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Top picks in Kearny Mesa

Kid friendly lunch spots

You need a midday meal that accommodates your children without forcing you to sacrifice the quality of your own lunch.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Monsta Ramen Curry image 1
Monsta Ramen Curry image 2
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Asian restaurant

Small space with bright, clean interior and relaxing music creates a warm, casual atmosphere. The vibe is quiet and pleasant, making it feel cozy and inviting. The setting stands out for its Studio Ghibli-like ambiance and neat decor.

Tonkotsu Ramen and Monsta Ramen Curry suit kids well with simple flavors. The chicken teriyaki stick without breading and gyudon also appeal to younger tastes.

Lunch specials offer affordable options like $10 tonkatsu ramen and other dishes. Extras such as extra egg and extra broth are available for takeout.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, is delicious and affordable."

"The pork cutlet curry rice was delicious, with a savory and sweet gravy."

"It's really Kid Friendly; my kid demolished the gyudon."

Good to know

1

They had specials for the opening, including $10 tonkotsu ramen.

2

During happy hour, Monsta Ramen Curry offered $3 beers.

3

The restaurant offers the option to order with the server or scan a QR code to order online for a discounted price on certain items.

02
SOT BBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Spacious Korean barbecue restaurant features unique cast-iron cauldron grills and a modern wood and stainless design. Atmosphere feels vibrant and casual with loud music and some chaotic energy. Guests often have food cooked at the table, enhancing an authentic dining experience.

Kids eat multiple servings of kimchi, pickled radish, and spicy cucumbers. Staff treat children with friendliness. Meat comes cooked, making it easy to feed kids and adults.

People are saying

"I tasted the best Korean barbecue I have ever had."

"The kids ate multiple servings of kimchi and pickled radish."

"The Wagyu & Prime Yugaejang soup at this Lunch Spot tasted better than the broth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but arriving early is recommended to avoid long waits.

2

Parking can be difficult, but arriving early increases your chances of finding a spot.

3

The restaurant is not an all-you-can-eat option; meals are priced per item.

03
Domo Kitchen image 1
Chinese restaurant

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.

Kids enjoy the sushi and the staff suggests dishes that encourage eating veggies. The owner and her daughter create a welcoming atmosphere that makes kids want to return.

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 sushi here is fresh, delicious, and super-sized."

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

"The staff here is so kind and helpful with kids."

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.

04
Pho Nom image 1
Pho restaurant

Interior features modern decor with flowers and lanterns creating a cozy, dreamlike atmosphere. Music plays a chill, well-curated playlist that complements the vibe. The space feels authentic and thoughtfully designed, inviting a relaxed dining experience.

Noodles and soup appeal to kids here. Staff bring extra plates quickly, making it easy to share meals with children.

Service during lunch is friendly and attentive, with staff like Danny, Hoang, and Jason enhancing the experience. Broth served is light and not too heavy, making it suitable for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and fresh."

"The Lunch Spot broth is rich, flavorful, and tastes traditional."

"It's so kid friendly; they even brought extra plates for my kids."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2โ€“5 PM with a variety of drinks at good prices.

2

Parking can be tough, especially at night due to nearby attractions.

3

Pho Nom closes late at 10:30 PM, perfect for late-night cravings.

05
Angry Petes Pizza Kearny Mesa image 1

Pizza restaurant occupies a refurbished 90s Taco Bell building with Detroit-style pizza and a drive-through. Atmosphere blends retro arcade games and board games, creating a quirky, family-friendly vibe. Space feels welcoming and encourages hanging out beyond just dining.

Kids enjoy the video games and pizza while sipping on non-alcoholic slushies. The spot has a family-friendly vibe that encourages kids to hang out and play.

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."

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

"The pizza here is amazing, hot and fresh."

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.

06
Flama Llama image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant with authentic flavors and a lively, energetic design featuring hanging plants and an outdoor patio. Atmosphere is cozy with fantastic music enhancing the vibe. Popular for unique cocktails and well-balanced drinks alongside standout dishes like mojo fries and lomo saltado.

Staff provide helpful service by explaining menu items and adjusting dishes for kids with allergies or picky tastes. Drinks like yuzu lemonade suit children, and portions like Arroz Chaufa are shareable and kid-friendly.

Lunch offers Latin American vibe with hanging plants creating a cozy setting. Dishes like tallarin verde and arroz chaufa come in generous portions, suitable for leftovers.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, full of flavor and fresh."

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

"The food here is amazing, truly flavor bombs."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended during busy hours.

3

Expect a casual dress code; no formal attire needed.

07
Kitakata Ramen Ban Nai - San Diego (Kearny Mesa) image 1

Ramen restaurant offers traditional sushi bar seating and a clean, peaceful atmosphere with authentic Japanese vibes. The place draws a steady crowd with no wait times and ample parking. It stands out for highly customizable ramen options and a quiet, welcoming environment.

Kids get a larger portion of ramen for under $10 with the kids' meal. Staff often suggest this option and it offers great value. The ramen is something kids really enjoy here.

Weekday lunches include great value options with specials like a small Ban Nai Bowl for $3 when ordering ramen. The lunch chashu bowl adds soft, flavorful pork as a tasty and affordable combo add-on.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is so rich and flavorful."

"Their fried chicken is juicy, moist, and has a great crispness."

"The Kid Friendly ramen meal is an incredible value."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a summer special for cold ramen, ending on 08/31.

2

Toppings are extra, costing at least $2 each.

3

Parking is easy and plentiful.

08
formoosa image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Small Taiwanese restaurant features a wrap-around bar with chic modern decor and classic 90s and 2000s hip hop music. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, with lively energy and good music. Seating focuses on bar spots, offering a unique view of food preparation and torch-lit bowls.

Staff like Kiana and Amy offer friendly, accommodating service and helpful menu advice for kids. Children enjoy popcorn chicken and sesame balls, and the food satisfies both kids and adults.

Seating happens quickly even on a late weekday lunch. Drinks like the lychee coladas come sweet with a balanced alcohol level. The spot offers casual but high quality meals suitable for family lunches.

People are saying

"The beef noodle soup here is so flavorful and the beef is tender."

"This lunch spot has amazing noodles and perfect broth."

"The popcorn chicken and sesame balls are kid-approved favorites."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, 2-5 pm, with discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

Most happy hour items are $1-3 off, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

Parking is available in a plaza lot, but payment is required.

09
Casa Machado Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Restaurant offers airport runway views with planes taking off and landing visible from inside. Atmosphere blends Mexican culture with airplane decor, creating a unique and lively vibe. Separate bar area features big screens for sports, attracting groups and company gatherings.

Lots of windows face the airport runway, letting kids watch planes take off and land up close. Portions like the huge chicken strips with rice and the bean and cheese burrito with fries satisfy kids well.

Lunch features Mexican food with flavorful seasonings and generous serving sizes. Weekday lunch specials offer good value and service is attentive.

People are saying

"I love the Mexican food here; the view of planes is amazing."

"This Lunch Spot's food is reliably good and delicious."

"It's kid friendly with windows overlooking the airport runway for watching planes."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 pm to 9 pm with various drink specials.

2

Daily specials are available throughout the week, offering great value.

3

The restaurant is located on the second floor of Montgomery Airport.

10
Curry House CoCo Ichibanya - San Diego image 1

Japanese curry restaurant offers cozy, inviting atmosphere that closely resembles locations in Japan, with franchise-style seating including a bar for single diners. The space feels cramped during busy times but maintains a clean, well-maintained interior that helps guests forget the outside surroundings.

Kids get a menu priced $3-$4 with good quality meals and a small toy included. Options range from mild to spicy, plus ice cream and easy parking right out front.

Fast and friendly service stands out even when the place is crowded during lunch. It suits a quick meal with a speedy and efficient lunch experience.

People are saying

"This Japanese-style curry is the most authentic I've had."

"I loved the curry here; it tasted just like Japan."

"The curry here is outstanding and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a 45-minute wait time during peak lunch hours.

2

Parking can be a challenge due to limited space in the shopping complex.

3

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to avoid long lines.

11
Bonchon Convoy image 1
Korean restaurant

Spacious dining area with many big TVs showing sports creates a chill, low-key vibe. Music plays softly in the background, adding to the relaxed atmosphere. The place draws people looking for Korean fried chicken and casual meals with beer or soju.

Chicken tenders come with an amazing batter and super juicy meat, making them a hit for toddlers. Kids show clear preferences, with some favoring this spot over others like Wing Stop.

Lunch offers $1 wings and decently priced specials during weekdays. Meals come fast, easy, and provide a relaxing, enjoyable break.

People are saying

"You have to try the Korean fried chicken; it's so juicy and crispy."

"This lunch spot's chicken is juicy with a light, crispy batter."

"The chicken tenders here are super juicy and amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Thursdays with discounted drinks.

2

Enjoy $1 wings on Mondays and Tuesdays during happy hour.

3

A $22 gratuity is automatically added for parties of six or more.

12
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill - San Diego, CA image 1

Greek restaurant offers a clean, spacious interior with cute furniture and large TV menu displays. Atmosphere combines loud Greek music with a strip mall energy, creating a lively but sometimes noisy environment. Seating is comfortable yet intimate, suitable for family or friends gatherings.

Kids enjoy the chicken tenders and feta fries, with some not wanting to share. Staff cut chicken skewers into small pieces but leave the skewers in place for safety.

Lunch offers generous portions like the gyros plate that often exceeds appetite. Food arrives quickly and ordering is straightforward, making it a solid choice for a fast, satisfying meal near work.

People are saying

"The Greek food here is amazing, especially the flavorful lamb."

"The gyro meat was on point and wonderful."

"The feta fries are so good, kids won't share them!"

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a buy one get one free Gyro sandwich promotion on Tuesdays.

2

There is plenty of free parking available for customers.

3

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness throughout.

13
Katsu Cafe image 1
Japanese restaurant

Casual Japanese restaurant with retro 60s-70s decor and a laid-back atmosphere featuring loud eclectic music including 90s, 2000s, and island styles. Outdoor seating welcomes dogs and offers sunlit dining. Portions are generous and affordable, creating a relaxed, unpretentious vibe.

Kids get served hot miso soup and sushi right at the table. The food includes roll, udon, and katsu that appeal to young eaters. Sometimes the broth can splash, so watch out for messy moments.

Lunch offers bento box style meals that many find satisfying. The spot fills up quickly, so arriving early helps avoid the rush and get served faster.

People are saying

"The Japanese food portions here are huge; you'll have leftovers!"

"This lunch spot has big portions and delicious, fresh food."

"My kids loved it here; it's a great Kid Friendly spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day from 3 to 6 pm with great drink prices.

2

The dinner for two costs less than $20, making it very affordable.

3

Expect large portion sizes, perfect for sharing.

14
Chopstix image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy Japanese noodle house with simple wooden decor and a relaxed, unpretentious vibe. Atmosphere feels like eating at someone's home in Japan, with soulful aromas of broth and katsu filling the air. Regulars gather in a quiet space that stays lively late into the night.

Kids enjoy katsu and noodle dishes with options like Mapo Tofu rice bowl that is mild and meaty. Birthday surprises happen here, and favorites include Soba and Ikakatsu meals.

Lunch offers consistent quality with no bad meals reported. Early lunch hours may have a slight cleaning product scent due to recent opening preparations.

People are saying

"I thought the ramen here was the best Japanese food in San Diego."

"It's a cozy spot for authentic, hearty Japanese comfort food."

"This lunch spot offers authentic Japanese comfort food like ramen and katsu."

Good to know

1

Chopstix offers a happy hour from 9 PM to 12 AM with great deals.

2

The happy hour menu includes a California roll for around $6.

3

Chopstix is open until 1 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.

15
Filippi's Pizza Grotto Kearny Mesa image 1

Spacious Italian restaurant with full bar and comfortable outdoor patio that welcomes dogs. Atmosphere feels less lively without traditional wine bottle decor, offering a quiet, relaxed vibe. Tables and booths are well spaced, making it suitable for large groups and families.

Big groups with kids fit well here, with plenty of space and a lively atmosphere. Kids enjoy pasta, chicken strips, fries, and especially the gigantic meatballs.

Lunch offers a complete meal under $10 with options like spaghetti and salad. The menu runs every day, including weekends, and includes soup or salad and bread with a perfect portion size.

People are saying

"I've been coming here for decades for their phenomenal pizza."

"This lunch spot is a great value, I got a complete meal for under $10."

"The food here is fantastic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The lunch special costs $9.60 and includes soup or salad and bread.

2

Filippi's offers a $32 family meal on Sundays, perfect for large groups.

3

Parking is easy with many spots available right off the 163.

16
Anny's Fine Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Hamburger restaurant offers a spacious, clean interior with a casual, unpretentious vibe and loud Mexican music that energizes the space. A covered patio accommodates large groups and families comfortably. The atmosphere feels like a vintage pizza parlor with a chill, relaxed mood.

A patio offers space for families to sit without disturbing others. Kids enjoy cheeseburgers, chocolate shakes, and options like corn dogs and grilled cheese.

Big burgers and fries make for a filling lunch. The spot works well for a quick meal during work hours or casual dining.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be really tasty and delicious."

"The burgers here are large and worth the price, and my kids loved them."

"The burgers here are great, and the onion rings too."

Good to know

1

Parking is often full; consider arriving early to secure a spot.

2

The average cost for two burgers with sides is around $43.

3

Generous portion sizes make it a good value despite higher prices.

17
Studio Diner image 1

Interior features an arched ceiling and movie set theme with memorabilia, creating a nostalgic diner atmosphere. Seating includes a spacious patio with mountain views and unique alien statues outside. Music and decor contribute to a lively, homely vibe with a classic yet stylish feel.

Hosts greet families kindly and handle kids gently, creating a welcoming vibe. Kids enjoy ordering their own meals like the banana split without peanuts and the Monte Cristo, staying quiet and happy during the meal.

Casual and fun atmosphere suits lunch well. Offers great breakfasts and lunches with consistently amazing food any time of day.

People are saying

"The diner food, like the Reuben and fries, was solid and tasty."

"This lunch spot serves sandwiches the size of Montana."

"It's so Kid Friendly; my little ones loved their mini hamburgers and fries."

Good to know

1

Parking spaces are limited, with only four spots available.

2

The diner only accepts cash payments for large parties.

3

Expect a 90-minute time limit during busy hours.

18
Sushi Deli 3 image 1
Sushi restaurant

Lively sushi house with casual local vibe and loud indoor seating that challenges conversation. Multiple seating areas include a shaded outdoor space with casual Japanese decor and a bar area popular for watching sports. Offers affordable sushi with fresh options and generous portions.

Staff provide great accommodations for kids and offer a kids menu with options like bento plates. Children enjoy the sushi and the overall experience is welcoming for families.

Lunch specials cost around $10.99 and include bento boxes that offer good value. Many people come here for affordable lunch deals popular among office workers.

People are saying

"I thought the Japanese food here was delicious and inexpensive."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The sushi here is always fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Sushi Deli 3 has a 90-minute seating limit.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait during peak dinner hours.

3

Parking is limited and may require a short walk.

19
Big Oven Pizza Kearny Mesa image 1

Big Oven Pizza offers Detroit-style pizza in a clean, well-lit space with a cozy, laid-back vibe. The atmosphere feels friendly and relaxed, with table games adding casual entertainment. Large slices and reasonable draft beer prices complement the experience.

Pizza appeals to kids here, with several enjoying the flavor and returning often. Loud music with swear words can be a concern for families with little kids.

Affordable pizza with good lunch specials makes it a solid spot for midday meals. The vibe suits quick breaks or casual lunches after a night out.

People are saying

"I found the pizza simple, delicious, and perfectly crusty."

"This lunch spot serves classic, fresh NY style pizza."

"The pizza here is phenomenal and I'd recommend it."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers large pizza slices, perfect for sharing.

2

Prices for pizzas are reasonable considering the portion sizes.

3

They provide options for both 10-inch and 18-inch pizzas.

20
Tasty Noodle House image 1
Shanghainese restaurant

Small space fills quickly with a lively, noisy atmosphere and tight seating that suits fast-paced dining. Walls are bare, amplifying sound and creating a packed, energetic vibe. Generous portions come with highly praised soup dumplings that stand out among Shanghainese offerings.

Food arrives quickly, which suits kids well. The Shanghai pot stickers appeal to younger tastes and make dining easy before travel.

Lunch happens mostly before noon to avoid parking challenges. Splitting checks works well for work lunches or group meals.

People are saying

"The beef chow mein here has great flavor."

"The Shanghai pot stickers were good for my kids."

"The Chicken Chow Mein at this Lunch Spot is fantastic and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking can be hectic on weekends, so arrive early or consider street parking.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The prices at Tasty Noodle House are great considering the portion sizes.

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Kearny Mesa, San Diego

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