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Top picks in Long Beach

Authentic lunch spots

A lunch spot that serves food the way it is meant to be made, not just the way it is easiest to serve.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Greek restaurant

Small space with dim lighting and Mediterranean decor creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels casual and relaxed. Crowded dining area buzzes with a traditional Greek noise level, adding to the lively vibe. Outdoor seating offers a shaded spot, complementing the overall fast food ambiance.

Greek dishes here taste very close to what you find in Greece, with authentic flavors and fast service. The Pork Gyro and other Mediterranean options stand out for their genuine taste and quality.

Offers a healthy lunch with generous portions like the gyro lunch plate that can last for multiple meals. Serves as a quick and satisfying spot for lunch or dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I found the Greek food here to be really authentic and delicious."

"You have to try the gyro lunch plate; it's massive."

Good to know

1

Parking can be congested due to shared space with other restaurants.

2

Catering orders for groups of 10 or more can be customized up to a day in advance.

3

The restaurant is closed on Mondays.

02
Sonoratown image 1
Taco restaurant

Eclectic, colorful decor creates a cozy atmosphere with a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Indoor seating is plentiful and air conditioning keeps the space comfortable. The place stands out for its fresh, authentic tacos and Sonora-style tortillas.

Tacos bring authentic Sonoran-style flavors with proper spice and high quality. Mexican dishes taste delicious and genuine, reflecting true regional roots.

Offers fresh tortillas de harina and quick service, making it a solid choice for a grab-and-go lunch. Convenient for nearby workers looking for a satisfying midday meal.

People are saying

"The salsa here has great flavor and is delicious."

"The Mexican food here is delicious and truly authentic."

"The tacos and burritos at this lunch spot are delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the adjacent street in Downtown Long Beach.

2

Street meter parking is available, with a lot offering 2 hours of free parking.

3

They charge 50 cents for a small container of salsa.

03
EA Seafood Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood restaurant occupies a repurposed Japanese space with rustic wooden decor and a cozy, peaceful atmosphere inside despite a run-down exterior. The space feels intimate and well-kept, avoiding flashy or fake appearances. It draws a steady crowd seeking authentic, tasty Chinese dishes in a quiet setting.

Offers authentic Cantonese style seafood with a wide variety of fresh choices. Food tastes real and comparable to top spots in well-known Chinese food areas.

Lunch features specials with great value including dishes like Hot and sour soup and Hainan chicken. Late lunches around 3 PM offer quick seating due to low crowd levels.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh and not greasy."

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

Good to know

1

On Fridays, they offer a Dim Sum menu with various options.

2

The restaurant maintains a clean and welcoming environment.

3

Reservations are recommended for busy weekend dining.

04
Galata Halal Restaurant and Grill image 1

Turkish restaurant with Istanbul-themed decor and beautiful chandeliers creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere that feels like dining in Turkey. The space is small and clean, filled with colorful art and warm lighting. Music and lively energy add to a friendly, home-like vibe where guests often feel like family.

Flavors capture the essence of Turkish cuisine with rich, authentic spices. Dishes like hummus, lamb skewers, and baklava showcase traditional tastes clearly.

Chicken kabob lunch special offers wonderful, flavorful taste. Turkish music adds to the authentic ambiance during lunch.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious, especially the lamb."

"I found the food here to be authentic Turkish cuisine."

"The chicken kabob lunch special here is wonderful and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging in the area, so plan accordingly.

2

The restaurant is fully accessible and has clean bathrooms.

3

Vegetarian options are available on the menu.

05
Dvine Mediterranean Experience image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with upscale interior, featuring white tables and gold trim and beautiful decor that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Background music includes pleasant Arabic songs, contributing to a quiet and friendly vibe with ample outdoor seating. The space feels more like a leisurely dine-in spot than a quick take-out place.

Food tastes fresh and authentic with clear Mediterranean influences.

Lunch offers amazing service and impressive food. The spot works well for a late lunch or a midday meal after travel.

People are saying

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

"This Lunch Spot's Mediterranean dishes, like the falafel and pita, are delicious."

"The food here tastes super fresh and authentic."

Good to know

1

Tuesdays feature a special experience that attracts many visitors.

2

Entrees come with rice, pita, and a choice of two sides.

3

The meal cost is around $15, considered a great bargain.

06
Rim Talay Thai Food of Naples image 1

Low lighting and moody atmosphere create a cozy, comfortable setting with classic music enhancing the vibe. Interior design is trendy and immaculate, featuring an open kitchen that highlights cleanliness. The place feels welcoming and peaceful, suitable for relaxed dining experiences.

Entrees deliver perfect and authentic flavors with great portions. The food stays true to traditional Thai cuisine.

Lunch specials include a salad, egg roll, and ice cream. The menu is on a laminated sheet but not clearly offered upfront. Service can feel reluctant when asking about lunch options.

People are saying

"The red curry and curry noodle dishes were delicious and tasty."

"The authentic Thai food here has amazing flavor and generous portions."

"The Lunch Spot here is delicious, especially the chive pancakes."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a great lunch special with sides included.

2

Mild options are available for those who prefer less spicy food.

3

The plates are shareable, perfect for trying multiple dishes.

07
Angeloโ€™s Italian Deli image 1

Deli space feels like stepping into Italy with authentic Italian sandwiches and imported ingredients lining the shelves. Atmosphere stays low key and welcoming, supported by loyal employees and customers. Specialty items like limoncello and Milan-made cheesecake add unique touches.

Specialty Italian ingredients and authentic deli sandwiches stand out here. Shelves hold a variety of Italian groceries and assorted delicacies.

Frequent visits show it serves as a reliable lunch spot. Many come back the next day, making it a common choice for daily lunch breaks.

People are saying

"I've been craving another sandwich from here ever since."

"I found authentic Italian goodies and deli sandwiches here."

"I found the sandwiches at this Lunch Spot to be really wonderful."

Good to know

1

The chicken parm sandwich runs out quickly, so arrive early.

2

Prices are on the pricy side, with a total of about $95 for three people.

3

Sides and drinks are additional to the meal price.

08
CHOLADA THAI CUISINE LONG BEACH image 1

Small family-owned Thai restaurant offers authentic flavors with dishes like yellow curry fried rice and drunken noodles that stand out. Interior features great lighting and well-put-together decor, creating a quiet and pleasant atmosphere during lunch. Lunch specials provide variety and balanced portions, though prices lean toward the higher side.

Sauces deliver authentic flavors with dishes like Pad Chicken and Drunken Noodles standing out for their genuine taste.

Lunch specials offer variety and balanced portions with a drink included. The setting is quiet and the interior looks very pretty during lunch.

People are saying

"The Pad Thai here is delicious, fresh, and hot."

"The yellow curry fried rice at this Lunch Spot is amazing."

"The authentic flavors here are intense and amazing."

Good to know

1

The lunch special includes a drink and offers a variety of balanced portion sizes.

2

Expect higher prices compared to other Thai restaurants.

3

There is parking nearby for convenience.

09
Hinata Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall ramen spot with retro Japanese posters and a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Music plays at a moderate volume, and the space feels welcoming to all ages. Known for authentic ramen with generous portions and reasonable prices.

Retro Japanese ads and posters cover the walls, creating a cool, authentic atmosphere. The ramen tastes very close to what you'd find in Japan, with delicious, authentic flavors.

Weekday lunches come with little to no wait and include a lunch combo that offers one appetizer and two entrees for good value. The spot fits well for quick meals during work breaks.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is rich, flavorful, and blew my mind."

"This lunch spot's ramen is so delicious, I'd get it again."

"I found the ramen here to be authentic, rich, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky due to shared spaces with other businesses.

2

Expect a wait list if arriving after 9 PM, as they stop seating at 10.

3

The lunch combo offers great value with one appetizer and two entrees.

10
Kamal Palace image 1
Indian restaurant

Newly remodeled space offers waterfront seating with scenic marina views and a warm, elegant ambiance. Indoor area feels clean and welcoming with a relaxing atmosphere. Outdoor patio provides a peaceful, refreshing dining experience.

Offers authentic Indian food with flavors true to traditional recipes. Dining includes a view over canals, adding to the genuine atmosphere.

Lunch features a buffet with excellent variety and affordable pricing. This spot still offers a post-pandemic lunch buffet, making it a reliable choice for midday meals.

People are saying

"The buffet here has epic, unforgettable flavors and a wide variety."

"I loved the lunch buffet's amazing variety of delicious food."

"I found the most authentic Indian food here."

Good to know

1

The buffet is available only from 11am to 2:30pm on weekends.

2

Prices for the lunch buffet are reasonable and affordable.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian dishes.

11
Bubu's Restaurant image 1

Small, cozy space with a homemade personal touch and comfortable chairs creates a welcoming, inviting atmosphere. The vibe feels like being in a grandmother's kitchen, with a lively yet relaxing energy. It stands out for its customizable dishes and a sense of being a hidden gem.

Small, hole-in-the-wall spot serving authentic homemade Mexican food with fresh ingredients. Dishes like green chilaquiles and asada have home-style flavors that remind you of childhood.

Offers a solid choice for lunch with a casual vibe. Serves both breakfast and lunch options that fit well for a midday meal.

People are saying

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

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and home-style."

"This Lunch Spot's food is so fresh and delicious, every bite is a treat."

Good to know

1

Customers should bring cash to avoid the card fee.

2

Bubu's Restaurant offers the option to customize dishes.

3

The portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

12
Los Compadres Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with authentic decor and a lively atmosphere that shifts from deafening noise during large parties to a pleasant vibe afterward. Multiple TVs show sports in the bar area with comfortable booths. The place feels inviting despite its size and somewhat dark lighting.

Mexican dishes feature authentic flavors with fresh, hot ingredients. Chips, salsa, and chicken enchiladas showcase the true traditional taste.

Lunch offers flavorful shrimp enchiladas and amazing salads. The atmosphere suits a relaxed lunch break well.

People are saying

"The salsa here tasted wonderfully fresh and amazing."

"The food here is so authentic and full of flavor."

"This lunch spot's wet burrito with flavorful meat and sauce is delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 3-6 p.m. Monday to Friday with select dishes for $12.

2

Parking may get limited when it's busy, so arrive early.

3

The restaurant gets very crowded during weekends, expect longer wait times.

13
AMMATOLI image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Large Mediterranean restaurant with tasteful decor inspired by family travels and authentic Middle Eastern music creates a fantastic ambiance. Outdoor seating includes a pet-friendly patio and a small market offers olive oil and spreads. Full bar features Lebanese wines and beers that complement the excellent food.

Food features fresh ingredients and expertly balanced flavors that reflect a true Levantine style. Many guests come from the same region, confirming the authentic Mediterranean cuisine served here.

Lunch offers a casual Southern California vibe with a menu full of delicious options. The atmosphere feels like high-end dining but relaxed, making it great for networking or a date.

People are saying

"The homemade pita bread here is fantastic and the best I've ever had."

"I found the Middle Eastern food here to be incredible and authentic."

"This lunch spot's Mediterranean food is so flavorful and thoughtfully prepared."

Good to know

1

Happy hour at AMMATOLI is from 3 to 5 pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

There is a 2-hour free parking lot 2 minutes away.

14
Uncle Fung Long Beach image 1
Indonesian restaurant

Small Indonesian restaurant offers modern, clean interior with a quiet, peaceful vibe and jazz music playing softly. The atmosphere feels colorful and lively despite a generic strip mall setting. It serves authentic Southeast Asian flavors in a casual, low-key environment.

Food delivers authentic Southeast Asian flavors with dishes like laksa, satay, kwe tiau, and ayam geprek. Meals capture the hawker style of Malaysian and Singaporean cuisine accurately.

Offers quick lunch takeout with perfect portion sizes for a fast meal.

People are saying

"This Singaporean laksa soup is the best I've had."

"The food here is authentic and flavorful, like a taste of Southeast Asia."

"This Lunch Spot's food is so flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash, so plan accordingly.

2

Parking can be challenging due to limited spaces.

3

Lunchtimes can be busy, so arriving early is advisable.

15
L V Seafood Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant with nostalgic decor and classic vibe offers a family-oriented atmosphere that suits large gatherings. The space feels cozy yet crowded, with a mix of booths and tables and a lively noise level when busy. Outdoor seating provides a more relaxed option for casual dining.

Large portions and ร  la carte options define the authentic Chinese food here. Dishes stay true to traditional flavors and styles.

Lunch specials offer good value with dishes like Cashew Chicken and Mongolian beef featuring tender, juicy meat and ample scallions. The dining room stays busy at lunch, indicating steady popularity.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is authentic and incredibly delicious."

"The Salt & Pepper Fish was crispy and delicious."

"I loved their authentic Chinese food; it reminded me of home."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited to street parking only.

2

The restaurant offers large combo deluxe meals with generous portions.

3

Prices have increased recently, but they remain reasonable for the quality.

16
Nick The Greek image 1
Greek restaurant

Open-air layout creates a laid back beach vibe with welcoming atmosphere and family-owned charm. Fast, casual setting draws a community-focused crowd enjoying fresh Greek and Mediterranean dishes near the ocean.

Greek and Mediterranean dishes serve up authentic gyro and yogurt. The shop stays clean and true to traditional flavors.

Lunch offers great vibes and quick bites. The spot serves delicious meals that satisfy during breaks.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and consistently great."

"Their gyros are huge and packed with flavor."

"I found the Greek food here to be authentic and excellent."

Good to know

1

Nick The Greek offers fast, casual Greek food with vegetarian options.

2

The prices at Nick The Greek are reasonable for the portion sizes.

3

They don't charge for extra tzatziki with your meal.

17
Saffron Mediterranean Grill image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small Mediterranean spot offers a cozy courtyard with limited indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels relaxed and inviting, with beautiful decor and a pleasant patio setting. Energy ranges from quiet and peaceful to lively depending on the time.

Fresh, flavorful dishes capture the original taste of Mediterranean cuisine. Presentation is beautiful and the food stays true to authentic Arabic flavors.

Cozy but modern vibe suits both quick lunches and relaxed meals. Lunch options include hummus plates with lamb, shrimp kabobs, and a variety of salads and grilled vegetables.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

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

"The lamb shawarma plate for lunch was mouthwatering."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is tucked behind Johnny Rockets on Pine.

2

The prices are reasonable for the portion sizes.

3

Portions are generous, making it a good value.

18
Casa Perez image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy Mexican restaurant with chill vibes and a warm home feeling from its decorations. Outdoor seating is pet friendly, and live music adds to the inviting atmosphere. A drive-thru option offers convenience without sacrificing the relaxed energy inside.

Food delivers authentic Mexican flavors with great taste. Dishes consistently show genuine preparation and rich flavor profiles.

Lunch offers generous portions that often leave enough for a second meal. Meals suit both casual outings with friends and quick breaks with coworkers.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tastes authentic."

"The staff's attention to detail made for an authentic, well-executed meal."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers $1.50 shrimp tacos on Thursdays.

2

Expect limited seating on weekends, especially during peak hours.

3

Ample parking is available for guests.

19
Pickle Banh Mi Co- Long Beach image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small, modern Vietnamese spot with clean, bright interior and fast-casual deli style seating. Atmosphere stays calm and laid-back despite busy lunch crowds. Offers charging stations and a few comfortable tables, focusing on quality banh mi with vegetarian options.

Vietnamese sandwiches feature authentic and delicious bread. Substituting chopped lettuce for traditional pickled vegetables changes the classic flavor.

Busy during lunch hours with about a 15-minute wait for spring rolls. Offers great coffee and solid lunch options with tables available for small groups.

People are saying

"This sandwich was so fresh and delicious, I'd return for more."

"The banh mi here is the best lunch spot in Long Beach."

"Their sandwiches are authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant can get very busy during lunch time.

2

There are very few tables to dine in, as it's mainly for takeout.

3

Parking is free in front, but it can be limited.

20
CaliChilli - Unauthentic Indian Restaurant image 1

Indian fusion restaurant combines modern elevated decor with a laid-back SoCal vibe. Atmosphere feels cozy yet exhilarating, with tasteful lighting and elegant furnishings. Specialty cocktails feature an Indian twist, complementing standout dishes like lamb biryani and paneer pot pie.

Menu features authentic Indian dishes with rich, vibrant flavors and well-balanced spices. The atmosphere supports the authentic vibe, and the food consistently uses genuine Indian spices.

Quick seating happens during lunch. The weekday special lunch offers a mix of six dishes with freshly made garlic and plain naan. Ordering one naan per person is common for a full meal.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is amazing, especially the lamb biryani."

"This lunch spot's loaded baked potato is a full, flavorful meal."

"The flavors here are so authentic and well-spiced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times.

2

They have a weekday special lunch at $30 which provides a good mix of dishes.

3

During Dine LA Restaurant Week from April 28 to May 12, there's a $25 lunch special.

21
Thai Barbeque image 1
Thai restaurant

Large space with a clean, welcoming interior creates a calm atmosphere. Generous portions and amazing lunch specials attract those seeking top-notch Thai BBQ. Some dishes like fried rice and beef skewers receive high praise for flavor and quality.

Unique and authentic Thai flavors define the food here. The menu could grow with more authentic dishes like musuman, satay, and desserts.

Lunch specials stand out with BBQ chicken and other tasty options. Food suits a light lunch and offers good value.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and always steaming hot."

"This lunch spot's chicken is so juicy and flavorful."

"The food here is so authentic, especially the BBQ chicken."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on-site for customers.

2

The menu includes a variety of a la carte and combo options.

3

They have good promotions for lunch specials.

22
The Second Owl Thai Kitchen and Bar image 1

Cozy space with comfortable seating and a friendly, family vibe creates a welcoming atmosphere. Music selection for birthdays and complimentary ice cream add personal touches. Food focuses on authentic Thai street dishes with standout items like Pad Thai, duck khao soi, and sticky mango rice.

Flavors come rich and fresh in every bite, offering a truly authentic taste that feels like a trip to Thailand. Soups deliver deep and clean flavors, and dishes stay consistently fresh and tasty.

Lunch includes a special with soup or salad. The spot suits casual meetings like with a realtor.

People are saying

"The food here is genuinely amazing and delicious."

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and truly authentic."

"The Pad Thai at this Lunch Spot is so good, I finished the whole thing."

Good to know

1

Parking is tough, but there is a parking lot two blocks away.

2

Public transportation is good and the location is walkable.

3

The lunch special includes an added soup or salad.

23
Sura Korean BBQ & Tofu House Restaurant - Long Beach image 1

Indoor and outdoor seating includes a patio with grills and a bar area. Atmosphere mixes warmth and fun with occasional smoke from outdoor grilling. Soju cocktails and a vegan-friendly menu add to the diverse experience.

Dishes burst with authentic Korean flavors that match those found in South Korea. The menu offers fresh, authentic Korean BBQ and vegetarian options that stay true to traditional tastes.

Lunch specials come with large portions and include a variety of items like meat, tofu soup, gyoza, and banchan. Meals often arrive in a convenient lunch box with rice and side dishes, making them easy to take on the go.

People are saying

"I loved the variety of vegetarian options and the vegan bulgogi was amazing."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is phenomenal and delicious."

"I enjoyed the authentic Korean food and flavors here."

Good to know

1

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

2

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and wait times.

3

Parking is available in the back, but it can be limited.

24
Panama International Restaurant (PTY) image 1

Caribbean restaurant with outdoor patio and island music creates a relaxed vibe reflecting Panamanian culture. Spacious interior features Panamanian flag and map on the wall, enhancing authenticity. Food includes spicy jerk chicken and tender oxtails, delivering strong Caribbean flavors.

Food offers a very authentic feel with dishes like jerk chicken standing out. The cuisine stays true to its roots and tastes delicious.

Lunch options include office lunch and ordering two sides with about 20 minutes wait. Pricing runs around $75 for two people.

People are saying

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

"The food here is authentic and cooked perfectly."

"The Lunch Spot empanadas and tostones were so bomb."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least one day in advance for the Salt Fish dish.

2

Parking is available in the back for $6, but may vary on weekends.

3

Expect some menu items to be unavailable later in the day.

25
Super Mex Restaurants image 1
Mexican restaurant

Roomy Mexican restaurant offers a quiet atmosphere before peak hours and ample seating throughout. The vibe is homey and chill with a great bar area for drinks like margaritas and draft beer. It balances authentic flavors with a straightforward, unpretentious setting.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavor with a focus on genuine taste. The spot serves dishes that appeal to those who appreciate true Mexican cuisine rather than Tex-Mex.

Daily and lunch specials offer great value with authentic Mexican flavors. Expect a wait of about 25 minutes for tacos during lunch hours.

People are saying

"I ordered a huge, traditional Mexican Food burrito that I couldn't finish."

"I enjoyed the authentic Mexican flavor at this lunch spot."

"I found the food to be authentic Mexican flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking is always tough in downtown.

2

Super Mex Restaurants closes early during the week at 9 pm.

3

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

26
Chen's Chinese Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Older Chinese restaurant with cozy ambiance and cultural decor featuring dragon motifs. Atmosphere is generally quiet and clean, offering a family-friendly setting with attentive service. Large seating area supports casual dining without fancy touches.

Authentic Chinese flavors shine through the menu, capturing the essence of traditional dishes. The setting complements the food with an authentic Chinese-style ambiance.

Lunch specials cost between $11 and $13 with generous portions. Each special includes a choice of egg drop or hot & sour soup and most regular items stay under $15.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really good."

"I got my delivery in 20 minutes, it was so quick!"

"This Lunch Spot's sweet and sour chicken is perfectly cooked and delicious."

Good to know

1

Each entree is enough for two people, making it an even better deal.

2

Chen's Chinese Restaurant is very affordable, with lunch specials costing $11-13.

3

I experienced fast delivery that never took an hour as stated on the menu.

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