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Best of El Cajon

Lunch spots

The middle of the workday deserves a proper break away from the desk. Sitting down for a real lunch is the only way to reset before the afternoon.

Based on 653 Opinions
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01
Mr. Ray Rays Gourmet Sandwiches image 1
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Bright, clean sandwich shop offers generous seating and a dog-friendly outdoor area. Quick, gourmet sandwiches with fresh ingredients make it a reliable lunch spot for friends or solo visits.

Offers quick lunch options with gourmet sandwiches that satisfy whether eating in or taking food to go. Consistently reliable for a casual lunch spot with friends or solo.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's sandwiches are packed with fresh, quality ingredients."

Good to know

1

The price is fair for the quality provided.

2

The location has convenient parking available.

3

Seating is limited to only three tables.

02
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Small Vietnamese restaurant shines as a quick lunch spot with cozy indoor and outdoor seating. Beautiful garden patio with soft lighting and piano music creates a calm, inviting atmosphere. Patio is dog-friendly and fits large groups, perfect for relaxed dining.

Stops here offer a quick lunch option ideal for busy schedules. The spot earns a reputation as a favorite lunch choice for those passing through or nearby.

People are saying

"The pho broth at this Lunch Spot is rich and complex."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a parking lot in the back for easy access.

2

Vegetarian options are available on the menu for those with dietary restrictions.

3

The total for a meal is typically around $42 for two people.

03
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Mexican restaurant offers authentic Mexican food with excellent margaritas in a quiet, cozy atmosphere. Lunch specials cost $8.99 and orders come out fast, making it a great lunch spot with no wait time. Generous portions and colorful decor add to the appeal.

Lunch hours offer a quiet atmosphere with usually no wait time. Lunch specials run Monday to Friday for $8.99, and orders get ready quickly when called in.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot has great, flavorful Mexican food."

Good to know

1

Expect a short wait on weekends, but weekdays are less busy.

2

Lunch specials are available Monday to Friday for $8.99.

3

Plenty of off-street parking is available for guests.

04
Al Awael Restaurant مطعم الاوائل image 1
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Enjoy authentic Iraqi dishes served with care in a spacious, clean dining area. Family-owned vibe shines through with a warm family atmosphere and a fabulous waiter connected to the kitchen. Soft music adds to the cozy, inviting mood.

Lunch features authentic Iraqi dishes served with care by a fabulous waiter connected to the kitchen. The meal offers a warm family atmosphere with the chef and relatives involved.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's food is amazing and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

The restaurant can accommodate gluten allergies; inform them to avoid gluten-containing ingredients.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

3

The place is very clean and well organized.

05
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Simple, spacious interior with comfortable booths offers a calm, cozy vibe perfect for a quiet lunch spot. Try the Vietnamese crepe paired with soups for a satisfying meal. Affordable prices make it a great choice for a peaceful break.

Offers a Vietnamese crepe called "a Vietnamese rib" that pairs well with soups. Suitable for a nice lunch break with simple, satisfying options.

People are saying

"The pho broth at this Lunch Spot has a great, smooth blend of delicious flavors."

Good to know

1

The bowl size offers great value for the price.

2

Food is served quickly, usually within minutes.

3

Take-out orders are prepared in about 15 minutes on weekends.

06
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Bright lighting and colorful artwork create a lively vibe. Quick service delivers fresh, affordable burritos and tacos in under 10 minutes. Limited seating encourages fast dining, making it a perfect lunch spot with fresh ingredients and quick service.

Quick service delivers food within 10 minutes, fitting tight lunch schedules. Offers affordable prices and works well for both lunch and dinner pickups.

People are saying

"The service at this Lunch Spot is brilliant and quick."

Good to know

1

Most burritos cost around $11, with tacos priced at $4 each.

2

Chuy's offers a large menu with various options for customization.

3

Expect a casual dining experience with no reservations needed.

07
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Mediterranean flavors shine in a cozy, elegant setting perfect for lunch. Fresh dishes and enjoyable service make it ideal for quick meals or casual dates. Families appreciate the child-friendly amenities and calm, welcoming atmosphere.

Fresh food and enjoyable service make lunch here a solid choice. The spot works well for quick meals, casual dates, and post-hike refueling.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and very fresh."

Good to know

1

Kids eat free from Monday to Thursday with an account through the app.

2

The restaurant is kid-friendly and offers healthy options for children.

3

Expect a clean environment with spotless restrooms.

08
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Cozy, authentic Mediterranean vibe shines with warm atmosphere and clean decor. Chicken shawarma plates make a perfect lunch choice. Indoor seating offers a relaxed dining experience for any time of day.

Chicken shawarma plates stand out as a go-to lunch choice here. The spot serves solid Mediterranean cuisine suitable for both lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"The chicken at this Lunch Spot is really flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant serves Iraqi-style fast food in a unique Arabian nights atmosphere.

2

Expect a diverse and authentic menu with high-quality ingredients.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and well-maintained environment.

09
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Small taco shop serves authentic Mexican food with blue corn tacos and fish tacos that locals love. Clean, minimal seating fits quick lunches or relaxed taco feasts. Prices stay affordable, making it a top lunch spot for many.

Offers both quick options for lunch on the go and space to enjoy a taco feast sitting down.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's tacos are flavorful with fresh, homemade tortillas."

Good to know

1

Street tacos cost $1.25 each.

2

Fish tacos are priced at $3.00 each.

3

Taco deals include 2 fish tacos for $3.00.

10
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Bright, clean space offers gluten-free options and vegetarian-friendly meals with generous portions. Perfect for quick lunches, especially salads to go. Friendly atmosphere and a rewards program make it great for casual outings.

Lunch here often includes salads that can be taken home for dinner. The spot suits quick meals and casual outings with friends.

People are saying

"The service here is always amazing and super nice."

Good to know

1

Good parking at Pick Up Stix makes the experience relaxing.

2

The portion sizes are generous.

3

The app is easy to use for discounts and rewards.

11
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50's style diner offers a quaint atmosphere with classic breakfast dishes and a fast, dependable kitchen for lunch. Comfortable booths and a patio create a friendly, lively vibe perfect for families and weekend crowds.

Fast and dependable kitchen delivers a great lunch with a menu that looks pretty awesome. This spot works well for breakfast or lunch with consistent quality.

People are saying

"The waitstaff here are really nice and friendly."

Good to know

1

The cafe closes at 2 PM.

2

There was little to no wait for a table during weekday mornings.

3

Parking is available on the street and in the lot next door.

12
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Modern Middle Eastern spot shines with cozy atmosphere and family-friendly vibe. Lunch menu offers reliable Middle Eastern flavors perfect for dine-in or takeout. Outdoor seating adds fresh air to a pleasantly crowded energy.

Offers reliable lunch options with a focus on Middle Eastern flavors. Serves meals suitable for both dine-in and takeout.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has great, filling food."

Good to know

1

They charge a $3.00 surcharge for credit card payments.

2

Expect hidden fees that can increase your total bill.

3

The portions are large but may not justify the price.

13
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Enjoy generous portions of wings with a variety of sauces in a mom and pop style setting. Lunch is calm with friendly chatter, perfect for casual meals or office orders. Owner's hands-on care ensures a welcoming vibe every visit.

Lunch here is usually quiet with occasional comments like "so yummy" and "wings are bomb". The spot has been a go-to for office orders for years and works well for casual meals with family.

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of wing sauces and food options.

2

Expect generous portion sizes that can feed multiple people.

3

Ranch dressing is available for an extra fee.

14
Marieta's El Cajon Mexican Restaurant image 1
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Mexican restaurant shines with vibrant colors and traditional art for a lively, intimate vibe. Lunch specials deliver good value and filling meals with prompt service. Ample parking and fair prices make it great for casual or date nights.

Lunch specials offer good value and are filling. Service stays prompt even during busy hours.

Good to know

1

Parking is abundant and easily accessible.

2

The restaurant maintains a clean environment, including restrooms.

3

Lunch specials are filling and reasonably priced.

15
Hacienda Casa Blanca Mexican Restaurant & Cantina image 1
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Stonework and hanging tin lanterns create an authentic hacienda vibe with quirky décor. Live music adds lively energy that can be loud. Lunch offers varied Mexican dishes and a private room for large groups and celebrations.

Lunch options include a variety of Mexican dishes served in a setting that accommodates large groups with a private room. The menu suits occasions from casual meals to special gatherings like birthdays.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's chips and salsa are fresh, hot, and tasty."

Good to know

1

The brunch costs $36 per person for all-you-can-eat.

2

Happy hour specials are available, making it a great time to visit.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties, especially on weekends.

16
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Cozy cafe shines with a chic indoor setting and lively energy. Perfect for bright brunch and lunch, it offers a diverse menu and a coffee bar with espresso drinks. Both indoor and outdoor seating provide ample space and a balanced, welcoming vibe.

Bright brunch and lunch vibe fills the cafe despite hours extending to 8pm. It suits both breakfast and lunch with a casual, daytime feel.

People are saying

"The lunch spot menu has so many amazing options."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu available with discounted drinks and food.

2

Reservations are recommended for large groups due to limited seating.

3

Parking is ample nearby, making it easy to visit.

17
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Mediterranean restaurant serves authentic shawarma and falafel in a warm, inviting atmosphere with lively music. Quick service makes it a great lunch spot for families and late diners. Spacious, clean interior with an open kitchen adds to the friendly vibe.

Quick service keeps lunch moving even with a short wait. The spot works well for both lunch and dinner, handling late lunches without issue.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's food is seasoned with excellent spices and flavors."

Good to know

1

Expect a special deal on Wednesdays that could save you money.

2

The restaurant is open late, making it a good option for night owls.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but check for any additional fees.

18
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Open bar seating creates a social atmosphere perfect for lunch or work. Lunch specials offer good value and a quiet vibe during off-peak hours. Recent remodeling adds a fresh look that enhances the welcoming, comfortable space.

Lunch specials offer good value and taste. The atmosphere gets quiet during the lunch to dinner transition, making it easy to work from a computer while eating.

People are saying

"I loved the blackened salmon with broccoli and mashed potatoes."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink deals.

2

Trivia game participation costs $1.99 per player.

3

Expect minimal wait times, even on busy nights like Veterans Day.

19
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Chinese restaurant offers a clean, classy atmosphere with high-end decor and soft music. Lunch specials provide generous portions with egg drop soup and egg roll, perfect for a filling meal. Spacious dining with giant mirrors creates a relaxing, intimate vibe.

Lunch specials offer great value with plentiful portions and come with egg drop soup and egg roll. Leftovers are common due to the generous serving sizes.

People are saying

"The lunch specials here are tasty and a great value."

Good to know

1

Chins Gourmet offers a $10 gift certificate for mothers on Mother's Day.

2

Dinner times are usually busy, but no wait for a table is common.

3

Lunch specials provide good value, but portion sizes may be smaller than expected.

20
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Smoky aroma and tender brisket create a friendly, family spot. Lunch features a Wednesday special with sandwich, sides, and drink for $13.95. Perfect for catered business lunches or casual dining with flavorful ribs.

Offers a Wednesday special with a sandwich, two sides, and a drink for $13.95. Serves barbecue-style lunch with options like turkey that tastes like lunch meat. Suitable for catered business lunches.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Kids eat free on Sundays.

2

The restaurant is family-friendly with multiple menu options.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food.

21
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Small, clean spot with crispy chicken and a retro vibe offers fast, friendly service perfect for quick lunches. Solo diners enjoy the welcoming atmosphere and patio seating, though parking can be tricky during lunch hours.

Quick lunches come with a friendly greeting and a spot good for solo meals or breaks. Parking can be a hassle during lunch hours.

People are saying

"The service at this lunch spot is amazing, always with a smile."

Good to know

1

Parking is challenging due to a small lot impacted by the IN-N-OUT drive-thru.

2

The dining area is not attended, so customers must clean up after themselves.

3

Expect a hectic atmosphere during free slider days.

22
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Spacious and family-friendly with large seating areas and authentic Mediterranean music. Cozy yet stylish vibe fits casual lunches perfectly. Attentive service makes late lunch visits feel special and warm.

Cozy yet stylish ambiance suits casual lunches well. Service feels attentive and makes late lunch visits feel special.

People are saying

"The shawarma sandwich at this Lunch Spot is packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Sunday brunch is available from 1 to 6 PM for $30.

2

There is a buffet on Sundays worth trying out.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during events with loud music.

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