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Guide to South LA

Lunch spots

You need a lunch spot that is consistent enough to become a regular part of your weekly rhythm.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Clemenโ€™s Kitchen ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ image 1
Clemenโ€™s Kitchen ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ image 2
Clemenโ€™s Kitchen ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ image 3
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Mexican restaurant offers a homey atmosphere with soft 70s Mexico City music and a small garden for outdoor seating. Food is fresh and satisfying at lunch, making it a reliable midday spot after errands or travel.

Food comes out fresh and satisfying during lunch hours. It works well as a reliable spot for a midday meal after travel or errands.

People are saying

"The handmade tortillas here make the Mexican food amazing."

"I loved the tacos, especially the birria."

"You have to try the gorditas; they're delicious."

Good to know

1

It is BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

2

The restaurant offers vegetarian options for diverse diets.

3

They close at 7 pm on some days, so plan accordingly.

02
Softies Burger - USC Village image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Open space with pet-friendly patio and smash burgers creates a casual vibe perfect for lunch. Friendly staff stay calm during busy times, enhancing the relaxed atmosphere. Nostalgic diner decor and lively music add charm to every visit.

A casual vibe makes it easy to relax during lunch. Staff stay friendly and calm even when busy or facing tech issues. Both breakfast and lunch offerings are solid choices.

People are saying

"I found the smash burgers here to be fantastic."

"I found 2-hour free parking available."

"The Classic Double with cheese was juicy and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

They offer free parking for 2 hours.

2

A double-double, fries, and soda cost around $20.

3

The restaurant can get crowded during peak hours.

03
Robowok Mini Bowls - USC image 1

Robot chef delivers quick meals in a clean, affordable space. Mini bowls offer satisfying portions perfect for a workday lunch near campus. Seating creates a nice vibe for a convenient, healthy meal.

Affordable and convenient options make this a solid choice for a workday lunch. Mini bowls offer a quick, satisfying meal near campus.

People are saying

"The Mapo Tofu has a perfect numbing spice and a great kick."

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

"This is a good, affordable lunch spot for my workday."

Good to know

1

The prices at Robowok Mini Bowls - USC are very affordable.

2

The plaza has ample parking and is conveniently located near the school.

3

The robot chef cooks quickly, providing fast service.

04
Ying Hana Teppanyaki image 1
Teppanyaki restaurant

Teppanyaki spot serves huge portions with fresh, made-to-order food and quick service. Lunch combos offer hibachi teriyaki shrimp and steak enough for multiple meals. Atmosphere is basic, perfect for quick bites or takeout with reasonable pricing.

Combo lunches feature hibachi teriyaki shrimp and scallops served with fried rice. Lunch portions include enough steak to last through multiple meals. Food cooks fresh from the lunch menu.

People are saying

"I let the sauce glaze the fried rice for a sweet-spicy crunch."

"This Lunch Spot has amazing portions, I saved money and had leftovers!"

"The salmon here is phenomenal and the taste is on point."

Good to know

1

The meal costs about $12 and is enough for two people.

2

Portions are huge, often leaving leftovers for later.

3

They offer various combo options like chicken, salmon, and shrimp.

05
USC Village image 1
Shopping mall

Open-air shopping with traditional brick buildings offers a lively, relaxed vibe. Benches near Cava and Dulce make a great lunch spot for coffee or meals. Young crowds gather in courtyards, adding to the vibrant atmosphere perfect for people watching.

Benches provide a spot to relax with coffee or lunch. Options like Cava and Dulce offer varied choices. The area suits people watching during lunch breaks.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great food and outdoor dining here."

"I found great shopping and healthy restaurants all in one mall."

"It's a pleasant lunch spot for people watching and relaxing."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for up to two hours, making it convenient for quick visits.

2

USC Village features a Target and Trader Joe's for grocery shopping.

3

The area offers a variety of dining options, including several eateries.

06
Fuegos LA image 1
Restaurant

Eclectic decor and ambient lighting create a cozy, unique vibe perfect for lunch or dinner. Live music by Asadito in the parking lot adds a lively touch. Enjoy Argentinian food and wine in a warm, community-focused setting.

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.

People are saying

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

"The wine selection here is very good and elevates the experience."

"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.

07
Bruxie image 1
Chicken restaurant

Casual spot near campus with lively vibe and comfortable seating. Famous for spicy Nashville hot chicken served all day. Lines form fast at lunch, so pre-ordering is smart.

Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner all day. Lines form quickly, so pre-ordering or arriving early helps avoid the lunch rush.

People are saying

"The chicken sandwich here is super crispy with just the right amount of heat."

"The chicken and waffles here are super crispy and flavorful."

"The chicken tenders at this Lunch Spot are crispy and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Bruxie serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner all day.

2

Expect a short line during off-peak hours.

3

There is limited seating inside, which fills up quickly.

08
Qin West Noodle image 1
Chinese noodle restaurant

Enjoy authentic noodles and spicy soup in a cozy space with soft lighting. Lunch is quiet with a full orange chicken plate and Thai tea for $10. Flexible seating suits small groups and families.

Lunch offers a full orange chicken plate with rice and Thai tea for about $10. The spot stays quiet and empty during lunch hours.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese noodles here to be delicious and authentic."

"This place is so Kid Friendly, my son said he'd give it 100 stars!"

"The beef noodle soup at this Lunch Spot has great taste and plenty of beef."

Good to know

1

Qin West Noodle offers free parking for customers.

2

You can order food and pick it up at the front.

3

Liang Pi often sells out quickly, so arrive early.

09
Everytable image 1
Restaurant

Offers microwaveable healthy meals priced between $6 and $9, perfect for quick work lunches. Atmosphere is clean and convenient, attracting students and budget diners near campus. Focuses on accessible nutrition for low-income communities with evolving EBT/SNAP policies.

Offers quick snacks and meals suitable for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Popular choice for work lunches among coworkers.

People are saying

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

"I found the healthy foods here to be delicious and affordable."

"This lunch spot's meals are delicious, nutritious, and worth it."

Good to know

1

The meals are very affordable, ranging from $6 to $9 per plate.

2

On Fridays, food is 50% off if purchased early in the morning.

3

Only those in the hot meals program can now use EBT/SNAP at EveryTable.

10
La Chuperia The Miche Spot image 1

Warehouse-style space with Mexican-themed decor offers a festive vibe with pool games and a jukebox. Lunch specials near the Science Center come with $4 beer, making it a great quick midday meal spot. Dim lighting suits both lively and quiet moods.

Lunch specials offer good value and come with $4 beer during lunch hours. The spot works well for a quick midday meal, especially near the Science Center.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I loved the delicious, perfectly seasoned fish tacos."

"The carne asada tacos at this Lunch Spot were delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer tacos for $2 each, with a special deal of 2 for $14.

2

Prices on the menu may differ from what you are charged at the restaurant.

3

The restaurant does not have a full bar, only beer and wine available.

11
L.A. CRAZY CRAB image 1
Restaurant

Spacious spot offers fresh seafood boils and a full bar with Micheladas. Staff like Kimberly provide personalized service during lunch. A DJ spins throwbacks, creating a vibrant vibe that's family-friendly and welcoming.

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.

People are saying

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

"I felt so comfortable and right at home here."

"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.

12
Boil Daddy - DTLA image 1
Cajun restaurant

Small, lively spot offers bold Cajun flavors in a cramped, buzzing space with music videos. Lunch shines with Fisherman's lunch and Crispy Mahalo Shrimp, served with rice or fries. Casual vibe invites hands-on eating and social dining.

Lunch features seafood dishes like Fisherman's lunch and Daddy's shrimp bowl. Options include Crispy Mahalo Shrimp served with rice or fries, plus crab cakes with fries.

People are saying

"I thought the seafood boil here had the best flavor and seasoning."

"The Lunch Spot food is hot, fresh, and delicious."

"I found the parking available here to be good."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the restaurant.

2

They only accept cash at the register.

3

Takeout or delivery is recommended due to safety concerns in the area.

13
Louisiana Fried Chicken & Fish image 1

Known for crispy, spicy fried chicken, this take-out spot offers affordable lunch specials under $10. It serves multiple fish options with good portion sizes. Busy, family-friendly vibe suits quick, last-minute meals despite some cleanliness concerns.

Affordable lunch specials offer good value and taste. The spot works well for a quick, last-minute meal.

People are saying

"This American food, the fried chicken, was the best I've ever had."

"I thought the seasoned fish here was very well prepared."

"The lunch specials here are affordable and delicious."

Good to know

1

Louisiana Fried Chicken & Fish is a take-out only spot.

2

The price for four pieces of chicken without fries is $8.99.

3

Fries are now charged separately from the chicken.

14
Taqueria Los Anaya image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy space with Mexican-style paper crafts and vibrantly colored walls creates a warm vibe. Shrimp burritos shine as a fresh, filling lunch choice. Excellent margaritas and a great bar add to the genuine Mexican dining experience.

Shrimp burritos stand out as a fresh, filling lunch option. The spot offers authentic, neighborhood vibes perfect for a midday meal.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is flavorful, fresh, and beautifully plated."

"The enchiladas are packed with meat and generously portioned."

"This Lunch Spot's steak was perfectly cooked and incredibly tender."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Weekly specials include 90-minute bottomless mimosas for $22 per person on Sundays.

3

They offer BOGO half-off Margaritas on Mondays.

15
La Carreta Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant buzzes with authentic accordion music and a lively vibe. Big tortas with fresh handmade tortillas make lunch quick and filling. Salsa bar adds flavorful zest to affordable meals in a charming setting.

Big tortas serve as a full meal or split between lunch and a snack. The spot moves fast during lunch, making it easy to grab a quick bite or take food back to the office.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is authentic and packed with flavor."

"The tortillas here are freshly made by hand and piping hot."

"This lunch spot's burritos and quesadillas are delicious."

Good to know

1

Burritos cost only $10, making them an affordable choice.

2

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating areas.

3

There is plenty of on-site parking available for visitors.

16
Cafecito de La Crepe image 1
French restaurant

Cozy spot with colorful murals and soft lighting offers a warm vibe. Known for crepes served all day, including hearty options like eggs Benedict with salmon. Open street views add to its casual-upscale feel, perfect for quick or leisurely meals.

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.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the amazing crepes and omelettes; they're delicious."

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

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.

17
JK Fish Market image 1
Fish & chips restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood with homemade tartar sauce and generous portions. Lunch features a 3 piece + 5 shrimp combo at a great price. Positive energy fills the clean space with free parking available nearby.

Lunch offers fish and shrimp combos at a great price. The 3 piece + 5 shrimp lunch special stands out as a popular choice.

People are saying

"The seafood here is perfectly seasoned and cooked just right."

"The food here is delicious and always served hot."

"I always get the lunch special with shrimp."

Good to know

1

The market accepts EBT for purchasing fish.

2

There is free parking available, but the area is challenging to access.

3

Expect little wait time during peak hours.

18
Viztango Cafe image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant serves generous portions in a family-friendly and cozy setting with lively vibes. Lunch is quick with fast pasta specials at $12, perfect for a midday break. Seating suits couples and groups, often with soccer games on TV for entertainment.

Lunch offers Italian pasta served quickly, almost at fast food speed. The lunch special provides a large portion for just $12, making it a solid choice for a midday break.

People are saying

"The pasta here is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"This Italian lunch spot is perfect and reasonably priced."

"The seafood here is delicious and freshly made to order."

Good to know

1

The restaurant hosts a 28-inch pizza challenge for teams on special occasions.

2

Parking can be problematic, so arrive early or consider alternative options.

3

The menu features a diverse selection, including pizza, pasta, and burgers.

19
Fish Town Outlet image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood outlet shines with takeout-only service and generous portions. Lunch combos offer freshly fried fish and shrimp with flexible sides like white rice. Catfish and onion rings are standout favorites, making it a hidden gem for quick, tasty meals.

Lunch combos feature freshly fried fish and shrimp. Options include substituting fries with white rice. The fish is broken down and cooked to order for lunch.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so good, I could eat it without sauce."

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"I loved the fresh fried fish and shrimp at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Fish Town Outlet is primarily a takeout place with no dining inside.

2

Prices at Fish Town Outlet are very reasonable for the quality of food.

3

They offer unique menu items like frog legs and other specialties.

20
Thai Corner Food Express image 1

Interior feels like a food court with cozy, modern design. Lunch specials are quick and tasty, especially the chicken basil dish. Offers vegan and meat options with good portions and fair prices, making it a chill, family-friendly spot.

Lunch specials offer quick, delicious bites with the chicken basil special standing out as filling and flavorful. Some options lean heavily on rice rather than protein, which may affect satisfaction.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always made with care."

"I found the Thai tea here to be the best I ever had."

"The lunch specials here are delicious and filling."

Good to know

1

Expect short wait times during peak hours.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of meat and vegetarian options.

3

Most dishes can be made vegan upon request.

21
Habit Burger & Grill image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Casual hamburger spot with a cozy atmosphere perfect for lunch. Fresh, delicious burgers shine on a straightforward menu. Clean space with inside and outside seating offers a welcoming vibe for a relaxing midday break.

Offers a relaxing atmosphere for lunch with consistent visits indicating steady appeal. Serves satisfying meals suitable for a casual midday break.

People are saying

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

"These burgers are amazing, fresh, and delicious."

"I found this lunch spot to be a nice place to eat."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

3

The menu has a variety of options for everyone.

22
LA Prime Caffe # 2 image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Small, intimate spot with a homey vibe and soft music perfect for family talks. Offers a wide range of affordable meals with standout spicy grilled chicken sandwiches for lunch. Friendly atmosphere draws neighborhood regulars.

Offers a wide selection of breakfast and lunch options with good value for money. Lunch sandwiches, like the spicy grilled chicken, are flavorful without being too spicy.

People are saying

"I thought the food tasted and looked great."

"I found the breakfast burrito to be perfect."

"This Lunch Spot's sandwiches are flavorful and not too spicy."

Good to know

1

Parking is minimal, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

The dining space is small, leading to potential wait times.

3

They close for a few hours between lunch and dinner.

23
Dulan's On Crenshaw image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food shines with big portions perfect for lunch. Modern renovation meets a homey atmosphere with soft gospel music. Spacious dining and a patio for private events make it welcoming and flexible.

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.

People are saying

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

"The American food, especially the fried chicken, is crispy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned."

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

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.

24
Delicious at The Dunbar image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Upscale Southern restaurant shines with live jazz music and historical jazz decor. Lunch offers quick, tasty options perfect for a weekday break. Warm, inviting space blends modern style with cultural homage for a chill vibe.

Lunch options include a Dine LA menu with quick choices. The spot suits a weekday lunch break or a casual meal with a friend.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and well presented."

"I love the live jazz music they have on Sundays."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was quick and hospitable."

Good to know

1

Brunch includes endless Mimosas for $25.

2

Live jazz happens on Sundays from 2:30 to 4:30pm.

3

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

25
Harold & Belle's image 1
Creole restaurant

Creole restaurant offers a fish special for lunch with corn and salad. Attentive service shines even in busy times. Enjoy live jazz music in a lively bar area with expertly mixed cocktails. The interior blends Southern charm with modern style.

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

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.

26
Momota Ramen House image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, cozy spot with a chill vibe and Ghibli films playing softly. Quick, kind service makes it a great lunch spot for a fast, soothing meal. Known for rich, spicy ramen with thin noodles, perfect for quiet dinners or casual hangouts.

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

People are saying

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

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

"The tonkatsu bento set for lunch is perfectly crisp and just like in Japan."

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.

27
East-West Fish Market image 1
Seafood market

Seafood market buzzes with fresh fish and crispy shrimp. Lunch offers a shrimp-fish combo with affordable sides. Crowds flock for well-seasoned flavors in a busy, no-frills spot.

Lunch features a special combo with shrimp, fish, and fries. Sides are priced around $1.12 each, though that pricing seems unclear.

People are saying

"I found the fish here to be so fresh and delicious."

"I questioned what I would do with just the sides from this Lunch Spot."

"Their homemade Tartar Sauce is a bit sweet and garlicky."

Good to know

1

East-West Fish Market accepts EBT payments.

2

Parking is available in front or on the side street.

3

Expect a 15-20 minute wait for orders during busy times.

28
Imperial Fish Market image 1
Seafood restaurant

Renovated seafood market offers fresh, well-seasoned fish with large portions at an $11.99 lunch special. Space is limited with no dine-in, creating a crowded atmosphere in a rough area. Wait times stay around 15-20 minutes, and food stamps are accepted.

Offers an $11.99 lunch special all year with large portions of fish and shrimp plates. Serves as a swing by for lunch or early dinner spot.

People are saying

"I found the fish to be excellent and seasoned perfectly."

"The food here is delicious and cooked to perfection."

"This lunch spot's fried fish and shrimp are crispy and delicious."

Good to know

1

The wait time is about 15-20 minutes during peak hours.

2

The market offers a $11.99 lunch special available all year long.

3

They recently started accepting food stamps for purchases.

29
La Barca Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican charm and strong margaritas create a relaxed vibe perfect for lunch or early dinner. Enjoy authentic dishes like enchiladas and caldo de pollo with friends. On-site parking and mariachi music add to the beautiful setting and great value.

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

People are saying

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

"Parking is available in the small lot out back."

"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.

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