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Lunch and dinner spots in South LA

Finding a reliable spot for lunch or dinner is the only way to keep the day moving without having to cook.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated July 2026
01
Fuegos LA image 1
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Restaurant

Eclectic decor and ambient lighting create a warm, laid-back vibe that feels both cozy and unique. The space blends a romantic, old-fashioned style with a lively atmosphere where people enjoy coffee, Argentinian food, and wine. It attracts those looking for a hidden gem with a welcoming, community-focused energy.

Lunch here features a live musician named Asadito playing in the parking lot, creating a unique vibe. The spot suits both lunch and dinner occasions.

Dinner options include curated meals at the wine bar and frozen empanadas for quick bites. Walking access makes it easy to reach for an evening meal.

People are saying

"I thought the empanadas here were the best I've ever had."

"The food and vibes here are top-notch for dinner."

"The empanadas here are the best Lunch Spot in Los Angeles."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available, but specific times are not mentioned.

2

Weekend grill sessions are offered, but details on timing are unclear.

3

Dishes range from $20 and up, especially with wine or beer.

02
L.A. CRAZY CRAB image 1
Restaurant

Spacious restaurant with big TVs showing various sports and a full bar featuring Micheladas and margaritas. Atmosphere stays quiet and family-friendly with a vibrant vibe boosted by a DJ playing throwbacks. Seafood boils stand out with fresh, succulent shrimp and spicy sauces.

Girls lunch features personalized service with staff like Kimberly attending closely. The owner often makes a point to introduce himself, adding a friendly touch to the meal.

Dinner feels like eating at a relative's home with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Service stands out as attentive and nice, making the evening comfortable.

People are saying

"This seafood boil was the best I've ever had."

"The seafood dinner spots here are perfectly seasoned and served hot."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is amazing and very flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $2 beers from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.

2

A 3-liter beer tower is available for $16 during happy hour.

3

Expect no wait times during happy hour on Sundays.

03
Cafecito de La Crepe image 1
French restaurant

Cozy and stylish space with soft lighting and colorful murals creates an intimate yet vibrant vibe. Warm and inviting atmosphere suits both quick bites and leisurely meals, often accompanied by pleasant music. Open views to the street add to the relaxed, casual-upscale blend.

Specializes in crepes with a menu that covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner all day. Portions like the eggs Benedict with salmon are generous, suitable for a full meal.

Crepes stand out as a specialty with a menu that covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner options all day. Dinner offerings include a good variety beyond just crepes.

People are saying

"I found the sweet and savory crepes here delicious and generously portioned."

"The food here is amazing, with outstanding flavors."

"The food at these dinner spots is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited due to nearby businesses.

2

Expect reasonable wait times during busy hours.

3

The menu features a range of sweet and savory crepes.

04
Fig's Corner image 1
Hot pot restaurant

Industrial style with neon lights and fun decor creates a lively yet comfortable atmosphere. Spacious seating with big tables and booths accommodates groups easily. Affordable prices and generous portions make it popular among students and families.

Lunch features a mushroom pot and a Boba special that stands out during midday.

Lively atmosphere suits groups and family dinners well. Service runs on a single staff member handling both serving and hosting during busy dinner times.

People are saying

"The food here, especially the hot pot, is super comforting and packed with meat."

"I loved the fresh, flavorful hot pot dinner spots here."

"The hot pot flavors here are amazing."

Good to know

1

They currently offer a buy one get one free deal on drinks.

2

The price of $17.99 for a full personal hot pot is very reasonable.

3

The portions are huge and perfect for sharing.

05
Dulan's On Crenshaw image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant combines modern renovation with a homey atmosphere and gospel music playing softly. Spacious dining area includes outdoor seating and a patio for private events, creating a welcoming and accommodating environment.

Big portions make lunch filling and often enough to save some for later. The spot draws people from far away, showing its appeal for midday meals.

Dinners come with two sides and a delicious dressing. Many choose it as a spot before concerts at SoFi stadium or The Forum.

People are saying

"I loved every dish I tried; the food was amazing."

"The lunch spot's fried chicken is moist, tender, and delicious."

"The fried chicken dinner here is so yummy and tasty."

Good to know

1

Free valet parking is available right out front.

2

They have spoken word and comedy nights on Wednesdays.

3

They plan to start serving peach mimosas at their upcoming brunch.

06
La Barca Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with dark interior and Mexican charm creates a relaxed atmosphere ideal for conversation. Strong margaritas and authentic dishes like enchiladas and caldo de pollo define the experience. On-site parking and mariachi music add to the setting.

Beautiful setting suits both quick lunch dates and early dinners. Lunch specials offer amazing value for friends and visitors.

Dinner features yummy chicken enchiladas served in a beautiful setting. Friendly service adds to a relaxed vibe suitable for quick or casual meals.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here are delicious and the flavor is on point."

"The food here is delicious and authentic Mexican."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a small lot out back, but it fills up quickly.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait during peak hours on weekends.

3

Happy Hour offers discounted house margaritas and beer.

07
Harold & Belle's image 1
Creole restaurant

Creole restaurant blends modern touches with Southern charm in a classy, inviting interior featuring a full bar with expertly mixed cocktails and a lively bar area with live jazz music that captures New Orleans spirit.

Lunch features a fish special served with corn and salad. Service stays attentive even during busy lunch rushes.

Dinner here suits both special occasions and casual nights with a welcoming, elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. The red snapper dinner comes fried just right and stands out on the menu.

People are saying

"The seafood platter here is massive and amazing."

"The Dinner Spots here have amazing seafood, like the hearty gumbo and fresh oysters."

"This Lunch Spot's food was seasoned to perfection and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Valet parking is available for $10, but street parking is also an option.

3

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

08
Momota Ramen House image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, cozy space with a casual, chill vibe and Ghibli films playing softly. Atmosphere suits quiet dinners or casual hangouts with friends. Known for rich, spicy ramen and thin noodles, offering a flavorful, intimate dining experience.

Quick service includes a kind employee greeting and helpful support throughout lunch. Soups serve well for a fast, soothing meal during a workday.

Dinner happens during a busy rush that clears out by the end. Watching Spider-Man adds a unique touch to the meal.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is so rich and flavorful."

"It's a nice cozy spot, perfect for a date night."

"The dinner spots here really didn't disappoint."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging due to double-parked cars for takeout.

2

Credit cards are accepted, but check for any additional fees.

3

Restrooms are accessible through the kitchen, which may be unusual for some.

09
Johnny's Pastrami image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop offers a huge secluded patio with firepits and heat lamps for outdoor dining. Atmosphere stays friendly and relaxing, with a vibe similar to a spoken word cafe. Space includes a fully equipped bar and a rentable party room with DJ for social events.

An assembly line of pastrami sandwiches speeds up service during lunch rush. The back area offers a relaxing vibe for a quick break, and street parking is usually easy to find.

Dinner here has a family vibe with a focus on pastrami dishes. Meals feel friendly and casual, suitable for groups or friends.

People are saying

"I loved the outdoor seating, it was so nice and spacious."

"The pastrami sandwiches here are delicious and definitely recommended."

"These dinner spots have the most nostalgic pastrami."

Good to know

1

Johnny's Pastrami is open 24/7.

2

Parking is difficult around Johnny's Pastrami.

3

Food is cooked to order and ready in 10-15 minutes.

10
Maydan Market image 1

Market space centers around a central hearth with an amber glow and worldly vibes. Atmosphere feels cozy yet lively, with loud sounds and a loungy bar area. Variety of authentic dishes and craft cocktails create a dynamic, well-curated experience.

Lunch hours run from 11:00 am with the market closed between 2-5 pm. The food hall offers pastry-like Khachapuri but lacks music, creating an awkward atmosphere during lunch.

Dinner offers phenomenal meals that impress groups. The atmosphere suits social gatherings well.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, and the ambiance is excellent."

"You have to try the lamb shoulder for dinner; it's rich, smoky, and tender."

"I'm thrilled this Lunch Spot is in LA; it's a hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Parking is extremely limited, so consider alternative transportation options.

2

The market opens on Tuesday at 11:00 am for lunch.

3

The coffee bar opens at 8:00 am for early visitors.

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South Los Angeles, Los Angeles

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