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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in San Francisco

Interesting lunch spots

You are tired of the same predictable lunch options and want a place that offers something genuinely different.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated April 2026
01
Cantoo Latin Asian Rotisserie image 1
Cantoo Latin Asian Rotisserie image 2
Cantoo Latin Asian Rotisserie image 3
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Asian fusion restaurant

Basement setting with grotto-like atmosphere and remnants of previous restaurants creates a unique, slightly shabby but welcoming vibe. Latin American music plays softly, adding to the peaceful and cozy environment. Spacious and clean interior feels like a blend of casual dining and cultural character.

Offers Latin Asian rotisserie dishes that work well for lunch. Serves wonderful lunches with solid flavor and satisfying portions.

Fusion of Asian and Latin cuisines creates an interesting mix of traditional and new dishes. Spicy flavors add to the unique taste experience.

People are saying

"The empanadas are huge, with delicious fillings like shredded beef."

"The spicy, interesting new tastes really impressed me."

"The pork belly and fried rice at this Lunch Spot are delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant celebrates its one-year anniversary in December with special events.

2

Expect a diverse menu featuring unique Asian-Venezuelan dishes.

3

Portions are generous and reasonably priced for the area.

02
Saluhall SF image 1
Food court

Food court combines open, light-filled design with multiple levels hosting diverse restaurants and bars. Atmosphere stays relaxed and cozy with a refreshing vibe that connects to a nearby retail space. Frequented for local food options and a cooking school, it offers a lively yet chill environment.

Ample seating supports groups of all sizes for lunch. The spot suits family gatherings, team lunches, and accommodates vegan preferences well.

Three bars offer drink specials from light spritzes to stronger cocktails and unique wines. The interior features an interesting and warm design that shapes the overall vibe.

People are saying

"I loved the variety of food options and vendors here."

"This lunch spot has tons of amazing goodies for everyone."

"The vibe and design here are really interesting."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens on Mondays at Saluhall SF.

2

The downstairs area opens at 8 AM for breakfast and coffee.

3

Happy hour runs after 5 PM on Thursdays with specialty drinks.

03
Lion West Portal image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers unique cart service with small plates delivered Dim Sum-style, creating an interactive dining experience. Interior blends cozy, chic design with an elegant yet casual vibe across two floors. Menu includes a large vegan selection alongside fresh, high-quality nigiri and specialty rolls.

Lunch features bowls with fresh ingredients and occasional nigiri specials. The spot opens for lunch and offers a casual walk-in experience.

Sushi features innovative combinations with unique ingredients. A cart arrives every 5-10 minutes offering small plates like sushi and maki, creating a calm and interesting dining style.

People are saying

"The vegetarian rolls here are creative and really good."

"The sushi here is interesting with unique ingredients and flavors."

"I found the lunch bowls here to be absolutely fabulous."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly.

2

The restaurant operates on a no-tip model, including service fees in menu prices.

3

Expect to pay around $40 per person without drinks.

04
SOHN image 1
Cafe

Spacious two-floor cafe with thoughtful interior design and cozy sofa corners creates a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. Bright, airy space features glowing Noguchi lights and modern decor, though sound echoes off concrete walls making it loud. Self-service ordering via QR codes and plentiful outlets support casual work or socializing.

Lunch offers a kimchi fried rice served in a lunch box that adds to the aesthetic. Friendly staff keep the vibe pleasant even during busy hours, making it a nice spot to catch up over a matcha latte or a meal.

Popcorn Chicken features an interesting twist with Korean rice cake. Seating includes pockets of couch areas alongside regular cafe tables, adding variety to the space.

People are saying

"The breakfast sandwich here is rich, savory, and satisfying."

"The fried chicken at this Lunch Spot is seasoned and delicious."

"The popcorn chicken had an interesting twist with rice cake."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

There are two linesโ€”left side for dine-in and right side for takeout.

3

A QR code is available for ordering to-go items.

05
Rasa Rasa Kitchen / R2K image 1
Indonesian restaurant

Indonesian restaurant blends modern design with traditional culture in a cozy, inviting space. Atmosphere stays warm and friendly, suited for casual dinners without reservations. Tables accommodate larger groups, making it a comfortable spot for gatherings.

The menu offers an interesting take on Indonesian cuisine with dishes like beef in sourdough and jackfruit that stand out as worth trying.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and authentic."

"I found the Javanese fried rice to be amazing and savory."

"The jackfruit was interesting and worth trying."

Good to know

1

Gratuity of 18% is automatically applied to bills.

2

The location has easy parking available.

3

There are many vegetarian and vegan options on the menu.

06
Outta Sight Pizza II image 1

Pizza takeout spot with limited seating and options to eat standing or at bar stools creates a casual, downtown city vibe. Atmosphere varies from warm and chill to loud with heavy metal music, influencing the overall energy. Unique pizza toppings like Peking duck and butter chicken set it apart from typical pizza places.

Lines get long during the lunch rush, so arriving before noon helps avoid the crowd. Many people working nearby see it as a great lunch option. Dogs are allowed during busy times.

Salad options feature frequent changes with a funky mix heavy on greens. Retro tunes like obscure disco and 80s music play from speakers, adding a unique vibe.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best in the city."

"The Peking Duck pizza is sweet, smoky, and rich."

"The peking duck flavor and texture was pretty good on pizza."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is only open on weekdays until 8:00 pm.

2

Arrive before noon to avoid the lunch rush and long wait times.

3

Limited seating is available; most customers eat standing or takeout.

07
Japan Center Malls image 1
Shopping mall

Shopping mall blends traditional Japanese architecture with modern cultural exhibits, featuring wooden bridges, red lanterns, and a towering pagoda. Atmosphere feels vibrant yet relaxed, with festive decorations and lively sounds from eateries and shops. Visitors engage in cultural activities and enjoy unique entertainment like old-school arcades and claw machines.

Lots of lunch options include sushi, ramen, and curry. Restaurants inside offer a variety of choices, but it can get crowded on Fridays.

Unique shops offer interesting toys, mementos, and Japanese pop culture items. The culture, traditions, and food add to the overall interesting vibe.

People are saying

"This mall has tons of anime goods, manga, and unique collectibles."

"I found lots of interesting shops selling unique Japanese goods."

"This lunch spot is super popular and crowded on weekends."

Good to know

1

The mall hosts special events like the Cherry Blossom Festival, attracting lively crowds.

2

Monthly pop-up events at OKMARKETPLACE offer unique shopping experiences.

3

Parking can be difficult to find, especially in busy times.

08
Fermentation Lab Japantown image 1

Space combines high ceilings and elegant decor with varied seating options including lounge and bar-height seats. Atmosphere stays relaxed and lively with music at a level that allows conversation even when crowded. Well-behaved dogs are welcome, adding to the friendly vibe.

Suitable for a nice lunch meeting, the spot serves meals throughout the day including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Menu offers interesting flavor combinations that invite trying more items. Drinks include a Spicy Old Fashioned with a unique twist.

People are saying

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

"The uni pasta here is a must-try Lunch Spot."

"The atmosphere and decor here are really nice."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with a selection of food and drinks.

2

They offer $2 oysters during happy hour, making it a great deal.

3

Parking can be difficult, so plan accordingly before your visit.

09
IKEA image 1
Furniture store

Showroom spans three floors with multi-purpose furniture and live plants enhancing the space. Atmosphere stays organized and relaxed with a quiet, clean environment. Attached food court offers ample seating and diverse options beyond typical fare.

Offers a hotdog and coffee deal that provides solid value for lunch. The environment stays fast, clean, and efficient with decent food priced around $10.85.

Very different layout sets it apart from other IKEA stores. The Saluhall food hall offers a variety of interesting food options. The drink kiosk features unique sparkling water flavors.

People are saying

"I found the furniture and home decorations to be beautiful and cost-efficient."

"The meatballs at this Lunch Spot are surprisingly good."

"I found this location really interesting and different."

Good to know

1

Parking at IKEA is difficult, with no customer parking available nearby.

2

The parking garage charges $25.95 for 29 minutes, despite claiming $3 for 30 minutes.

3

I parked at 455 Stevenson Street and received validation for free parking for an hour.

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