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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Glendale's best

Authentic lunch spots

Made for those who prioritize cultural accuracy in their midday meal and have no patience for watered-down versions of traditional recipes.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Italian restaurant with stylish decor and cozy atmosphere offers a warm, authentic vibe that feels like a hidden slice of Italy. Soft lighting and comfortable seating create a relaxing, elegant setting ideal for enjoying meals. The space attracts diners seeking a refined yet inviting experience.

Warm, stylish atmosphere captures authentic Italian charm. Menu offers delicious authentic Italian food that feels like home.

Offers a light lunch option that suits quick visits. Serves meals suitable for all occasions including lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"I felt like I stumbled onto a hidden slice of authentic Italy."

"I highly recommend this place for a light lunch."

Good to know

1

Parking is surprisingly easy, which is a plus in LA.

2

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

3

Cècile Trattoria offers a variety of Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients.

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Small Japanese restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with modern, trendy design and jazz music playing softly. Outdoor seating on a balcony provides a beautiful mountain view that enhances the dining experience. The place draws a steady crowd seeking authentic ramen in a charming, intimate setting.

Ramen here stays true to its roots with authentic kontatsu ramen and classic Japanese dishes. Staff bring a friendly, genuine vibe that matches the food's authenticity.

Big bowls of ramen come with lunch, often enough for two meals. Prices stay reasonable for the portion sizes, making it a solid spot to eat midday.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has amazing ramen and sushi."

"The staff here is so friendly and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when the restaurant fills up quickly.

2

Parking is limited in the immediate lot, but ample street parking is available nearby.

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Expect a wait time of about 20-30 minutes during peak hours.

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Outdoor seating defines the space with a simple, cozy vibe and loud music during ordering. Family-friendly atmosphere blends with generous portions and authentic shawarma that mirrors Armenian flavors. Staff maintain high culinary standards in a clean environment.

Meats cook the authentic way with generous portions that deliver authentic flavor consistently.

Lunch features Shawarma plates that are filling and flavorful. Taking an extra plate for later is common, and the spot welcomes families for casual midday meals.

People are saying

"The shawarma here is so authentic and delicious, I could taste the quality."

"This lunch spot's shawarma is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 10 pm.

2

The restaurant opens at 9 am.

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You can call ahead, and they'll start preparing your order when you arrive.

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Small, family-owned Mexican restaurant with a friendly, family atmosphere and live music performances. Offers authentic Mexican dishes with very reasonable prices and a large menu. Parking can be scarce due to location in a small plaza.

Authentic Mexican dishes like Menudo and other meals come well prepared with quality ingredients. The spot serves genuine breakfast and lunch options reflecting true Mexican flavors.

Offers authentic Mexican food with solid options for breakfast and lunch. Serves consistently for midday meals.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Mexican food here to be well prepared."

"This lunch spot feels like family, with the owner serving you personally."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find, so arrive early or be patient.

2

Prices are very reasonable, making it an affordable dining option.

3

The restaurant offers a large menu with many authentic Mexican dishes.

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Small mom-and-pop Persian restaurant offers a home-cooked feel with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and live music on occasion. The space is clean but no-frills, blending warmth and familiarity into the dining experience.

Offers authentic Persian flavors that closely match traditional recipes. The dishes deliver a high-quality, genuine taste often compared to home cooking.

Lunch specials offer amazing value and include Persian dishes. Specials run on weekdays but ordering after 3pm may not get the lunch menu price.

People are saying

"The authentic kebabs here are tender, juicy, and melt in your mouth."

"The koobideh at this Lunch Spot is so tender and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is super easy at Shamshiri.

2

During weekdays, they offer lunch specials.

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The prices at Shamshiri Persian Grill Glendale are comparable to those of high-end restaurants.

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Chic space with Cuban coffee and chrome decor sets a vibrant, energetic mood filled with lively salsa music. Atmosphere feels inviting and warm, offering a quiet, peaceful vibe when not crowded. Regulars enjoy authentic Cuban culture and cuisine in a setting that feels like home.

Cuban food here tastes authentic with a strong focus on traditional flavors. The ambience matches the cuisine, creating a genuine Cuban experience.

Lunch draws a steady crowd, so arriving early helps with parking and snagging a table. Roast pork stands out as a solid choice for a midday meal.

People are saying

"I found the Cuban food here to be authentic and flavorful."

"This Lunch Spot's roast pork is tender and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every Tuesday night, adding to the dining experience.

2

Parking is easy and abundant in a safe neighborhood.

3

Lunch can get busy, so arrive early for a table.

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Sandwich shop offers authentic Italian sandwiches made with imported Italian meats and fresh ciabatta bread. Cozy space features good music and a friendly, inviting atmosphere. A small bus outside serves sandwiches and cannolis, adding to the unique setup.

Authentic Italian sandwiches feature premium ingredients imported from Italy and reflect Sicilian coastal traditions. The paninis offer flavorful, genuine street food at a consistent quality.

Lunch features fresh ingredients and solid options. Service can be slow, affecting tight schedules.

People are saying

"I found the most authentic Italian sandwiches here."

"This lunch spot has outstandingly fresh ingredients and authentic, flavorful sandwiches."

Good to know

1

Sì Roma is located inside a poke shop, making it hard to find.

2

Parking is available next to Il Carretto, but street parking can be difficult.

3

The sandwiches are made with authentic Italian meats and fresh ingredients.

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Restaurant showcases modern Greek decor with blue and white colors and wall doors opening that evoke Greece. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, blending casual and elegant styles with a clean, beautiful setting. Music complements the vibe, creating a fabulous ambiance appreciated by many.

Authentic Greek dishes feature fresh ingredients and traditional flavors. The atmosphere stays warm and welcoming, matching the genuine Mediterranean food served.

Food quality stands out as a key reason to return for lunch. The spot suits family gatherings, friends, or a quick meal with good service.

People are saying

"The food here is so authentic and flavorful."

"The food at this lunch spot was absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get busy.

2

Parking is convenient and easily accessible nearby.

3

The menu offers a variety of authentic Mediterranean dishes.

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Cozy dining room fits about 30 people with clean, well-lit, remodeled interiors. Atmosphere feels inviting with authentic Chinese food and dim sum that stands out for quality and flavor. Menu offers a wide selection with some dishes praised for craftsmanship and taste.

Chinese dishes here offer flavorful and authentic tastes, especially the dumplings and lobster. The menu reflects traditional recipes that bring genuine Chinese flavors.

Lunch specials include Sichuan pork, Mongolian beef, and steamed fish filet with fried rice. Each meal comes with soup or salad and a choice of steamed white or brown rice. Parking gets tricky at lunch but remains manageable.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot has delicious food with excellent portions."

"The authentic BBQ pork buns are so flavorful and the bun is soft."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging during lunch time, but not impossible.

2

The meal cost over $28, which may be considered expensive.

3

The prices offered good value for the portion sizes.

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Wood oven pizza restaurant offers modern, cozy decor with inviting indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels mellow and welcoming, though noise can rise with lively groups. Pizza features high-quality ingredients and quick service, creating a genuine Napoli-style experience.

True authentic Italian style pizza comes from a brick fire oven here, delivering classic flavors and textures.

The spot offers a great space for lunch dates with a cozy vibe. Phone orders for lunch come with poor customer service.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Italian style pizza with simple ingredients."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not have an alcohol license, so bring your own drinks.

2

Expect a wait time of under 10 minutes for pizza orders.

3

The pizza prices are 15-20% higher than average for similar offerings.

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Authentic Russian decor with intricate woodwork and ornate details creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. Music plays a key role in setting a unique vibe that feels both traditional and inviting. The place grows lively and a bit noisy after 4pm, attracting those seeking genuine Russian dining experiences.

Dishes showcase authentic Russian cuisine with traditional flavors and beautiful presentation. The food tastes genuine and flavorful, reflecting true Russian culinary style.

Lunch includes a combo special with chicken Lula and a special featuring pork schnitzel, cheese pierogi, and blintzes. Meals can be hearty and filling.

People are saying

"I found the Russian food here to be spot-on and delicious."

"This lunch spot's food is so tasty and home-style."

Good to know

1

The restaurant decorates tables for special occasions like birthdays.

2

Kalinka offers complimentary bread with meals.

3

Parking is easy and accessible near the restaurant.

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Tiny space offers an intimate setting with a cozy atmosphere and limited seating. Quiet and not crowded around midday, it feels like home with a small family presence often seen. The place stands out for its authentic Thai flavors despite its modest size.

Panang curry and duck curry capture authentic Thai flavors well. Some other dishes lean less authentic but still taste good.

Lunch specials come out quickly and offer good value. The Pad Thai is filling and popular during weekday lunch hours.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has amazing Pad Thai and Mango sticky rice."

"I found the food here to be very authentic and great."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is $10.50 from Monday to Friday between 11 am and 3 pm.

2

The actual lunch price is $11.50 due to an outdated sign.

3

There are 3 parking spots on the backside of the restaurant.

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Outdoor patio offers dog-friendly covered seating with shaded, comfortable tables that feel protected from the street. Bright, open dining room complements the spacious, clean interior decorated with a warm, welcoming energy. Atmosphere is lively and loud, energized by crazy music that fills the space.

Persian and Mediterranean dishes deliver authentic flavors with traditional spices and herbs. Attentive service adds an authentic joyful touch to the dining experience.

Walkable from offices, this spot offers very good food for lunch. The turkey club stands out as a big and delicious option, and friendly service helps set a positive tone.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has fantastic, fresh food with juicy chicken."

Good to know

1

Parking validation is available for customers.

2

The parking garage in the back offers two hours of free parking with validation.

3

Street parking is available for two hours, but coins are needed for the meter.

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Glendale, California

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