Indoor and outdoor seating create three distinct environments with a spacious bar and patio. Lunch features a very good lunch special served with friendly, professional service. Dim lighting and soft music keep the vibe quiet and relaxed for special occasions.

Lunch offers very good food, especially the lunch special. Service balances friendly and professional, creating a pleasant atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is bursting with flavor and so delicious."

"I loved coming here for games and a good drink."

"Our server Vida's energy was warm and her timing impeccable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Tuesday features half-priced burgers, making it a popular night.

3

Credit cards are required upfront to order anything.

12
WaBa Grill image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Asian fusion spot offers fast service and a chill atmosphere perfect for lunch. Healthy meals come with flavorful sauces and staff like Christina ensure great customer service during busy times.

Fast, healthy, and tasty options make it a solid choice for lunch. The manager stays friendly and efficient during the rush, and staff like Christina provide great customer service.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always nicely cooked."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot are super nice."

"The staff here is so nice and welcoming when getting healthy foods."

Good to know

1

Expect a crowd before 11am, so arrive early for lunch.

2

Food is prepared quickly, making it a great option for a fast meal.

3

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness.

13
Shakey's Pizza Parlor image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small dining area with many TVs creates a cozy vibe for relaxed talks. Lunch buffet runs 11 am to 2 pm with hot food and quick refills. Kids enjoy a small arcade, making it great for family meals.

Lunch runs from 11 am to 2 pm with a Bunch of Lunch Buffet priced at $20. Food stays hot and refilled promptly during the buffet hours.

People are saying

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

"The pizza service here is amazing and the staff are so nice."

"The lunch buffet included unlimited pizza, chicken, and more."

Good to know

1

The buffet is served daily from 11am to 2pm.

2

Happy hour specials include a 9-inch pizza for $6.99 and 6 wings for $6.99.

3

The place often gets crowded, especially during lunch hours.

14
La Barca Restaurantes image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant shines with authentic decor and high ceiling creating an airy feel. Lunch is a quiet atmosphere perfect for family and friends. Seating favors large tables, ideal for groups and intimate chats.

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.

People are saying

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

"I found the Mexican food here to be truly authentic and the best."

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

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.

15
The Olive RestoBar image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Enjoy quick Mediterranean food in a stylish cozy setting with live jazzy Spanish music. The energetic patio with heaters and a lively bar make lunch dates bright and inviting. Soft lighting inside adds a romantic touch despite close tables.

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

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and flavorful."

"The outdoor seating sometimes has a live band playing."

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

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.

16
The Market Place Grill | Cafe Downey image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Outdoor patio with large round tables and a flowing fountain creates a cozy vibe. Lunch offers double grilled cheese and tomato soup, with meals for two around $50. Drive-thru adds convenience to this lively spot.

Lunch includes options like double grilled cheese and tomato soup. Meals for two can cost around 50 dollars.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and high quality."

"I had a super good breakfast here."

"I enjoyed the great food at this lunch spot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers half-off mimosas on Mondays.

2

Expect longer wait times on weekends due to high traffic.

3

Drive-through service is available for quicker orders.

17
Golden Corral Buffet & Grill image 1

Buffet offers a wide selection perfect for lunch. Indoor seating with close tables creates a loud atmosphere. Family-friendly vibe shines through with self-serve options and an omelet station adding casual charm.

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.

People are saying

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

"I loved the steak, they cooked it just how I liked it."

"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.

18
Buena Mesa Downey Mariscos and Steaks image 1

Speakeasy-style spot shines with live Whitney Houston covers and a dancing Super Mario hologram. Lunch features mariscos and steaks, perfect for a midday break. Warm, inviting vibe blends cozy and upscale elements seamlessly.

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

People are saying

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

"The Filet Mignon here made me feel so special and welcomed."

"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.

19
DIOSA Downey image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with elegant decor and a tequila cart that livens the bar. Lunch specials and happy hour offer good value for small business meetings. The space suits both intimate evenings and lively celebrations.

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

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and well proportioned."

"The happy hour margaritas were delicious and a great value."

"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.

20
OLA Restobar Downey image 1
Nuevo Latino restaurant

Nuevo Latino offers a club-like vibe with loud DJ music and stylish decor. Friendly staff like Chris make it a great lunch spot with versatile meal options. Multiple TVs and indoor/outdoor seating create a lively place to hang out or watch sports.

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

People are saying

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

"The staff here really make watching live sports a great time."

"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.

21
The Chicken Koop image 1

Gastropub shines with Latin flavors and well-crafted cocktails. Weekday lunches at 2:30 PM offer a quiet, chill vibe. Dog-friendly patio adds charm but can get loud, affecting conversation.

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 staff here are so nice and attentive at outdoor seating."

"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.

22
NORMS Restaurant image 1
Family restaurant

Family restaurant shines with retro decor and neon lights for a nostalgic vibe. Lunch hours bring great service and tasty meals that satisfy. Seating fits large groups and parking is easy.

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

People are saying

"Martha made our breakfast so smooth and pleasant."

"It's a great place to enjoy breakfast with your kids."

"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.

23
Black Bear Diner Downey image 1
American restaurant

Rustic cabin-style decor creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for families. Lunch features tasty options that satisfy midday hunger. Bear-themed decor and a gift shop add a unique charm to the clean, inviting space.

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

People are saying

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

"The servers here make you feel like family on your date."

"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.

24
Xecora Downey image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers handmade tortillas and unique dishes like fish skin chicharon. Enjoy a quiet lunch during early afternoon with Happy Hour deals. Modern decor and live Mariachi music create a lively yet relaxed atmosphere on the large terrace.

Late lunch visits often coincide with Happy Hour, adding value to the meal. The spot stays fairly empty early in the afternoon, offering a quiet setting for a great lunch experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of unique flavors."

"I loved the shrimp tacos; they didn't disappoint."

"The tacos and sangrias at this Lunch Spot are delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 11am to 5pm with discounted drinks.

2

Mariachi performances occur every Sunday.

3

On Thursdays, there's a 2-for-1 drinks promotion.

25
Hong Kong Chef image 1
Chinese restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall spot serves authentic Hong Kong-style dishes with affordable lunch specials around $10 including soup and rice. Interior is utilitarian and no air conditioning, creating a traditional yet contemporary vibe. Cash only for meals under $20.

Lunch specials cost around $10 and include soup with rice or fried rice. The menu offers great value with generous portions, but payment is cash only for meals under $20 due to merchant fees.

People are saying

"I've been eating their delicious Chinese soup for over 15 years."

"The lunch specials are an amazing value for the quality."

"I found the atmosphere and the Cantonese cooking to be authentic."

Good to know

1

The lunch special costs $10 and includes soup and rice or fried rice.

2

Cash only accepted for lunch orders under $20 due to merchant fees.

3

The minimum fee for card payments is $10, which may not be worth it.

26
Gaucho Grill Downey image 1
Argentinian restaurant

Argentinian restaurant shines with warm atmosphere and live music that lifts the mood. Lunch features flavorful dishes like hanger steak and lentil soup, perfect for a relaxed meal. Indoor and outdoor seating with a bright outdoor screen suits any occasion.

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.

People are saying

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

"The food here is a celebration of authentic, flavorful Argentinian culture."

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

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.

27
Let's Gogi Downey image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Enjoy all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ for just $19.99 at lunch, making it a great budget-friendly choice. Fresh meats and a self-serve banchan bar offer convenience and flavor. The minimalist, well-lit space balances quiet dining with lively grill action.

Lunch offers all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ for $19.99, which is cheaper than most other Korean spots. Weekday lunch specials run around $20, making it a reasonable price for Korean BBQ.

People are saying

"I loved their lunch special for only $20, it was a great deal."

"I loved the buffet for the variety of tasty meats and sides."

"The Kalbi here has great quality and good marbling."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available for $20 from the regular menu.

2

All-you-can-eat K-BBQ is offered for $19.99.

3

Many items are self-serve, which can cause delays for large groups.

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Downey, California

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