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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in La Jolla

Lunch spots with steak

You want a steakhouse that respects your lunch hour without cutting corners on the quality of the cut.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Pamir Kabob House image 1
Pamir Kabob House image 2
Pamir Kabob House image 3
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Afghan restaurant

Dining space blends Afghan cultural decor with floor seating and cloth tablecloths, creating a warm, homely atmosphere. Slow Afghan instrumental music plays softly, enhancing the family-friendly, inviting vibe. The setting suits both casual family meals and romantic dinners.

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

Filet mignon kabob stands out with perfect cooking and offers great value compared to typical steakhouses. Serving it with Afghani bread instead of rice adds a unique touch.

People are saying

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

"The lamb dishes here are so well prepared."

"The filet mignon kabob was cooked perfectly."

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.

02
Taco Time Cantina image 1

Bright colors and beautiful decor create an inviting space with both indoor and outdoor seating, including a cozy patio with heaters and cover. Atmosphere feels authentic and relaxing, suitable for casual dining with fresh air and friendly energy. A standout feature is the fantastic salsa bar offering a range of heat levels.

Lunch includes custom orders like the fish burrito not listed on the menu. California burritos appear as a popular choice for midday meals.

Steak tacos feature real filet mignon and a whole ribeye inside the tortilla, cooked perfectly with simple ingredients like guacamole and pickled onions. The ribeye burrito also delivers strong flavor, but the filet mignon bowl does not meet the same standard.

People are saying

"The salsa bar is fantastic, with so many tasty options."

"This lunch spot's tacos are amazing, especially the crunchy beef."

"The ribeye in the tacos and bowls is packed with flavor."

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
Sea & Sky image 1
Californian restaurant

Top-floor setting offers spectacular ocean views and wide windows that frame the coastline. Live jazz music plays softly, creating a luxurious and cozy atmosphere with soft lighting that encourages lingering. Evening energy centers on the sunset backdrop and a full bar serving unique cocktails.

Lunch offers a simple menu with options like a wild salmon sandwich that can get messy and a well-prepared BLT. The setting is quiet during the week with few tables in use, but prices are on the higher side.

Steak comes out perfectly cooked and pairs well with garlic aioli, chimichurri, and demi-glaze. The steak and frites at the bar offer a solid option with extra chimichurri.

People are saying

"The view here is stunning, especially at sunset."

"I loved the steak and frites, cooked perfectly."

"This lunch spot has an amazing view of the sea and sky."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm, offering ocean views.

2

Parking is validated for guests dining at the restaurant.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

04
Beeside Balcony La Jolla image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open-air Mediterranean restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views and an elevated patio that reduces street noise. Live music sets a classy beach town vibe with a vibrant atmosphere that feels both 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.

Filet mignon stands out with its incredible sauce and rich flavor. Denver steak also delivers solid taste, making the steak options well worth trying.

People are saying

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

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

"The filet mignon's flavor and sauce were pure happiness."

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.

05
La Jollita image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a relaxed beachy vibe with authentic Mexican energy and lively music that keeps noise levels comfortable for conversation. Interior features stunning, detailed decor and a spacious, dog-friendly patio. Atmosphere suits both family outings and date nights, blending cleanliness with uplifting design.

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

Steak comes off the grill cooked perfectly. The taco lorenza features steak with cheese. Steak pairs well with guacamole.

People are saying

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

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

"The steak was cooked perfectly, just like it came off the grill."

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.

06
The Spot La Jolla image 1

Bar and grill with ocean views and an indoor-outdoor second story creates a lively, cozy atmosphere. Outdoor seating is dog friendly and popular, while multiple sports TVs show several games simultaneously. The place fills up and gets loud, especially later in the evening.

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

Steaks come out tender and perfectly cooked, with options like T-bone, ribeye, skirt, and flat iron. Fries and veggie medley often accompany the dishes.

People are saying

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

"I had the steak, and it was cooked perfectly."

"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.

07
Eddie V's Prime Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Panoramic ocean views define the setting, especially from the outdoor patio with heated lamps and a fire pit for warmth. The atmosphere stays elegant and quiet, welcoming guests with attentive service and thoughtful touches like table decorations and complimentary champagne. The place draws those seeking a refined dining experience paired with stunning scenery.

Lunch features a lobster roll and burger on special with bread and butter served beforehand. The main dining area closes at lunch but the spot still offers solid small bites.

Steak comes as medallions that pair well with seafood like scallops and lobster. The dishes feature rich flavors and a high-quality preparation.

People are saying

"The ocean view here is spectacular and to die for."

"The steak here felt like a fine dining experience, every moment."

"The lobster tacos here are a must-try lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential as the restaurant is often fully booked.

2

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

3

Valet parking is recommended due to limited street parking availability.

08
The Grill at Torrey Pines image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor dining overlooks a golf course and sea view, creating a relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere with live music and a bonfire area. The setting feels comfortable and scenic, especially during evening hours. The place attracts golfers, families, and friends gathering 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.

Steak here shows insane quality with the hanger steak cooked perfectly. The grilled hanger steak comes in generous portions, sometimes served on two plates even when only one is ordered.

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."

"The hanger steak was done perfectly and the quality was insane."

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.

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La Jolla, San Diego

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