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Top picks in San Jose

Chinese lunch spots

Made for those who prioritize a quick, reliable midday meal that satisfies their craving for specific regional dishes.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Yami Bowl (Teriyaki Bowl and Thai Food) image 1
Yami Bowl (Teriyaki Bowl and Thai Food) image 2
Yami Bowl (Teriyaki Bowl and Thai Food) image 3
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Small, clean space offers a welcoming atmosphere with friendly staff creating a positive vibe. Menu blends Thai and teriyaki flavors with fresh, well-prepared ingredients and generous portions. Family-friendly setting balances affordable prices with quality and care in every dish.

Tender chicken thighs shine in dishes like spicy diced chicken and chicken chow mein. Pot stickers, orange chicken, and Shrimp Singapore rice noodles offer a solid variety, while a hidden menu features Mapo Tofu and Stir-Fried Shredded Pork with Chili Sauce.

Quick service and consistent food quality make it a reliable spot for lunch. It suits both casual meals and group orders, including for schools, with a menu trusted for everyday dining.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, and the owner is so friendly."

"This lunch spot's food is always fresh and delicious."

"You have to try the popcorn chicken; it's the best Chinese food I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Yami Bowl offers affordable single serving bowls with generous portion sizes.

2

Drinks are sold individually by the can; no drink fountain is available.

3

The restaurant is very clean and well presented, enhancing the dining experience.

02
DH Noodles & Grill 敦煌兰州牛肉拉面 image 1

Chinese noodle restaurant offers modern, elegant interior with a quiet, comfortable atmosphere enhanced by soft instrumental Chinese music. The space feels inviting and upscale despite its smaller, irregular layout. It attracts diners seeking authentic Lanzhou beef noodles and northwestern Chinese flavors in a relaxed setting.

Scallion pancake with pork stands out with its crispy texture and savory flavor. Sichuan-style chicken, Dan Dan noodles, and Xiao Long Bao offer juicy, authentic tastes. Steamed buns and Lanzhou noodles provide solid traditional options.

Portion sizes stay very satisfying for the price. Lunch comes up quick, often ready in just a couple of minutes, making it easy to grab a quick meal before heading out.

People are saying

"I found the noodle soup here to be very delicious and authentic."

"I'd get the pepper beef and eggplant salad again."

"The Chinese food here, especially the noodles, is really good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is very popular; expect wait times, especially on weekends.

2

You can place your name in a queue and receive a message when your table is ready.

3

Ordering is done via scanning a QR code, and food arrives quickly.

03
Everest Cuisine-San Jose image 1
Indian restaurant

Small, cozy space with modest decor and bright overhead lights creates a clean, comfortable setting. Warm hospitality and cheerful music contribute to a welcoming, lively atmosphere. Known for authentic Indian flavors and popular momos, it draws regulars seeking genuine Indo-Chinese dishes.

Momo dumplings stand out with delicate, flavorful, and perfectly cooked qualities. The menu also features California spicy chow mein and hot and sour soup, all prepared with care and strong flavors.

Lunch offers a lunch thali and suits gatherings with family and friends. The spot stays open after typical lunch hours, making it easy to enjoy a casual meal.

People are saying

"I found the food to be awesome and authentic."

"The chow mein and momos here are amazing Chinese food."

"This lunch spot's food is rich, flavorful, and just perfect."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant serves a mix of Indian, Nepalese, and Chinese cuisines.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere with music until late at night.

04
Flaming Ox image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Small, clean, and modern space offers a cozy atmosphere with natural light and artwork on walls. The vibe is casual and comfortable, similar to a café, making it suitable for relaxed dining. Friendly environment complements the authentic Taiwanese flavors served.

Scallion pancakes come with a notable dipping sauce. Appetizers include cucumber pickles and crispy bok choy. Soup features fresh chopped bok choy, pickled cabbage, and housemade sweet chili oil.

Casual ambiance suits lunch well with a happy hour offering all entrees at $15.50 from Tuesday to Friday during late lunch and dinner. Visits include lunch on notable days like Super Bowl Sunday.

People are saying

"The beef noodle soup has tender beef and a savory broth."

"The Chinese food here has tender braised beef and flavorful broths."

"The beef noodle soup at this Lunch Spot has tender beef."

Good to know

1

The CNY promo lasts until supplies run out, so check early.

2

Spending $30 during the CNY promo earns a red envelope gift.

3

Happy hour is Tuesday to Friday during late lunch and dinner, with entrees at $15.50.

05
Yummy Kitchen 闻香居 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Open kitchen reveals chefs preparing food with clear pride, creating a cozy home-cooked vibe. Atmosphere feels like a lunch hall without rush, inviting diners to enjoy authentic Chinese dishes. Space suits big groups and offers reasonably priced portions with a focus on genuine flavors.

Sichuan style dishes shine with Mapo tofu featuring braised pork intestines and a spice level that hits just right. Other offerings include Szechuan fish fillet in spicy broth, crispy chicken, and light spring rolls.

Catered lunch options include walnut chicken and beef and broccoli. The setting feels like a lunch hall but service moves slower than typical fast lunch spots.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic Szechuan."

"I thought the seafood here was delicious."

"I found the Mapo tofu really good and well worth trying."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not needed; walk-ins are welcome at any time.

2

Expect a wait of about 30 minutes during peak lunch hours.

3

Prices are reasonable, averaging less than $20 per dish.

06
New Hwong Kok image 1
Chinese restaurant

Pickup-only setup with dim sum variety and very reasonable prices defines the experience. Atmosphere feels unwelcoming and decor is unattractive, focusing attention on food rather than ambiance. Lines form during busy times, and cash is preferred with credit card surcharge.

Dim sum offers fast and simple Cantonese dishes with every item tasting good. Seafood dumplings stand out, and prices come in cheaper than other spots.

Lunch offers cheap combos with generous portions. Dim sum and the $11 wonton noodles provide a filling and delicious meal option.

People are saying

"I found the dim sum here tasted pretty good."

"I found the seafood here to be delicious and awesome."

"I found the Chinese food here to be pretty good."

Good to know

1

Lines can get long if the restaurant is busy.

2

The restaurant favors cash payments but accepts credit cards with a 3% surcharge.

3

Dim sum costs $4 for three pieces, and egg tarts are $1.60 each with a buy-five offer.

07
Hawaiian BBQ image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Small family-run spot blends Hawaiian BBQ with authentic Henan Chinese cuisine in a warm, clean setting. The place fills up quickly, offering huge portions and a mix of classic and regional dishes. Owners maintain a friendly, attentive atmosphere despite the hole-in-the-wall vibe.

House Chow Mein stands out with perfectly seasoned noodles and a mix of vegetables, meat, and shrimp. Other notable dishes include sesame chicken, beef chow fun, honey walnut shrimp, and orange chicken.

Fast service fits a half-hour lunch break well. The lunch special combo offers good value, and the to-go set with 肉夹馍 and 凉皮 tastes delicious.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be authentic and among the best I've ever had."

"This lunch spot's Katsu chicken plate is excellent."

"The Chinese food here, especially the House Chow Mein, is excellent."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a great lunch special combo available only during lunch hours.

2

The dishes are peanut-free, making it safe for those with peanut allergies.

3

The portions are large, often enough for two meals.

08
Si Jie Noodle Express image 1

Small space combines modern decor with Chinese accents for a cozy, mom-and-pop vibe. Music adapts to customer suggestions, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Food feels gourmet rather than fast-food, with authentic dishes and complimentary touches.

Dumplings stand out here, including soup dumplings and Sheng jian bao or fried dumplings. The wonton soup offers a flavorful and comforting experience. Other dishes include kimchi pork belly hot pot noodles and beef chow fun.

Lunch gets busy here with a crowd filling the space. The spicy lamb and green string beans stand out, but the lunch combo feels pricey for what it offers.

People are saying

"You have to try the amazing pan-fried dumplings here."

"You have to try the dumplings; they're amazing Chinese food."

"The cumin lamb and braised beef at this Lunch Spot are amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant uses QR codes for ordering, making it a tech-friendly experience.

2

Vegetarian options are available, but confirm with the waiter to avoid meat.

3

Portions are large and filling, providing good value for the price.

09
Ume Chinese Food image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small indoor space offers a welcoming atmosphere with laughter and casual chatter. Cleanliness stands out, creating a comfortable setting for quick, affordable meals. Diverse dishes include tender stir-fries and flavorful soups, enjoyed by a mix of locals during lunch hours.

Wor Wonton soup stands out with its rich flavor. Orange chicken keeps a perfect texture even after 20 minutes. Stir-fries and dumplings offer savory, mouthwatering bites throughout the meal.

Lunch features tender, moist teriyaki chicken that stands out. Early lunches start around 11:30 AM with a good eating experience suited for work breaks.

People are saying

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

"The Chinese food here is flavorful, fresh, and authentic."

"I highly recommend this place for lunch breaks from work."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including steamed rice not listed online.

2

Prices are affordable, with meals around $7 for soup and eggroll.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment, which is important for diners.

10
Golden House Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a loud, lively vibe and generous portion sizes. The space is not fancy but functional, with wheelchair accessibility and ample parking. Food is authentic and reasonably priced, featuring standout dishes like Mongolian beef and wonton soup.

Broth comes rich and flavorful with tender dumplings filled with savory ingredients. Dishes like Singapore fried rice noodles, Mongolian beef, and Hong Kong style chow mein stand out for their distinct tastes and textures.

Lunch specials offer large portions and include soup, providing good value. The spot stays open all day without closing between lunch and dinner, fitting various schedules.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced."

"The lunch special portions here are huge and a great deal."

"The Chinese food here is a great value with delicious, fresh portions."

Good to know

1

The portion sizes are generous.

2

There is plenty of parking available.

3

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

11
Mr. SiuMai image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, modern space with bright lights and self-order kiosks creates a clean, cozy atmosphere. Noise levels vary, with a relaxed vibe that feels like casual takeout dining with seating. Dim sum offerings focus on authentic Cantonese flavors with some standout dishes.

Authentic Cantonese dim sum comes with a wide selection and intact siumai skins that don't break apart. Shrimp chow fun has generous shrimp portions, and spareribs come with pumpkin instead of black beans for a unique twist.

Late dim sum lunch offers convenient to-go options and a chance to dine with coworkers. Pricing matches other dim sum spots nearby.

People are saying

"The dim sum here, especially the siu mai and egg tarts, is delicious."

"I loved the turnip cake and sponge cake here."

"This Lunch Spot has great dim sum and friendly service."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, especially on weekends due to nearby crowds.

2

The prices are $6 for 3 pieces of siumai, which is considered high for a casual spot.

3

There are 2 self-service kiosks for ordering, or you can order with staff if paying cash.

12
Dough Zone Dumpling House South San Jose image 1

Chinese restaurant offers casual, stylish atmosphere with peaceful, chill vibes and a self-ordering menu. The setting is clean and cozy, often less crowded during lunch for a relaxed experience. Dumplings and noodles stand out as authentic and flavorful highlights.

Shrimp dumplings stand out with their large size and big fillings. Potstickers offer a perfect crunch and rich flavors. Soup dumplings and spicy noodles bring authentic, flavorful bites.

Lunch offers a $15.99 combo with noodles, dim sum or dumplings, and a cold drink. Food arrives within 30 minutes after the rush, making it a good value during weekdays.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings, is amazing."

"The food here is delicious and arrived quickly."

"The food at this lunch spot is fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Portion sizes are small, so consider ordering multiple dishes.

2

Prices are significantly lower than similar restaurants in the area.

3

Final call for food is at 8:30 p.m., with seating ending at 8:15 p.m.

13
New Tung Kee Noodle image 1
Chinese restaurant

Booths with clear walls create relative privacy and keep noise low even when busy. The atmosphere feels comforting both indoors and outdoors, with a clean and quick service style. Large portions and affordable prices make it a practical choice for families.

Mixed seafood chow fun offers a crispy texture with egg, similar to a better daikon cake from dim sum. Combination Chow Fun (#21) includes a satisfying mix of chicken, pork, prawns, and veggies.

Lunch here comes with fast service and usually a short wait, even on Sundays. The spot holds up well over time and draws people from nearby cities for its reliable midday meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and a great price."

"This lunch spot's ox tail noodle soup is fall-off-the-bone tender."

"The Chinese food's daikon rice cake is crispy with a good flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Expect long wait times during peak meal hours, especially on weekends.

3

Prices range from $12-$13 for large portions, making it affordable for families.

14
Jade Cathay Chinese Restaurant image 1

Space features well-spaced tables with traditional Chinese decor and tablet ordering for convenience. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming despite some cafeteria-like elements and bright lighting. Dim sum stands out as a notably authentic and popular offering.

Dim sum arrives fresh with a wide variety and authentic Hong Kong style flavors. The beef chow fun features tender beef, chewy noodles, and strong wok hei taste, while BBQ pork buns offer soft, fluffy exteriors and rich, sweet-savory filling.

Lunch here comes out quickly even on busy weekends. The food tastes delicious and suits a family outing or casual meal.

People are saying

"The dim sum here is incredible, especially the juicy siu mai."

"There's plenty of parking available in their large lot."

"This Lunch Spot's food is flavorful and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a free parking lot with plenty of spaces available.

2

Self-service ordering and payment make visits convenient and fast.

3

Dim sum costs between $8-9 each, with all-day service available.

15
Venus Cafe - San Jose image 1
Cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style cafe)

Narrow space with tables close together creates a cozy, homey atmosphere. Authentic Hong Kong-style dishes draw a steady crowd, especially during busy lunch hours. Menu offers bilingual options and a wide selection of classic baked dishes and traditional meals.

Beef chow fun features tender beef and a gravy style that is not greasy or sticky. Sweet and sour chicken and chow mein offer solid Cantonese cafe comfort food with good texture and flavor.

Set lunch menu costs $18.99 and includes a hot drink with an option to upgrade to a cold drink for $1 more. Menu offers an overwhelming selection of lunch specials in bilingual format.

People are saying

"I experienced authentic Hong Kong food and cafe style here."

"I loved the baked and traditional Hong Kong dishes as my late night spot."

"The baked Portuguese chicken over fried rice is a flavorful Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Milk tea costs $5, making it expensive to order separately.

2

The lunch special is $18.99, which is on the higher side.

3

Venus Cafe is open until 11pm, ideal for late-night snacks.

16
360 Chinese & Vietnamese Cuisine image 1
Southeast Asian restaurant

Spacious restaurant with high ceilings and colorful lanterns creates a clean, airy atmosphere. Circle tables accommodate groups, making it suitable for family gatherings. The menu offers a fusion of Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine, highlighted by juicy roast duck praised for its flavor.

Peking duck stands out with deep flavor and crispiness. Wonton soup arrives quickly and tastes good. Other dishes include crispy roast duck, steamed salted chicken, dry noodles, shrimp chow mein, and stir-fried pea shoots.

Portions come filling enough for lunch. Meals provide a satisfying midday break.

People are saying

"The BBQ duck noodles soup at this Lunch Spot is so good."

"I thought their roast duck was the best I had."

"You have to try the Peking duck; it's so delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and wait times are generally short.

2

The restaurant does not serve alcohol, including beer and wine.

3

The portions are American-sized and reasonably priced at around $17 per bowl.

17
China Delight image 1
Chinese restaurant

Traditional decor combines with an updated interior to create a clean and cozy atmosphere. The space feels casual yet elegant, often busy and lively with a packed, loud vibe during peak times. It accommodates large groups comfortably and offers a home-like ambiance.

Peking duck comes out crispy and perfectly cooked. The menu features moo shu pork, orange chicken, potstickers, and hot and sour soup, all with solid flavors and good execution.

Lunch offers great prices and includes soup with many choices. Staff sometimes clear plates before finishing, and lunch prices are not available on Saturdays.

People are saying

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

"This Chinese food is honestly some of the best I've had."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is always fast, fresh, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $20 per plate for dinner.

2

Takeout is the only option available on Saturdays.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger parties.

18
Revopot image 1
Restaurant

Spacious modern restaurant features a conveyor belt system delivering vegetables, noodles, and seafood for individual hot pots. Quiet atmosphere with bar-style seating and booths offers a clean, fresh environment. Extensive sauce bar and high-quality meats like wagyu and brisket stand out in the setup.

Offers an all-you-can-eat hot pot with a revolving belt that adds a modern twist. Lunch pricing provides good value, while dinner costs more than some other AYCE hot pots.

Lunch offers a solid value with a $19.95 special that includes one hot dish and three plates of meat. Tables are easy to get on Sundays during lunch hours.

People are saying

"The food selection on the conveyor belt is plentiful."

"This Lunch Spot has a conveyor belt with veggies, fishballs, and shrimp."

"The Chinese food has a conveyor belt with veggies and noodles."

Good to know

1

The price is $35 per person for all-you-can-eat hot pot.

2

Expect a wait time of about 1 hour during peak hours.

3

Automatic gratuity is added for groups larger than five people.

19
Boiling Point image 1
Hot pot restaurant

Small flames boil individual soups at each table in a clean, modern space. The atmosphere is crowded and noisy with tight seating and a fast pace. A wide variety of hot pot soups offers options from spicy Taiwanese to Japanese miso.

Hot pot stands out with very flavorful options, including a curry hot pot that appears consistently popular. Only one mushroom hot pot variety is available, but all choices deliver solid taste.

Lunch offers hot pots and comes with a free black or green tea. Meals serve as a quick, satisfying option for midday dining.

People are saying

"I loved the variety of ingredients in their flavorful soups."

"I always ordered the creamy curry hot pot."

"I ordered three different Chinese food hot pots, and they were all very flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are made through a tablet at the store.

2

The hotpot costs around $17 per person.

3

Expect a wait time of 10 to 30 minutes during peak hours.

20
Tomi Sushi & Seafood Buffet image 1

Large dining room resembles a street food stall with crowded seating and busy atmosphere early on, calming down later. Authentic sushi and seafood selection stands out despite some freshness issues. Noise and crowd levels peak during initial service hours, with a friendly vibe overall.

Dim sum and Cantonese dishes stand out with authentic flavors. The menu includes suckling roast duck, crispy roast pork, fried rice, chow fun, and garlic eggplant, plus a buffet featuring sushi and Chinese favorites.

Buffet options include Poke, Sushi and Sashimi bar, and various Asian dishes like Peking Duck and Orange Chicken. Lunch features a mix of seafood, salads, and desserts such as cheesecake and mousse cake.

People are saying

"The buffet has a great variety of fresh, tasty food options."

"This Lunch Spot has a huge selection of fresh Chinese and Japanese foods."

"The Chinese food here is pretty good, with lots of familiar items."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but arriving early is recommended to avoid crowds.

2

The buffet has a two-hour dining limit during peak hours.

3

A free meal is offered for birthdays if you visit on or within three days of your birthday.

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