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Guide to San Diego

Chinese lunch spots

You need a lunch spot that respects your time without compromising on the quality of your Chinese food. A quick meal should still be a satisfying one.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Small, family-owned Chinese restaurant with cozy atmosphere and simple decor. Guests can watch dumplings being handmade in an open kitchen while enjoying Studio Ghibli instrumental music. Seating is limited and intimate, creating a warm and inviting vibe.

Dumplings stand out as the most delicious and authentic, with varieties like beef, chicken and mushroom, and cabbage and pork. The menu also features ma la spicy dishes and sides like green onion pancakes and beef soup.

Lunch draws a crowd with a packed parking lot and street parking nearby. Meals suit a light dinner or lunch break, though extra broth is not automatically provided.

People are saying

"These handmade Chinese dumplings are authentic and amazing."

"This lunch spot has delicious, authentic Chinese dumplings."

Good to know

1

Make sure to come early because there are limited seats in the restaurant.

2

Be prepared to look for parking.

3

The restaurant was small and parking could be difficult.

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Glassed-in kitchen showcases hand-pulled noodles in a clean, spacious dining room with pleasant background music. Bright lighting and casual vibe create a relaxed atmosphere where watching noodle preparation feels like a live performance. Seating accommodates families and groups, enhancing the welcoming environment.

Hand pulled noodles and soup dumplings stand out here. The menu includes spicy wonton, beef wrap, Dan Dan noodles, and a special chow mein, all offering solid value.

Quick service suits a lunch break well. The spot offers fast meals and leaves diners satisfied.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the noodles and dumplings, is delicious."

"This lunch spot has delicious food and excellent flavors."

Good to know

1

You need to find street parking near the restaurant.

2

Expect to wait around 30 minutes during dinner hours due to popularity.

3

Customization of ingredients is limited; specify your order carefully.

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Chinese restaurant offers authentic Hunan cuisine in a cozy, lively atmosphere with simple, welcoming decor. Noise level supports relaxed conversation among diners. Complimentary ice cream adds a casual, friendly touch.

Authentic Hunan cuisine shines with very spicy and genuinely hot dishes like the Hunan-style stir-fried pork, a signature on most tables. The menu clearly separates traditional Hunan dishes from American-Chinese options, offering a true taste of China.

Works well for group lunches and work gatherings. Lunch draws a strong crowd of Chinese customers. Suitable for casual fare and social meals.

People are saying

"This Chinese food is so authentic and flavorful, I loved it."

"This Lunch Spot's food is really authentic."

Good to know

1

Food is ordered via a QR code on the table, so no need to look for a waiter.

2

When I arrived at 8:30 PM, there was a 15-minute wait before I was seated.

3

Parking in the shopping area can be tricky.

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Asian restaurant with modern, inviting decor and photo-worthy corners creates a friendly, vibey atmosphere. Loud, chill music and several TVs showing sports and K-pop fill the space. Cocktails like lychee and passionfruit complement soft dumplings and flavorful chicken rolls.

Chow mein and chow fun feature chewy, flavorful noodles cooked well. Dumplings, bao buns, and pork belly stand out with rich taste and texture.

Lunch features include a bulgogi lunch box with a soft boiled egg treated with vinegar and chicken tacos. The menu offers a variety of flavorful options suitable for casual midday meals.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is great, with attentive and friendly servers."

"The lunch servers here are so attentive and make it a pleasure."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 8pm with $1 wings and late night deals.

2

The $1 wings are a popular choice during happy hour.

3

Parking is easier at this location compared to others in the area.

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Small interior with dim lighting creates a warm and welcoming but sometimes crowded atmosphere during lunch. Easy-going vibe suits families despite cluttered seating and limited space. Ordering food first and then finding a seat is typical due to high demand.

Orange chicken stands out with its crispy outside and tender inside texture. Szechuan chicken offers a spicy and savory blend, while Mongolian beef delivers strong flavor. House fried rice complements these dishes well.

Lunch offers well-priced specials with generous portions. Options like the Mongolian beef bowl and salmon with vegetables provide straightforward, no-frills meals in a casual setting.

People are saying

"The lunch spot food is delicious, with amazing quality and taste."

"I found the Mongolian beef at this Chinese food spot to be great."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult at lunch.

2

Customers must order their food first and then find a seat.

3

Dinner portions are standard 16oz takeout cartons with rice.

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Small space with about six booths inside and a few tables outside creates an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Warm lighting and tasteful decor blend traditional Chinese elements with modern style, making it a quiet, vibey spot. Popular and often busy, it draws diners who appreciate consistent quality and generous portions.

Shrimp lo mein and chicken fried rice come fresh with generous portions. Dishes like Shanghai Crispy Pork, Mongolian Beef, and Sweet and Sour Chicken stand out, alongside potstickers and wonton soup.

Lunch offers excellent portion sizes and affordable prices compared to dinner. The Kung Pao Scallops lunch includes soup and appetizers with attentive and helpful staff.

People are saying

"I found Chin's Szechwan to be a great Chinese food spot."

"The Kung Pao Scallops lunch here was excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted due to the small size of the restaurant.

2

Expect to wait for a table during busy dinner hours, especially on weekends.

3

Lunch prices are lower than dinner prices, providing a more affordable option.

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Small, cozy space with wooden tables and chairs and a quiet, warm atmosphere. Guests watch dumplings being handmade through a window, adding a hands-on feel to the experience. The place offers vegetarian-friendly options and feels like home cooking.

Fresh, flavorful dumplings come in many varieties like pork and chives, lamb, and vegan options. The menu also features soup dumplings, Dan Dan noodles, and a dim sum combo that offers a solid mix of dishes.

Lunch specials offer a great deal with a $13.99 option that stands out. Big pork buns work well for lunch, especially when taken to go and eaten the next day.

People are saying

"I found the dumplings and wontons to be the real deal."

"This lunch spot's special was excellent and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough around the restaurant, so plan accordingly.

2

Lunch specials offer great deals for budget-conscious diners.

3

The restaurant is family-run and known for handmade dumplings.

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Small, modest space with red accents and tight seating creates a no-frills, lively atmosphere. Bright fluorescent lights and a packed dining room contribute to a high-energy vibe. Known for authentic Sichuan flavors with intense spice and bold dishes.

Bold, authentic Sichuan flavors define the menu with standout dishes like mapo tofu and Szechuan boiled fish. Portions come generous and the food delivers strong, spicy tastes true to the region.

A convenient to go counter handles the lunch rush efficiently. Food arrives quickly even when it gets busy, especially on Sundays. A late lunch around 2 PM offers a quieter experience.

People are saying

"I thought their Chinese food was the best I'd ever had."

"This lunch spot's spicy dishes are flavorful and generously portioned."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging at busier times.

2

Making a reservation a couple of hours before should ensure a table.

3

The portions are large and reasonably priced.

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Open glass kitchen reveals chefs making handmade dumplings fresh throughout the day. Bright, clean dining area contrasts with loud acoustics and basic interior design. Menu offers many vegetarian options alongside standout dishes like pork xiao long bao and spicy wontons.

Handcrafted dumplings and wok-fired classics stand out here. The menu features pork xiao long bao, beef chow fun, and a mix of Cantonese and Szechuan dishes like Mapo Tofu and eggplant.

Crowds build up during Saturday lunch, showing its popularity. The spot suits a quick lunch and offers a nice setting for a break from work.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings, is so juicy and flavorful."

"The dumplings at this Lunch Spot are so fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect to wait during busy hours.

2

Takeout is recommended to avoid long wait times for a table.

3

Parking is convenient nearby, making it easy to access the restaurant.

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Takeout-only setup with spartan decor and no dine-in option. Atmosphere centers on affordable prices and lunch specials around $7, attracting those seeking quick, budget-friendly meals. Food quality varies, but fried rice and orange chicken stand out as satisfying choices.

Orange chicken stands out with a real orange flavor and generous pieces. Wonton soup varies, sometimes with fewer wontons and more broth, while dishes like beef broccoli and sesame chicken offer solid options.

Lunch specials come with great-sized servings and cost about $7 to $7.95. Two specials can be ordered for under $20, offering reasonable prices despite inflation.

People are saying

"The lunch specials here are a great deal for the price."

"The orange chicken here has a real orange flavor."

Good to know

1

Rising Dragon Chinese Restaurant is takeout only.

2

The lunch special costs about $7.

3

I suggest calling ahead to order.

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Chinese restaurant offers authentic street food with indoor and outdoor seating and a late-night crowd. Atmosphere feels quiet early, then fills with younger guests enjoying drinks. Ordering happens via app or website even when dining in.

Dumplings stand out as a highlight, paired with solid dishes like Mongolian beef and Chicken Lo Mein. Hot Pot, noodle soup, wontons, and Chinese BBQ add variety at reasonable prices.

Lunch features noodle soup, wontons, and dumplings. These dishes offer comfort food that satisfies hunger.

People are saying

"I had the best dumplings I've ever had."

"You'll love this lunch spot; the food is great for everyone."

Good to know

1

King Bistro recently opened lunch services.

2

There is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating available.

3

Orders must be placed through the app or website, even for dine-in.

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Small space with HK-style cafe decor and cozy, clean atmosphere offers a chill vibe reminiscent of Asian cafeterias. Seating is tight but matched with beautiful interior design and simple, neat presentation. The place feels intimate and inviting, blending casual comfort with authentic style.

Authentic Cantonese food shines through with dishes like BBQ pork and roast duck that stand out for their flavor. The soup dumplings have thin skin and juicy filling packed with broth, served without long waits.

Busy atmosphere during lunch, especially on Fridays and weekends with waits up to 10 minutes. Weekday lunch hours are calmer with no wait and the small space fills up quickly.

People are saying

"I loved the Hainanese chicken and crispy roast duck."

"The roast duck and Hainanese chicken at this Lunch Spot are delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it's best to arrive early due to limited seating.

2

You should put your name on the notepad outside to get a table.

3

Expect a wait during busy hours, especially on weekends.

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Shanghainese restaurant offers a laid-back beach vibe with an open baresque feel and a casual, chill atmosphere. The place feels more like a dive bar than a traditional dim sum spot, attracting those looking for a relaxed setting and great cocktails. It serves hand-crafted dishes with a variety of Asian flavors, including many vegan options.

Steamed and fried bao buns and a variety of dim sum dishes stand out here. The menu features Szechuan dishes, Mongolian Beef, dumplings, General Tso chicken, and honey walnut shrimp with wonton soup.

Lunch offers a weekday deal with a special priced at $17. The menu suits a quick stop during a busy day, especially on weekdays like Monday.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings and wontons, is so flavorful."

"The dim sum here is delicious and arrived quickly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers a large selection of plates for budget-friendly dining.

2

Tapas Tuesdays provide a unique dining experience with various small plates.

3

The restaurant closes promptly at 9pm, so plan to leave by then.

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Huge space with traditional Chinese decor and an austere, cafeteria-like atmosphere. The vibe is family-oriented and casual, attracting a clientele familiar with its authentic Cantonese dim sum offerings. The environment feels dated but maintains a steady, unpretentious presence.

Dim sum features fresh, made daily selections like beef balls, chive pancakes, shrimp, and scallop dumplings. Peking duck and beef chow fun match authentic Cantonese flavors found in traditional teahouses.

Lunch features solid dim sum and lunch specials that offer good variety. Specials come consistently and provide a reliable midday option.

People are saying

"The dim sum here is excellent, just like other popular spots."

"The lunch specials here are solid and the food is excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult in the large lot shared with other restaurants.

2

Dim sum offerings are only available on weekends.

3

Prices for dim sum trays range from $5.5 to $6.5.

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Traditional Chinese decor creates a cozy, warm atmosphere with soft piano music enhancing a calm, relaxed vibe. The space feels old school and quaint, attracting those who appreciate a quiet, family-friendly setting.

Szechuan garlic beef and Salt and Pepper Chicken stand out with bold flavors. The chicken lo mein and orange chicken deliver rich, authentic tastes close to traditional Chinese cuisine.

Lunch combos include soup and salad at a reasonable price. Specials like the Imperial Shrimp come with generous portions and fill you up without costing much.

People are saying

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

"The food at this Lunch Spot tasted delicious."

Good to know

1

Szechuan House only accepts cash, so be prepared with cash.

2

They offer lunch specials that are very filling and fairly cheap.

3

You get free wonton chips with your meal.

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Spacious dining room features modern Chinese decor with a stunning waterfall entrance and custom seating. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, creating a comfortable place to relax and enjoy a meal. Generous portions and unique ceramic dishware add to the inviting experience.

Chow mein and Sichuan shrimp stand out with strong flavors. The Wor Wonton Soup offers a hearty mix of meat, chicken, shrimp, and vegetables. Egg Foo Young and orange chicken bowl appeal to kids, while fried rice and dumplings provide solid options.

Lunch specials come under 15 dollars with consistent pricing across locations. Dishes like sesame chicken and war wonton soup arrive with extra care and good presentation.

People are saying

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

"The General Tso chicken lunch special was sweet with red pepper."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available for under $15.

2

Parking at the restaurant is convenient.

3

The menu offers a wide variety of options.

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Chinese restaurant offers a warm, cozy interior with authentic and modern decor that creates a family-friendly atmosphere. Lighting tends to be dim and inviting, supporting a relaxed dining experience. Tables accommodate large groups, making it suitable for gatherings.

Spicy orange chicken offers a nice kick, while Szechuan green beans come perfectly braised and seasoned. Egg rolls stand out as the best in years, and the House Special Lo Mein serves as a reliable choice among many options.

Lunch offers large portions with a variety of items like egg flower soup, egg roll, and cucumber salad. The meal includes crispy chicken dumplings and ends with a plate of beautifully arranged cookies for celebrations.

People are saying

"This Chinese food is delicious; I loved the orange chicken and fried rice."

"The portions at this lunch spot are really large."

Good to know

1

Parking could be an issue at this location.

2

The restaurant is family friendly and kids are welcome.

3

The portions were huge.

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Spacious hot pot restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with propane heaters for comfort. Atmosphere stays relaxed and comfortable with friendly energy and moderate noise levels. Digital ordering via QR code streamlines the dining experience.

Unique Taiwanese individual hot pot options stand out, including a vegetarian hot pot that suits families. The Shacha beef hot pot closely matches the authentic taste from Taiwan, while the Sichuan hot pot lacks expected spiciness.

Busy crowds create a wait during lunch, sometimes around 10 minutes. Arriving early avoids any wait time.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is so flavorful, especially the hot pot."

"The food at this lunch spot was good."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy to find since they just opened.

2

The restaurant uses a QR code for online ordering at the table.

3

Expect a quick 10-minute wait during off-hour lunch times.

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Chinese restaurant offers affordable prices with huge portions and Northeast style dishes. Atmosphere feels rundown and in need of cleaning. Lunch specials attract a steady crowd despite basic surroundings.

Egg drop soup stands out as a highlight here. The menu also features Great Wonton Soup and chow/lo mein that appeals to kids.

Offers affordable lunch specials priced between $8 and $10, which is about $2 to $3 cheaper than most spots nearby. Serves quick meals that fit well into a lunch break.

People are saying

"I thought the Chinese food here was delicious and flavorful."

"This lunch spot has the best deals around."

Good to know

1

The 3 item combo with a drink costs $11.99.

2

Lunch specials are available for $8-10, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

Portions are large, providing good value for the price.

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Large dining room with big tables and a lovely patio offers an open, somewhat industrial space with bright lighting. Fresh sushi and seafood buffet features a teppanyaki grill where ingredients are cooked to order. Atmosphere varies from lively to overcrowded, suitable for parties of any size.

Hot dishes feature steamed fish, orange chicken, and salt and pepper crab alongside fried rice and chow mein. Soups like egg drop and hot and sour come with dumplings such as shu mai, offering a variety of flavors and textures.

Weekday lunch specials run from 11 AM to 3 PM with a half-off price around $17.50. The spot offers a great selection and solid value for lunch groups.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has amazing fresh sushi and seafood options."

"The Chinese food here has amazing seafood and sushi options."

Good to know

1

The weekday lunch special costs $17.50 from Monday to Friday, 11 AM to 3 PM.

2

Expect long wait times, up to 1.5 hours during peak hours.

3

Crab legs are only available during dinner hours.

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Large dining hall features dim sum carts rolling through for orders, creating an interactive meal experience. Atmosphere blends nostalgic charm with some outdated decor and occasional noise from kitchen activity. Space suits groups of all sizes, offering a relaxing yet lively setting.

Authentic classic dim sum arrives on carts pushed by waitresses, offering plenty of shrimp, fish, and vegetables. The dishes keep coming, ensuring no one leaves hungry, and the flavors feel truly traditional and fresh.

Dim Sum lunch draws crowds, especially on weekends when it gets super busy. The spot suits group meals well, offering a nice setting for lunch or dinner with family or friends.

People are saying

"The dim sum here is delicious and offers a great variety."

"This lunch spot's dim sum is fresh, hot, and delicious right off the cart."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for 2 hours in the lot; paid options are available nearby.

2

They close at 3:00pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Dim sum is served only on weekends and at specific times.

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