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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Core-Columbia's best

Salad and food

You want a meal that prioritizes fresh greens without sacrificing the substance of a real lunch.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sammich House Deli & Juice Bar image 1
Sammich House Deli & Juice Bar image 2
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Deli with a mom-and-pop vibe and Italian influence offers a warm, family-run atmosphere with fresh, generous sandwiches and healthy options. Music stays at a comfortable level, creating a fun-loving but relaxed environment. Seating is ample, and the place combines a classic NYC deli feel with a diner-style interior.

Salads come with sandwiches and wraps, featuring baby greens and a fresh vinaigrette. They taste fresh and add a light, tasty side to meals.

Food features clean, organic ingredients with many being high quality and whole foods. Large servings deliver healthy, tasty meals like the chipotle chicken sandwich, accommodating specific dietary preferences.

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 savored every bite of the Philly Cheesesteak; it was incredible."

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.

02
Falafel California image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Middle Eastern restaurant offers a casual, cozy atmosphere with loungey techno music creating a chill vibe. Seating is limited and simple, with outdoor seating under a tree adding to the relaxed feel. The place stands out for authentic falafel and shawarma, praised for freshness and flavor.

Salads feature fresh, crisp ingredients with a tangy dressing that stands out. Options like the gyro and falafel salads mix vegetables well, though dressings can be heavy and portions tend to be small.

Mediterranean flavors stand out with consistently great food and excellent service. The dishes arrive after a wait that proves worthwhile.

People are saying

"I found their falafel to be crispy and delicious."

"The food here is delicious and really fresh."

"This salad is incredibly fresh with a perfect tangy dressing."

Good to know

1

They offer both takeout and catering services.

2

The menu mainly focuses on falafel and wraps, offering limited variety.

3

They are open late on weekends and early for catering.

03
Maestro Lounge image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with elegant interior and high ceilings offers a relaxing atmosphere enhanced by smooth, high-quality hookah and lively music on weekends. The space includes a patio for outdoor dining and features well-ventilated hookah areas up front. Guests enjoy flavorful dishes like lamb chops and kabobs in a setting that balances comfort with vibrant energy.

Fresh salads come with vibrant arugula and a delicious vinaigrette. The salads pair well with flavorful meats and creamy hummus.

Offers amazing Middle Eastern food with very good service and a strong focus on Mediterranean flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, delicious, and full of flavor."

"The Mediterranean food here is amazing, especially the chicken."

"The salad here is so bright and fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour prices for shisha are available all day on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays.

2

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

3

Brunch meetings are held at Maestro Lounge on weekends.

04
CAVA image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers an open and airy space with huge windows letting in natural light. Atmosphere feels friendly and inviting, with a clean and cozy dining area. Downtown location brings some street noise but maintains happy and uplifting vibes.

Fresh ingredients are displayed for easy selection of meat and salad options not found nearby. Salad servings are notably small, often not reaching the top lid.

Food here stands out for its freshness and quality. Every dish offers great choices and consistently delivers excellent taste.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and flavorful."

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

"I loved picking all my fresh ingredients for a perfect salad."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is clean and offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

2

Parking in the area is limited, with few street spots available.

3

Staff removes the drink machine an hour and a half before closing.

05
BB's Deli image 1

Environment resembles a New York deli with a lighthearted, easygoing atmosphere and a family-owned vibe. Lunchtime brings a busy, lively scene popular with students and locals. Sandwiches and soups offer wide variety and high quality at reasonable prices.

Chicken Caesar salad stands out with fresh ingredients and classic flavors. Salads come alongside a variety of options like soups and snacks, offering a diverse menu beyond just sandwiches.

Food includes warm soup and dishes described as incredible and delicious. Staff show care by offering treats for dogs, adding a friendly touch to the dining experience.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the salads here to be delicious and plentiful."

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.

06
Yalla Habibi image 1
Lebanese restaurant

Small dining area creates an intimate setting with simple decor focused on food. Warm, welcoming atmosphere features Middle Eastern music that adds to a cozy, family-oriented vibe. Noise levels rise during busy times, but the space remains inviting and safe.

Chicken Shawarma Salad stands out as a hearty and flavorful option. Fresh salads come alongside dishes like shawarma plates, paired with creamy hummus and warm pita.

Food features authentic Lebanese and Mediterranean dishes made fresh with care. The flavors are consistently delicious and fresh, reflecting genuine Middle-Eastern cuisine.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is so delicious, especially the baba ganoush."

"The Mediterranean food here is delicious and authentic."

"I loved the hearty and tasty chicken shawarma salad."

Good to know

1

Yalla Habibi does not have a restroom.

2

The restaurant can get very busy, so I recommend making reservations.

3

There are various vegan options at Yalla Habibi.

07
Mendocino Farms image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop offers open outdoor seating and a modern, clean environment with a hipster farm vibe. The atmosphere is comfortable and bright, attracting a casual crowd seeking fresh, healthy options. Busy periods showcase efficient sandwich preparation and a variety of unique menu choices.

Salads feature unique combinations like sweet peach with goat cheese and a floral vinaigrette, or mango paired with chicken. Options include a variety of fresh greens and creative dressings, with choices like the Impossible Salad and Pink Beet salad offering distinct flavors.

Fresh and healthy food choices stand out with a focus on seasonal ingredients and sustainability. Ordering happens via QR code and food arrives promptly at the table, making for a smooth experience.

People are saying

"I found all their salads to be a big hit."

"I loved the vegan Banh Mi and the Impossible Salad."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is limited in downtown, making it difficult to find a spot.

2

Expect long wait times during lunch hours, especially between 11am and 1:30pm.

3

Ordering ahead is recommended to avoid stress during busy times.

08
STK Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Modern, chic steakhouse with a live DJ creating a lively, fun atmosphere. The space includes a rooftop bar and a stylish, energetic vibe suited for celebrations rather than quiet dinners. Cocktails and steaks receive high praise, enhancing the overall experience.

Wedge and Caesar salads stand out with freshness and shareable portions. Asparagus adds a crisp touch, often enhanced with a bit of salt.

Food features exquisite flavors and careful presentation with standout items like cheesecake that has a distinct crust. Drinks complement the menu well, enhancing the overall dining experience.

People are saying

"I loved each dish I tried; the food was spectacular."

"The service at dinner spots was top-tier and made the whole experience effortless."

"The servers here are so knowledgeable and helpful with the salads."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on weekdays from 2:30 to 6:30 pm with great deals.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekends.

3

Parking can be challenging during holidays due to downtown location.

09
Krisp Beverages + Natural Foods image 1

Grocery store combines well-lit, cute space with outside tables and takeout options. Atmosphere feels preppy and inviting. Offers a wide selection of fresh prepared foods, beverages, and specialty items, making it a convenient spot for diverse needs downtown.

Fresh salads come with flavorful basics and a nice selection of premade options. They pair well with sandwiches and other dishes like oven-baked pizza and chicken wings.

Offers an amazing selection of healthy and gourmet food with many fresh prepared options to grab on the go. The food quality is consistently excellent, making it a solid spot for a quick lunch or ready-to-eat meal.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I ever had."

"I found the prepared food selection to be amazing and delicious."

"The basic salad here is really flavorful."

Good to know

1

Krisp offers a two-slice pizza for $8 with a drink.

2

Parking is limited, so consider walking from downtown.

3

Krisp is a quick walk from the 5th Ave trolley station.

10
Piedra Santa image 1
Steak house

Converted parking garage showcases modern elegant decor with wood ceilings and wall murals creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Seating near a gas fireplace offers a warm spot with views of the bar. The vibe suits date nights and business dinners with a relaxed yet swank feel.

Salads feature rich pork belly in the Chanco Wedge and a rolled beef carpaccio that blends textures like a combo. Dressings are well balanced and complement the fresh ingredients.

Food bursts with bold flavors and arrives artfully presented. Every dish cooks to perfect texture and taste.

People are saying

"The food and drinks during Happy Hour were delicious."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The salad here is very good with a nice dressing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6:30 PM Sunday to Thursday with great deals.

2

Oysters are $1.50 each during happy hour, offering excellent value.

3

A 10 oz New York Strip Steak with mashed potatoes is $24 during happy hour.

11
A Brooklyn Pizzeria image 1
Pizza restaurant

Brick oven cooks pizzas with a crispy yet chewy crust in a rugged, unpolished space that feels like a New York pizzeria. Atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, with a small-town family vibe and kid-friendly seating inside and out.

Salads come as part of combos and alongside pizzas and pastas. They have a creamy texture and pair well with wings and other dishes.

Food here is consistently fresh and delicious with a friendly, attentive staff passionate about their dishes. Service flows smoothly whether dining in or grabbing a slice to go.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was delicious and had a perfect crust."

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I thought the salad was very good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is very kid-friendly with a clean sit-down area indoors and outdoors.

2

The lunch deal offers two slices of pizza and a soda for $10.

3

Prices are reasonable, with slices priced lower than other places in the area.

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