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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Monrovia's best

Lunch spots

A midday break should be a deliberate pause, not a rushed compromise on quality.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sushi Kyo image 1
Sushi Kyo image 2
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Japanese restaurant

Upscale interior with sleek design and large windows creates a tranquil spot for lunch. Fresh, high-quality sushi and diverse menu offer lunch specials like bento boxes at good value. Perfect for relaxed dates or business dinners with a spotless, elegant 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.

People are saying

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

"The udon here is rich and full of flavor."

"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.

02
Kin Khao Thai Eatery image 1
Thai restaurant

Casual Thai spot shines with unique dishes and a lively atmosphere. Spacious plaza and great lighting make lunch breaks feel relaxed yet energizing. Perfect for quick bites or meals with colleagues in a homie vibe.

Lunch offers a pleasant atmosphere with a variety of delicious appetizers and main dishes. It suits a quick break or a relaxed meal with colleagues.

People are saying

"It's a casual place with flavorful, generous portions of Thai comfort food."

"The Tom Yum soup is super flavorful with fresh shrimp."

"The Lunch Spot appetizers and main dishes had amazing flavors."

Good to know

1

Check in via Yelp for a free Thai tea promo.

2

Dine Thai LA event runs from March 21-28 with four set menus at $27.

3

The restaurant has plenty of free parking available.

03
Chicken King Express image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Casual Mediterranean spot shines with freshly cooked chicken kebabs and smooth garlic sauce. Lunch specials pack a flavorful punch that energizes midday meals. Enjoy seating indoors or on the patio with free parking in a relaxed strip mall setting.

Lunch features specials that change regularly. The food delivers a flavorful punch that stands out during midday meals.

People are saying

"The chicken and beef kebabs are super delicious."

"The garlic sauce at this Lunch Spot is unmatched and smooth."

"I found the hummus delicious, even though I don't usually eat it."

Good to know

1

There is no customer restroom at Chicken King Express.

2

It is best to call or order ahead because they take about 15 to 20 minutes to cook everything fresh.

3

The prices were a bit pricey but fairly normal for Mediterranean food.

04
TK Cafe & Hawaiian BBQ image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Small cafe serves generous portions of authentic Hawaiian BBQ with fast service in a clean, pleasant space. Popular Chicken Teriyaki plate lunch suits both lunch and dinner at affordable prices. Parking is available but tight, and the place is wheelchair accessible.

Small family-run counter serves Hawaiian inspired plate lunch with generous portions. The #1 Chicken Teriyaki is large enough for lunch and dinner and prices stay affordable.

People are saying

"The Thai tea here is amazing and very flavorful."

"The Chicken Katsu here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The chicken teriyaki at this Lunch Spot is a generous serving."

Good to know

1

Weekly specials are available, offering different deals each week.

2

The average wait time for food is around 12-15 minutes.

3

Parking is available in a lot, providing free options.

05
Tacos and Papas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot with a laid back atmosphere and cool 80s vibe. Serves authentic Mexican cuisine with quick, satisfying lunch portions. Friendly, roomy setting makes it perfect for a casual midday break.

Lunch offers just enough portions to satisfy hunger without leftovers. Meals come out quickly and taste good, making it a reliable spot for a midday break.

People are saying

"I found the quesa-birria tacos to be amazing."

"I loved the vegetarian choices, especially the Brussels sprouts."

"I found my new favorite taco Lunch Spot; the shrimp tacos were divine."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special deals on tacos.

2

Dinner for two costs around $40 with drinks.

3

Prices are competitive for the area.

06
Thai Thyme image 1
Thai restaurant

Cozy space with soft lighting and dog-friendly patio offers a warm, relaxing vibe. Lunch specials bring good variety and value. High ceilings and exposed brick add charm for a sophisticated yet comfortable dining experience.

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

People are saying

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

"The back patio is perfect for a quiet, relaxing lunch."

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

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.

07
Lord Empanada image 1
Argentinian restaurant

Cozy booths and homey decor create an intimate vibe. Lunch shines with delicious empanadas popular for takeout. Outdoor patio and family memorabilia add charm and warmth.

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.

People are saying

"These empanadas are so delicious and flavorful."

"I loved the vegetarian empanadas, especially the soyrizo and potato."

"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.

08
J B Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Simple burger joint offers a nostalgic vibe with wax paper-wrapped sandwiches and clean indoor seating. Lunch features a cheeseburger special and standout lunch sauce. Outdoor tables provide a quieter option for small parties.

Small parties find this spot good for lunch with options like the turkey club sandwich and cheeseburger special. The lunch sauce stands out as a highlight.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast burrito here to be delicious and amazing."

"The burritos here are delicious and a great size."

"This diner has great char-grilled burgers and classic comfort food."

Good to know

1

Dine-in, outdoor seating, and takeout options are available.

2

The prices at J B Burgers are reasonable for the portion sizes.

3

Parking is available in a public lot or on the street nearby.

09
Taisho image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese spot offers strong flavors and large portions at low prices. Inside seating feels dated with bad vibes, but many grab food to-go. Known for solid value and quick service, it shines as a reliable lunch spot in the plaza.

Strong flavors and solid value make this a reliable choice for lunch. Frequent visits confirm it stands out in the plaza for midday meals.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and reasonably priced."

"I found the food to be very good and affordable."

"This is the best lunch spot for flavors and value."

Good to know

1

Taisho is closed on Sundays.

2

Feeding a family of four costs around $40.

3

Parking is easy to find nearby.

10
Cafe On Lemon image 1

Cafe features rustic decor and cozy seating for a welcoming vibe. It offers solid lunch options with consistent quality. Outdoor seating and fresh coffee aromas create a relaxed atmosphere ideal for peaceful breaks or casual meetups.

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."

"Their ice vanilla latte with almond milk is expertly crafted."

"The food at this lunch spot was outstanding."

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.

11
T Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Spacious dining area with vintage decor offers a cozy spot for family meals. Lunch features affordable burgers and burritos with a kids' menu. Outdoor seating and ample parking make visits easy and relaxing.

Lunch offers burgers and burritos priced around 4.99. An after-school lunch menu for kids provides enjoyable options. Arriving before the lunch rush helps avoid crowds.

People are saying

"This cheeseburger is juicy, flavorful, and pretty good."

"I always came here for lunch and enjoyed the burgers and burritos."

"I found the breakfast burritos here to be the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

The family pack of burgers and fries is a good deal.

2

Expect a 15-20 minute wait for food during busy hours.

3

T Burgers offers a variety of foods including burgers, breakfast items, and burritos.

12
Mikomi Sushi Monrovia image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi spot blends rustic modern decor with a lively vibe and robotic food delivery for fun. Lunch features large bento boxes with teriyaki at fair prices. Outdoor patio and full bar add comfort for small dogs and sports fans.

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.

People are saying

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

"The happy hour specials here are really generous."

"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.

13
The State image 1
Restaurant

Industrial and chic decor creates a cozy yet lively vibe perfect for conversation and people watching. Enjoy delicious burgers and creative cocktails at the full bar. Midday breaks shine with a fun atmosphere and solid lunch menu options.

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

People are saying

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

"I thought the burgers here were the best I ever had."

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

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.

14
Seasoning Alley image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Cozy Mediterranean spot shines with flavorful kabobs and a calm atmosphere perfect for lunch. Outdoor patio welcomes pets, adding to the family-owned charm. Relax here with healthy options and occasional lively game moments.

Offers a calm atmosphere with healthy options for a light lunch. Suitable for a relaxed meal with family, providing ample time to enjoy the food.

People are saying

"The staff's friendly and attentive service made my Lunch Spot experience smooth."

"The outdoor seating is spacious and pet-friendly."

"The Mediterranean food, especially the kebabs, is tasty and well-cooked."

Good to know

1

Prices range from $60 to $100 for a typical visit.

2

The restaurant is not safe for people with gluten/wheat allergies or celiac disease.

3

Expect generous portions for lunch meals.

15
The Loose Teas Cafe and Gifts image 1

Cozy tea house offers high-quality loose leaf teas and healthy sandwiches perfect for a quick lunch. Family-run spot has a quiet, relaxing atmosphere with outdoor seating. Unique touches include board games and tea gifts for a fun, calm break.

Offers healthy and budget-friendly sandwiches for a quick lunch. Ambience suits enjoying lunch alone comfortably.

People are saying

"I thought the tea here was the best I've ever had."

"I thought the sandwiches were delicious and packed with fresh ingredients."

"This Lunch Spot has fair and affordable prices."

Good to know

1

The cafe has 6 tables and ample parking.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments accepted, but no personal checks.

3

Their hours are inconsistent and change throughout the day.

16
Cafe Mundial image 1

Spacious cafe offers a quiet ambiance and cozy decor perfect for casual dining. It hosts regular Tuesday meetups, making it a reliable lunch spot. Authentic meals come at reasonable prices, ideal for small gatherings.

Regular meetups happen here every Tuesday for lunch. It serves as a consistent lunch spot for planned gatherings.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be excellent and perfectly prepared."

"I found the weekend brunch menu to be excellent."

"The food at this lunch spot is consistently delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for weekend brunch due to high demand.

2

Prices for main dishes are reasonable, averaging around $18.

3

Expect a waitlist during peak hours, especially on weekends.

17
Nano Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Cozy diner with wood-paneled walls offers a family-style menu perfect for lunch. Busy yet laid-back vibe welcomes both regulars and newcomers. Covered patio adds charm to this neighborhood spot ideal for a casual midday meal.

Charming family-style diner serves a variety of breakfast and lunch options. Open only for these meals, it draws a steady crowd during the work week.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and fresh."

"You'll find delicious classic breakfast staples here."

"The staff here are always quick and friendly."

Good to know

1

Nano Cafe opens at 6:00 a.m. and closes at 3:00 p.m.

2

The cafe has a huge breakfast selection available all day.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

18
Yoshinoya image 1
Restaurant

Fast food restaurant offers quick and easy ordering with good value meals focused on Japanese-style dishes like Gyudon beef and chicken teriyaki bowls. Atmosphere is generally clean with ample parking available. Advertising highlights new menu items but wait times can be long.

People are saying

"I used the drive-thru and the server was patient."

"I loved the Japanese food, especially the chicken teriyaki bowls."

"I can't help but love the Gyudon beef at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available at this location.

2

The restaurant maintains a clean environment for diners.

3

The ordering process is quick and easy.

19
Jake's Roadhouse image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue spot shines with huge portions and beef ribs that locals love. Colorful truck stop decor and road signs create a casual vibe. Busy during lunch, it offers solid midday meals in a lively, diner-style setting.

Lunch hours get very busy here, so expect a crowd. The spot serves solid options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it a versatile choice for midday meals.

People are saying

"The BBQ ribs here are fall-off-the-bone tender and delicious."

"These burgers are awesome and tasty."

"The food at this lunch spot is delicious and top shelf."

Good to know

1

Parking lots are a couple of blocks away if street parking is full.

2

Prices for combo plates start at $25 for chicken and a sausage link.

3

Lunch time is busy, so expect longer wait times.

20
Girasol Cocina Mexicana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, vibrant decor and culturally themed music create a lively, family-friendly fiesta vibe. Tuesday lunch buffet offers skilled chefs' dishes at great value. Cozy, busy spot perfect for a home-like ambiance and social meals.

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

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.

21
Cafรฉ De Olla Restaurant image 1

Colorful, rustic decor and pan dulce cart create a warm vibe. Hearty meals and authentic Mexican coffee shine at lunch. Loud music and open space cause noise, making chats tough but lively.

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.

People are saying

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

"I found the breakfast here delicious and packed with flavor."

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

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.

22
Chili's Grill & Bar image 1

Offers affordable meal deals and a casual vibe perfect for lunch. Plenty of televisions for sports create a lively atmosphere during games. Dining is comfortable with consistent quality, making it a great spot for midday meals.

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

People are saying

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

"It's a great place to watch the game with a fun atmosphere."

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

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.

23
Taqueria El Diablo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a chill vibe with lively music and a small old town feel. Lunch features affordable prices under $5 and fresh, rich flavors like the chorizo potato egg burrito. Indoor and outdoor seating with large flatscreen TVs makes it great for family and friends.

Lunch offers rich, fresh textures like the chorizo potato egg breakfast burrito that stays flavorful even after 30 minutes. Meals come at affordable prices under $5, with food that tastes better than expected.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and incredibly fresh."

"I loved their 99 cent Taco Tuesdays."

"The aguas frescas at this Lunch Spot are insanely tasty."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features tacos for 98 cents each with various meat options.

2

Expect long lines and busy dining during Taco Tuesdays.

3

Parking is free and available in nearby public lots.

24
Le Roy's image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Old school diner with 1950s style offers a cozy, bustling atmosphere and classic counter seating. Busy spot serves American breakfast and lunch, with the Reuben sandwich as a standout. Outdoor seating adds a sunny spot amid lively neighborhood activity.

Busy local spot serves American breakfast and lunch with plenty of options. The Reuben sandwich stands out as an excellent lunch choice.

People are saying

"This diner's classic breakfast dishes are amazing and cannot be beaten."

"It's a busy local spot, a real treasure for breakfast."

"The lunch menu here is much better."

Good to know

1

Le Roy's closes at 3pm.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early.

3

Portion sizes are generous, often enough for two.

25
Chick-fil-A image 1
Fast food restaurant

Spacious dining area blends Googie architecture with modern design for a clean, pleasant lunch spot. Heated drive-through and self-serve drinks add convenience. Nearby park offers a great place for kids, making it a family-friendly fast food experience.

Offers a pleasant lunch experience with a nearby park that makes it easy to bring kids along.

People are saying

"The fast food here is quick and the food tastes fresh."

"The dining area felt spacious and comfortable."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is really good and crispy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and friendly staff.

2

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible for customers.

3

The drive-thru operates efficiently, even during busy hours.

26
BBQ Blues image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Brick walls and live blues music create a cozy vibe with classic charm. Lunch features a brisket sandwich with salad or fries. Regulars bring authentic local energy to both quiet meals and loud, energetic nights.

Great lunch specials include a brisket sandwich served with a choice of salad or fries.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the ribs and brisket, is so tender and well-seasoned."

"The service here is great and the playlist creates a nice atmosphere."

"The beer here was excellent and good."

Good to know

1

Expect limited meat options during busy hours, especially on weekends.

2

Prices are affordable, with meals for a family of four under $100.

3

Live blues performances occur on weekends, enhancing the dining experience.

27
Dave's Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Urban art gallery vibe shines with colorful paintings and a yellow rubber chicken theme. Chill atmosphere pairs well with funky music and clean, comfy seating indoors and outdoors. Lunch offers hot chicken but lacks midday appeal.

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

People are saying

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

"The fast food staff here are so helpful and patient."

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

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.

28
Domenico's Italian Steakhouse image 1

Small Italian spot shines with intimate candlelit tables and a buffet lunch offering half-price dinner favorites. Classic 70s tunes mix with a covered patio perfect for groups. Open bar and party rooms add lively vibes for 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.

People are saying

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

"The patio is great for enjoying the ambiance and fresh air."

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

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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