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Local picks in Pasadena

Lunch spots

A midday break away from the desk is essential to getting through the rest of the day.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Green Street Café image 1
Green Street Café image 2
Green Street Café image 3
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Mediterranean restaurant

Small Mediterranean café offers crispy falafel and well-cooked kebabs in a cozy indoor space or on a pleasant outdoor patio with mountain views. Perfect for quick, tasty lunches with seating for groups or solo visits. Atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming.

Offers a quick lunch option with outside seating available after the rush. Serves delicious meals suitable for groups or solo visits.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is delicious and comforting."

"I found the chicken kebab delicious and made fresh per order."

"I really liked the chicken gyro wrap at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

They offer outdoor seating with a nice view.

2

There is plenty of free street parking on Green Street.

3

The prices for the meals are reasonable for the quality.

02
Mendocino Farms image 1
Sandwich shop

Bright, clean space with locally sourced ingredients makes for a fresh lunch. Quick service suits busy weekdays despite parking challenges. Casual vibe fits social gatherings, though indoor seating can feel cold and chaotic.

Offers quick, fresh, and healthy options ideal for a weekday lunch. Parking gets busy during the lunch rush but the food is worth the wait.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here to be tasty and interesting."

"Billy recommended the Thai Mango Salad and it was great."

"The service at this lunch spot was super friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult during lunch rush hours, so arrive early.

2

The menu features a variety of sandwiches, salads, and sides made with local ingredients.

3

Catering options are available for events and gatherings.

03
Smokehouse Social Barbecue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Bright, clean space with full bar and many TV screens creates a lively, laid-back vibe. Enjoy authentic Texas barbecue with 80's music in the background. Lunch specials offer strong value and staff support group outings well.

Lunch features a lunch special that offers strong value. Meals suit group outings with staff.

People are saying

"I thought the brisket was immaculate and mouthwateringly good."

"This Barbecue is the best I've had in my life."

"The brisket and pulled-pork at this Lunch Spot are excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking is available across at Vons, which solves the parking problem.

2

The wait might be a bit long depending on the number of people.

3

It could get crowded, so I recommend making a reservation if they allow that.

04
Kyushu Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, family-run spot with bright red walls offers a cozy vibe and fresh sushi made with real wasabi. Lunch specials bring large portions and great value, perfect for a casual meal. Sparkling sake adds a unique touch to the inviting atmosphere.

Lunch specials deliver great value with large portions and variety. Bento boxes and bowls offer a lot of food at an affordable price.

People are saying

"I had some of the best sushi I ever experienced here."

"The lunch specials here are an awesome deal."

"The tempura here is so crispy and fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

2

Parking is available on the side, but access requires a left turn on a one-way street.

3

Lunch specials offer good value for those looking for a budget-friendly option.

05
Koko’s Mediterranean Cafe image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small dining room with outdoor patio offers a relaxed vibe. Lunch lines show its popularity. Beef kabob is a fantastic choice with generous portions and award-winning Mediterranean flavors.

Lines form out the door at lunch, showing how popular the spot is. The beef kabob stands out as a fantastic choice that often leads to ordering more food for later.

People are saying

"This Mediterranean food's beef kabob plate is perfectly seasoned and tender."

"I thought the hummus was a chef's kiss."

"This lunch spot's food is fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect a line during peak hours, but it moves quickly.

2

Parking is busy, but spots turn over quickly.

3

Prices are reasonable considering the quality of food.

06
Haruka Sake and Sushi Pasadena image 1

Newly remodeled space offers cozy lighting and fresh sashimi that arrives quickly. Lunch features complimentary sashimi and bento boxes for all ages. Atmosphere feels like hanging out at a good friend's place with modern furnishings.

Complimentary sashimi enhances the lunch experience. Sushi and lunch bento boxes satisfy both adults and kids.

People are saying

"The sushi here is top quality and tastes fantastic."

"I found the food surprisingly affordable for the quality."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is warm, kind, and attentive."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and free, with plenty of space in the plaza lot.

2

Tesla Supercharger stations are available in the parking lot.

3

The restaurant offers quick service with virtually no wait time.

07
Loli Farms image 1
Chicken restaurant

Wood-fired rotisserie fills the cozy space with a smoky aroma, creating a peaceful vibe. Affordable, authentic Peruvian chicken with flavorful sides makes it a solid lunch spot. Enjoy the patio seating and snack shop for variety.

Affordable and delicious options make it a solid lunch spot. Arriving by 11:30am helps avoid the lunch crowd.

People are saying

"The rotisserie chicken here is amazing, with a smoky aroma."

"It's super affordable and has huge portions."

"This Lunch Spot's chicken is super juicy with a nice crisp skin."

Good to know

1

The half chicken meal costs $16 and offers a generous portion.

2

You can dine in or take out from Loli Farms.

3

The restaurant uses real wood for cooking the chicken.

08
Delizie Romane image 1

Cozy neighborhood bakery offers authentic Italian pastries and lunch specials in a warm, family-run setting. Owners create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like a tiny teleport to Italy. Perfect for relaxing and enjoying a genuine Italian lunch.

Authentic Italian pastries and lunch specials define this family-run spot. It feels like a cute neighborhood cafe with a cozy vibe.

People are saying

"I felt like I was teleported to Italy with the authentic food."

"This family-owned bakery's pastries are freshly fried and delicious."

"This lunch spot has amazing pastries like bomboloni with molten custard."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back of the establishment.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

3

The Grand Opening is on February 8, 2025, with special promotions.

09
Wok Master image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small Chinese spot offers generous portions and affordable prices with a quiet, casual vibe. Lunch shines with orange chicken and garlic chicken specials. Strong vegan options include crispy tofu that keeps diners coming back.

Lunch features chicken chop suey and specials with orange chicken and garlic chicken. The food draws repeat visits and groups for midday meals.

People are saying

"The food here is so tasty and packed with flavor."

"This lunch spot's food is super delicious and satisfying."

"This Chinese food is amazing and so affordable."

Good to know

1

Wok Master shares its parking lot with other businesses, so parking may be difficult during peak hours.

2

The cost of $35 for two plates was reasonable in Pasadena.

3

The restaurant offers great options for vegans, especially since it shares a lot with Drink Erva.

10
Mills Alley image 1
Japanese restaurant

Open kitchen and modern decor create a spacious, inviting vibe perfect for lunch. Enjoy Kobe teriyaki chicken with miso soup and salad in a setting where conversation flows easily. Extensive sake and fresh sushi add to the artistic Japanese cuisine experience.

Lunch features a varied menu with plates like Kobe teriyaki chicken served alongside miso soup, rice, and salad. The atmosphere suits midday meals well, making lunch a solid choice here.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is rich, balanced, and deeply umami."

"The sashimi here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"The lunch plates here are the stars of the show."

Good to know

1

Reservations for the omakase experience are recommended at least one week in advance.

2

Expect a short wait time during weekday dinners.

3

The sushi is priced at $7.00 per piece, which is higher than average.

11
Sushi Karen image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with intimate booths offers a quiet, cozy vibe perfect for dates. Lunch features a sushi lunch special with fresh, thick-cut sushi and authentic flavors. Limited seating and privacy make it feel exclusive, so reservations are a must.

Lunch offers a sushi lunch special and individual sushi options. The lunch special provides a good deal with satisfying portions. Spending without alcohol for two reaches around $110.

People are saying

"I found the sushi here to be incredible, some of the best I've ever had."

"The tempura here is lightly battered and crisp."

"The fish at this Lunch Spot is so fresh and top notch."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to limited seating; call ahead to secure a spot.

2

Parking is limited in the lot, but street parking is available on Arroyo.

3

The prices are about $5 per piece of nigiri, with some items being pricier.

12
Vince's Deli image 1

Small deli shines as a lunch spot with a standout Italian on sourdough sandwich. Limited seating suits quick meals, while generous fillings keep customers coming. Busy but efficient, it offers a no-frills atmosphere perfect for fast, flavorful bites.

Lunch features an Italian on sourdough that stands out for flavor. The deli offers a small lunch area and a setup geared for easy order pickup with short waits before the rush.

People are saying

"These sandwiches are packed with flavor and generous ingredients."

"The deli sandwiches here are the best I've ever had."

"This is a solid lunch spot for delicious sandwiches."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited with only 8 seats and 6 stools available.

2

Expect moderate wait times during lunch rush hours.

3

Payment is processed easily through the Clover register system.

13
Cordova Cafe & Bottleshop image 1

Cozy cafe offers tasty sandwiches for lunch and a dominant bar area that sets an effortlessly cool vibe. Mellow rock and blues create a peaceful atmosphere inside, while outdoor seating with dog amenities provides a relaxing spot despite some street noise.

Lunch features tasty sandwiches and generally better food than breakfast. Pickup can take a bit longer than scheduled, but the food and drinks stay consistently good.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be perfect."

"They have a great selection of craft beer."

"The lunch sandwiches here are large and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; expect to find street parking and bring coins.

2

Happy hour is available most days with special deals on food and drinks.

3

The cafe serves breakfast all day, offering a variety of options.

14
Lee's Hoagie House image 1
Sandwich shop

Small sandwich shop offers fresh bread and a self-serve pickle bar in a family atmosphere. Unique chicken hoagies make it a local institution and a favorite lunch spot within walking distance. Warm, cozy vibe welcomes regulars and newcomers alike.

Lunch feels like eating with family, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The spot stands out as a favorite place within walking distance for midday meals.

People are saying

"The food here is loaded and flavorful."

"The chicken sandwich here is juicy and packed with flavor."

"The chicken hoagie sandwich here is delicious with amazing flavors."

Good to know

1

A pastrami sandwich costs $12.99.

2

The restaurant has a big parking area.

3

The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and early dinner.

15
Oseyo Shabu Shabu image 1
Shabu-shabu restaurant

Individual hot pots with induction heating offer a clean, cozy lunch spot. Generous portions and affordable deals make it great for casual meals. Wooden decor and K-pop soundtrack keep the vibe lively and warm.

Lunch options include fresh dishes with affordable weekday deals. Portions are generous, often leaving leftovers for the next day.

People are saying

"The shabu shabu here is delicious and the meat is so tender."

"You have to try the vintage prime beef; it's so tender and melts in your mouth."

"The broths here are so flavorful, especially the tomato and spicy miso."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour deals offer great value from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

The restaurant offers a two-person feast for $80, including drinks and dessert.

3

Parking is easy and free outside the restaurant.

16
Sato Ramen House image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant shines with classic Japanese decor and beautiful wall murals. Spacious seating and dim lighting create a quiet, charming atmosphere perfect for a late Sunday meal or midday break. Two large TVs showing basketball add a casual touch.

Lunch here offers a solid option with consistent quality. The spot works well for a late Sunday meal or a midday break.

People are saying

"The Yuzu Shio Ramen is light, refreshing, and has a gentle citrus flavor."

"I thought the tonkatsu here was the best, hands down."

"This lunch spot has delicious ramen, especially the spicy tonkatsu."

Good to know

1

Reservations are only accepted for groups of six or more.

2

Prices are affordable, typically under $40 for two people with leftovers.

3

The restaurant allows guests to bring their own cake and champagne at no extra cost.

17
Hummus Labs image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small café offers free parking and flexible seating with outdoor tables. Known for best hummus and chicken kabob combo lunch specials that are healthy and simple. Atmosphere stays quiet but can get warm inside.

Lunch specials include a chicken kabob combo that offers good value. Meals feel healthy and simple. Parking is easy during the week.

People are saying

"The chicken, hummus, and seasonings made the shawarma nachos so good."

"The fattoush salad here is great, especially with the upgrade option."

"The lunch spot's chicken kabob plate with salad is a great value."

Good to know

1

Hummus Labs does not have restrooms or a place to wash your hands.

2

There is easy and free parking in the structure right behind the restaurant.

3

Call in your order during rush hours to avoid long waits.

18
Saucy Chick Indi-Mex Eatery image 1

Small indoor space with extensive outdoor patio seating creates a casual, LA chill vibe with friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Busy with takeout and delivery but remains unhectic and pleasant for dining in. Decorated with taste, featuring live music and henna art during visits.

People are saying

"The food here is a delicious and fun fusion of Indian and Mexican flavors."

"I loved their Indian-Mexican fusion dishes, especially the chaat-chos."

"This Lunch Spot's flavors are an explosion, blending cultures beautifully."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

2

There is a parking lot available at the restaurant.

3

The restaurant provides Halal options for diners.

19
Urbane Cafe image 1
Sandwich shop

Bright modern decor and casual seating create a warm, laid-back vibe. Quick, friendly service shines during busy lunch hours. Menu boasts healthy options with vegetarian sandwiches and fresh bread, plus delicious salsas that make it a solid lunch spot.

Quick and friendly service handles busy lunch hours well. Lunch includes delicious salsas and reliable, tasty options that make it a solid go-to spot.

People are saying

"I loved the pastrami sandwich; it was super good."

"The salads here are so fresh and flavorful."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot is so friendly and remembers my usual order."

Good to know

1

Urbane Cafe has a wheelchair-accessible entrance.

2

There is parking in the back of Urbane Cafe.

3

Free 90-minute parking is available in the back lot shared with another establishment.

20
Kwan Kitchen image 1
Thai restaurant

Small restaurant with modern Thai accents offers a cozy atmosphere and fun beats for a relaxed vibe. Perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch that fits a late schedule. Casual and community-oriented, it invites easy dining experiences.

Lunch here offers a delicious meal that fits well into a late lunch schedule. The spot suits a quick, satisfying break during the day.

People are saying

"I loved the yellow curry; it had amazing flavor."

"The Thai flavors here are so authentic and bursting with freshness."

"The yellow curry and crab fried rice at this Lunch Spot are amazing."

Good to know

1

Corkage fee applies if you bring your own wine.

2

The restaurant has a small parking lot that can get crowded.

3

Takeout orders are well-packaged to keep food hot.

21
Egg Roll Express image 1
Chinese restaurant

Newly refurbished dining room creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for lunch specials with generous portions served family style. Freshly prepared egg rolls and classic dishes offer crispy textures and balanced spices. Food made to order keeps the pace relaxed and enjoyable.

Lunch specials offer great deals with generous portions. Most dishes come family style, making combo deals a solid choice.

People are saying

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

"I loved their crispy, flavorful egg rolls."

"I became hooked on the Thai tea here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid a wait due to made-to-order food.

2

The dining area is closed; only takeout is available.

3

Lunch specials offer great deals and are served family style.

22
The Athenaeum image 1

Spectacular old-style faculty club offers a classic elegant atmosphere with antique decor and historic paintings. Lunch buffet serves excellent food at a reasonable price, perfect for casual or memorial meals. Membership-only access ensures an exclusive professional feel.

Lunch features a buffet with excellent food at a reasonable price. The setting suits both casual meals and memorial lunches.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The buffet had many choices, including prime rib and crab legs."

"The lunch buffet here has excellent food at a reasonable price."

Good to know

1

The Athenaeum is membership only; guests must be accompanied by a member.

2

Parking costs $18, which is typical for the area.

3

The Athenaeum is conveniently located on the CalTech Campus.

23
El Dorado Pollos A La Brasa image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Rustic decor with Peruvian accents creates a cozy vibe. Outdoor patio has bench seating and a large screen TV. Lunch options are solid with easy parking and staff serve meals fit for office or family events.

Offers solid lunch options with easy parking. Staff go out of their way to serve delicious meals suitable for office or family celebrations.

People are saying

"This Peruvian food, especially the lomo saltado, is perfectly seasoned and juicy."

"The ceviche here is excellent and stuffed with shrimp."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is fresh, delicious, and great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted beers all day on Sundays.

2

The restaurant has its own parking lot for customer convenience.

3

Expect long wait times during peak hours; consider ordering online for pickup.

24
Neighbors & Friends Cafe image 1

Cozy cafe offers a communal table and a cheese bar for a warm, friendly vibe. Lunch shines with a delicious sandwich and fresh lemonade. Local artisanal foods in the micro market add a unique touch to the community feel.

Lunch features a delicious sandwich paired with fresh lemonade. The menu offers a terrific variety that suits an afternoon meal well.

People are saying

"This local spot has amazing food and delicious, handcrafted drinks."

"I loved the gorgeous and delicious charcuterie boards."

"You have to try the Toasted Vegan sandwich at this lunch spot."

Good to know

1

The cafe is cashless, so bring a card for payments.

2

Most menu items are Halal or have Halal options available.

3

The cafe offers a fridge stocked with free food for those in need.

25
Go China Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Cozy dining room with smooth jazz sets a quiet, elegant mood. Lunch specials like orange chicken offer great value despite slow service. Known for exceptional Chinese food and reasonable prices, it suits those seeking quality without crowds.

Many lunch specials offer good variety and value. Options include orange chicken and string bean beef with service sometimes slow around lunch hours.

People are saying

"You have to try this Chinese food; it's a local favorite."

"The lunch specials here are amazing for the price."

"The food delivery was hot and tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers many lunch specials that are affordable.

2

Parking is available behind the restaurant and in the Ralph's lot.

3

The restrooms are very clean and well-maintained.

26
Porta Via Italian Foods image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian deli blends imported pantry goods with a lively sandwich shop. Shaded outdoor patio with heaters creates a pleasant lunch spot despite occasional flies. Busy lunch rush means ordering online helps enjoy quality ingredients without wait.

Shaded outdoor seating offers a pleasant lunch spot on nice days. It gets busy during the lunch rush, so ordering online ahead helps with timing.

People are saying

"The sandwiches here are great, especially with fresh mozzarella."

"The outdoor seating patio is nice and shaded."

"The sandwiches here are delicious and toasted to perfection."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and accessible.

2

It gets busy during the lunch rush, so ordering online ahead of time is recommended.

3

Diners might expect to pay $20 to $30 with a drink if they eat in.

27
Allied Food To Go image 1

Robots deliver orders fast through automatic doors in a clean, simple space with an old building vibe. Multiple kitchens offer diverse options and seamless, contactless pickup. Food is ready in under 20 minutes, making it a quick lunch spot even during rush hours.

Food gets ready in under 20 minutes even during the lunch rush. Service can slow down a bit when it's busy but still works well for a quick break.

People are saying

"I thought the food was very tasty and never disappoints."

"You can order from many restaurants for takeout or delivery."

"I found the food delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The pickup process is contactless and efficient, allowing for quick retrieval of orders.

2

Parking can be challenging; street parking is the only option available.

3

Food is ready in less than 10 minutes after ordering.

28
Raffi’s Catering and Banquet image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean flavors shine in a casual, family-friendly setting with generous portions perfect for lunch. Outdoor seating adds charm while catering supports large events with ease. Prices stay affordable, making it a lively spot for groups.

Lunch offers enjoyable food that suits casual dining. Catering options exist for group meals.

People are saying

"The food here is addictive and delicious."

"The outdoor seating area here is really nice."

"The food for our Lunch Spot was amazing."

Good to know

1

The prices at Raffi's Catering and Banquet are really reasonable.

2

Raffi’s Catering and Banquet offered both to-go and dine-in options.

3

Raffi’s also provides catering services for large events.

29
Kaiba Japanese Ramen, Sushi & Grill - Pasadena image 1

Upscale Japanese spot features a covered patio and multiple TVs for sports fans. Lunch shines with tonkatsu ramen combos offering great value. Atmosphere stays chill and relaxed, perfect for quiet meals or late-night dates.

Lunch offers a variety of options like ramen, poke, and sizzling plates. Lunch combos provide good value with deals including tonkatsu ramen and California roll for around $17.

People are saying

"The ramen here has a rich, flavorful broth."

"You have to try the frozen beer; it's a must-try."

"This Lunch Spot has delicious food and great prices."

Good to know

1

Happy hour deals on beer are available.

2

Lunch deals offer great value for money.

3

Parking is limited to one hour in the back lot.

30
Pasadena Fish Market image 1
Seafood market

Small take-out spot shines with jerk chicken specials and fresh seafood. Afrocentric vibe and Island soul food create an authentic feel. Quick 15-minute prep suits busy lunch crowds seeking boneless fish and fast service.

Lunch features jerk chicken specials and a four-piece fish option with mostly boneless pieces. Take-out service supports busy weekday crowds and makes it a solid spot for quick meals.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious."

"The American Food here, especially the oxtails, is fall-off-the-bone tender and flavorful."

"The fish at this lunch spot is so good, it's the best fried fish I've had."

Good to know

1

Pasadena Fish Market operates on a take-out only basis with no restrooms available.

2

It's best to order ahead as food takes around 15 minutes to prepare.

3

Lunch specials include four pieces of fish, usually without bones or fins.

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