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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Lemon Grove

Food spots

Made for those who prioritize consistent access to reliable and satisfying local meals.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
CALI MEX COCINA & CATERING image 1
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Outdoor seating creates a fresh vibe with lively energy. Food shines with fresh homemade tortillas and house-made salsas. Portions are large and service is attentive, making every bite delicious and unique.

Food comes fresh with great quality and generous portions. Every bite tastes delicious, backed by attentive service and unique recipes from a passionate cook.

People are saying

"The carne asada fries here are perfectly charred and flavorful."

"The fruit salad was loaded with a huge variety of fresh fruit."

"I found the food to be amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers only covered outside seating.

2

Three huge tacos with guacamole cost $12.

3

They accept credit cards.

02
San Diego Wings image 1
Chicken wings restaurant

Generous portions of crispy wings arrive fast with great service. Multiple TVs show sports and boxing, creating a chill, homey vibe. The mango habanero wings offer a bold, flavorful kick that satisfies comfort food cravings.

Food arrives fast with great service. The 6-piece tender mango habanero stands out as a flavorful option. Comfort food here feels satisfying and consistent.

People are saying

"I found the daily special to be very affordable."

"You can watch live sports like UFC fights on their TVs."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful, especially the sauces."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

They offer a variety of salads and burgers for non-chicken eaters.

3

There is plenty of inside seating available for guests.

03
The Godfather's Diner image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small diner offers homemade flavor with fresh, made-to-order dishes blending American and Mexican styles. Cozy booths and counter seats create a family-friendly vibe in a clean, colorful space. Prices stay reasonable, making it a great spot for casual, flavorful meals.

Food tastes homemade and full of flavor with a fresh quality, often prepared right in front of you. Prices stay reasonable while offering a variety that feels like a taste from home.

People are saying

"This diner's chorizo burrito is packed with flavor and generously sized."

"These biscuits and gravy are some of the best I've ever had."

"The food here is delicious and tastes homemade."

Good to know

1

The diner opens at 8:30 am, not 8 am as posted online.

2

Expect the diner to get packed quickly, so arrive early.

3

Side dishes cost extra when ordering a sandwich.

04
Zest Wine Bistro image 1

Cozy bistro shines with dog-friendly patio and homey interior perfect for quiet talks. Menu offers consistently great quality dishes that match the relaxed vibe. Easy parking and select wines during happy hour make it a neighborhood gem.

Food offers consistently great quality with a very good menu. Dishes come with an amazing atmosphere that complements the flavors well.

People are saying

"The wine recommendations here are spot-on and the service is friendly."

"The food and wine here are amazing."

"I loved the substantial $8 cheese plate during happy hour."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 5 pm with select wines for $5.

2

Parking is available in the back for easy access.

3

The restaurant offers a private patio for group events.

05
Pure Fruit Bar & Deli image 1

Family-owned spot serves fresh, generous portions in a cozy, welcoming space. Made-to-order dishes like acai bowls and tortas shine with clean, vibrant ingredients. Owner's care ensures every meal and smoothie delights with flavorful quality.

Food comes fresh and generous in portion sizes. The owner crafts each dish with love and respect, ensuring smoothies and meals consistently satisfy.

People are saying

"The smoothies here are amazing, and the owners are so kind."

"You have to try their tortas; the pambazo is a perfect 10/10."

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

Good to know

1

Everything is made to order, ensuring fresh food.

2

The place is kept clean and well-maintained.

3

There is plenty of parking available nearby.

06
Nutrition Solution image 1
Health food restaurant

Modern interior creates a quiet, peaceful atmosphere perfect for families. Food is fresh and healthy with protein-rich options like unique protein donuts and tasty shakes. Weekly set menus make healthy eating simple and enjoyable for everyone.

Food stays fresh and flavorful with a focus on healthy, nutritious options. Meals avoid that chalky protein-powder taste and offer great macros for fitness and real food lovers.

People are saying

"The food here is healthy, fresh, and packed with flavor."

"I loved their energizing teas packed with antioxidants and vitamins."

"These waffles are fluffy, flavorful, and packed with protein."

Good to know

1

They are open on weekends for customer convenience.

2

The business is family-owned and run by two sisters.

3

They offer a set menu each week to simplify meal choices.

07
Herrera's Mexican & Sea Food image 1

Small taco shop serves authentic Mexican cuisine with generous portions and fresh ingredients. Friendly, prompt service adds to the low-key, clean interior atmosphere. Menudo and pozole available daily make it stand out.

Mexican food comes made from scratch with fresh ingredients and generous portions. Service is friendly and prompt, enhancing the overall dining experience.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is made from scratch and truly fantastic."

"I loved the carne asada tacos and rolled tacos."

"I won't go elsewhere for a California burrito."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of about 7 minutes for food during off-peak hours.

2

The restaurant has a $.50 fee for card payments, so bring cash if possible.

3

Portions are generous, making it a good value for the price.

08
Highland Smoke Shop image 1

Small, Mom and Pops style shop offers a wide product selection and In and Out Pizzeria serves excellent food. Prices stay consistently unbeatable and the atmosphere feels warm and personal. Great spot for food and shopping in one place.

Offers a great assortment of food and drinks alongside various products. In and Out Pizzeria serves excellent food within the same spot.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was excellent, especially the gyros."

Good to know

1

Highland Smoke Shop offers a diverse selection of food, drinks, and smoking products.

2

Prices at Highland Smoke Shop are competitive across all product categories.

3

Expect a wide range of products, from snacks to smoking accessories.

09
Lemon Grove Cafe image 1

Old school diner offers a nostalgic vibe with Route 66 booths and a large patio. Food is fresh and well seasoned, served hot with generous portions. Soft 80s hits create a family-friendly atmosphere in this busy, chill spot.

Food comes out hot and well prepared with great portions at a chill neighborhood spot. Dishes are tasty, well seasoned, and fresh, served quickly and at a good price.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and the portions are generous."

"The food and service at this cafe were fantastic."

"The Greek food here is tasty and well-seasoned."

Good to know

1

The cafe is small, so expect to wait for a table during peak hours.

2

There is ample parking available right next to the cafe.

3

The menu features a variety of Greek, Mexican, and American dishes.

10
El Pollo Grill - Lemon Grove image 1

Mexican food shines with flavorful freshness and a homestyle feel perfect for family meals. Casual, lively atmosphere features sports TVs and a custom drink machine for fun. Large indoor and outdoor seating offers space and comfort despite a simple exterior.

Mexican food here is consistently flavorful and fresh with a homestyle ambiance that feels like dining in a kitchen. The dishes are delicious and satisfying, often chosen for family gatherings.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food burritos here to be huge and delicious."

"The tortillas here are warm, soft, and taste homemade."

"The food here is so tasty and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Kids eat free on Wednesdays.

2

El Pollo Grill no longer accepts cash payments.

3

On busy weekend days, expect a 30-45 minute wait.

11
Birriería La Lotería image 1

Food truck setup offers authentic birria with generous portions. Outdoor picnic tables and umbrellas create a casual dining vibe. Service is reliable, making it a great spot for flavor and value.

Food stands out for its consistent quality and amazing flavor. Portions offer good value, and the overall experience includes reliable customer service.

People are saying

"I found the birria delicious; it's the best I've ever had."

"I loved the ramen with so much meat and great consomé."

"The food here is amazing and definitely worth it."

Good to know

1

Birriería La Lotería often sells out by 10pm on weekends.

2

The food truck charges $5 per taco, offering good portion sizes.

3

Reservations are not accepted; expect to wait during peak hours.

12
Tuna Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot shines with fresh sushi and teriyaki beef. Friendly vibe and clean dining make it welcoming. Affordable prices and no-rice menu suit groups well.

Food here is consistently fresh and well-prepared, especially the sushi and teriyaki beef. Service is quick, and the dining area stays clean and organized.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing, some of the best I've ever had."

"I found the prices here to be affordable."

"I found the food here to be absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

The prices at Tuna Sushi are affordable for families.

2

Their portions are generous, making it a good value.

3

Tuna Sushi can accommodate parties of up to 12 comfortably.

13
Pizzero Grill image 1
Pizza restaurant

Friendly spot serves homemade marinara pizzas and juicy burgers with crispy fries. Food tastes amazing and arrives on time. Prices stay affordable, creating a community-focused vibe perfect for quick takeout.

Food arrives on time and tastes consistently amazing and very tasty. Juicy burgers, crispy fries, and a nice cold drink stand out among the excellent variety offered.

People are saying

"The sandwiches here are proper with fluffy, crispy bread."

"I found the pizza here to be the best I ever had."

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

Good to know

1

The pizza takes only 15 minutes to prepare.

2

Prices are very affordable, less than $45 for three pizzas and a large salad.

3

The wait times are reasonable, even when busy.

14
In-N-Out Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small dining area fills quickly, creating a crowded atmosphere. Burgers are fresh and affordable, standing out with consistently good quality. Parking and drive-thru congestion add to the hectic vibe.

Food comes out hot and fresh every time. Burgers stand out as a cut above typical fast food with consistently good quality.

People are saying

"These burgers are so tasty and definitely worth it."

"The Drive Thru line wrapped out to the main street."

"I thought the food here was great and on point."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult during busy times, especially on weekends.

2

Expect to wait at least 30 minutes during peak hours in the drive-thru.

3

The drive-thru line often wraps around into the street.

15
Panda Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Family-run spot shines with fresh seafood and award-winning specialties like Orange Chicken. Cozy, home-like vibe suits casual meals. Food arrives hot and flavorful, showing great care in every dish.

Food comes out fresh, hot, and flavorful, cooked to perfection with great hospitality. This family-run spot serves excellent Chinese dishes that consistently impress with their taste and quality.

People are saying

"The food here is amazingly delicious and tasty."

"The orange chicken at this Lunch Spot had a perfect crunchy outside."

"I found the Chinese food, especially the orange chicken, to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect a wait time of around 30 minutes during lunch rush.

3

They accept cash and major credit cards for payment.

16
Lemon Grove Coffee image 1

Cozy coffee shop offers vegan pastries and fresh, homemade food. Tiered wooden seating and local art create a welcoming vibe. Live acoustic music and board games add friendly atmosphere where regulars work or chill.

Food here tastes fresh and homemade with a variety of vegan options available. The menu pairs well with good coffee and offers consistently tasty dishes.

People are saying

"The coffee service is always cheerful and quick."

"I loved their specialty lattes, especially the Hawaiian Creme Brulee."

"I found the food here to be fresh and taste homemade."

Good to know

1

Lemon Grove Coffee closes at 3PM.

2

There is a limit on the total number of connected devices for Wi-Fi.

3

Vegan food options are available at Lemon Grove Coffee.

17
Coop’s West Texas BBQ & Catering image 1

Smoky aroma fills a casual space with outdoor bench seating and picnic tables. Friendly, relaxed vibe feels like a family barbecue. Tender, juicy brisket shows skill and love in every bite. Crowds gather on weekends, drawn by slow-smoked meats and a cash-only policy.

Food features tender, juicy brisket packed with flavor and is made with love and skill. Portions run low due to high demand, reflecting its great taste and quality.

People are saying

"I thought the BBQ had authentic Texas flavor."

"I thought their Mac and Cheese was exceptionally good."

"This food is the best Cali BBQ I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Coop's is open Friday to Sunday from 10 AM to 3 PM and accepts only cash.

2

You need to bring cash to pay at Coop's West Texas BBQ.

3

The potatoes sell out by 11 AM; arrive early to avoid missing out.

18
El Cata Mariscos Sushi & Cortes image 1

Seafood shines with Mexican dishes served in generous portions at great prices. Live music and a full bar with TVs create a lively vibe. Spacious indoor and patio seating offer a family-oriented and vibrant atmosphere.

Food stands out for its great quality and quantity with a focus on Mexican dishes. Meals come at an affordable price and pair well with drinks, all served with attentive service.

People are saying

"I thought the food was terrific, especially the ceviche."

"I found the seafood tacos to be succulent and juicy."

"The live music here creates an awesome, vibrant atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2-6 PM Monday through Friday and during Padres' games.

2

Enjoy 2-for-1 16 oz beers during happy hour, including IPAs.

3

Live music is available on weekends, enhancing the atmosphere.

19
Nando's Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy authentic Mexican flavors with amazing burritos and tacos. Relax in a cozy, laid-back vibe that feels like home. Convenient drive-thru service and refreshing aguas frescas complete the experience.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with consistently amazing quality. Aguas frescas complement the dishes well, making the menu both delicious and reliable.

People are saying

"I thought the rolled tacos here were the best Mexican food I'd ever had."

"The carne asada fries were fresh, juicy, and packed with flavor."

"The food here is authentic, flavorful, and made with love."

Good to know

1

The taco shop has a drive-thru for convenience.

2

Nando's Taco Shop is family owned and has been in business for over 20 years.

3

The portions are large and the prices are fair.

20
Antojitos Tenampa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with authentic handmade tortillas and flavorful salsas that pack heat. Quiet, pleasant vibe suits focused dining. Standout dishes like birria tacos and menudo deliver genuine Mexican taste with large, satisfying portions.

Food here is authentic Mexican with large portions and high quality ingredients. Salsas complement the dishes well, making the meals both delicious and satisfying.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be incredibly delicious and tasty."

"You have to try their handmade quesadilla de chicharron."

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

Good to know

1

They offer a free beverage with each birria order.

2

The Cuban sandwich costs $21.00.

3

Most items are handmade, and I could taste the difference.

21
El Pollo Loco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant serves table-served salsas and fresh salads in a quiet atmosphere. Meals are authentic and healthy, with grilled chicken and fresh tortillas. Perfect for families and individuals seeking quick, peaceful dining.

Food arrives fresh and hot, with meat falling off the bones and salsas served at the table. Tortillas and sides taste very fresh, making meals feel authentic and healthy.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh, especially the salsas."

"This Mexican food is so fresh, juicy, and flavorful."

"I loved the double chicken and chicken & shrimp tostada salads."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect quick service with food often ready by the time you reach the window.

3

They offer family dinner deals that can save you money for larger groups.

22
Chef John's Fish & Chips image 1
Fish & chips restaurant

Small fish and chips spot offers freshly made fries and hot food with consistent quality. Retro vibes shine through an outdated interior and nostalgic soft rock. Quiet atmosphere makes it a charming, relaxed place despite long waits.

Food arrives fresh and hot, served on a tray with orderly presentation. Fries come out freshly made, and the quality justifies the wait.

People are saying

"I thought the fish and chips were the best I've ever had."

"The American food here is delicious, fresh, and perfectly fried."

"I had the best fish and chips I've ever experienced."

Good to know

1

The wait times can be long because the food is prepared fresh.

2

I advise to order ahead if I was in a hurry.

3

The prices are close to double compared to other places.

23
Carnitas Uruapan Mexican Food #1 lemon grove image 1

Small Mexican spot shines with authentic carnitas and a classic joint feel. Busy at lunch, it offers great value with fresh, flavorful dishes. Drive-thru adds convenience to this perfect casual meal choice.

Carnitas stand out as a delicious highlight with fresh and flavorful ingredients. The food consistently offers excellent Mexican dishes that serve as a great alternative to cooking dinner.

People are saying

"I found the food to be fresh and flavorful."

"I found the carnitas to be really good and super tasty."

"I was impressed with how big the breakfast burrito was."

Good to know

1

The prices at Carnitas Uruapan Mexican Food #1 Lemon Grove are lower than most other places.

2

Parking is limited, with only two spots across from the post office.

3

The drive-thru can have a 45-minute wait during peak hours.

24
Hinata Sushi image 1
Authentic Japanese restaurant

Cozy interior mixes traditional Japanese style with modern touches under warm lighting. Food is fresh made and impresses with quality. Staff stay extremely attentive even when busy and loud.

Fresh made food consistently impresses with phenomenal quality across the menu. Staff remain extremely attentive to requests during dining.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and absolutely delicious."

"I consider their Japanese food to be some of the best."

"The food at these Date Spots was delicious and above par."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with sushi rolls for $2 each.

2

The restaurant reopens at 4:30 PM after closing for lunch.

3

Expect minimal wait times during weekday evenings.

25
Grove Grinder image 1
Sandwich shop

Classic mom-and-pop shop offers heavenly sandwiches in a cozy space filled with vintage decor. Enjoy a fun rootbeer selection while soaking in the nostalgic vibe of a traditional neighborhood deli.

Sandwiches stand out as a highlight with a heavenly taste. The food overall is consistently great, paired with a fun rootbeer selection and served in a small, cozy dining area.

People are saying

"I considered the Godfather sandwich the best sandwich I had."

"It's a charming, old-school mom and pop sandwich shop."

"The food here is awesome and the sandwiches are delicious."

Good to know

1

The portion sizes are huge, so consider sharing or saving leftovers.

2

A half sandwich costs more than half the price of a full sandwich.

3

They offer a choose your own six-pack deal for sodas.

26
Giant Pizza & Deli image 1
Pizza restaurant

Giant pizzas up to 29 inches steal the show with fresh dough and flavorful crusts. Families enjoy a lively atmosphere where kids run free. Food is fresh and priced well, though some orders arrive cold despite quick service.

Food arrives fresh and is priced competitively. Service is quick, but some orders come cold despite the short wait.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was awesome and delicious."

"The food here is so delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

The pizza is 29 inches in size, perfect for sharing.

2

Children are welcome and often play in the back area.

3

The restaurant is family-owned, adding a personal touch.

27
San Diego Health & Wellness Retreat - Optimum Health Institute image 1

Grounds invite wandering with beautiful landscaping and a calm vibe. Programs focus on healing and detox through classes and spa services. Food offers raw vegan meals that ease inflammation and support gut health.

Food focuses on raw, vegan dishes that support detox and gut health. Meals are nutritious and contribute to reduced inflammation and arthritic pain.

People are saying

"This raw food is full of goodness and great for cleansing."

Good to know

1

The retreat offers over 40 classes focused on health and wellness.

2

Spa services include massages, chiropractic care, and detox treatments.

3

Reservations are recommended for popular classes and spa services.

28
Lemon Grove Plaza image 1
Shopping mall

Shopping mall buzzes with friendly atmosphere and extreme heat inside. Food is hot and fresh, especially well-priced burgers that draw crowds. Popular burger and coffee spots cause traffic jams, but variety keeps visitors satisfied.

Food comes out hot and fresh with a variety of good options including fast food. The quality stays consistently delicious and satisfying.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were the best."

"I found this mall to be a good place with easy in and out."

"I thought the food here was great."

Good to know

1

Parking is often chaotic, especially near In-N-Out Burger during peak hours.

2

Expect long drive-thru lines at In-N-Out, which can cause street congestion.

3

There is limited accessible parking available around the area.

29
Cotijas Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Lively spot with outdoor patio and great music draws crowds. Enjoy authentic Mexican flavors like Carne Asada Burritos and rolled tacos. Prices stay low, but bring cash and expect limited seating.

Food here is consistently hot and delicious, with a focus on authentic Mexican flavors. Prices stay reasonable, offering generous portions like Carne Asada Burritos and refreshing horchata.

People are saying

"The food here is consistently great and always hot."

"The carne asada here is tender and well-seasoned."

"I considered their rolled tacos my favorite of all time."

Good to know

1

There is easy parking available in the lot next door.

2

They only accept cash or card payments, with a fee for card use.

3

There isn't a lot of seating available, so plan accordingly.

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Lemon Grove, California

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