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Guide to University

Lunch spots

A midday meal that provides a real break from the workday instead of just another rushed desk lunch.

Based on 530 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Sub Station image 1
The Sub Station image 2
The Sub Station image 3
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Sandwich shop

Family-owned sandwich shop offers nostalgic decor and a lively vibe with loud music. Known for iconic sandwiches like Big Dude and Pizzawich, it serves as a reliable lunch spot with indoor and custom outdoor seating.

A reliable spot for lunch with a strong reputation in the area. Frequented consistently for its convenience and solid offerings during midday.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best sandwich I ever had."

"These sandwiches are fire, I'll definitely be back for them."

"This lunch spot's sandwiches are so delicious, I wanted another."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available in the lot for all customers.

2

The Sub Station offers promotions for students at UCR.

3

The restaurant has been family-owned since 1972.

02
Yafa Mediterranean Cuisine image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Tiny space with intimate seating offers a cozy spot for lunch with delicious vegetarian options. Warm, retro vibe and genuine hospitality create a peaceful, clean environment. Focus on Mediterranean cuisine makes meals satisfying and distinctive.

Offers delicious vegetarian options and satisfying meals suitable for a lunch break. Serves both lunch and dinner with a focus on Mediterranean cuisine.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned."

"The falafel here is perfectly crisp outside and tender inside."

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

Good to know

1

Yafa Mediterranean Cuisine has no parking in front of the restaurant.

2

Yafa Mediterranean Cuisine is a HALAL restaurant.

3

The price was only $5 and some change.

03
Meat Lover BBQ and fried chicken kitchen (Greedy Cat 馋猫烤鱼) image 1

Barbecue restaurant serves fresh grilled fish and flavorful skewers in a casual, homely setting. Lunch offers boxed lunches and dumplings with meat options like BBQ and fried chicken. Large portions and good prices make it great for groups seeking authentic flavors.

Lunch features grilled fish, hot pot, and a variety of boxed lunches and dumplings. Options include meat-focused dishes like BBQ and fried chicken.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is so authentic, it feels like you're in China."

"I found the grilled fish here to be very fresh and flavorful."

"I found the food at this Lunch Spot delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not serve alcohol.

2

Portions are large relative to the price.

3

Parking is available at the back of the restaurant.

04
Miches De La Baja image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican eatery shines with Baja style tacos and micheladas in a colorful atmosphere. Lunch draws a lively crowd and music can get loud. Space feels friendly and open despite its small size.

Lunch hours get packed quickly with a lively crowd. The spot offers consommé and plays music that can be a bit loud during lunch.

People are saying

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

"I thought the fish tacos were the best I ever had."

"The birria tacos and consommé at this Lunch Spot are delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Wednesday offers tacos for a dollar cheaper, making it a popular day.

2

Dinner for two costs less than $25, making it very affordable.

3

The menu includes tacos, burritos, and ceviche at reasonable prices.

05
Poke Bistro image 1
Poke bar

Small, spartan space offers a relaxed vibe with chill music. Fresh, large-cube fish and simple sauces make for quality food. Popular lunch spot serves generous portions quickly, perfect for a casual catch-up or quick meal.

Lots of people stop by for lunch. It works well for a quick meal or a casual catch-up with a friend.

People are saying

"The poke here is so fresh and delicious."

"I found the Japanese food here to be always fresh and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's Hawaiian salmon was super fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect a price range of $15-$20 for a large poke bowl.

2

The establishment opens at 11:30am daily.

3

Parking is available in the shopping center lot.

06
New India Sweets & Spices image 1

Small seating area offers casual dining with homemade Indian dishes and vegetarian options. Lunch combos at $8.00 include fresh food and sweets. Grocery section features Indian groceries and a notable candy selection.

Simple lunch combos cost $8.00 and include fresh food and sweets. Daily visits show it serves consistent, straightforward meals.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and tasty."

"I found this to be a good Indian grocery store."

"I loved the simple, tasty food at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

The store offers a variety of grocery, healthcare, and beauty items.

2

There are 4 vegetarian choices every day except Tuesday.

3

The prices are affordable compared to other places.

07
The Cookie Tin Cafe image 1
Lunch restaurant

Cozy spot offers fresh bread and unique cookie flavors for a relaxing lunch. Menu features Turkey, Bacon Panini and fresh salads. Immaculate cleanliness and catering services make it practical and inviting.

Varied lunch options include Greek and Italian paninis, Mexican quesadillas, and fresh salads. The Turkey, Bacon Panini stands out as a filling choice.

People are saying

"The chocolate chip cookies are amazing, crispy outside and chewy inside."

"The cookies here are decadently delicious, especially the innovative flavors."

"Their potato soup is to die for."

Good to know

1

Game Day events occur on summer nights, offering a fun atmosphere.

2

Charcuterie Workshops are available during summer evenings for hands-on learning.

3

Most menu items are made from scratch using fresh ingredients.

08
HK BBQ HOUSE image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small spot serves authentic Hong Kong cuisine with fresh ingredients and excellent roast meats like duck and BBQ pork. Lunch hours bring a lively crowd and longer waits, but prices stay unbeatable for quality. Atmosphere feels like a slice of Hong Kong.

Crowds fill the place during lunch hour, making it busy and lively. Food takes a long time to arrive, likely due to the rush. Meals suit both lunch and dinner occasions.

People are saying

"The roast duck here is succulent and delicious."

"The wonton noodle soup broth was super flavorful."

"This Lunch Spot's roast duck is delicious."

Good to know

1

HK BBQ HOUSE is closed on Wednesdays.

2

The parking situation allows for 90 minutes of free parking before charging.

3

The restaurant can be busy, especially during lunch and dinner.

09
Zacatecas Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with authentic decor and family-friendly atmosphere. Lunch serves delicious dishes perfect for groups, though expect a 50-minute wait. Drinks like Cadillac margaritas pair well with traditional meals.

Lunch offers delicious dishes with a variety suitable for group occasions like birthdays and office events. Expect a wait time around 50 minutes during busy periods.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has amazing flavor, especially the chilaquiles."

"I could tell they get down with the rest of the menu despite the salsa."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

2

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

3

The restaurant closes at 3:30 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

10
My Hero Subs image 1
Sandwich shop

Affordable, large subs with fresh, soft bread make lunch quick and satisfying. Jukebox controlled by app adds a chill vibe to the casual, family-run spot. Calling ahead helps skip lines during busy hours.

Offers a quick lunch with solid subs. Calling ahead helps avoid wait times during busy hours.

People are saying

"These sandwiches are really, really good and fresh."

"The sandwiches here are great and loaded with meat."

"The bread here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a 25-minute wait after ordering during busy hours.

2

A footlong sandwich costs around $10, offering great value.

3

The restaurant closes early, so plan your visit accordingly.

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University, Riverside

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