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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to San Diego

Lunch spots

Made for those who treat the midday break as a non-negotiable ritual to reset their focus.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Taste of Denmark image 1
Taste of Denmark image 2
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Danish restaurant

Small indoor space with a street front patio offers a relaxed vibe. Lunch features an open face trio with good value and a delicious apple danish for dessert. Soft Danish classics create an authentic Scandinavian atmosphere perfect for casual outdoor dining.

Lunch offers an open face trio that provides good value. Outdoor seating lets you enjoy a shaded spot while eating. An extra treat like a delicious apple danish often comes at the end of the meal.

People are saying

"The food, especially the rye bread and Danish pastries, is amazing."

"I loved the homemade rye bread; it was absolutely delicious."

"You have to try the Danish pastry; it's the best I've ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult and requires payment.

2

Everything at Taste of Denmark is cooked to order.

3

You can buy the bread and take a huge loaf home.

02
Alexi's Greek Cafe image 1
Greek restaurant

Mysterious blue lights and vintage decor create a cozy, nostalgic vibe. Enjoy affordable lunch specials like lamb gyro with fries. Generous portions and authentic Greek food make it a family diner gem for casual meals.

Lunch offers affordable specials around $9 to $10 including taxes. Lamb gyro with fries and dinner plate combos provide great value and consistent quality.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and affordable."

"The dinner spots here serve genuine Greek cuisine, hitting the gyro and souvlaki cravings."

"I thought the food at this lunch spot was excellent."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials make meals affordable, typically around $10-11.

2

Happy hour offers excellent deals on drinks and appetizers.

3

Dinner specials include a cup of soup, salad, and an entrée for $12.

03
Makai Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese spot shines with fresh sushi and a laid-back vibe. Cozy indoor and welcoming patio suit casual lunches and special occasions. Music adds a sophisticated touch while keeping the feel casual and inviting.

Lunch here offers fresh sushi in a laid-back and energetic atmosphere. It suits both casual meals and special occasions like birthdays.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food here to be the freshest I've ever tasted."

"The owner Matthew makes you feel right at home during lunch."

"It's super chill with an authentic Hawaiian vibe."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

The menu features a variety of poke bowls and sushi options.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can be limited during peak hours.

04
Gyrogrill image 1
Greek restaurant

Small Greek eatery shines as a lively spot with fresh gyro wraps and a compact indoor bar. Outdoor seating adds charm, making it ideal for a quick lunch with tasty options. Expect vibrant flavors and a cozy vibe.

Small size suits quick lunches with a decent menu. Offers several options worth trying during a lunch break.

People are saying

"The Greek food here, especially the gyros, has amazing flavor and generous meat."

"The falafel here are crispy, hot, and the best I've ever had."

"This lunch spot's gyro is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 20-30 minutes during peak hours.

2

Preparation of orders can take 12-15 minutes, even for small items.

3

The Gyro Combo offers the best value for money on the menu.

05
Zgara Greek Grill image 1
Greek restaurant

Small Greek grill serves authentic cuisine with fresh, flavorful pork and chicken gyros. Lunch specials offer great value with combos including gyro, fries, and drink. Clean, simple decor and welcoming vibe make it a pleasant spot to enjoy a meal.

Offers tasty lunch specials with good deals. Lunch combos include a gyro, seasoned fries, and a drink for around $14.56 after tax.

People are saying

"I thought the Greek food, especially the gyro, was the best I've ever had."

"The Mediterranean food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"I loved the tasty lunch special with fries and a drink."

Good to know

1

Parking can get hectic in front of the building during rush hour.

2

The lunch deal costs $14.56 for a gyro, fries, and a drink.

3

They offer both chicken and beef gyro options.

06
Orchid Persian Cuisine image 1
Persian restaurant

Space blends Persian style with modern art and Orchid flowers on tables, creating a warm, calm vibe. Ideal for power lunches, it offers light meals and a setting for focused talks. Comfortable seats and soothing music make it a relaxing meal spot for families and professionals.

Power lunches happen here with colleagues in a setting that supports focused conversation. Light meals offer a grounding experience that suits a quick, thoughtful break.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, delicious, and incredibly fresh."

"The saffron ice cream with pistachios and rose petals is heavenly."

"This Lunch Spot's food is fresh, flavorful, and satisfying."

Good to know

1

The restaurant recently underwent renovations and introduced a new menu.

2

The chef has been with the restaurant for about 30 years, ensuring consistent quality.

3

The restaurant maintains high cleanliness standards, including the bathrooms.

07
The Mixer image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant offers a high-energy sports bar vibe with indoor and outdoor seating and many TVs. Lunch suits various occasions with solid quality meals in a casual setting. Fans enjoy burgers and cocktails amid live events and themed nights.

Lunch offers a chance to relax or work with a casual vibe. Meals come with solid quality and suit a variety of occasions, from post-church stops to business breaks.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were amazing, truly the best."

"It's the perfect spot for catching live sports with tons of TVs."

"Our server Maria made our lunch a joy with her attentiveness."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $6.25 drinks and $7.25 food options.

2

The Bravo watch party for RHOSLC is on Tuesday nights.

3

Parking is ample and convenient near The Mixer.

08
Grab & Go Subs image 1
Sandwich shop

Family-owned shop serves freshly baked bread and customizable subs with fast, friendly service. Busy lunch rush shows its popularity as a quick lunch spot. Easy wheelchair access and nearby public transit make it convenient despite limited parking.

Sandwiches come out fast and stay fresh, making them a solid choice for a quick lunch. Staff stay friendly and efficient even during the busy lunch rush.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here to be amazing and super fresh."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot are always friendly and quick."

"The bread here is freshly baked with a great crunchy outside and soft inside."

Good to know

1

Grab & Go Subs is open from 7 AM to 2 PM Monday through Friday.

2

You can call and order ahead to save time.

3

Parking is difficult; consider walking or ride-sharing.

09
Charli's Landing image 1

Outdoor seating offers bayfront marina views perfect for a quick lunch. Enjoy delicious tacos and light drinks in a relaxed atmosphere with no loud music. Patio welcomes dogs and features simple games like connect 4, making it a friendly spot to unwind.

Perfect for a quick lunch with outdoor vibes and a dockside view. Offers delicious tacos and light drinks, convenient for nearby hotel guests.

People are saying

"These fish tacos are phenomenal, fresh, and juicy."

"The seafood here, especially the fish and chips, is delicious and fresh."

"The fish tacos at this Lunch Spot are amazing and fully loaded."

Good to know

1

Outdoor seating is available, providing great views of the marina.

2

The eatery has a free parking lot for customers.

3

You can order from a QR code at the table to skip the line.

10
Bowl To Go image 1
Asian restaurant

Small, family-owned spot serves generous portions of simple, tasty bowls like teriyaki chicken. Lunch hours bring a busy, chaotic vibe perfect for quick, satisfying meals. Clean, spacious setting feels calm off-peak, making it a solid grab-and-go lunch choice.

Offers quick lunches that are easy to grab on the go. Serves great bowls making it a solid spot for a fast, satisfying midday meal.

People are saying

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

"The Teriyaki chicken here is good and flavorful."

"The Japanese food here is warm and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during lunch hours, especially on weekdays.

2

Prices are affordable, with most bowls around $10-12.

3

The restaurant is primarily a grab-and-go spot with limited seating.

11
Tadian Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Small sandwich shop offers quiet atmosphere and pretty wall art. Chicken BBQ sandwich is a delicious lunch choice. Soft music and reasonable prices create a relaxed vibe for a quick break.

Simple but delicious chicken BBQ sandwich stands out for lunch. Ordering ahead and eating in the car fits a quick weekday break well.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here to be very good and delicious."

"The sandwiches here are delicious and perfectly balanced."

"I thought the food here was so good."

Good to know

1

Tadian Cafe offers a good variety of sandwiches to choose from.

2

The sandwiches are reasonably priced, averaging around $11.

3

You can order through Grubhub for delivery.

12
Cafe Pascale image 1

Spanish-style hacienda offers a shaded patio with cozy seating and a calming fountain. Quiet atmosphere blends gentle water sounds with soft music for a peaceful vibe. Fresh food and easy parking make it a relaxing lunch spot away from busy areas.

A relaxing vibe makes it a solid choice for lunch. The spot offers fresh food and a convenient location for a midday break.

People are saying

"The cafe is tucked away in a lovely garden setting."

"The paninis here are delicious and perfectly grilled."

"The outdoor seating has a lovely garden with a fountain."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy with plenty of free spaces available for cafe patrons.

2

Online ordering is available for quick and convenient service.

3

The cafe offers a large menu with many options, including gluten-free choices.

13
Mary's Salads image 1
Salad shop

Bright space with customizable salads offers fresh, flavorful options perfect for a healthy lunch. Brick walls and a mural create a welcoming atmosphere while friendly staff keep energy immaculate and comfortable.

Salads stand out as a healthy lunch option that breaks the usual taco routine. Quick and delicious choices make it a go-to spot for office breaks.

People are saying

"The salads here are so fresh and delicious."

"I found the Rustic Comfort soup's flavors unctuous and unmatched."

"You can get these huge, healthy salads for a great lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Mary's Salads offers a variety of salads and soups made with fresh ingredients.

2

They provide options for carnivores, vegetarians, and vegans.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

14
Lucca Italian Sandwich Shop image 1

Sandwich stand near offices serves authentic Italian sandwiches on fresh focaccia with city views and outdoor seating. Lunch rush brings a steady energy but expect some wait due to limited staff and a single toaster. Calm, casual vibe suits downtown workers well.

Offers quality sandwiches that stand out from typical lunch options. Expect some wait during peak lunch hours due to limited staff and a single toaster.

People are saying

"I thought these were the best sandwiches in San Diego."

"The bread here is delicious and the ingredients are fresh."

"This lunch spot's sandwiches taste like Tuscany."

Good to know

1

Pre-ordering is recommended at least one hour in advance to avoid long waits.

2

Online ordering is available for pickup to skip the line during busy times.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can be limited during lunch hours.

15
Pastiamo image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian spot shines with fresh pasta and authentic sauces like pesto. Weekend lunch features a pasta and soda special at a great price. Cozy vibe fits casual dates, but watch for limited parking in the busy plaza.

Lunch offers a high-quality meal with a pasta and soda special that comes at a great deal. This lunch special is available on weekends too.

People are saying

"I found the homemade pasta here to be so fresh and flavorful."

"You can pick your pasta and sauce for a perfect, delicious meal."

"This lunch spot has delicious handmade pastas and sauces."

Good to know

1

Parking in the plaza is often difficult due to limited spaces.

2

The prices are surprisingly affordable, making it a great value.

3

They offer a lunch special on weekends for a better deal.

16
Cafe California Poppy image 1

Cozy spot in an industrial park offers a quiet lunch atmosphere with a clean, cool interior vibe. It serves authentic Hungarian and European flavors alongside Italian and Mediterranean dishes, making it perfect for a relaxed weekday meal.

Cozy and quiet spot serves Italian and Mediterranean lunch dishes. Located in an industrial park, it offers a relaxed vibe for weekday meals.

People are saying

"I had the best tomato soup I've ever had, packed with flavor."

"The breakfast here has such a welcoming energy."

"This lunch spot's food is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a wide range of menu options including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.

2

Daily specials are available, but it's better to check in person for the latest offerings.

3

Online ordering can be tricky; visiting in person is recommended.

17
Angry Petes Pizza Kearny Mesa image 1

Enjoy Detroit-style pizza with quick, tasty lunch specials and happy hour deals. Retro arcade and board games add a quirky, family-friendly vibe. A drive-through and welcoming space make it easy to grab a meal and hang out.

Offers great lunch deals and specials that make it easy to grab a quick meal. Includes happy hour deals alongside lunch options.

People are saying

"I thought their Detroit Style Pizza offered a taste of Detroit."

"The decor and food give it a nostalgic Midwest vibe."

"This Lunch Spot's pizza has a perfect crust and delicious toppings."

Good to know

1

Angry Hour runs from 3 to 6 pm with $5 draft beers.

2

Happy hour offers a slice of pizza and a beer for $11.

3

Trivia night is held weekly and is engaging for guests.

18
La Central Birria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a family atmosphere with a lively, welcoming vibe. Lunch shines with birria options like the Extremo, perfect for casual meals or birthdays. Space feels like a relative's home, casual yet often packed and warm.

Lunch features birria with options like the Extremo serving. It suits casual meals and special occasions like birthdays.

People are saying

"I found the birria here to be unreal."

"The tacos here are served with such friendly, attentive service."

"This lunch spot has the most delicious birria tacos."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited at La Central Birria and it can get busy.

2

They turned away more than 10 people while I was there.

3

They were out of birria at 1:15 and 1:30 PM, even though they closed at 2 PM.

19
Cluck N' Sip image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot with a friendly vibe and juicy fried chicken draws lunch crowds with a $7.99 combo. Small, clean space offers attentive service and casual comfort. Mandarin music adds a unique touch to this affordable lunch spot.

Lunch features a weekday $7.99 special with two pieces of juicy fried chicken, a side, and a drink. Staff provide attentive service and the lunch combo offers great value every day.

People are saying

"This chicken sandwich is so juicy and crispy."

"I loved the spicy Mac and Cheese; it scored a perfect 10."

"The lunch combo is a great value for the price."

Good to know

1

They offer a lunch deal every day for $7.99, including two chicken tenders, a side, and a drink.

2

Happy hour specials are available at Cluck N' Sip.

3

The restaurant is halal certified, making it a good option for halal diners.

20
Burger Deck image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor deck offers breezy views and heaters for cool days, creating a relaxed atmosphere with good music and space to gather. The beautiful patio seating feels private and shaded. A smash burger makes for a solid lunch choice here.

A single smash burger stands out as a solid lunch choice here. The spot offers a great lunch experience that challenges negative reviews.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be fantastic."

"The burgers and onion rings here are delicious."

"This lunch spot's burger is juicy, messy, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Burger Deck only accepts card payments.

2

The restaurant has outdoor seating only.

3

It is dog-friendly and offers a pup patty.

21
Big Jim's Roast Beef image 1

Small sandwich shop offers high-quality roast beef and French dip sandwiches perfect for lunch. Outdoor seating adds a homey atmosphere while onion rings provide a crisp, generous side. Staff are kind, keeping energy relaxed and inviting.

Lunch features French dip sandwiches and the super beef option. Onion rings come in a generous half order with a crisp fry.

People are saying

"These onion rings are crispy and delicious."

"I thought the roast beef sandwich was the best I ever had."

"The roast beef sandwich at this Lunch Spot is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

There is no indoor seating; all seating is outside on the sidewalk.

2

Parking in Pacific Beach can be difficult, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect large portions for the price, making it a good value.

22
The Gourmet Bagger Restaurant image 1

Cozy sandwich shop shines as a lunch favorite with phenomenal bread and standout cookies. Friendly vibe and affordable prices make it welcoming. Outdoor seating adds charm, but kitchen closes early.

Sandwiches stand out as a go-to lunch choice here. The spot serves as a favorite lunch destination for many.

People are saying

"This sandwich is loaded with fresh ingredients and tastes delicious."

"The bread here is phenomenal, perfectly toasted and soft inside."

"The sandwiches here are delicious and perfectly fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; walk-ins only.

2

The kitchen closes at 3:30 PM, but phone orders stop at 3 PM.

3

Parking is available at the nearby Loma Square Shopping Center.

23
Noodle & Bun image 1
Wok restaurant

Bright lighting and a casual vibe make this spot great for lunch. Quick service and fast meals keep breaks short and satisfying. Watching hand-pulled noodles made behind glass adds a fun, fresh touch to the relaxed, spacious dining room.

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

People are saying

"The food here tastes amazing and fresh, like home cooking."

"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.

24
Sunrise Deli & Grill image 1

Casual deli offers fresh sandwiches and daily specials like chicken katsu for lunch. Seating is ample both indoors and outdoors, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Easy parking and free WiFi make it a convenient spot for midday meals.

Lunch features a variety of hot and cold sandwiches and daily specials like chicken katsu. Options cover a wide range of tastes, making it a solid choice for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and affordable."

"This deli has delicious food with lots of choices."

"This lunch spot has amazing burgers and phenomenal croissant sandwiches."

Good to know

1

On Fridays, they serve Katsu curry.

2

Daily lunch specials offer a variety of options.

3

Street parking and a parking lot are available nearby.

25
BB's Deli image 1

Offers quick service with a lively, easygoing vibe perfect for lunch. Known for varied sandwiches and soups that satisfy students and locals alike. Family-owned feel adds warmth to the busy lunchtime scene.

Lunch sandwiches and breakfast options serve as reliable choices here. The team handles large orders quickly, making it easy to feed groups on short notice.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches were delicious and reasonably priced."

"They gave me food and warm soup when I was hungry."

"The staff here are so friendly and attentive at this lunch spot."

Good to know

1

The sandwiches cost around $10 on average.

2

BB's Deli gets very busy at lunchtime.

3

There is a lot of variety beyond just sandwiches, including soups and salads.

26
Yuk Dae Jang San Diego / 육대장 샌디에고 image 1

Korean restaurant offers a clean, modern interior with lively K-pop videos. Great for casual dinners and quick lunches featuring cold soup. Seating fits small groups, perfect for catching up with friends in a welcoming atmosphere.

Stops for lunch include options like a cold soup that suits a quick meal. Seating accommodates small groups, making it easy to share a meal with a friend.

People are saying

"The Yuk Gae Jang soup has a warm, comforting, and flavorful broth."

"The Korean Food's bossam was thinly sliced and artfully arranged."

"This Lunch Spot's yukgaejang is hearty with a rich, well-seasoned broth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; the restaurant uses a paper waitlist only.

2

Expect long wait times on weekend nights, often exceeding 40 minutes.

3

Parking is plentiful and free, making access easy for visitors.

27
Taco Time Cantina image 1

Bright colors and fantastic salsa bar create a lively vibe. Custom lunch options like the fish burrito shine alongside popular California burritos. Cozy patio with heaters offers a relaxing spot for casual dining and fresh air.

Lunch includes custom orders like the fish burrito not listed on the menu. California burritos appear as a popular choice for midday meals.

People are saying

"The salsa bar is fantastic, with so many tasty options."

"The Carne Asada is tender and perfectly seasoned."

"This lunch spot's tacos are amazing, especially the crunchy beef."

Good to know

1

Taco Time Cantina offers unique taco options not available anywhere else.

2

The chef makes everything daily from scratch with over 20 years of experience.

3

Expect a 2% credit card surcharge not listed on the menu.

28
Sammich House Deli & Juice Bar image 1

Mom-and-pop deli blends Italian influence with a classic NYC vibe. Offers fresh, generous sandwiches and healthy quick bites perfect for lunch. Seating is ample, and music stays at a comfortable level for a relaxed, fun atmosphere.

Offers a healthy quick bite that is reasonably speedy and large enough to fuel a busy afternoon. Serves as a refreshing spot to grab lunch or just chill during a break.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's sandwiches are huge and packed with flavor."

"The staff here is super helpful and sweet, with great vibes."

"I loved that it's a family owned spot with a warm atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The shop is located right next to the trolley for easy access.

2

Parking is available on the street, but there is no dedicated lot.

3

The breakfast plate costs $13, making it an affordable option.

29
Fiesta Mexican Grille image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican food court spot offers generous portions of burritos and tacos with a busy lunch crowd. Salsa bar adds variety of sauces for quick meals. Comfortable seating and ample parking make it easy to grab lunch in 30 minutes or relax longer.

Lunch hours get very busy, showing steady demand. Meals fit well into a 30-minute break, with options to eat more if time allows.

People are saying

"I found the carne asada burrito to be perhaps the best I've ever had."

"I loved the breakfast burrito with its hot egg and beef mix."

"This lunch spot has delicious and tasty food."

Good to know

1

Ample parking is available at the location.

2

The restaurant is located inside the recently renovated food court.

3

Expect busy lunch hours, which indicates popularity.

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