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Top picks in Monrovia

Lunch spots and date spots

A lunch date requires a setting that is relaxed enough for conversation but focused enough to keep the meal moving.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Thai Thyme image 1
Thai Thyme image 2
Thai Thyme image 3
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Thai restaurant

Cozy space with soft lighting and soothing music creates a warm, relaxing atmosphere. Charming interior features high ceilings and exposed brick, complemented by a dog-friendly patio. Dining experience feels sophisticated yet comfortable, suitable for casual meals or date nights.

Lunch specials offer good variety and value. The back patio provides a relaxed setting for a leisurely meal.

Atmosphere suits date night with a relaxed vibe. It works well for a first date or a quiet evening out.

People are saying

"This Thai food is full of flavor and amazing."

"This lunch spot's Pad Thai was one of the better ones I had."

"The food here is amazing, making it a great spot for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Parking at the parking lot is free.

2

They have a dog-friendly patio.

3

You can choose the level of spiciness from 1 to 5.

02
Sushi Kyo image 1
Japanese restaurant

Upscale interior with sleek design and large windows creates a tranquil atmosphere ideal for watching chefs at the sushi bar. The space feels spotless and elegant, offering a comfortable setting for dates or business dinners. Fresh, high-quality sushi and a diverse menu complement the refined vibe.

Lunch offers reasonable prices with options like an appetizer, salad, and two rolls around $53. Lunch specials and bentos, including a lunch bento box and salmon inari, provide variety at good value.

Offers a perfect vibe for a date night with a setting suited for business dinners and gatherings with friends.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and melts in your mouth."

"The sushi and sashimi here are so fresh and delicious."

"The sushi here is fresh, plentiful, and very tasty."

Good to know

1

Sushi Kyo opened today, November 29.

2

The restaurant is located in the Vons shopping plaza with ample parking that can get busy on weekends.

3

Prices are reasonable, with an appetizer, salad, and two rolls costing around $53.

03
The State image 1
Restaurant

Industrial and chic decor shapes a small but impactful space with open sidewalk bar seating ideal for people watching. Atmosphere balances cozy and lively with a slower pace that suits conversation and enjoying drinks. Frequented for delicious burgers and creative cocktails, it offers a full bar and occasional live music with dancing.

Lunch offers a good variety on the regular menu. The atmosphere feels wonderful and fun, making it a solid spot for a midday break.

Bacon-wrapped dates and Brussels sprouts start the meal with bold flavors. Creme brulee and bacon dates stand out as memorable dishes. The setting suits a casual date night or catching up with friends.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and a great bargain."

"The blackberry burger at this lunch spot was perfectly cooked."

"The Date Spots here have amazing, perfectly cooked steaks and bold flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights.

2

Happy hour runs from 12 to 6 pm on weekdays with great specials.

3

Bar seating is available for walk-ins if reservations are full.

04
Cafe On Lemon image 1

Cafe blends rustic decor with cozy seating and a welcoming atmosphere. Outdoor seating adds to the relaxed vibe, while fresh coffee aromas fill the space. It stays quiet and less crowded, making it ideal for casual meetups or peaceful breaks.

Offers solid breakfast and lunch options with a consistent quality. Serves as a reliable spot for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The cafe's food is delicious and fresh, with perfectly seasoned filet mignon."

"The food at this lunch spot was outstanding."

"It's a gracious space with a relaxing atmosphere for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby at the lots behind the building.

2

They had a quoted wait time of 15 minutes, and we were seated just under that mark.

3

The prices at Cafe On Lemon are reasonable considering its proximity to Myrtle.

05
Mikomi Sushi Monrovia image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant combines rustic modern decor with a vibrant, trendy atmosphere popular among younger crowds. Robotic food delivery adds a unique, fun touch while a full bar and outdoor patio offer varied seating options. Space feels airy and comfortable, welcoming small dogs and sports fans alike.

Lunch offers bento boxes with teriyaki sauce that are large and filling. Prices start around $13++, making it a reasonable value for the area, with options available for takeout.

Rolls offer a solid start with fresh flavors that set a nice tone for a date night. The setting supports a relaxed vibe for couples to enjoy their meal.

People are saying

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

"The service here is friendly and prompt, making it a great spot for a date."

"This lunch spot is a great value, often under $20."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available daily with generous pricing.

2

Lunch specials end at 2:30 pm, offering good value.

3

Expect longer wait times during weekends, especially in the evening.

06
Lord Empanada image 1
Argentinian restaurant

Small space with cozy booths and homey decor creates an intimate, welcoming atmosphere. Loud ambiance contrasts with tranquil, coffee house vibe in dining area. Outdoor patio and flowery ornaments add charm, while family memorabilia on walls gives a personal touch.

Lunch offers delicious empanadas that stand out for their flavor. Many order through Uber Eats, and it's common to buy extra to take home.

Empanadas with chicken, spinach, and cheese or pizza fillings offer a tasty option for couples. Many find it easy to become regulars here for casual date meals.

People are saying

"These empanadas are so delicious and flavorful."

"You have to try the Nutella and banana empanada; it's amazing."

"The empanadas here are delicious and fluffy."

Good to know

1

Parking at Lord Empanada is limited and can be challenging to find.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of empanadas, including vegan options.

3

The seating area is small, making it difficult to find a seat during busy times.

07
Cafรฉ De Olla Restaurant image 1

Colorful, rustic decor creates a warm, inviting atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. Loud music and open space cause noise and echoes, making conversations challenging. Staff offer pan dulce from a dessert cart, adding a unique touch to the dining experience.

Hearty meals and authentic Mexican coffee make lunch here stand out. The spot captures the heart and soul of traditional Mexican cuisine with every dish.

Friendly and attentive service creates a welcoming vibe for couples. The birria and iced coffee offer tasty options for breakfast or lunch dates.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the chilaquiles and cafe de olla, is really good."

"I loved the delicious food and drinks at this Lunch Spot."

"I brought my wife here for the birria, and it was worth a special trip."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 40-75 minutes during busy weekend brunch hours.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties to avoid long wait times.

3

A 75-minute time limit on tables applies during peak weekend hours.

08
Girasol Cocina Mexicana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with bright, vibrant decor and culturally themed music creates a welcoming, lively atmosphere. The vibe feels like a family-friendly fiesta with a cozy, home-like ambiance. It often draws a busy crowd, especially during weekend mornings.

A Tuesday lunch buffet runs for $20, offering a solid value. The meal features contributions from skilled chefs that enhance the experience.

Lunch offers a delightful atmosphere supported by attentive chefs. The setting suits both intimate dates and family meals.

People are saying

"The food here was so delicious, I cleaned my plate."

"The food here is 100% authentic Mexican flavor, like eating at my tia's house."

"Our Lunch Spot server Priscilla was so pleasant and attentive."

Good to know

1

The brunch buffet is available on Tuesdays from 10am to 2pm.

2

A Saturday dinner buffet starts at 4:00pm.

3

Expect long wait times during busy weekend brunch hours.

09
Chili's Grill & Bar image 1

Restaurant combines typical American flair with a bar area featuring plenty of televisions for sports viewing. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and chill to lively and loud during game time or busy nights. Offers affordable meal deals with a casual, easygoing vibe.

Lunch specials offer great value and a comfortable dining atmosphere. Options cater well to midday meals with consistent quality.

Casual dining with a relaxed vibe suits date nights and birthday celebrations well. The setting supports easy conversation and a laid-back atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here has great flavor and is delicious."

"The food at this lunch spot is delicious and fresh."

"The food here is delicious for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available only at the bar.

2

Chili's offers a great happy hour on weekends.

3

The wait time during dinner hours is typically 5-10 minutes.

10
Dave's Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Urban art gallery vibe with colorful paintings and a yellow rubber chicken theme sets a distinctive scene. Atmosphere feels chill and relaxed with funky music and a clean, comfortable space. Seating includes both indoor with air conditioning and outdoor options.

Lunch here offers hot chicken but lacks appeal for a midday break. The experience does not encourage repeat visits during lunch hours.

Tables are easy to find, making seating simple. The menu features spicy dishes and chicken sliders that stand out for their flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, well-done, and crispy."

"I highly recommend this lunch spot; the food was great."

"The chicken sliders here are some of the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

On October 24, they offered a free slider day.

2

The place is very clean, including the restrooms.

3

Expect long lines during peak hours.

11
Domenico's Italian Steakhouse image 1

Small Italian restaurant with intimate candlelit tables and a covered patio that accommodates large groups comfortably. Atmosphere blends classic 70s music with a renovated, comfortable vibe. Open bar and party rooms support lively group events.

Lunch offers a buffet style setup with many choices from the dinner menu at half price. The $20 all you can eat option features a variety of delicious Italian dishes enjoyed by many.

Low lighting creates a cozy, romantic atmosphere ideal for dinner dates. The menu includes a fantastic T-bone steak and dishes with ricotta cheese that don't upset lactose intolerant diners.

People are saying

"This steak is the best I've had in a long time."

"The lunch buffet here has a great spread of delicious food."

"The lunch buffet here is delicious and a great price."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 50% off steaks before 5:30pm.

2

Reservations can help minimize noise and ensure a booth.

3

The all-you-can-eat lunch buffet costs $20.

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Monrovia, California

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