Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of La Jolla

Lunch spots

You need a lunch spot that respects your time and your appetite.

Based on 739 Opinions
+736
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Pepino Eatery & Bakeshop image 1
Pepino Eatery & Bakeshop image 2
Pepino Eatery & Bakeshop image 3
View all

Casual spot shines with Peruvian-inspired decor and a sunny patio perfect for pets. Offers unique, flavorful breakfast and lunch that locals love. Warm, family vibe makes it a reliable go-to for daytime meals.

Offers a neighborhood gem vibe with solid options for breakfast and lunch. Serves as a reliable go-to spot for daytime meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and some of the best I've eaten."

"You have to try the breakfast burrito; it's packed with food."

"It's my new favorite lunch spot in La Jolla."

Good to know

1

Pepino stays open from 8am to 4pm, which is rare for a bakery and eatery in San Diego.

2

There was plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.

3

Pricing at Pepino is very reasonable for everything they offer.

02
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.

03
Honey Cafe & Store image 1

Cozy cafe offers authentic Turkish pastries and healthy menu options perfect for early lunch. Friendly service creates a welcoming atmosphere with pet-friendly seating. Calm energy suits work or reading, while live music adds vibrant touches.

Food tastes delicious and suits an early breakfast or lunch. Service stays friendly but slows down during the lunch rush.

People are saying

"The peanut latte at this cafe is unique and flavorful."

"Their Turkish breakfast is magnificent, packed with fresh, authentic flavors."

"This lunch spot has such a cozy and relaxed atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Honey Cafe is pet-friendly, allowing customers to bring their furry friends.

2

They offer a great variety of healthy options, including smoothie bowls and avocado toast.

3

The cafe is suitable for both quick bites and leisurely breakfasts.

04
Jeffs’ Beach Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Beachside spot offers cozy patio with pink tables and blue stools, perfect for a casual lunch after water activities. Burgers, fries, and chicken souvlaki come with friendly counter service. Location near the shore adds a laid-back vibe and great music enhances the experience.

Close to the shore, this spot offers convenient walking-distance lunch after water activities. Burgers, fries, and chicken souvlaki make for a solid beach lunch, served with friendly counter service.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were delicious and juicy."

"The onion rings are so crispy and satisfying."

"This lunch spot's burgers and fries hit the spot."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes on weekends.

2

The price for a burger, fries, and a drink is over $25.

3

There is limited seating available, especially during peak hours.

05
Café Vahik image 1

Small cafe offers a warm atmosphere with a cozy vibe and quiet outdoor seating. Locals enjoy tasty ceviche and solid breakfast and lunch options. Friendly, relaxed environment feels like home.

Lunch features tasty ceviche and a pleasant atmosphere. The spot serves solid options for both breakfast and lunch.

People are saying

"I found it to be a great place for breakfast."

"This local spot has a warm, homemade vibe and great food."

"The owners here are so nice and provide great service to everyone."

Good to know

1

Café Vahik opens at 6am, perfect for early risers.

2

Expect busy hours, especially during breakfast and lunch.

3

The café offers outdoor seating until 3 PM.

06
Aroi Thai On Prospect image 1
Thai restaurant

Enjoy ocean views while dining on delicious Thai food for a quick, casual lunch. The semi-outdoor patio offers a cozy, laid-back vibe perfect for relaxing meals. Pet-friendly atmosphere adds to the welcoming feel.

Lunch offers delicious Thai food with quick seating. The spot suits a casual midday meal.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is so flavorful and authentic."

"The curry here is rich, creamy, and full of flavor."

"This lunch spot's duck noodles and summer rolls are recommended."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all week long with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Street parking is available, but can be hard to find.

3

Reservations are not required, and seating is often available immediately for lunch.

07
Beeside Balcony La Jolla image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open-air Mediterranean spot boasts breathtaking ocean views and an elevated patio that cuts street noise. Lunch shines with diverse menu options like crab cake and Chilean seabass, served by attentive staff. Live music adds a classy beach vibe that feels lively and welcoming.

Lunch offers a wide variety of menu options including crab cake, Chilean seabass, and burger. Service adds to the experience with attentive waitstaff.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots was spectacular and did not disappoint."

"The ocean view from the balcony is breathtaking."

"This lunch spot's meatballs were outstanding, perfectly paired with sauce."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

The happy hour menu is available upon request from the staff.

3

Parking is generally easy, but can be difficult during peak hours.

08
NAMINO Persian Cuisine (Restaurant) image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean spot serves authentic Persian kebabs and Ghormeh Sabzi in a cozy, busy setting. Lunch rush demands early orders, with the House Kabob Plate as a top pick. Simple decor keeps focus on flavorful grilling and comfort food.

Lunch here requires placing orders early due to the lunch rush. The House Kabob Plate stands out as a solid choice during this busy time.

People are saying

"The Persian kabobs are seasoned and grilled to juicy perfection."

"I found the authentic Persian food here to be rich and aromatic."

"I thought the kebabs were the best I ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-30 minute wait for food preparation as everything is made fresh.

2

Kobeideh kebab skewers cost over $45 for a filling meal including tip and tax.

3

The restaurant is busy with most tables occupied and many to-go orders.

09
The Kebab Shop image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Spacious Mediterranean spot offers quick lunch options with healthy, hearty meals. Casual vibe suits families and busy crowds. Self-serve sauce bar and halal options make it inclusive and flexible.

Offers quick lunch options with a focus on healthy and hearty meals. Suitable for grabbing food on the go or enjoying a casual midday meal.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and the portions are super big."

"The Greek food here, especially the falafel and hummus, is so tasty."

"This lunch spot's saffron rice is cooked perfectly and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Kids eat free on the weekends.

2

The restaurant offers halal options.

3

The place is very clean and well maintained.

10
El Pescador Fish Market image 1

Fresh seafood shines for a quick lunch with quality fish served fast. Outdoor patio with cacti creates a relaxed coastal vibe. Buzzy atmosphere invites casual diners to enjoy spacious seating and fresh fish displays.

Fresh seafood stands out for a quick lunch here. The spot serves simple, fast meals focused on quality fish.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"I thought the clam chowder was the best I ever had."

"The swordfish sandwich at this Lunch Spot is excellent."

Good to know

1

El Pescador Fish Market operates on a first come, first serve basis; no reservations accepted.

2

Expect long lines on Saturday afternoons, especially during peak hours.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early to secure a spot.

11
The Grill at Torrey Pines image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor dining with sea view and golf course backdrop creates a relaxed vibe. Lunch menu is amazing food that consistently impresses. Live music and bonfire add to the family-oriented atmosphere, perfect for casual meals and drinks.

Lunch offers a great menu with dishes that consistently exceed expectations. The spot serves amazing food and maintains a strong reputation for satisfying midday meals.

People are saying

"I took in the beautiful golf course view from our outdoor table."

"The tomato soup and grilled cheese are delicious comfort food."

"I found the burgers here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service to avoid long wait times.

2

The average meal cost is around $30 per person, excluding drinks.

3

The restaurant offers a scenic patio for outdoor dining with ocean views.

12
La Corriente La Jolla image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space blends French café and beach bungalow styles with authentic Mexican flavors. Quick takeout options make it a solid lunch spot for groups on the go. Laid back atmosphere and terrace seating create a soothing place for conversation.

Lunch offers quick takeout options that work well for groups. The spot suits casual stops during errands or events, making it a solid choice for a midday meal.

People are saying

"I've never had a fresher, crispier fish taco."

"I found the seafood to be authentically Baja style."

"This Lunch Spot's seafood is the freshest and tastiest I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour ends promptly at 6pm; order before then to get the discount.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, so expect a wait during peak hours.

3

Parking is not available; consider alternative transportation options.

13
Clay Oven Indian Cuisine & Catering Services image 1

Cozy patio with heat lamps offers a quiet, casual lunch spot. Generous $14 special includes two entrees, rice, and naan. Indoor space is compact, focusing on simple dining rather than formal ambiance.

Lunch offers a great value with a $14 special including two entrees, rice, and naan. Portions come generous enough for two meals and include soup and naan, served in a casual patio setting.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is delicious and authentic."

"I enjoyed the pretty outdoor seating and patio area."

"The lunch special here is an amazing value."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is $14 for two entrees, rice, and naan.

2

Parking is limited, so street parking may be necessary.

3

Expect long waits during peak hours, especially on weekends.

14
Pamir Kabob House image 1
Afghan restaurant

Dining space offers Afghan decor and floor seating for a warm, homely feel. Lunch specials like chicken kabob and kachaloo chalow are flavorful and perfect for casual or work meals. Soft Afghan music adds to the family-friendly and inviting vibe.

Lunch specials feature chicken kabob and kachaloo chalow with chicken. Meals come with flavorful, delicious dishes suitable for casual or work lunches.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, flavorful, and freshly made."

"The desserts here are light, fluffy, and absolutely delicious."

"The lamb dishes here are so well prepared."

Good to know

1

Parking is generally available on Pearl Street.

2

If parking on Pearl Street is not available, side street parking is an option.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly.

15
The Bella Lounge image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Outdoor seating offers glider views and a chill beach vibe with jazz music and unique sounds. Lunch on the terrace features beautiful displays in a pleasant setting. Space suits large groups seeking privacy and well-arranged food and drinks.

Wonderful displays for lunch appear on the terrace, creating a pleasant setting. The lounge hosts events and caters, making it a solid spot for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and tasty."

"I enjoyed the amazing ocean view from here."

"The food and service at this lunch spot are excellent."

Good to know

1

The Bella Lounge offers catering services for receptions and events.

2

The Bella Lounge has ample seating for large groups.

3

The Bella Lounge can accommodate parties of 25 on short notice.

16
Girard Gourmet image 1

Small bakery with a homey vibe offers fresh bakery and deli items. Cozy lunch spot features sweet carrot soup and solid sandwiches. Warm, family-friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to relax and enjoy quality homemade food.

Soup and sandwich specials stand out with a slightly sweet carrot soup that suits a cozy lunch. Salads, quiche, and lunch sandwiches offer consistent quality for a great little lunch stop.

People are saying

"I loved the freshly made salads and sandwiches at this lunch spot."

"I loved the creative, seasonal specialty cookies."

"The homemade bread here is so good, I come just to get it to go."

Good to know

1

Girard Gourmet is open from 7 AM to 6 PM every day.

2

Expect a line during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Street parking can be tricky; plan accordingly.

17
Namino (Tahchin) image 1
Persian restaurant

Food truck setup creates a casual atmosphere with friendly energy. Kebab with barberry rice is a popular lunch choice. Seating is simple with pop-up tables outside for an intimate dining experience.

Kebab with barberry rice stands out as a lunch choice. The owner also eats here daily, making it a true regular lunch spot.

People are saying

"The Persian food here is excellent, especially the kabobs."

"The Tahchin's golden, crispy rice is truly unique."

"This Lunch Spot has the best Persian food I've ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Everything is halal.

2

Combo meals cost under $20, cheaper than competitors.

3

Portions are generous for the price.

18
Public House La Jolla image 1
American restaurant

Cozy converted building offers heated patio and indoor seating for a relaxed lunch. Numerous sports screens and live music add casual energy while keeping a low-energy vibe perfect for quiet drinks and games.

Offers a relaxed and easy lunch experience with a lovely atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved their amazing craft beer selection."

"The patio is a relaxed outdoor space with heaters and classic rock."

"The beer selection here is really great."

Good to know

1

Half-off burgers are available on Tuesdays.

2

Happy hour offers daily specials, including half-price sliders.

3

Parking is plentiful near the restaurant.

19
King Of Thai Cuisine image 1
Thai restaurant

Indoor and outdoor seating create a relaxed yet elegant Thai style with patio heaters for comfort. Lunch specials offer great value with generous portions like panang curry and eggplant tofu. The atmosphere is pleasant and well maintained, blending beauty with calm.

Lunch specials offer great value with generous portions. Options like the panang curry and eggplant tofu come highly recommended and taste delicious.

People are saying

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

"The lunch specials here have generous portions for the price."

"I loved the variety of delicious vegetarian and vegan options."

Good to know

1

The lunch special offers generous portions at a great price.

2

Vegan and vegetarian options are available on the menu.

3

Happy hour specials for food and drink are offered.

20
The Lodge at Torrey Pines image 1

Resort hotel offers breathtaking ocean views and luxurious rooms with fireplaces. Lunch serves excellent fish dishes with spectacular food and top-notch service, perfect for business. Guests enjoy family-friendly pools and a warm, relaxing atmosphere.

Lunch features excellent fish dishes and spectacular food overall. Service is consistently excellent, making it suitable for business lunches.

People are saying

"The hotel staff makes you feel genuinely special and appreciated."

"The grounds offer a nice view overlooking the golf course."

"The lunch spot staff are so accommodating and friendly."

Good to know

1

The resort charges $550 per night, plus a $50 resort fee and a $50 self-parking fee.

2

The hotel is next to a public golf course that uses a PA system to call tee times starting at 5am.

3

AR Valentien closed on October 14 for renovations.

21
TAKARAMONO SUSHI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot offers exceptionally fresh fish in a quiet, intimate vibe with subtle Japanese decor. Lunch is calm and quick, perfect for a fast meal without crowds. Open front brings in fresh air, adding to the authentic atmosphere.

Lunch hours stay calm with no crowd. Offers lunch options suitable for a quick meal.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is incredibly fresh."

"The nigiri here has an ideal rice-to-fish ratio."

"This Lunch Spot's nigiri is so fresh, it melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, due to limited seating.

2

Omakase is available Monday through Thursday with 24 hours advance reservations.

3

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

22
The Spot La Jolla image 1

Bar and grill offers ocean views and a lively, cozy vibe with indoor-outdoor seating. Generous portions make it a great lunch spot for families and work outings. Multiple sports TVs add to the energetic atmosphere that fills up and gets loud at night.

Generous portions and a warm, charming setting make lunch here enjoyable. It suits family trips and casual work outings with a reliable, comfortable vibe.

People are saying

"The bar food here is some of the best I've ever had."

"I thought the burgers here were great and generously portioned."

"The Lunch Spot's service was friendly and excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Spot can be challenging.

2

They have Trivia Night on Tuesdays.

3

Happy Hour gives $3 off appetizers.

23
Cliff Hanger Cafe image 1
Sandwich shop

Perched on a high cliff, this sandwich shop offers spectacular ocean views and a paragliding field nearby for unique entertainment. Enjoy wood-fired pizza and top-notch sandwiches in a relaxed, chill atmosphere with loud rap music. Perfect for a casual lunch with stunning coastline sights.

Lunch comes with amazing views of the coastline and ocean. Watching paragliding adds unique entertainment while you eat in a casual, relaxed setting.

People are saying

"The view here is spectacular, especially watching the paragliders."

"The food here is great with a view of paragliders."

"This lunch spot has amazing ocean views and you can watch gliders."

Good to know

1

There is no bathroom available at the cafe.

2

The prices at the cafe are reasonable with many healthy options.

3

The views at the cafe are stunning and a major attraction.

24
Marketplace Grille image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean spot offers alfresco dining with a quiet patio perfect for relaxed meals. Enjoy flavorful kabobs and fresh salads that make it a quick lunch favorite. Service is fast and reliable, ideal for casual, healthy dining.

Quick service and amazing flavor make this a solid choice for lunch. Food and service stay consistently reliable for a satisfying midday meal.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh and flavorful salads, especially the cucumber/tomato."

"I loved the flavorful chicken and steak skewers at this Lunch Spot."

"I loved the nice outdoor seating and beautiful day."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 15-30 minutes during lunch and dinner rushes.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and healthy options.

3

Takeout orders are available, and they provide complimentary chicken soup while you wait.

25
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse image 1

Spacious spot offers heated patio perfect for dogs and lively bar with house-brewed beers. Lunch features tasty Italian Chicken Parmigiana at great prices. Friendly staff provide lunch specials and smart suggestions.

Lunch options include an Italian Chicken Parmigiana Pasta Lunch priced at $13 as part of a meal deal. Staff provide great suggestions and offer a lunch specials menu to enhance the experience.

People are saying

"The service at these dinner spots is attentive and kind."

"You have to try the Pizookie for American Food; it's a warm cookie with ice cream."

"My Lunch Spot server Darin was wonderfully attentive and made the experience lovely."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7pm daily with discounted appetizers and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger groups, especially during peak hours.

3

The restaurant has limited handicap parking available in front.

26
Chin's Szechwan - La Jolla image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small space with intimate booths and warm lighting creates a cozy vibe. Lunch offers generous portions and affordable prices, with dishes like Kung Pao Scallops served alongside soup and appetizers. Staff are attentive, making it a popular spot for quality and value.

Lunch offers excellent portion sizes and affordable prices compared to dinner. The Kung Pao Scallops lunch includes soup and appetizers with attentive and helpful staff.

People are saying

"I found Chin's Szechwan to be a great Chinese food spot."

"I found the Lo Mein here to be authentic and flavorful."

"The Kung Pao Scallops lunch here was excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted due to the small size of the restaurant.

2

Expect to wait for a table during busy dinner hours, especially on weekends.

3

Lunch prices are lower than dinner prices, providing a more affordable option.

27
La Jollita image 1
Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere perfect for lunch with authentic Mexican energy and lively music. Spacious, dog-friendly patio adds comfort for families and dates. Stunning decor and cleanliness create an uplifting vibe for any midday meal.

Offers a relaxed atmosphere suitable for lunch. Serves meals that fit both casual and special occasions during midday.

People are saying

"The food here is super fresh and high quality."

"The staff here is so attentive, they always have the right cocktail in mind."

"This Lunch Spot's food tasted so fresh and well-prepared."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is limited; expect challenges finding street parking nearby.

3

The restaurant has a dog-friendly patio for outdoor dining.

28
Tahini Authentic Middle Eastern Street Food image 1

Five floors up, enjoy ocean view and outdoor seating with fresh Middle Eastern dishes. Ordering at a kiosk can mean longer wait times during lunch rush. Great spot for catered lunches with tasty vegetarian options.

Ordering happens at a kiosk with some longer wait times during the lunch rush. The Chicken Shawarma package is available for catered lunches.

People are saying

"I found the food to be extremely good and tasty."

"The Mediterranean food here is served by staff who genuinely care."

"The Lunch Spot food was fantastic and perfectly packaged."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of about 30 minutes even during off-peak hours.

2

Prices for meals can be higher than similar options off-campus.

3

Parking is available in the underground garage at the UCSD campus.

29
Spiro's Mediterranean Cuisine image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Outdoor patio under trees offers fireplace warmth and a dog-friendly space. Mediterranean lunch includes a lamb and chicken platter near the beach. Seating adapts for mobility needs, all set to bossa nova music for a relaxed vibe.

Lunch offers Mediterranean cuisine with options like a lamb and chicken platter priced around $37 including beverage and tip. Dining by the beach creates a relaxed atmosphere for meals.

People are saying

"The lamb was so tender and juicy, I was impressed."

"The Greek food here, especially the gyro, is packed with delicious, crispy meat."

"This lunch spot's lamb gyro is so tender and juicy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted appetizers and drinks.

2

The restaurant is dog-friendly, allowing pets on the patio.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

Discover more

La Jolla, San Diego

Area guide
Loading Map...