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Local picks in Hillcrest

Lunch spots with outdoor space

A lunch spot with outdoor space that provides a genuine escape from the office rather than just a patch of concrete.

Based on 739 Opinions
+736
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Updated April 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, friendly vibe. Danish classics play softly, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels like a piece of Denmark. The place draws those interested in authentic Scandinavian flavors and 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.

Outdoor seating includes a street front patio ideal for people watching and shaded areas perfect for a lovely lunch.

People are saying

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

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

"I enjoyed lunch outside in the shade on the patio."

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
Makai Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant with cozy indoor seating and a welcoming patio offers a laid-back Hawaiian vibe and fresh, high-quality sushi. Music adds a sophisticated touch while the atmosphere stays casual and inviting. The space feels simple but neat, focusing on authentic flavors and relaxed energy.

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

Outdoor seating offers a nice ambiance with great vibes both inside and outside.

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."

"I loved the sushi here; it's the best in town."

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.

03
Cocina De Barrio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Modern Mexican restaurant offers spacious indoor and outdoor seating with a breezy patio elevated for people watching. Atmosphere feels high class yet welcoming, with artistic plating and a lively bar featuring fresh margaritas and unique cocktails. Crowd enjoys a comfortable, friendly vibe with generous portions and stylish design.

Lunch offers Chilaquiles Verdes and outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. The spot suits casual midday meals with a relaxed vibe.

Covered patio offers dog friendly outdoor seating with chill vibes. Staff keeps drinks and plates topped off even when the patio is crowded.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here delicious and full of flavor."

"It's a cute spot with a relaxed outdoor seating area."

"This Lunch Spot's food is delicious, especially the homemade tortillas."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm most days with affordable prices.

2

Expect a busy crowd on weekends; arrive early to avoid long waits.

3

Parking can be limited with only street parking available.

04
NOLA on 5th image 1
American restaurant

Older building with New Orleans vibe and tiny interior creates a cozy, lively atmosphere. Loud music and bar energy fill the space, especially near the bar area. Outdoor dog-friendly patio offers a relaxed spot for lunch or watching games on multiple TVs.

Patio seating offers a relaxed spot for lunch. The menu features blackened chicken club, wedge lunch special, and tasty po boys. Service stays attentive even during busy lunch rushes.

Stylish and clean patio area offers a relaxed New Orleans vibe. Outdoor space suits lunch with good people watching opportunities.

People are saying

"The jambalaya and poboy here are top notch."

"The food here is delicious, especially the po boy."

"It's nice to sit on the patio when the weather is great."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour at NOLA on 5th is from 3 to 6 pm.

2

The food price range is from $8 to $26.

3

NOLA on 5th offers limited vegetarian options, mainly two salads at $14 each.

05
Ortega's A Mexican Bistro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Quaint bistro with authentic Mexican decor and soft lighting creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Classic Mexican music plays, adding to the vibrant yet cozy vibe. Outdoor seating and a separate upstairs area offer varied spaces for dining and meetings.

Lunch offers chicken tortilla soup and carnitas hash and eggs. Options suit both midday and late lunch times. Happy hour also overlaps with late lunch.

Outdoor seating features a romantic ambiance with intimate tables and soft lighting. Planters line the parking lot, adding a finely decorated touch to the patio area.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the fresh tortillas and flavorful tacos."

"This Lunch Spot's food was delicious and superb."

"I enjoyed dining outside on the patio."

Good to know

1

Brunch includes unlimited mimosas at a great price.

2

Happy hour specials are available from 6pm.

3

Parking can be a challenge in the area.

06
Huapangos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with colorful decor and a dog-friendly patio creates a warm, festive atmosphere. Music ranges from loud and lively to cozy when lights dim and authentic tunes play. Outdoor seating offers an inviting space to enjoy the weather and vibrant surroundings.

Meals serve well for lunch with options that satisfy during midday. The spot welcomes companions including pets, making it easy to bring a dog along.

A charming patio sits right on the corner with vibrant colors and traditional Mexican decorations. The outdoor space is pet-friendly and covered, making it a popular spot to eat outside.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the mole."

"The food and specialty drinks here are fantastic."

"The owner here is so friendly and prompt with your Lunch Spot order."

Good to know

1

Huapangos offers bottomless mimosas for $18 with a meal on weekends.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers every weekday.

3

Expect long wait times during peak brunch hours on weekends.

07
Bread & Cie image 1

European bakery atmosphere combines with rustic wooden accents and cozy seating to create a welcoming vibe. Indoor and outdoor seating options include a great patio that invites people watching. The space feels like a comforting haven with charming artwork and thoughtful details throughout.

Cozy atmosphere and welcoming vibe create a relaxed setting for lunch. Hearty options like the half sandwich and half soup combo and avocado toast with salad stand out for midday meals.

A great outside patio offers a nice spot to sit and watch the world go by. Both indoor and outdoor seating options are available for flexibility.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh, delicious bread here."

"It's a nice outdoor space with a great patio."

"The breads and pastries here are amazing and clearly made fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when lines can be long.

2

Expect a chaotic parking situation; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Prices are on the higher side, with some items costing up to $8 for small loaves.

08
Maisa formerly Aladdin Hillcrest image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Large indoor space with quaint decor and a pleasant, low-key atmosphere creates a cozy, cafe-like vibe. Outdoor patio surrounded by beautiful palm trees offers a nice setting for dining. The place draws those seeking authentic Middle Eastern flavors in a relaxed environment.

Lunch includes options like a cauliflower wrap with salad and a Lamb & Beef Biryani that serves well for quick meals and leftovers.

Outdoor space includes a great patio that offers a very nice place to sit.

People are saying

"I found the chicken salad to be very fresh and delicious."

"This lunch spot has a delicious cauliflower wrap."

"The outdoor space is great, especially the patio."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

2

Parking is available nearby for customers.

3

Expect smaller portion sizes than typical for the prices charged.

09
Frenchy's Hideout image 1

Restaurant offers cozy, intimate atmosphere with live music and an upbeat vibe. Decor includes visible kitchen and playful signs, creating a special feel. Wine selection features top-notch French and Italian varieties, enhancing the dining experience.

High reviews draw people here for lunch. The spot offers a great lunch experience that satisfies groups and friends alike.

People are saying

"The French food here is delicious, especially the steak frites."

"I loved the crispy fries and silky smooth bรฉchamel sauce."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was next level."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended because the restaurant fills up quickly.

2

The happy hour offers $10 glasses of Sancerre and Caymus.

3

Parking in Hillcrest requires circling around for street parking.

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