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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Pacific Beach

Lunch spots

Made for those who view the midday break as the most important tactical decision of their day.

Based on 604 Opinions
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01
Akhis Authentic Shawarma & Kebab image 1
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Small Mediterranean spot offers casual atmosphere with friendly vibes and thoughtful seating including bar stools. The space feels like a hidden gem with a clean, well-maintained environment. It attracts those seeking flavorful, authentic shawarma and kebabs in generous portions.

Food features great portion sizes and fresh ingredients with flavorful dishes based on family recipes. Meals fill you up and deliver consistent quality and taste.

Offers a quick bite option ideal for lunch breaks. Serves yummy lunch dishes that suit casual office outings.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

"This lunch spot's shawarma wrap might be the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but calling ahead for takeout is recommended.

2

The restaurant has limited seating with only stools available for dining.

3

Expect generous portion sizes, especially for kebabs and shawarma.

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Brightly lit coffeehouse offers a chill and welcoming atmosphere with a clean, cheerful environment and outdoor dining area. Unique herb scents fill the air, complementing a menu known for creative pies and ice cream flavors. The space attracts those seeking an elevated coffee experience with whole ingredient dishes and vegan options.

Food features phenomenal pot pies made with whole ingredients. Outdoor dining adds to the experience, with consistently delicious dishes and ice cream.

Savory pies like the chicken pot pie offer a light but filling lunch option. Ice cream also appears as a popular choice alongside these dishes.

People are saying

"I found the food, especially the pot pies, to be phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan options for pies and ice cream.

3

Dessert pies are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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Sandwich shop with a funky cool setup and a beach vibe creates a laid back atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers lawn games and live music, making waiting enjoyable. High quality sandwiches stand out alongside beer, wine, and coffee served in a connected wine and coffee shop.

Food here stands out with its phenomenal taste and a vibe that influences both decor and dishes. The menu offers incredible variety that feels special, not average, even for events like baby showers.

Outdoor space offers a relaxing atmosphere with options for sun or shade during lunch. The spot serves an awesome lunch that stands out in the area.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great food here."

"I found the sandwiches here to be very good and filling."

Good to know

1

Expect a 10-20 minute wait for sandwiches during busy hours.

2

The patio offers outdoor seating with beer and wine options.

3

Weekday deals are available for lunch specials.

04
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Small sandwich shop with outdoor sidewalk seating creates a homey, simple atmosphere. Energy stays relaxed with kind staff and a hole-in-the-wall vibe. Popular for high-quality roast beef sandwiches that draw fans of East Coast style subs.

Food here is fresh and flavorful with generous portions. The meals offer a homey feel and solid quality, though other nearby spots may be less expensive.

Lunch features French dip sandwiches and the super beef option. Onion rings come in a generous half order with a crisp fry.

People are saying

"The roast beef here is piled high, juicy, and flavorful."

"The roast beef sandwich at this Lunch Spot is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

There is no indoor seating; all seating is outside on the sidewalk.

2

Parking in Pacific Beach can be difficult, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect large portions for the price, making it a good value.

05
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Indoor seating offers a cozy, warm atmosphere with a clean, open layout and welcoming vibes. The space fills with a steady crowd, especially in the evening, creating a lively yet comfortable dining experience. A variety of vegetarian and vegan options stand out as a key feature.

Butter chicken and cheese naan stand out as highlights. The menu features North Indian dishes like Alu Palak and tandoori rotis, all prepared with clear passion.

Lunch offers a special combo with two dishes, naan, rice, and dessert. Portions are generous enough to have leftovers after dinner visits.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and flavorful."

"This lunch spot has excellent, flavorful food with generous portions."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 9:30 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Free parking is available nearby, making it easy to access.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options.

06
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Outdoor seating with tropical plants creates a laid-back, aloha vibe that feels like a Hawaiian shack transplanted to a coastal city. The atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful despite steady activity, with a friendly, welcoming energy that invites lingering on the patio.

Food offers authentic Hawaiian flavors with a good selection of dishes, including vegetarian options. Coffee and meals deliver excellent taste that stands out.

Counter style service offers quick and casual meals. It suits those wanting a packed lunch or a spot without alcohol. The menu focuses on breakfast and lunch items with consistent quality.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really delicious."

"The musubi at this Lunch Spot is excellent."

Good to know

1

Leilani's Cafe only has outdoor seating.

2

Parking on the residential streets can be challenging.

3

Arrive early on weekends to avoid long wait times.

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Juice shop with free vintage arcade games and late 90s to early 2000s hip hop vibe creates a fun, cozy atmosphere. Walls display chalkboard art and local flyers, adding cultural and community touches. Energy stays chill and positive, attracting those who enjoy healthy smoothies and nostalgic games.

Healthy food options stand out with tasty breakfast foods and homemade to-go meals. Quality stays consistent and affordable, with staff handling food carefully.

Offers healthy wraps and quick lunch options ideal for a fast meal. Serves fresh juices and suits a casual, beachside lunch vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and genuinely satisfying."

"I loved their delicious smoothies and amazing drinks."

Good to know

1

Expect minimal wait times for smoothies, even during peak hours.

2

The menu includes options for various dietary restrictions.

3

Parking is available on the street, but meters are enforced.

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Bright, airy brunch spot with a beautiful patio and great views creates a casual, comfortable vibe. Huge portions and an amazing menu draw a crowd looking for flavorful, well-priced dishes. Mimosa selections stand out as a popular, higher-end choice.

Food here stands out for being consistently delicious and phenomenally good. The menu offers a great variety that matches the lively vibe.

Offers all-day breakfast and lunch options, making it easy to grab a meal anytime. Located right at the beach, it serves as a convenient lunch spot with a relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and fresh."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is so friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Parking is free in the lot on the storefront side, but costs $24 on the other side.

2

A 20% gratuity is included in the bill for large parties.

3

Indoor and outdoor seating options are available.

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American restaurant with Chicago-themed atmosphere and indoor-outdoor seating offers a lively vibe with live bands and local DJs. Energy peaks with sports on multiple TVs and a crowd that enjoys music and games like Cornhole. Volume can be high, creating an intense, stadium-like experience.

Food features fresh ingredients and is made from scratch. Lunch specials offer a $10 menu with excellent options and strong recommendations for drinks and food.

Affordable $10 lunch specials include burgers with fries and tacos. Weekday lunch comes with drink specials and a solid Taco Tuesday deal.

People are saying

"The food here is great, especially the pizza."

"I loved their affordable weekday lunch specials around $10."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Sunday night, attracting a lively crowd.

2

No one under 21 is allowed inside or at the outside tables.

3

Expect a $2.5 wellness charge added to your bill.

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Cafe offers an open-air interior with a beachy aesthetic and plentiful outdoor patio seating. Atmosphere feels laid-back and charming, welcoming dogs and families with kids' crayons and chalks. Menu features fresh breakfast and lunch options alongside free Wi-Fi.

Food features an expanding menu with pastries and sandwiches. Highlights include the La Mancha on croissant and the piña colada bowl, all fresh and delicious.

A full menu offers breakfast and lunch sandwiches plus bowls. The lunch sandwiches stand out as amazing and satisfy midday hunger well. This spot serves solid coffee alongside these options.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was spot on and yummy."

"I love their amazing lunch sandwiches and bowls."

Good to know

1

They have a full menu of breakfast and lunch sandwiches and bowls.

2

The large iced coffee costs $5.15, and the breakfast bowl is $11.70.

3

There is a small parking area, but street parking is also available.

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Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with a quiet, relaxed atmosphere and a welcoming, family-style vibe. Offers handmade corn tortillas and authentic dishes in a neat, casual setting with both indoor and puppy-friendly outdoor patio seating.

Authentic Mexican food fills the air with a delicious aroma. Dishes arrive hot and fresh, consistently delicious and flavorful.

Offers authentic birria tacos that work well for a quick lunch. Serves as a solid spot to grab a fast, flavorful meal.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"You have to try the birria tacos; they're the best lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find near the restaurant.

2

The portions are larger than most places for the price.

3

The restaurant is known for its authentic birria tacos.

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Spacious interior with high ceilings and natural light creates a bright, open feel. Warm, family-friendly atmosphere blends with relaxing ambiance and tasteful decor including fish tanks. The vibe stays calm even when busy, welcoming a diverse crowd with vegetarian options and dog-friendly policies.

Food offers extremely tasty and satisfying Vietnamese dishes with a focus on pho. Service complements the food well, creating a consistently great experience.

Low key late lunch vibes fill the space with an abundance of sunlight pouring through the dining room. The atmosphere stays chill and relaxed, making it a solid spot for a Sunday lunch with a friend.

People are saying

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

"The chicken pho here is perfect for an upset stomach."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is dog friendly, allowing pets in the outdoor seating area.

2

They offer a large menu with many vegetarian options available.

3

Expect a small portion size for the price, which may not be filling for everyone.

13
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Buffet restaurant offers an enormous dining area with live cooking stations including Mongolian and teppanyaki grills. Atmosphere varies from cozy and quiet to lively and crowded during peak hours. Tables are close together, creating a bustling environment with fresh sushi and stir fry options.

Seafood, especially crab, stands out with great taste. The buffet offers an extensive selection including Chinese, Japanese, teppanyaki grill, and American dishes, all prepared with good quality and flavor.

Lunch offers very filling and tasty options at a reasonable price. Parties of six or more get a free birthday lunch or dinner.

People are saying

"The food here offered a wide variety, including sushi and hot soups."

"This Lunch Spot has amazing sushi and a chocolate fountain."

Good to know

1

The buffet is available every day, regardless of weather or season.

2

The restaurant has a birthday policy where you eat for free if it's your birthday, but you must show an ID.

3

Lunch costs around $20 for one person, including tip.

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Pacific Beach, San Diego

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