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Lunch spots in Core-Columbia

The middle of the workday deserves a proper break away from the desk.

Based on 678 Opinions
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01
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Mediterranean dishes like lamb chops shine at lunch with great service from Khaled and Haythem. Elegant interior and high ceilings create a relaxing vibe. Smooth, high-quality hookah and lively weekend music add vibrant energy.

Lunch offers Mediterranean dishes paired with hookah in a relaxed setting. Staff like Khaled and Haythem provide great service during lunch hours.

People are saying

"The food at this Lunch Spot is fantastic and delicious."

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.

02
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Outdoor patio creates a chill vibe perfect for lunch or brunch. Unique biscuits and gravy shine among midday meals. Bright, comfortable space with calm music offers a peaceful atmosphere to relax and enjoy.

Unique biscuits and gravy stand out among the lunch options. Breakfast and brunch items also offer solid choices for midday meals.

People are saying

"The biscuit sandwiches at this Lunch Spot are amazing."

Good to know

1

The Farmacy offers plenty of inside and outside seating.

2

The prices at The Farmacy are very reasonable.

3

Expect no long lines, making it a quick breakfast option.

03
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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

"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.

04
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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."

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.

05
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Spacious café offers cozy atmosphere and simple outdoor seating. Wraps and sandwiches make for a great lunch choice. Perfect spot for a comfortable work environment downtown.

Wraps and sandwiches stand out as lunch options here. The spot offers a comfortable work environment while eating, making it a solid choice for a midday meal downtown.

People are saying

"The lunch here is amazing and the service is fast."

Good to know

1

Portion sizes were large for the reasonable price.

2

Prices were considered fair and affordable.

3

The café offered a variety of dishes with fresh ingredients.

06
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Modern bakery shines with fresh sourdough bread and unique pastries. Cozy, bright space suits quick breakfast and lunch stops. Family-owned vibe creates a friendly, welcoming atmosphere perfect for relaxing.

Stops for quick lunch happen often here. It suits both breakfast and lunch needs well.

People are saying

"This is a great lunch spot for a quick bite."

Good to know

1

Shoreside Bakery is dog friendly.

2

They bake their own bread and offer a variety of options.

3

Arrive early as they sell out quickly.

07
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Enjoy crispy chicken cooked fresh with halal options in a spacious, wheelchair accessible spot. Friendly staff make it great for family lunches downtown. Play games while you wait for a chill, casual vibe.

Offers family friendly seating and menu options suitable for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Staff are accommodating and the spot works well for unplanned or regular downtown lunches.

People are saying

"The chicken sandwich here is crispy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a halal menu with a variety of options.

2

Parking is a little tough in this area, but spots can be found on 6th Street.

3

You can order through their website for better prices.

08
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Small coffee shop shines as a quiet corner with good lunch options and a dog-friendly patio. Calm, chill vibe suits reading or casual meals. Locals love its cozy seating and neighborhood charm.

Quiet corner with a small coffee shop vibe offers good lunch options and a cute atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Kuma Bowl is a great Lunch Spot everyone loved."

Good to know

1

Kuma Café is located in downtown San Diego, near the tram station.

2

Expect to wait a little if you don't call ahead with your order.

3

The café offers a variety of menu options, including healthy breakfast choices.

09
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Middle Eastern spot serves authentic falafel and shawarma in a cozy atmosphere with loungey techno music. Quick service and healthy options make it a reliable lunch spot. Outdoor seating under a tree adds a relaxed vibe.

Offers a healthy lunch with quick service. Ordering ahead works best for a fast lunch break. Considered a reliable go-to spot for midday meals.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has delicious, fresh food that tastes homemade."

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.

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Cozy restaurant serves authentic Thai cuisine with friendly service in a warm, intimate space. Lunch specials offer great value and generous portions. Affordable prices and well-prepared dishes make it a budget-friendly meal choice.

Lunch offers very affordable prices with specials that provide great value and quantity. The food quality matches the reasonable cost, making it a solid choice for a budget-friendly meal.

People are saying

"This lunch spot offers amazing value for the food quality."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash at Thai Island.

2

The lunch special prices were unmatched in this part of town.

3

Prices were extremely reasonable for the portion size.

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Mediterranean restaurant shines with huge windows that flood the space with light and a friendly atmosphere that feels cozy yet lively. Lunch service is fast and efficient, with staff offering warm welcomes and occasional drinks. Food remains high quality and flavorful even during busy times.

Lunch service runs fast and efficient, even after the rush. Staff offer friendly, welcoming interactions and sometimes provide drinks during waits. Food stays high quality and flavorful throughout busy periods.

People are saying

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

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.

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Bright and modern deli serves Chicago-style sandwiches with large portions and fresh ingredients. Cozy indoor and outdoor seating create a community-oriented atmosphere perfect for lunch or all-day breakfast. Friendly vibe invites repeat visits.

Special lunch sandwiches stand out with fresh ingredients and hearty portions. The spot offers a pleasant atmosphere and is known for breakfast and lunch options that draw repeat visits.

People are saying

"This is a great lunch spot for quality sandwiches."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers Chicago-style hot dogs and sandwiches.

2

There is both indoor and outdoor patio seating.

3

The prices are very reasonable.

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Small space with heated outdoor seating offers a vibrant atmosphere and fast service. Affordable prices make it a solid lunch spot with a casual vibe. Friendly staff and upbeat music create a comfortable experience despite urban surroundings.

Affordable prices make it a solid choice for a quick lunch. The spot offers a fast service and a casual vibe ideal for midday meals.

People are saying

"The fish tacos here are really good; I'd order them again."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited in the downtown area, so arrive early.

2

Expect long wait times during peak lunch hours.

3

The restaurant does not have a restroom available for customers.

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Hotel blends historic charm with luxury dining and a lively atmosphere. Lunch features authentic Cuban sandwiches paired with old fashion cocktails served midday. Spacious, cozy rooms add to the inviting experience.

Lunch offers authentic Cuban sandwiches and a variety of other fresh, hot sandwiches. The setting combines luxury dining with a rich history, especially noted in their old fashion cocktails served even at midday.

People are saying

"The staff here makes this Lunch Spot feel like superior luxury service."

Good to know

1

Valet parking costs $70 per day, plus substantial California taxes.

2

The entrance on Broadway is locked unless you have a keycard.

3

Expect no pool or hot tub available during your stay.

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Sushi spot mixes K-pop music and neon lights for a lively vibe. Lunch offers pork belly and rainbow roll specials around $20. Bar serves soju cocktails with fresh sushi and Korean dishes.

Lunch specials cost around $20 and include options like pork belly and a rainbow roll. The menu offers a good variety and solid value compared to dinner.

People are saying

"The lunch special here is a great deal, especially the pork belly."

Good to know

1

Zzan is open late for late-night food cravings.

2

They sometimes play K-dramas and mukbangs alongside music videos.

3

Credit card payments are accepted, and tap pay is available.

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Colorful Mexican taco shop offers authentic street food with large burritos and carne asada fries perfect for lunch near the federal building. Seating is cramped outdoors with minimal indoor space. Expect obnoxious music and a grimy vibe.

Quick service suits a lunch break near the federal building. Options like carne asada fries offer a filling meal within walking distance.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's Cali Burrito has great flavors and a good portion."

Good to know

1

Expect limited seating inside, especially during peak hours.

2

Prices for tacos start at $6 each, with two simple meat tacos costing $12.

3

There is no parking available nearby; most customers walk or use public transport.

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Deli near Courthouse serves big sandwiches with quick service. Atmosphere is friendly and peaceful with space for groups. Lunch options are great, but service can be curt.

Quick and cozy spot near the Courthouse offers great breakfast and lunch options. Service during lunch tends to be curt and unfriendly.

People are saying

"The owner here is so welcoming at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

The cafe is conveniently located near the courthouse, making it ideal for visitors.

2

Expect a short wait time for food after ordering.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other dining options in the area.

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Casual Mexican spot downtown offers hefty burritos and double-fried chips in a lively, cozy space with Frida Kahlo art. Quick lunch service handles crowds well but expect noise and a fast pace. Timing is key to beat the lunch rush.

Quick lunch service handles a high volume of customers efficiently. Small downtown spot fills up fast during lunch hours, so timing matters to avoid the rush.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's food is always just right."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash, so plan accordingly.

2

Expect a wait during peak lunch hours due to high customer volume.

3

The taco menu does not display prices, which may surprise first-time visitors.

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Huge indoor seating and a lively patio make it perfect for groups at lunch, starting at 12 noon. Enjoy amazing craft beers in a chill beer garden vibe with 90s and early 2000s hits. Catch sports on TV while socializing in a casual atmosphere.

Groups find space for lunch and pints. Lunch service starts at 12 noon, so plan arrival accordingly.

People are saying

"I loved the great beer selection at this lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-5pm Monday to Thursday with discounted drinks.

2

Trivia Tuesday features fun quizzes at 7pm with prizes for winners.

3

Wing Wednesday offers special pricing on wings all day.

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Core-Columbia, San Diego

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