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Pasta Lunch Spots

A quick lunch spot serving pasta is the only way to get a satisfying meal in the middle of a busy day.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sama Hand Roll / Grill image 1
Sama Hand Roll / Grill image 2
Sama Hand Roll / Grill image 3
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Sleek design and minimalistic branding create an upscale and inviting atmosphere with perfect lighting and beautiful wall art. Spacious interior suits families, large parties, or intimate dinners with a calm, non-flashy vibe. Sake cocktails and exceptional hand rolls stand out alongside fusion dishes and quality grill options.

Lobster dashi pasta stands out with rich, savory flavors. The menu also features truffle toro hand roll and lobster pasta, both popular choices.

Lunch features great specials and amazing deals. Options suit date nights or delivery.

People are saying

"You have to try the crispy rice at this Lunch Spot; it's perfectly crunchy."

"The Wagyu short ribs were so moist and cooked just right."

"You have to try the lobster pasta; it's incredible."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5:00-6:30pm with special menu items.

2

Parking is free for two hours with validation from the restaurant.

3

Validated parking is available on E 3rd St and Aliso parking.

02
Settecento DTLA image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor patio and garden with twinkling lights and live jazz music create a romantic, peaceful atmosphere. Interior features a library-themed decor surrounded by lush greenery. Cocktails and Italian dishes like truffle pizza complement the elegant, relaxed vibe.

Homemade pasta stands out with its excellent quality and delicious flavor. It pairs well with the equally notable pizza.

Offers a $25 pre-lunch menu with incredible pizza and reasonable prices. Serves well for outdoor lunches and business meals.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and reasonably priced."

"The lasagna is a big, filling slice."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is beyond dedicated and caring."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 2pm to 6pm, ending at 5:45pm.

2

Live music is available from Wednesday to Saturday evenings.

3

The restaurant validates parking for $6 for three hours at the Library parking lot.

03
Pasta e Pasta by Allegro image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with rustic furnishings and dim lighting creates an elegant yet cozy atmosphere. Tables sit close together, making the space feel intimate and lively. The vibe is unpretentious, attracting those who appreciate authentic and unique pasta experiences.

Pasta here tastes like comfort food with generous seafood or beef toppings. Unique dishes like Mentai Japanese Cream and classic Carbonara stand out as exceptional and delicious.

Lunch offers great value and suits groups like friends or family. Meals arrive promptly around early afternoon, making it a solid choice for a casual midday meal.

People are saying

"You have to try the uni pasta; it's creamy and fresh."

"The dim lights really added to the cozy atmosphere."

"I thought the pasta at this Lunch Spot was delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky, but there is a free lot available on weekends.

2

Expect wait times to exceed an hour during busy evenings.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger parties.

04
Zinquรฉ - DTLA image 1
French restaurant

Large space with massive ceilings and stylish indoor and outdoor seating creates a cozy, euro-urban vibe. Outdoor patio offers great people watching and a relaxed atmosphere. Energy is generally calm but can become hectic during busy times.

Mushroom pasta stands out with its irresistible flavor that makes you want to lick the plate clean. Lasagna options include a classic version and a green lasagna, both enjoyed by diners.

A trendy spot with stylish decor suits team lunches and casual meetups. It handles groups well and works for lunch or happy hour.

People are saying

"The steak and fries are amazing for date spots."

"The salads, quiches, and sandwiches at this lunch spot are all good."

"I would eat the pasta dish again; it was the best."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers three appetizers for $22, making it a great deal.

2

Reservations are advisable, especially during busy hours.

3

Public parking is available next door for $15 all day.

05
Hill Street Bar & Restaurant image 1
New American restaurant

Large open space with high ceilings and exposed brick creates a lively yet calm atmosphere. Bold, unique decor adds character without feeling flashy. Steady vibe supports live bands and sports on visible TVs, attracting a mix of locals and beer lovers.

Homemade pasta noodles come with a robust Bolognese sauce. Pasta primavera and spaghetti are available, with the spaghetti marinara noted for having excessive sauce.

Lunch offers a tasteful atmosphere with attentive service even during busy hours. Seating by the window adds a nice touch for a work lunch or casual meal.

People are saying

"The burgers here are nicely flavored and the bread is a highlight."

"The Seven Hour Bolognese is a must-try dish here."

"The homemade pasta noodles here are wonderful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Lunch rush hour is busy; avoid visiting between 11:45am and 12:30pm.

3

Parking in the area is challenging, and the restaurant does not offer validation.

06
IL Bambino image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, intimate space with linen tablecloths and carefully curated details creates a comfortable, lively atmosphere. Guests enjoy authentic Italian dishes made from scratch alongside an extensive wine cellar. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed option in a setting known for its high-end yet cozy vibe.

Lasagna bolognese melts in your mouth with rich, homemade flavors. Every pasta, including spaghetti, penne, and mushroom ravioli, is made from scratch and stands out for its freshness and taste.

Crowds gather during lunch, creating a lively atmosphere. Meals cost around $70 for two, making it a solid spot for a family lunch or a quick bite with friends.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the lasagna."

"The pasta dishes here are the best I've ever eaten."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Street parking is available directly in front of the restaurant for free.

3

The menu features a white truffle soup priced at $10.50.

07
LALA'S Argentine Grill Downtown Los Angeles image 1

Argentinian restaurant offers cozy and vibrant atmosphere with good music enhancing the experience. Seating is comfortable but tight, limiting privacy due to close tables and loud acoustics. The menu features excellent steaks and fresh sangrias, creating a distinct dining focus.

Pasta dishes here have a refreshing flavor and avoid heaviness. The Pasta Primavera uses no meat and feels light, while the PENNE CON CALAMAR offers a well-prepared seafood option.

Quick service makes it easy to get in and out during a lunch break. Daily specials and lunch deals offer excellent value with portions like the lunch size ribeye satisfying without being too large.

People are saying

"The mashed potatoes here are creamy and fantastic."

"The lunch here was amazing."

"I had the best pasta in my life here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Parking is available at a public lot across the street for $10.

3

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

08
Sampa image 1
Filipino restaurant

Dark, moody space with black walls and ambient lighting creates an intimate, elegant vibe. A cool cave-like hallway leads to extra seating, adding a unique touch. Music from a DJ keeps energy chill while good acoustics allow easy conversation.

Fresh pasta made with Italian flour stands out here. The crispy pasta with confit pork hock and spinach garganelli is a signature dish often recommended. Pasta Palabok also features as a notable entrรฉe choice.

Lunch offers a specialized menu that includes all the dinner specials. The price sits at 50 dollars, which does not match the value of the meal.

People are saying

"The Filipino food here is fresh and creatively elevated."

"You have to try the crispy pasta; it's great for sharing."

"The tamales here are so soft and delicious."

Good to know

1

There is a public parking lot across the street.

2

Sampa does not have a liquor license yet; only mocktails are available.

3

Reservations are recommended for the tasting menu.

09
The Factory Kitchen image 1
Italian restaurant

Industrial chic space features exposed brick, steel beams, and an open kitchen where fresh pasta is made in view. The atmosphere is cozy yet loud, especially when crowded, with tables placed close together. The vibe suits date nights or business dinners with a lively energy and great music.

Ribbon pesto pasta stands out with its fresh, al dente texture and harmonious sauce. Open kitchen lets you see pasta made fresh, adding to the experience.

Lunch here involves a parking fee of $7 and offers a noticeably improved experience compared to earlier visits. The spot often serves as a convenient stop near business appointments.

People are saying

"The pesto pasta here is like heaven on earth."

"The industrial vibe here is offset by incredibly polished Northern Italian soul food."

"This Lunch Spot's steaks were some of the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.

2

Valet parking is available for $14 during dinner hours.

3

Street parking can be very difficult; consider using valet service.

10
Jollibee image 1
Chicken restaurant

Fast food restaurant with homey Filipino vibe and fun cutouts creates a welcoming atmosphere. The space is clean and well-organized with plenty of seating and no wait times. It offers unique Filipino-style fried chicken and a variety of menu options that stand out from typical fast food chains.

Spaghetti here features a sweet-style sauce with a hint of spice. The Jolly Spaghetti stands out as a consistent choice, often paired with spicy chicken and adobo rice.

Quick service gets food ready in under five minutes even during lunch rush. Offers convenient location and solid options for lunch or dinner with satisfying burgers and desserts.

People are saying

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

"The service at this Lunch Spot is fast and friendly."

"I found the spicy chicken and spaghetti to be delicious."

Good to know

1

There is often no wait time at Jollibee, making it a quick stop.

2

Combo meals are popular and offer good value for money.

3

Prices can be higher than typical fast food, with a 2-piece chicken meal costing around $23.

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Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles

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