Small, old-school diner with U-shaped counter seating and covered outdoor patio. Atmosphere feels nostalgic and classic, with a lively vibe from regulars like city workers and families. Located in an industrial area, it offers a simple, hearty breakfast experience.
Offers a good selection of breakfast and lunch plates with well-portioned options. Serves classic meals suitable for both breakfast and lunch.
House-made salsa comes in a bottle and pairs well with many dishes. It has a bold flavor and complements the machaca breakfast tacos and hash browns nicely.
"I loved their homemade salsa; it was spicy and flavorful."
"This lunch spot feels like stepping back in time with its classic diner vibe."
Good to know
Nick's Cafe opens super early at 6:00 am, which is an advantage over many restaurants.
Nick's Cafe closed at 2 PM.
The wait time was 45 minutes before getting seated.
Small space filled with bright pink decor and vibrant feminine energy creates a quirky, Instagrammable atmosphere. Friendly, welcoming vibe with photo-friendly spots and a lively DJ. Space feels cozy but can get hot and cramped.
Green sauce chilaquiles come with fried eggs and grilled meat for lunch. Seating is available inside for a late lunch.
Salsas here stand out for their top notch quality. The green salsa is very good and pairs well with dishes like cafe de hoya.
"The green salsa was very good."
"This lunch spot is so over the top pink and super cute."
Good to know
There is street parking available nearby.
Expect a long wait for a table during busy hours.
On Wednesdays, wearing pink gives you a 10% discount.
Tight, old-school deli with authentic Mexican vibe and loud mariachi music outdoors. Women slap tortillas in sync over a giant comal, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Outdoor community tables offer casual seating despite worn furniture.
Lunch offers good value with meals under $11 and includes a bottled Coke. The spot stays consistently busy during lunch hours, showing its popularity.
Salsas strike a perfect balance of heat and kick with a touch of pain. They complement tacos topped with nopales, cilantro, and onion, adding spicy but perfect flavor to each bite.
"The carnitas here are juicy and flavorful."
"You have to try the tacos at this Lunch Spot; they hooked it up."
Good to know
On Saturdays and Sundays, they serve menudo.
Parking is tricky, so I parked on a nearby street and walked over.
The line can get long on weekends, but it moves fast.
Large outdoor patio with fire pits and shuttered overhead cover creates a cozy, inviting space. Interior blends stylish decor with a quality sound system, offering a warm atmosphere that transports guests. A traveling tequila cart adds a unique touch to the relaxed vibe.
Lunch features great tacos and a good lunch special with an appetizer and entree at a set price. Portions are generous enough to have leftovers even after lunch.
Salsa arrives quickly and stands out with a freshness that echoes real Mexico City flavors. It offers a dark, robust taste with balanced heat, sometimes featuring very present Serrano chilies.
"Ashley's fast service makes this Lunch Spot great."
"The salsa is amazing, dark, robust, and has the right heat."
Good to know
Happy hour runs all day on Tuesdays with drinks priced between $7 and $8.
Sunday brunch is available from 10 am to 3 pm, perfect for post-church visits.
Validated parking is available for up to two hours with a restaurant receipt.
Latin American restaurant with a cozy cafe vibe and bebop jazz music playing. Offers indoor and outdoor seating, including a small patio by the street. Atmosphere feels chill and welcoming, attracting those who appreciate healthy, flavorful meals.
Lunch offers healthy, yummy options with a delicious chicken taquito plate. Service moves fast during the lunch hour.
Green salsa stands out with its strong flavor and punchy salsa verde. Salsas here are very flavorful, sometimes good enough to enjoy on their own.
"This lunch spot has delicious food and coffee options."
"The salsa verde in the burrito was flavorful and added a punch."
Good to know
Parking can be iffy, so plan to arrive early.
Free street parking is available, but it may be a block away.
The Sunday menu is limited to burritos and tacos only.
Upscale Mexican restaurant with modern warm decor and an intimate patio area creates a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. Live mariachi band and curated playlists provide lively music that energizes without overwhelming. Guests enjoy authentic high-quality food and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Lunch runs until 4 PM with a dedicated menu. The spot suits casual dining for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Free chips come with good salsa and guacamole. The habanero salsa adds a spicy kick. Nachos pair well with salsa verde.
"The Salsa here feels like a vibrant, stylish celebration."
"I was surprised the Lunch Spot buffet had quesadilla birria and tacos al pastor."
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 3 PM to 6 PM on weekdays with discounted drinks.
The Sunday brunch features an all-you-can-eat buffet from 11 AM to 3 PM.
Live Mariachi performances occur every Friday evening and during Sunday brunch.
Family-owned restaurant offers an authentic Mexican Salvador fusion experience with huge portions and shaded outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels joyful and welcoming, encouraging casual chats among diners. Space stays immaculate and exudes a homey vibe.
Lunch features a variety of dishes that satisfy different tastes with consistent quality. Friendly service from the owner and staff creates a welcoming, family-like atmosphere.
Fresh and spicy salsa stands out here. The salsa verde delivers a strong kick and rich flavor.
"This lunch spot's food is amazing, fresh, and made to order."
"The salsa here is freshly made and delicious."
Good to know
Breakfast is served all day.
Parking is available right in front of the restaurant.
The menu is extensive, offering something for almost everyone.
Small, intimate space evokes traditional Mexican rancho vibe with a family-owned atmosphere. Music adds to the welcoming, home-like feel. Crowded yet cozy setting highlights authentic, handmade Mexican cuisine.
Smash burger stands out as a solid choice for lunch. Quick service suits those needing a fast meal before heading out.
Salsas here include house-made mole and salsa macha with peanuts. The spicy salsa stands out and pairs well with dishes like veggie enchiladas and chilaquiles in salsa verde.
"This Lunch Spot's marinated chicken burrito was so flavorful and delicious."
"You have to try their salsas, especially the spicy one, they hit the spot."
Good to know
Reservations are not accepted, so expect to wait during peak hours.
The restaurant has about 5-6 small tables inside and 2 small tables outside.
They sometimes run out of popular dishes like mole, so arrive early.
Old school Mexican diner with small indoor space and covered patio seating creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Crowd feels uplifting and positive, often lively but welcoming. Known for legendary burritos and authentic vibe that recalls past decades.
Lunch offers generous portions that often leave enough for a next-day meal. The spot suits family gatherings well and draws people willing to drive out just for the midday meal.
Fresh hot chips come with excellent salsa that pairs well with the veggie salad. The salsa has a rich flavor that makes it easy to enjoy in large amounts.
"I found the salsa delicious and it improved the flavor of my dishes."
"This Lunch Spot's burritos are massive and so flavorful."
Good to know
Expect longer wait times during peak lunch and dinner hours.
Parking is generally easy, with street parking available nearby.
Prices are reasonable, but guacamole can significantly increase your bill.
Historic hole-in-the-wall with mid-century decor and authentic Mexican vibe creates a relaxing, home-like atmosphere. Counter service offers quality margaritas and a small bar with beers, while music adds to the inviting mood. Seating is ample and the setting feels classic and unpretentious.
Portion sizes suit lunch and next-day meals well. Burritos come with generous servings and service feels attentive.
Fresh, flavorful salsa comes with crispy chips served promptly without asking. The salsa and chips meet a high standard for taste and freshness, enhancing the dining experience.
"The carne asada and salsa were the most flavorful food I ever had."
Good to know
Prices are reasonable, making it a good option for budget-conscious diners.
Expect a minimum spending rule when using the restroom, which is not clearly communicated.
The restaurant closes by 9 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.
Historic Mexican restaurant with nostalgic decor and divided dining areas creates a cozy, old-timey vibe. Strong, flavorful margaritas and classic Hispanic dishes define the experience. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with a mix of quiet booths and lively spaces.
Lunch offers a chance to gather with family and friends. Meals come after meetings or shopping trips, providing a reliable midday option.
Salsa here is consistently on point, with the salsa verde standing out as excellent. Extra chips and salsa often come generously with the order.
"This lunch spot's enchiladas were so delicious, I wanted the whole plate."
"The chips and salsa were delicious and homemade."
Good to know
Parking costs $9, with valet service available.
Green corn tamales are available from May through October.
USC students get 50% off with a valid ID.