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Local picks in San Clemente

Lunch spots

You want a lunch spot that treats food with the same level of seriousness you bring to your workday.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tabouli Kitchen image 1
Tabouli Kitchen image 2
Tabouli Kitchen image 3
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Restaurant

Small, casual restaurant with a quick service counter and limited seating offers a clean, well-kept environment. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, with a focus on fresh, authentic Mediterranean dishes. Popular for healthy, quick lunches featuring generous portions and flavorful options.

Food stands out for its phenomenal flavor and surprisingly large portions. Gyros rank among the best in quick food spots, delivering an exquisite and delicious Mediterranean experience.

Lunch offers a steady stream of familiar customers and features quick Mediterranean dishes. The menu suits those looking for a great new lunch option with reliable quality.

People are saying

"The Tabbouleh here is so fresh, nutritious, and delicious."

"I thought the food here was amazing and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's chicken bowl and tabouli are full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is extremely clean and well-kept.

2

There is plenty of parking available, including handicap spots.

3

All their proteins are halal, catering to dietary needs.

02
Taqueria Luna image 1
Restaurant

Tiny restaurant with limited indoor and outdoor seating offers a cozy patio and warm, relaxed vibe. Staff speak Spanish, adding to the authentic atmosphere. The place stays open late, serving fresh, well-regarded tacos and Mexican dishes at reasonable prices.

Mexican food here stands out for its delicious and exceptional flavors. Service matches the food quality with a friendly and attentive staff.

Lunch includes tacos and options from breakfast to dinner. It gets busy during the Monday lunch rush.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best."

"I found the food here to be fantastic and delicious."

"The al pastor tacos at this Lunch Spot are so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $2 tacos all day.

2

The restaurant is open until midnight on weekends.

3

Limited seating is available inside and in the shared walkway.

03
Bluestone Lane San Clemente Cafรฉ image 1

Coffee shop offers charming outdoor seating with open windows creating an indoor/outdoor feel. Atmosphere stays quiet and inviting, ideal for studying or working with accessible outlets at every seat. Space feels cool and lively, attracting a relaxed crowd throughout the day.

Food arrives quickly and hot, with artistic presentation. Coffee and dishes are consistently delicious and well-prepared.

Lunch features great coffees and fresh sandwiches served quickly. Staff like Ava provide helpful guidance on the menu.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing and authentic Australian brew."

"The food and drinks here are really good."

"This Lunch Spot's Flat Whites are delicious and high quality."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available near the cafรฉ.

2

The cafรฉ offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

3

The coffee menu is extensive, featuring Australian-style drinks.

04
Kiaans Fine Indian Cuisine image 1

Upscale Indian restaurant with white linen tablecloths and contemporary music creates a serene and inviting atmosphere. The space feels elegant and comfortable, welcoming diners with genuine kindness. Live music on weekends adds to the relaxed vibe.

Food here is consistently fresh and flavorful, with dishes made carefully. Lamb chops marinated in lemon and yoghurt and slow cooked in the tandoori oven stand out as a highlight.

Lunch features a special with three options including veggie, chicken, and lamb dishes served with rice, naan, and yogurt. Hours changed, so lunch is no longer served, but a small lunch menu remains displayed in the window.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is authentic and flavorful."

"The fine dining here is amazing, especially the creamy, smooth chicken curry."

"This lunch spot has awesome food with perfect quality and taste."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the buffet on weekends due to high demand.

2

The buffet is priced at $23, offering a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

3

Ample parking is available near the restaurant for easy access.

05
Seasurf Fish Co image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood restaurant with mostly outdoor seating and a laid-back vibe. Atmosphere is relaxing and cool, with enough noise to feel lively but still allow conversation. Features include a patio with heaters, a small indoor bar with TV, and quick table turnover.

Food impresses with excellent quality and unforgettable flavors. Prices stay surprisingly affordable even with drinks included.

Lunch offers a flavor bomb with dishes like Garlic Shrimp. This spot stands out as a top choice for midday meals in the area.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos were the best anywhere."

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and always excellent."

"You have to try the poke nachos at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with many items priced just a few dollars.

2

Enjoy $1 oysters and $3 battered fish tacos during happy hour on Tuesdays.

3

Parking is available behind the restaurant for easy access.

06
Nalu's Hawaiian Fish Grill & Tutu's Kitchen image 1

Spacious setting with fun decor creates a chill vibe despite some wear and tear. The menu offers fresh, affordable seafood with standout dishes like perfectly fried fish and flavorful pineapple chicken. The atmosphere suits casual dining with a relaxed pace and light crowd.

Food here is fresh and flavorful, with a focus on healthy ingredients free from trans fats and high fructose corn syrup. The dishes capture the essence of old fashioned Hawaiian plate lunches with delicious, reasonably priced meals.

Lunch offers old fashioned plate lunches with ONO flavors that capture classic Hawaiian tastes. The spot serves wonderful Kau Kau that stands out for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The fish here is perfectly fried with a delicious sauce."

"The food here is so delicious and fresh."

"This lunch spot's grilled fish and pineapple chicken are amazing."

Good to know

1

The prices for seafood are very affordable.

2

Food takes about 15 minutes to prepare.

3

The Teri chicken is a huge portion.

07
Buona Forchetta San Clemente image 1

Small, intimate space with tables close together creates a lively, noisy atmosphere filled with a happy buzz. Decor and ambiance reflect authentic Italian style, offering a beach town relaxed vibe that complements the dining experience.

Food offers authentic Italian flavors with a fresh taste. Every dish serves up delicious, genuine cuisine that stands out for its quality and authenticity.

Warm welcomes set the tone for lunch here. The meals deliver a taste sensation that impresses consistently.

People are saying

"I found the Italian food here to be authentic and delicious."

"I thought the food was amazing and delicious."

"This lunch spot's authentic, fresh ingredients make everything ridiculously delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets very busy.

2

Parking can be difficult due to the restaurant's popularity.

3

The restaurant offers a plant-based menu for dietary preferences.

08
Thai Dara image 1
Thai restaurant

Small space with cozy interior and calming music creates a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Decor adds a pleasant, warm vibe suitable for intimate meals. Complimentary Thai chi service offers a unique touch.

Food here is consistently fresh and clean with flavors that stand out. Meals arrive piping hot and well packaged, keeping quality intact.

Lunch specials come in large portions and are priced very well. The service is fast, with dishes like drunken noodles and beef pad see ew offered in a cozy setting.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"I thought the green curry here was flavorful and cooked to perfection."

"This lunch spot has fresh, delicious food, especially the pad Thai."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

Lunch specials are available and offer large portions at affordable prices.

3

The spice levels can be high, even for mild dishes, so order carefully.

09
Drift Distillery & Smokehouse image 1

Distillery combines live blues and rock music with a beautifully crafted design and lovely outdoor space. The atmosphere feels inviting and intimate, with a quiet vibe that supports privacy despite close tables. Craft cocktails and local beers complement the setting, creating a relaxed yet engaging experience.

Food arrives quickly, hot, and well presented with a family atmosphere enhancing the experience. Cocktails and dishes are consistently excellent and delicious.

Kindness from Jasmine creates a welcoming vibe. Lunch offers delicious food and a pleasant atmosphere.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is fantastic."

"I found the food here to be absolutely delicious."

"The lunch here is delicious, especially the brisket sandwich."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for Friday and Saturday nights.

2

Parking is ample and convenient at the location.

3

The menu features unique offerings that differ from typical appetizer selections.

10
Antoine's Cafe image 1

Small, intimate cafe with a classic diner style and surfboards on walls and ceiling creates a cozy, warm atmosphere with soft lighting. Outdoor seating offers a dog-friendly space with shaded areas. Weekends bring a busy, lively vibe while weekdays feel more relaxed.

Food comes in generous portions and arrives warm. The menu offers a wide variety of classic foods with consistently fresh and delicious quality.

Hearty breakfast and lunch options are available all day, making it a solid spot for a midday meal. The menu suits both tourists and locals, with coffee served alongside.

People are saying

"The food and service here were amazing."

"I loved the delicious breakfast, especially the fluffy pancakes."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is always quick and friendly."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait for a table during peak breakfast hours.

2

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

3

The cafe opens at 6:30 am, perfect for early risers.

11
Surfin' Chicken Grill image 1
Chicken restaurant

Family-run chicken restaurant offers a homey atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating that welcomes dogs. The menu features fresh grilled chicken and fish, including standout burritos and tacos. Prices remain reasonable considering the quality and homemade taste.

Food comes out hot, fresh, and delicious with a focus on great quality and homemade preparation. The menu centers on chicken fast food with consistently amazing freshness.

Options include a quick pick me up like the tube and a reasonably priced casual lunch at Surfin' Chicken Grill. Meals suit a casual lunch setting without fuss.

People are saying

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

"The fish here is so fresh and perfectly cooked."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot are friendly and courteous."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a good selection of dishes to choose from.

2

Prices at Surfin' Chicken Grill are reasonable and not outrageous.

3

The restaurant is clean and has seating inside and outside.

12
Min's Dumpling San Clemente image 1

Modern, clean space with a small outdoor patio offers a quiet, cozy atmosphere ideal for quick meals. The restaurant features a self-order system and serves authentic Northern Chinese dumplings with generous portions. Despite busy times, the vibe remains welcoming and straightforward.

Food features authentic Northern Chinese cuisine with fresh soup dumplings served hot and spiced just right. Ingredients stay fresh and flavors come through clearly, making the dishes taste like they do in Taiwan.

Fast service delivers lunch orders within minutes. Paying upfront with Alan, the cashier, keeps things moving smoothly. Food arrives quickly from the kitchen, making it a convenient lunch spot.

People are saying

"The dumplings here are so fresh and tasty."

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's dumplings and pot stickers are delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of dumplings and Chinese dishes.

2

Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes provided.

3

There are limited vegetarian and vegan options available.

13
Malulu Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small, cozy sushi spot with a mom-and-pop vibe and limited seating like restaurants in Japan. Atmosphere feels authentic and welcoming, attracting those who appreciate fresh, high-quality fish and traditional preparation. Offers a quiet, unassuming setting tucked away in a strip mall.

Food comes out fresh and beautifully arranged. Dishes range from tasty salads to consistently great sushi with solid quality and flavor.

Lunch offers great value with a lunch special that stands out. The lunch salad is excellent, suggesting high quality across the menu.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is incredibly fresh and tasty."

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

"The Lunch Spot here is so fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but walk-ins are common.

2

Expect a 90-minute dining experience during peak hours.

3

The lunch menu offers great value for money.

14
Chaupain Bakery image 1

Small cafe with charming, cozy atmosphere and French-style pastries draws people to its outdoor seating area where neighborhood ambiance is strong. Inside space feels compact and busy, creating a lively, authentic vibe. Pastries stand out as a key attraction, often described as exceptional.

Amazing food options for breakfast offer a rich and energizing start. The food consistently shows high quality paired with attentive service.

Offers high quality lunches alongside fresh pastries and breads. Serves as a light lunch spot with good coffee in a casual cafe setting.

People are saying

"The pastries here are fresh, flavorful, and crafted with care."

"The food here is really outstanding and delicious."

"The sandwiches here are outstanding, especially on their demi-baguette."

Good to know

1

On Sundays, they have a stand at the Farmer's Market across the street.

2

Parking at Chaupain Bakery can be competitive.

3

The kitchen closes early, so plan your visit accordingly.

15
Full Moon Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot with cozy, casual atmosphere and counter seats by the chef offering views of the ocean. Busy and lively, it draws people for affordable, fresh sushi and reasonable prices. The space feels tight and simple, creating a laid-back, welcoming vibe.

Food here is consistently fresh and delicious. Dishes come out quickly and taste excellent every time.

Lunch offers inexpensive deals with plates around $10 including a roll, side, and miso. Specials like the crunch roll with tempura and poke salad provide great flavors at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The sushi here is incredible and a great price."

"The Japanese food here is amazing, with really fresh fish."

"The food here is authentic, delicious, and high quality."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials range from $9.50 to $12.50, including a roll, side, and miso.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere after 5pm; arrive early to avoid long waits.

3

Parking is readily available near the restaurant.

16
Flights & Irons Urban Kitchen image 1

Speakeasy-style restaurant with cozy, intimate atmosphere and live jazz music creates a relaxing vibe. Comfortable seating and a wood fire oven add warmth to the space. Guests enjoy a thoughtful dining experience paired with a good selection of beers, wines, and crafted cocktails.

Food comes cooked in iron over a wood fire, delivering well done and amazing flavors. The menu offers thoughtful dishes with excellent service guiding choices.

Lunch offers a cool menu with options suitable for both lunch and dinner. The spot stays quiet during late lunch hours, making it easy to have a company lunch without distractions.

People are saying

"I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this hidden gem."

"The food here is delicious, especially the fresh bread and tomato soup."

"This lunch spot had a laid-back environment and no one was disappointed."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can sell out quickly.

2

Happy hour offers $2 off select menu items and drinks at the bar.

3

Parking is limited; consider using the shopping center across the street.

17
Moulin image 1
French restaurant

Small French cafe offers authentic Parisian vibe with quaint outdoor patio overlooking the ocean. Atmosphere feels light and upbeat, lively with families and celebrations during busy times. Patio welcomes dogs and invites guests to enjoy sunny Southern California weather.

French cafe food offers authentic vibe with dishes like croque-madame, quiche Lorraine, and chocolate crepes. The menu includes brie-walnut-apple sandwiches, pastries, coffee, and mimosas, all served with an ocean view.

Offers a French breakfast and lunch menu with a focus on fresh breads. Closes early around 3pm, making it a spot for an early afternoon meal.

People are saying

"I found the pastries here irresistible and beautiful."

"The food here is authentic French, made with high-quality ingredients."

"This lunch spot's pastries are unreal, like buttery croissants and artwork desserts."

Good to know

1

The cafe closes at 3pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Parking can be challenging, especially on summer weekends; free parking may be limited.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere, particularly on weekends and holidays.

18
China Bros image 1
Chinese restaurant

Fast food-style seating supports a steady flow of takeout orders in a space with good decorations but mixed cleanliness. The atmosphere feels warm and inviting despite some maintenance issues. Large portions and affordable prices attract those seeking quick, satisfying Chinese meals.

Food features authentic flavors and generous portions with a menu close to East Coast Chinese options. Dishes come fresh, delicious, and affordable, offering a taste similar to Panda Express but cheaper.

Large servings and lunch specials make it a solid spot for a quick lunch. Orange chicken comes with a soda and rates average.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is delicious, especially the orange chicken."

"The staff here is super friendly and accommodating."

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Lunch specials are available, offering good value for money.

3

Portion sizes are generous, making it suitable for teenagers and families.

19
The Picnic Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop with chic interior and flower bar creates a relaxed, cheerful vibe. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant atmosphere for casual gatherings. The space feels thoughtfully curated and visually inviting.

Fresh and delicious food stands out here, especially with items like The Rivvy, The Fin, smoothies, and salads. The grazing board often leaves leftovers, showing generous portions.

Thoughtful and delicious bites stand out for lunch here. The spot offers a perfect casual setting to enjoy meals, often taken down to the beach.

People are saying

"This coffee spot has such a charming and inviting interior."

"The food, especially the grazing board, was beautifully set up and delicious."

"I thought it was the perfect lunch spot to grab food."

Good to know

1

The cafe has public parking available for 3 hours.

2

The menu offers a wide variety of options.

3

They offer charcuterie packages to-go.

20
San Clemente Pier image 1
Public beach

Long pier extends over the ocean with mesmerizing views and beautiful sunsets. Atmosphere feels historical and relaxing, attracting people who enjoy watching surfers and strolling along the shoreline. Fire pits and nearby restaurants add to the laid-back vibe.

Numerous food choices line the pier, including Gallette Crepes serving from early morning to afternoon and Fisherman's Restaurant offering excellent dishes. Food quality often stands out even more than the views.

Lunch features fresh seafood with a view of the ocean. Seating near the pier offers a relaxing atmosphere.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beach and pier here."

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

"I had a nice lunch at this pier spot."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $1.50 per hour, but finding a spot can be challenging.

2

Public restrooms are available, but only Port-a-Potties are currently accessible.

3

Fisherman's Restaurant & Bar offers happy hour specials with great prices.

21
Panera Bread image 1

Cafe space offers self-order screens and booths with power outlets for convenience. Atmosphere stays friendly, calm, and soothing with a relaxed vibe. Weekends bring a crowd of mall shoppers, creating a lively but still comfortable setting.

Food comes out delicious and easy to customize with consistently good quality across visits.

Offers quick, healthy, and flavorful lunch options like the Chicken Roma Asiago Bagel Stack. Coffee quality after lunch varies.

People are saying

"I found the food here really good and delicious."

"This lunch spot's sandwiches are delicious and packed with fresh ingredients."

"The chicken salad here is so generously filled."

Good to know

1

Expect higher prices compared to other fast-casual dining options.

2

The restaurant is often busy with mall shoppers on weekends.

3

Clean bathrooms and tables are available for guests.

22
Sugar Shack image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Old house converted into a small breakfast spot with cozy charm and a beach cottage vibe. Atmosphere feels quiet and laid-back, evoking a nostalgic, family-like setting. Rooftop patio offers an additional peaceful seating option.

Food arrives quickly, hot, and tasty with excellent service. Staff offer friendly hospitality and even bring food to vehicles for ADA guests.

Offers both breakfast and lunch options in the morning. Frequent visits confirm it as a solid spot for morning meals and midday dining.

People are saying

"Their breakfast cinnamon rolls and burritos always hit the spot."

"This lunch spot has delicious food with large, repeatable portions."

"I thought the food here was wicked good and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $15 for a plain Belgian waffle.

2

Parking is plentiful, which is uncommon for the area.

3

The establishment is pet-friendly with outdoor seating available.

23
Chick-fil-A image 1
Fast food restaurant

Bright, inviting space with plenty of seating and ample parking. Atmosphere feels busy but organized, with staff maintaining cleanliness. Known for fresh, well-prepared chicken sandwiches and perfectly cooked waffle fries.

Food arrives fresh and with consistent high quality. Meals come out quickly and taste fantastic every time.

Lunch rush can get busy with lines lasting about 20 minutes during menu transitions. Staff consistently provide extra care to ensure a smooth lunch experience.

People are saying

"The Drive Thru food here is super good, as always."

"The waffle fries were cooked perfectly, lightly crisped."

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

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times of about 30 minutes in the drive-through.

2

Pre-ordering on the app does not speed up service; food is prepared upon arrival.

3

The location is generally clean and well-organized.

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San Clemente, California

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