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Top picks in San Clemente

Lunch spots

A lunch spot should be a consistent part of your routine that you never have to second-guess.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Nalu's Hawaiian Fish Grill & Tutu's Kitchen image 1
Nalu's Hawaiian Fish Grill & Tutu's Kitchen image 2
Nalu's Hawaiian Fish Grill & Tutu's Kitchen image 3
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Spacious setting with fun decor creates a chill vibe for casual dining. Lunch features classic Hawaiian plate lunches with fresh, affordable seafood like perfectly fried fish. Light crowd and relaxed pace make it a great spot for midday Kau Kau.

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."

"You have to try the mac salad; it's so good."

"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.

02
Tabouli Kitchen image 1
Restaurant

Small, casual spot serves fresh Mediterranean dishes with quick service ideal for lunch. Enjoy generous portions in a warm, welcoming setting. Perfect for healthy, flavorful meals on the go.

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."

"You have to try the wraps; they're loaded with fresh, delicious ingredients."

"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.

03
Taqueria Luna image 1
Restaurant

Tiny spot with cozy patio offers fresh tacos and Mexican dishes at fair prices. Staff speak Spanish, creating an authentic vibe. Busy during Monday lunch rush but stays open late for a relaxed dining experience.

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 thought this burrito might have been the best I've had."

"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.

04
Bluestone Lane San Clemente Cafรฉ image 1

Coffee shop shines with charming outdoor seating and quiet atmosphere perfect for work or study. Lunch offers fresh sandwiches and helpful staff like Ava who guide menu choices. Space stays lively yet relaxed all day.

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 charming outdoor seating area is great for enjoying the morning."

"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.

05
Seasurf Fish Co image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood spot shines with Garlic Shrimp for lunch. Outdoor patio with heaters offers a laid-back vibe. Indoor bar has a TV for added entertainment, making it a relaxing and lively place to eat.

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."

"It's a casual spot with really fresh, plentiful seafood dishes."

"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
Drift Distillery & Smokehouse image 1

Distillery shines with live blues music and a quiet vibe that keeps it intimate. Lunch is tasty and served with kindness from Jasmine. Enjoy craft cocktails in a cozy, inviting space.

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."

"The beer here is ice cold and wonderful."

"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.

07
Buona Forchetta San Clemente image 1

Small, intimate space buzzes with lively energy and authentic Italian style. Warm welcomes make every lunch feel special, paired with taste sensation meals that impress. Relaxed beach town vibe adds to the charm, creating a happy buzz throughout.

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."

"This place has amazing Italian food, perfect for date spots."

"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
Malulu Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small, cozy sushi spot with a mom-and-pop vibe offers an authentic, welcoming atmosphere. Lunch specials provide great value and include an excellent salad. Fresh, high-quality fish and traditional preparation make it a quiet, unassuming favorite.

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 sushi to be super fresh and tasty."

"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.

09
Kiaans Fine Indian Cuisine image 1

Upscale Indian spot offers a serene atmosphere with white linen and contemporary tunes. Lunch specials once included veggie, chicken, and lamb with naan and rice, though lunch hours changed. Weekend live music adds to the relaxed vibe.

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.

10
The Picnic Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop boasts a chic interior and a flower bar that brighten the mood. Outdoor seating creates a pleasant atmosphere perfect for casual gatherings. Lunch features thoughtful, delicious bites ideal for a relaxed meal by the beach.

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.

11
Thai Dara image 1
Thai restaurant

Cozy interior and calming music create a quiet atmosphere perfect for lunch. Large portions and fast service make the lunch specials a great value. Complimentary Thai chi adds a unique touch to the warm, intimate vibe.

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.

12
China Bros image 1
Chinese restaurant

Fast food-style seating and large portions make it great for quick meals. Lunch specials like orange chicken with soda offer good value. Warm, inviting atmosphere with affordable prices suits those seeking satisfying Chinese food.

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 wonton soup is huge and so flavorful."

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.

13
Antoine's Cafe image 1

Small cafe with classic diner style and surfboards on walls offers hearty breakfast and lunch all day. Outdoor seating is dog-friendly and shaded. Weekends bring a lively vibe, while weekdays stay relaxed.

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.

14
San Clemente Pier image 1
Public beach

Long pier offers mesmerizing views and a laid-back vibe with fire pits and nearby restaurants. Fresh seafood lunch by the ocean creates a relaxing atmosphere. Surfers and sunsets add to the historical charm and peaceful strolls.

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 watched a beautiful sunset with stunning ocean views."

"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.

15
Moulin image 1
French restaurant

Small French cafe offers an authentic Parisian vibe with a quaint outdoor patio overlooking the ocean. Serves fresh breads and a French breakfast and lunch menu until 3pm. Patio is dog-friendly and perfect for enjoying sunny Southern California weather.

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 French pastries here are phenomenal and irresistible."

"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.

16
Chaupain Bakery image 1

Small cafe boasts a cozy atmosphere with exceptional pastries and fresh breads. Outdoor seating offers a strong neighborhood vibe perfect for a light lunch and good coffee. Inside feels lively and authentic, making it a great casual spot.

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 bread here is always fresh 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.

17
Surfin' Chicken Grill image 1
Chicken restaurant

Family-run spot serves fresh grilled chicken and fish with homemade taste. Casual lunch options like burritos and tacos fit a quick meal or relaxed break. Enjoy a dog-friendly patio and reasonable prices in a homey setting.

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.

18
Min's Dumpling San Clemente image 1

Modern, clean space with a small outdoor patio offers a quiet, cozy atmosphere. Fast service and upfront payment with Alan keep lunch orders moving quickly. Enjoy authentic Northern Chinese dumplings with generous portions in a welcoming spot.

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."

"I found the Chinese food here to be authentically 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.

19
Full Moon Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot offers fresh sushi with a cozy atmosphere and ocean views. Lunch specials like the crunch roll and poke salad deliver great taste at affordable prices. Counter seats create a lively, laid-back vibe perfect for casual dining.

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 lunch deals here are unbeatable and affordable."

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.

20
Panera Bread image 1

Cafe offers quick, healthy lunch like Chicken Roma Asiago Bagel Stack with self-order screens for ease. Booths with power outlets create a calm, relaxed vibe. Weekends bring a lively crowd but keep the space comfortable.

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.

21
Flights & Irons Urban Kitchen image 1

Speakeasy-style spot shines with live jazz music and a wood fire oven that warms the cozy space. Lunch menu suits both midday and evening meals, perfect for a quiet company lunch. Drinks include crafted cocktails and a solid beer and wine selection.

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 salmon was outstanding, especially with the golden beets."

"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.

22
Sugar Shack image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Old house with cozy charm and a beach cottage vibe creates a quiet, laid-back feel. Serves solid breakfast and lunch options in the morning and midday. Rooftop patio adds a peaceful seating choice for a nostalgic, family-like setting.

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."

"It felt like a small, mom and pop place where the staff were the owners."

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 space offers ample parking and plenty of seating. Lunch rush brings busy lines, but staff ensure smooth service. Known for fresh chicken sandwiches and perfect waffle fries.

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."

"The service at this lunch spot is really great."

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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