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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Sawtelle

Lunch spots

Made for those who treat their midday break as a non-negotiable reset and refuse to eat anything that feels like a compromise.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated July 2026
01
Ray's image 1
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Hamburger restaurant

Counter-service burger spot with large portions and crispy fries draws long lunch lines near busy West LA landmarks. Casual, quick atmosphere suits to-go orders with sidewalk seating and limited parking. Perfect for a fast, satisfying lunch.

Offers a quick lunch option with a long line during peak hours. Convenient for grabbing a bite near several busy spots.

People are saying

"These burgers are huge, flavorful, and perfectly cooked."

"This lunch spot has delicious food, like huge chicken teriyaki."

"The French fries are super crispy, hot, and salty."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky, but street parking is available one block away.

2

Ray's closes early at 4pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect long lines during lunch hours, especially on weekdays.

02
Tigawok Mini Bowls - Sawtelle image 1

Small space buzzes with lively atmosphere and robot woks serving authentic Chinese food fast. Friendly staff make it a great lunch spot with quick, convenient dine-in or takeout options. Self-serve stations add to the practical, no-frills experience.

Offers great value for lunch with friendly staff who accommodate diners even during their breaks. Provides convenient options for both dine-in and takeout meals.

People are saying

"The Chinese food, especially the orange peel chicken, is a delicious balance of tart and crunch."

"I found the food here to be affordable and always made fresh."

"This Lunch Spot offers great value with affordable prices and fresh food."

Good to know

1

Dishes cost around $4 each, making them very affordable.

2

The restaurant offers great portion sizes for the price.

3

There is free parking available in the garage.

03
Killer Kabab image 1
Restaurant

Modern dining space with four TVs creates a lively vibe. Offers halal and vegan options for diverse tastes. Lunch specials provide great value with flavorful shawarma and kebabs in a kid-friendly setting.

Lunch specials offer great value and make for a solid midday option. The menu focuses on satisfying choices without overspending.

People are saying

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

"The shawarma here is excellent, seriously next level."

"Killer Kabab is a great lunch spot, living up to the hype."

Good to know

1

Killer Kabab has free parking available.

2

The menu includes halal and vegan options.

3

Lunch specials offer great value for the money.

04
Lazy Daisy Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Modern cafe with natural light and comfortable booths offers a chill vibe for lunch. Outdoor seating is dog-friendly, perfect for casual midday meals. Quiet space feels like dining in a garden, ideal for a relaxed brunch or lunch.

A cute spot with a relaxed vibe serves quick brunch or lunch options. It works well for a casual meal during the midday hours.

People are saying

"The breakfast service here is always friendly and attentive."

"The wild salmon was juicy, tender, and perfectly cooked."

"It's a great spot for lunch."

Good to know

1

The cafe has parking in the back.

2

There is outdoor seating in the front of the restaurant.

3

Expect minimal wait times even on weekends.

05
Cafe Belen image 1

Bright, clean space with cozy seating and a cute patio offers a peaceful vibe. Sizable portions make lunch filling and healthy. Cuban music adds upbeat energy without overwhelming the friendly atmosphere.

Sizable portions make lunch here filling enough to save half for later. The menu offers a variety of healthy dishes in a cute setting that suits both lunch and brunch.

People are saying

"I thought the breakfast food here was amazing and delicious."

"It's a really cute outdoor space with seating for about 12."

"This lunch spot has amazing, delicious food."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; expect to find street parking outside.

2

The cafe offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options.

3

Prices for drinks range from $5 to $10, entrees from $15 to $25.

06
En Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Space blends high ceilings and a warm, industrial look with modern touches. Lunch combos offer great tasting sushi and solid value. A lively bar features Sapporo on tap and fun games, making it perfect for dining and socializing.

Lunch combos come with a variety of options and a good selection of specials. The lunch deals offer great tasting sushi and provide solid value.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The lunch special here is amazing and a great deal."

"I experienced the best happy hour here; it can't be beat."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs late into the evening with great discounts on rolls.

2

Parking is convenient with a lot right by the restaurant.

3

Lunch combos offer good value for a reasonable price.

07
Meymuni Cafe image 1

Space blends Persian fusion design with a vibrant atmosphere perfect for lunch. Open seating and wifi access support both work and socializing. Owner's presence adds a unique character that makes visits memorable.

Offers a great lunch menu with options that satisfy different tastes. The spot works well for studying or catching up with friends during lunch hours.

People are saying

"The food at this Cafe is delicious and original."

"The coffee here is served by the kindest, most welcoming staff."

"The service at this lunch spot is genuinely warm and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the attached garage and is free.

2

Credit cards are accepted for payment.

3

Wi-Fi is available, making it a good study spot.

08
Rosemary Grill image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small dining area with communal tables creates a warm vibe. Lunch specials like chicken kebab offer great value and fill you up. Mediterranean and Persian dishes shine with fresh veggies and mixed grill platter.

Chicken kebab lunch specials offer great value and are extremely filling. These Mediterranean dishes come at a good price and satisfy well during lunch.

People are saying

"This Mediterranean food is flavorful, smoky, and incredibly tender."

"This salmon kebab was honestly so delicious and well-seasoned."

"I thought the Lunch Spot food was delicious and great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during lunch hours to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking can be difficult due to the small lot in front of the restaurant.

3

The restaurant has limited seating, so plan to arrive early.

09
Bangkok BBQ Bowl image 1

Tiny restaurant with minimalist decor offers a quick service perfect for lunch. Open kitchen adds a homely vibe but can get noisy. Airy space feels welcoming and relaxing despite limited seating.

Quick service suits a fast lunch with satisfying flavors. The spot works well for both lunches and dinners but shines as a lunch bite destination.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and packed with incredible flavor."

"The owner, Nute, is so warm and friendly."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and made with fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

On June 20, they are having 50% off bowls for the grand opening.

2

On June 21, they will have a BOGO free bowl promotion.

3

They are currently having their soft opening, which includes a free drink.

10
Black Sheep Burgers image 1
New American restaurant

Small space offers covered outdoor tables and indoor seating with a lively vibe. Creative, affordable burgers make it a top lunch spot for groups. Limited parking means walking is part of the experience.

Known for its casual vibe, this spot draws groups for lunch with friends. Limited parking means walking a bit before and after meals. Frequent visits show it serves consistent lunch options.

People are saying

"I found the date burger with brie and bacon to be amazing."

"I ordered chili cheese fries and they were tasty."

"Their burgers are just great for a lunch spot."

Good to know

1

There is a weekday special for $16.95 that includes the house Black Sheep Burger, fries, and a soda or bottled water.

2

They usually have daily specials that come with fries.

3

Parking is hard to find in this area, so expect to walk a bit.

11
Curry House CoCo Ichibanya - Sawtelle image 1

Bright, tidy space with authentic Japanese curry and kid-friendly menu suits solo diners and groups. Lunch is quick with no wait on weekdays and a calm vibe on Fridays. Casual seating and self-service ordering keep it easy and approachable.

Lunch hours have no wait and no line on weekdays, making it easy to get a quick meal. The atmosphere stays calm and pleasant during Friday lunch.

People are saying

"I loved the Japanese curry rice; it was so delicious."

"The omelette on the rice was fluffy and tasted good."

"The sliced beef curry at this Lunch Spot is so tasty and tender."

Good to know

1

Validated parking is available at the back of the restaurant.

2

There is metered street parking and small lots nearby.

3

Expect no wait during Friday lunch hours.

12
SushiStop Sawtelle North image 1
Sushi restaurant

Bright, clean space with fresh sushi and a relaxed vibe fits both quick lunches and casual dinners. Lunch specials like $10 ramen and poke bowl offer great value and generous portions. Indoor and outdoor seating add to the friendly atmosphere.

Lunch specials offer high quality and fresh options with generous portions. The $10 ramen and poke bowl stand out for their value and taste.

People are saying

"The food here is great; Oscar made it a fantastic experience."

"This lunch spot has great value and delicious ramen."

"The salmon sashimi with ponzu sauce tasted great and looked beautiful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a $10 lunch special with a wide selection of items.

2

SushiStop Sawtelle North is an alcohol-free establishment.

3

Parking in this area is challenging.

13
dan modern chinese - sawtelle image 1

Casual dining spot shines with fresh dumplings and a vegetarian-friendly menu. Neat decor and a relaxed vibe make it perfect for quick business lunches or casual meals. Offers great value with lunch portion deals and no long waits.

Lunch offers lunch portion items that provide a decent deal. The spot suits quick business lunches and casual meals with friends, delivering a great lunch experience.

People are saying

"You have to try the soup dumplings; I ate 15 in one sitting."

"I loved the oxtail soup; it was perfect for my stomach."

"The soup dumplings and scallion pancake are out of this world."

Good to know

1

Parking is challenging with zero available spots nearby.

2

Prices range from $30-$50 per person.

3

Expect long wait times on weekends, especially after 6pm.

14
Yabu image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy spot with intimate seating and a garden patio offers fresh sushi and soba. Lunch specials like raw fish bowls and tempura arrive fast and taste great. Soft lighting creates a relaxed atmosphere perfect for family meals.

Lunch specials arrive mostly quickly with two sets served in good time and one taking longer. Meals include a raw fish bowl with noodles and an assorted tempura option, priced around $25, with flavors that prompt repeated praise.

People are saying

"I found the soba to have amazing mouthfeel and bite."

"The atmosphere here is so cozy and inviting."

"This lunch spot's special was so good, I said it multiple times."

Good to know

1

Yabu offers a 10% discount for paying cash.

2

Limited parking is available, especially during peak hours.

3

The lunch special costs $25 and offers good value.

15
JERK STOP image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Jamaican spot offers authentic jerk chicken with smoky flavor and hearty sides like spicy peas and rice. Outdoor area buzzes with loud reggae music, creating a lively Caribbean vibe. Inside stays calm, perfect for a relaxed lunch with generous servings at a great price.

Lunch features a jerk chicken special with a smoky flavor and a generous serving. Sides include spicy peas and rice, festival bread, plantain, and stewed cabbage, all for $15.

People are saying

"I found the jerk chicken to be succulent and spicy."

"I traveled to Jamaica without leaving LA, enjoying authentic, zesty jerk chicken."

"The jerk chicken lunch special is a generous serving."

Good to know

1

There is a parking lot available at the restaurant.

2

Parking can be challenging during peak hours.

3

The restaurant uses contactless ordering for convenience.

16
Siam Chan Thai Restaurant image 1

Cozy space offers large portions of flavorful Thai food at great prices. Lunch specials stay fresh and hot with a wide variety to choose from. Intimate setting with homely atmosphere and soft background music makes dining satisfying.

Lunch features fresh, hot specials with a wide variety of options. Prices stay great while meals remain tasty and satisfying.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's food was so delicious and fresh."

"The food here is delicious and super affordable."

"You have to try these hidden gems; the curries are rich, aromatic, and full of cozy spice."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a lunch special with discounted prices.

2

The portions served are large, providing good value for the price.

3

Reservations are recommended for dining in, especially during peak hours.

17
Nong Lรก Vietnamese Cafe image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small Vietnamese spot shines with quick service perfect for lunch. Outdoor patio adds a cool vibe to casual family dinners. Friendly staff create a warm atmosphere along a busy avenue.

Quick service makes it a solid choice for a fast lunch. It fits well when time is tight by mid afternoon.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here has a light, flavorful broth."

"The healthy food here is always so fresh."

"This lunch spot's food is always fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking on Sawtelle Street is challenging at night due to high demand.

2

Reservations are not required, but expect a wait during peak hours.

3

The restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan options, but choices are limited.

18
Mateo's Ice Cream & Fruit Bars image 1

Bright, colorful decor creates a lively vibe perfect for lunch. Tuna sandwich combo with fresh fruit and juice offers a quick, healthy meal. Wide variety of creamy sorbets and exquisite fruit bars keep energy upbeat and satisfy sweet cravings.

Lunch features a tuna sandwich combo served with fresh fruit and juice. Meals come together quickly and offer a solid midday option.

People are saying

"I loved their sandwiches; they were delicious and healthy."

"The ice cream selection here is amazing."

"I loved the fresh fruit and juice with my lunch combo."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy on the street in front of the shop.

2

They offer a variety of flavors including ice creams and paletas.

3

Smoothies, ice creams, and snacks are available.

19
Chinchikurin Sawtelle image 1
Okonomiyaki restaurant

Open kitchen with large teppan plates creates a cozy vibe perfect for lunch. Lunch specials like Beef Curry and Chicken Karaage offer bold flavors. Spot suits groups and couples seeking expertly made okonomiyaki in a festive, laid-back setting.

Lunch specials include Beef Curry and Chicken Karaage prepared well with good flavor. Nearby spots like Wanderlust and Beard Papa add options for a casual meal with friends.

People are saying

"I thought the okonomiyaki was incredible, just like in Japan."

"The seafood in the okonomiyaki was high quality, with tender shrimp."

"This lunch spot's okonomiyaki tastes just like Hiroshima street food."

Good to know

1

Parking is convenient across the street.

2

Using the online waitlist helps reduce wait times.

3

The portion size is big enough to share with two people.

20
Marukai Market West LA image 1
Japanese grocery store

Japanese grocery store offers a clean layout and cozy atmosphere like Tokyo markets. Fresh sushi and affordable bentos make it a great lunch spot. Wide selection of Japanese foods and EBT acceptance add convenience.

Offers a variety of sushi, sashimi, and bento boxes daily from 11:30 am. Includes fresh lunch meals and affordable bentos alongside frozen foods, snacks, and drinks.

People are saying

"This grocery store has a great selection of Japanese and Korean foods."

"You'll find plenty of parking available in the back."

"This Lunch Spot has a great variety of Asian specialty foods."

Good to know

1

Discounted bento boxes are available every day at 7 PM.

2

Sushi made in the morning is sometimes discounted after 7 PM.

3

EBT is accepted for purchases at the market.

21
Il Moro Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Outdoor patio with waterfall and lush greenery offers a tranquil atmosphere perfect for romantic or quiet dinners. Lunch specials draw a midday crowd, and easy parking makes visits hassle-free. Rotating local art adds a unique, inviting vibe indoors.

Lots of lunch specials attract a crowd during midday. Parking stays good during lunch hours, making it easy to stop by.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is outstanding, with fresh ingredients and balanced flavors."

"The outdoor seating is beautiful with a romantic atmosphere."

"This lunch spot's tagliatelle bolognese is made with love."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Parking validation is available for customers who dine at the restaurant.

3

The average meal costs around $30 per person, excluding drinks.

22
The Landmark Cafe image 1
Espresso bar

Espresso bar boasts modern design and a tranquil outdoor area by a park. Lunch offers Peruvian ceviche and well-priced bowls and wraps. Atmosphere stays quiet and friendly, perfect for work or relaxing.

Lunch features a well priced menu with a good selection including bowls, wraps, pastries, and Peruvian ceviche. Options cover breakfast, lunch, and dinner with delicious dishes available.

People are saying

"The food at this cafe is amazing and fresh."

"The staff here is so kind and makes the space feel truly welcoming."

"This lunch spot has delicious food and great coffee."

Good to know

1

The cafe's new hours are from 7 AM to 7 PM.

2

Parking under the building is expensive and best avoided.

3

There was good street parking nearby.

23
Big Tomy's image 1
Restaurant

Casual burger joint shines with trophy-worthy burgers and affordable prices perfect for lunch. Covered outdoor seating and comfy booths create a clean, hip atmosphere blending old-school and local vibes. Open late, it also serves breakfast burritos that satisfy any time.

Lunch offers quality meals at a good price with options that consistently hit the spot.

People are saying

"I loved the chili cheeseburger; it was big and tasted great."

"The pastrami sandwich here is huge and so tender."

"This lunch spot has great quality food and fast service."

Good to know

1

Big Tomy's is a casual burger joint that stays open late.

2

The breakfast is very reasonably priced under $10.

3

Parking is cheap and fast, making it convenient for quick visits.

24
Chef Ming's Kitchen image 1
Chinese restaurant

Independently owned spot offers large portions and fair prices with a casual vibe. Lunch specials include chow mein and fried rice, making it a solid lunch option. Known for flavorful orange chicken and the best noodles ever, it draws a loyal neighborhood crowd.

Lunch specials run from 11:00 to 15:30 with a choice of one or two entrees. Meals come with chow mein and fried rice, making it a solid lunch spot option.

People are saying

"The food here is really delicious and fresh."

"I found the Thai iced tea to be delicious."

"I loved the kung pao chicken at this lunch spot; it was well seasoned."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available from 11:00-15:30 with one or two entree options.

2

Parking is available in the lot for quick pickups.

3

The food is typically ready shortly after ordering.

25
Talay Thai Restaurant image 1
Thai restaurant

Small Thai restaurant serves huge portions at reasonable prices with a full bar in a relaxed atmosphere. Lunch specials offer great deals, though some items may cost more than listed. Clean, comfortable setting with easy parking behind the building.

Lunch specials offer a good deal with prices listed on menus and the website. Some charges may be higher than the listed Lunch Special price.

People are saying

"I thought the Thai food here was excellent."

"I found the Drunken Noodles to be great and flavorful."

"This is a great lunch spot with good food."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the back of the restaurant.

2

The menu lists a Lunch Special at a lower price than regular items.

3

Portion sizes are large; two people can share one dish.

26
Spoon & Pork image 1
Filipino restaurant

Lively Filipino spot offers crispy pork belly and slow-cooked pork shank with chili garlic glaze. Dim lighting and modern seating create a casual vibe with soft house music. Friendly service shines during lunch specials until 3 pm.

Lunch features a pork shank with crispy skin and tender meat, alongside a Pork Belly lunch option. Service includes a friendly and helpful server and a lunch special available until 3:00 pm.

People are saying

"I found authentic Filipino food that tasted just like back home."

"This Lunch Spot closed early, even though posted hours said 3:00 pm."

"The slow-cooked pork shank was so soft and juicy."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult; plan to arrive early or expect to walk a bit.

2

Reservations are not accepted, so be prepared for potential wait times.

3

The restaurant closes promptly at 3:00 pm, so arrive before then.

27
Hop Woo restaurant(west LA) image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, cozy spot serves authentic Sichuan and Cantonese dishes with a focus on seafood and duck. Lunch combos offer affordable Hong Kong style meals with dine-in or takeout options. Atmosphere is smoky and intimate, with reasonable prices and consistent quality.

Lunch combos offer affordable and delicious Hong Kong style meals. Options include eating in or taking out, with three combos costing $45.

People are saying

"I found the Sichuan and Cantonese cuisine here to be so authentic and delicious."

"The pepper fish had a layered, complex interplay of heat and spice."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is free at the restaurant.

2

Reservations are needed to dine there.

3

The prices at the restaurant are reasonable.

28
Doner Corner image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small space with an open kitchen offers a cozy vibe perfect for lunch. Enjoy complimentary Turkish tea and traditional music that create an authentic, warm atmosphere. Ideal for quick or relaxed meals with a family feel.

Casual, cozy vibe suits both quick lunch runs and relaxed meals. The spot consistently delivers a satisfying lunch experience.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Turkish doner and Iskender to be the best I've had."

"They offered complimentary Turkish tea after the meal."

"This is the best Lunch Spot for authentic Turkish dรถner."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant offers Halal options for all menu items.

3

Unique operating hours may vary; it's best to call ahead.

29
Gelson's - West LA image 1
Grocery store

Bright, clean space blends grocery store with a wine bar and restaurant. Wide aisles and quiet outdoor seating create a calm vibe. Casual lunch at the bar inside offers a versatile cafe serving breakfast, lunch, and drinks.

Lunch happens at the bar just inside the store, offering a casual spot to eat. The cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and drinks, making it a versatile choice for midday meals.

People are saying

"This grocery store has an amazing selection of quality, fresh food."

"The deli staff are so helpful and friendly."

"I found this lunch spot felt like a grocery store and wine bar."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy to validate with a purchase.

2

The store offers a great selection of fresh meats and vegetables.

3

The wine and sushi bar area has food and drink during weekday happy hour.

30
Tsujita LA Artisan Noodles image 1

Outdoor seating creates a cozy vibe while the interior buzzes with serious ramen focus. Lunch menu is solid with quick options and short waits. Seating shifts energy between intimate indoors and spacious outdoors.

Lunch offers a solid menu with quick options. It stays manageable without long waits, especially on weekends.

People are saying

"The Tsukemen broth is rich, deeply umami, and has a thick, grainy texture."

"The salmon bowl was quite good, with fresh ingredients."

"This Lunch Spot's dipping ramen has thick, chewy noodles and rich broth."

Good to know

1

During busy hours, especially dinner time from Thursday to Saturday, there can be up to an hour-long wait.

2

On Monday evening, there was no line at Tsujita LA Artisan Noodles.

3

Seating is limited and the restaurant is very popular.

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Sawtelle, Los Angeles

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