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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Union Square, SF's best

Lunch spots

The middle of the workday demands a break. A quick meal away from the desk is the only way to reset before the afternoon.

Based on 579 Opinions
+576
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Updated April 2026
01
Al Pastor Papi image 1
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Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with authentic Al Pastor and a vibrant street theme. Plenty of seating fits families and casual diners alike. Underground hip-hop music adds a hip, relaxed vibe perfect for lunch or quick bites.

Lunch here offers a straightforward, satisfying experience with a focus on Al Pastor dishes. The spot works well for a quick family meal or a casual afternoon bite.

People are saying

"These tacos are flavorful, filling, and uniquely delicious."

"I found the Al Pastor tacos to be the tastiest I have ever had."

"I was so happy they have a permanent Lunch Spot location."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located just around the block from Union Square.

2

Expect limited seating, especially during peak hours.

3

Prices are reasonable for a sit-down restaurant near Union Square.

02
Fanoos image 1
Shawarma restaurant

Small space with an open kitchen offers an intimate setting and cozy atmosphere. Chicken shawarma salad shines as a fresh lunch option with generous portions. Psychedelic music and charming tiles add to the welcoming vibe.

Chicken shawarma salad stands out as a fresh lunch option. The spot serves consistently very good food that makes it a reliable choice for lunch.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

"I found the Mediterranean food, especially the falafel, to be the best I'd ever had."

"The chicken shawarma salad here is fresh, tender, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Vegan customers should verify the ingredients of the white sauce.

2

All meals at Fanoos are halal.

3

Fanoos is open until midnight.

03
Bella Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy cafe with Italian aesthetic offers a calm spot for lunch with high-quality ingredients. Quiet alley and courtyard seating create a warm, welcoming vibe. Perfect for a quick espresso or light meal amid soft, authentic music.

Few lunch spots exist nearby, making this a solid choice. It offers high-quality ingredients and suits a quick espresso, light lunch, or dessert break.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has amazing food with fresh ingredients."

"The cafe staff here are really friendly and attentive."

"It's a quiet, cozy spot nestled away from the hum."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable for the quality and portion sizes you receive.

2

Bella Cafe is perfect for a lunch or coffee break.

3

The dessert case is a showstopper with pastries that look European.

04
Once Upon a Dosa image 1

Minimalistic setup with self check-in and a light-filled interior creates a casual, welcoming vibe. Fast service and quick seating make it ideal for lunch. Vintage-inspired details add charm despite occasional cold from the open door.

Fast service and quick seating make it a solid choice for lunch. The masala dosa arrives promptly, even during the lunch rush, offering a tasty and easy meal option.

People are saying

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

"I loved the crispy, flavorful South Indian dosa here."

"This lunch spot's dosas are authentically delicious and crispy."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; street parking can be tricky in the busy area.

2

They do not accept cash, only credit cards and mobile payments.

3

The restaurant is strictly vegetarian, catering well to vegetarian diners.

05
Mellis Cafe image 1

Small cafe offers flavorful coffee and quick meals with great deals. Outdoor seating creates a cozy atmosphere that feels friendly and homey. Soft Arabic pop music adds to the welcoming vibe throughout the day.

Small shop offers all the essentials for breakfast and lunch with great deals. It serves as a reliable spot for a quick meal or snack during the day.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be amazing and flavorful."

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

"The staff at this lunch spot are super friendly and accommodating."

Good to know

1

Mellis Cafe opens at 5:00 a.m. and stays open until midnight.

2

Expect reasonable prices for sandwiches and breakfast items.

3

Mellis Cafe is ideal for quick breakfast and coffee options.

06
Neiman Marcus image 1
Clothing store

Stained-glass rotunda and luxurious architecture create an elegant, refined atmosphere. Serene dining area with window views makes it a great lunch spot for quiet meals or friendly meetups. Upscale vibe shines through designer brands and a notable fragrance counter.

The Rotunda offers a beautiful lunch setting with window views that enhance the meal. It serves as a solid spot for meeting friends or enjoying a quiet lunch.

People are saying

"The jewelry staff are amazing and attentive experts."

"The architecture and decor here are truly luxurious and grand."

"I had a beautiful lunch with beautiful views."

Good to know

1

Expect high prices on luxury items, reflecting the upscale nature of the store.

2

The store offers on-site alterations with a quick turnaround for same-day events.

3

Neiman Marcus carries exclusive brands like Dior's Private Fragrance line in California.

07
Union Square Pizza & Kitchen image 1

Small space with retro style and cozy vibe offers a peaceful break from downtown noise. Quick pizza slices make it a decent lunch spot with a fair 2 slice combo price. Italian music softly plays, adding to the relaxed mood.

Offers a 2 slice lunch combo priced fairly for the area. Serves quick pizza slices suitable for a lunch break or late meal. Pizza quality can be inconsistent, sometimes below expectations.

People are saying

"This pizza is fire, seriously incredible."

"The pizza here has a perfect crust and flavorful toppings."

"This Lunch Spot's pizza crust was perfectly crispy with top-tier toppings."

Good to know

1

The pizza costs around $30 for a medium size with a drink.

2

A small cheese slice of pizza costs $9.

3

Expect a few minutes wait for ready slices to heat up.

08
The Post Room image 1
Restaurant

Cozy spot inside a vintage hotel offers a quiet atmosphere with live piano and singer. Lunch includes a weekday set menu now at $38, perfect for group lunches of about 10. Enjoy exceptional cocktails and refined dining in elegant 1920s surroundings.

Lunch features a weekday set menu that recently increased from $28 to $38. Group lunches with about 10 people fit comfortably here.

People are saying

"The drinks at this bar were the best I ever had."

"You can catch live music, from jazz to contemporary tunes, on Saturday nights."

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

Good to know

1

Live music performances occur every Saturday night, featuring local musicians.

2

Fridays and Saturdays feature live piano performances.

3

Expect an extra $8.50 service charge added to your bill.

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Union Square, San Francisco

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