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Best of Riverside

Brunch and lunch spots

You need a spot that handles the transition from brunch to lunch without losing its edge.

Based on 628 Opinions
+625
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Updated May 2026
01
TOASTED INC image 1
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Coffee shop

Small space with modern-meets-cozy decor and natural light creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. It fills quickly, becoming loud and social, with music and videos adding to the energy. The vibe reflects an OC/LA coffee shop style, attracting a busy crowd seeking quality coffee and breakfast.

Brunch offers fresh orange juices and dishes that feel new and unique. The flavors come across as unexpectedly delicious.

Offers good coffee and breakfast or lunch sandwiches. Serves solid options for a midday meal.

People are saying

"Their breakfast croissant sandwich with bacon is amazing."

"I found the brunch here to be unexpectedly delicious and unique."

"The sandwiches here are amazing, especially the fresh baked bread."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited to about 10 seats, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

2

Expect a 10-15 minute wait during busy hours, especially on weekends.

3

You can call in advance to order if you want to take food home.

02
The Riverside Airport Cafe image 1

Outdoor patio offers views of planes taking off and landing with a pet-friendly and family-oriented atmosphere featuring giant games and entertainment for children. Loud music from a DJ creates a party vibe that can make conversation difficult. The setting combines an old school feel with lively energy near the runway.

A DJ playing old school music sets a lively tone during breakfast and brunch. The patio offers a spot to enjoy a steak and eggs brunch in a fun, unique atmosphere.

Generous portions of classic diner comfort food make lunch here satisfying. The menu offers a remarkably eclectic mix of standard breakfast and lunch fare, enjoyed while watching planes take off.

People are saying

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

"This is a great lunch spot with delicious chili."

"I loved brunch here, watching planes take off right next to me."

Good to know

1

They have a planes and treats event scheduled for October 18th from 5 to 9 pm.

2

Beers are $3 during happy hours for bottles.

3

The cafe appears to get crowded on weekends; arriving early is recommended.

03
Mariposas image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American restaurant combines urban and greenery decor with a cozy, spacious layout suited for events. Atmosphere carries great vibes and a lively energy, attracting a diverse crowd. Multiple food stations offer varied choices, creating a dynamic dining experience.

Sunday brunch offers a buffet with a variety of tasty options. Specials include a huge burrito and a chili relleno.

Lunch features a Birria option that stands out. Regular visits confirm it as a solid choice for midday meals.

People are saying

"The brunch food here is amazing, especially the churros."

"I loved the great price and well-served tacos during Taco Tuesday."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is incredible."

Good to know

1

Reservations are accepted, but it's first come, first serve for the buffet.

2

Taco Tuesday features $2 tacos and happy hour from 3-7 PM, Monday through Friday.

3

The buffet costs $27 and is available without reservations.

04
Palenque kitchen by Mezcal image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant combines dark, lively interior with two dance floors and a central bar. Music energizes the space, creating a family-friendly yet vibrant atmosphere. Colored lighting and Mexican art add to the trendy, festive vibe.

Brunch features a great atmosphere that suits gatherings like birthdays and special occasions. Early reservations help secure the cutest spot before the Sunday rush.

Lunch menu satisfies most people here. The spot feels cozy and servers provide friendly service during lunch.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good."

"Our server Christian was so attentive and friendly during Brunch."

"This Lunch Spot has delicious tacos and fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6:30 PM with $10 margaritas and discounted appetizers.

2

Palenque offers bottomless mimosas on Sundays.

3

The restaurant has only one restroom for all guests.

05
Dapper Dine & Lounge image 1

Restaurant offers an intimate setting with live jazz performances and an open kitchen. Atmosphere ranges from festive and joyful to loud, especially in the lounge area. Decor features green and gold accents with a beautifully remodeled interior and outdoor patio seating.

Brunch menu stays available throughout the visit. The spot offers a fantastic brunch experience with solid options. It's a reliable choice for a brunch outing.

Lunch offers top quality service and a fantastic experience. Meals come with consistent enjoyment during weekday and weekend hours.

People are saying

"The food here tasted amazing and was perfectly cooked."

"The steak and eggs at Brunch were outstanding and perfectly seasoned."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is hot, fresh, and well-seasoned."

Good to know

1

Reservations are available on their website and OpenTable.

2

The restaurant offers steak specials on Monday and Tuesday.

3

Parking is easy and dedicated, which is rare in downtown.

06
Arcade Downtown image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers stylish modern design with all-hard-surfaces creating an echoing atmosphere. It maintains a calm vibe on weekday middays but can be busy with loud music at other times. The space feels like a cozy European cafรฉ with outdoor seating available.

Brunch features elevated dishes served in a setting that feels more like a fancy spot than a typical coffee shop. The food comes out delicious and consistently impresses.

Housemade cavatelli stands out on the lunch menu. The spot offers a relaxed atmosphere ideal for enjoying a meal or coffee with a book.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was great and delicious."

"The brunch food here is delicious and fantastic."

"The veggie sandwich at this lunch spot is delicious."

Good to know

1

Arcade Downtown doesn't accept cash; only card payments are accepted.

2

They serve breakfast and lunch all day, making it a versatile dining option.

3

Parking can be tough, so plan to arrive early.

07
Flat Top Bar and Grill image 1

Outdoor seating offers comfortable shaded areas with fans and heaters, creating a pleasant environment. Live bands provide energetic music, though volume can be intense. Interior design impresses with a beautiful, clean space that balances high-top and regular tables.

Saturday brunch offers a very cool atmosphere with nice and accommodating service. Drinks and food come together for a great meal experience.

Offers a quick and satisfying lunch option with great food. Suitable for business lunches and casual family meals.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot has amazing food that's worth every penny."

"I loved the brunch here; the food was excellent."

Good to know

1

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

2

Reservations are not accepted; seating is first-come, first-served.

3

Live Latin music event occurs every Tuesday evening.

08
Mariposas Cantina Urbana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open floor plan features live mariachi music and neon skulls with glow-in-the-dark paint, creating a nightclub-like atmosphere with loud, energetic vibes. Tables sit close together, making the space feel lively and social. Photographers capture moments amid the bold Day of the Dead decor.

Sunday brunch features a varied buffet with Mexican food, pastries, and a taco bar. The selection is fresh and tasty, and staff remain attentive despite busy service.

Lunch features great specials like $1.50 tacos on Taco Tuesday. Service stays amazing and quick, fitting well into a busy lunch hour.

People are saying

"The happy hour deals on tacos and margaritas were fantastic."

"I hosted my grandson's birthday party here and it was great."

"The lunch specials here are delicious and generously portioned."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer an unlimited topping bar for $10 drinks.

2

Happy hour features discounted food options and good prices.

3

Reservations are not required for large groups, and separate checks are available.

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