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New Yorkers 1st Choice
San Jose's best

Modern lunch spots

Made for those who demand a clean, contemporary aesthetic while they take their midday break.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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Updated May 2026
01
Roots Bistro image 1
Roots Bistro image 2
Vietnamese restaurant

Small space with modern interior design and cozy atmosphere offers both indoor and outdoor seating. The vibe stays quiet and chill, attracting a modest crowd during weekdays. Decorations and layout create an inviting, clean environment distinct from typical chain restaurants.

The space feels modern and cozy with a fresh take on Vietnamese food that blends authentic flavors with a modern style.

Lunch here offers a pleasant surprise with satisfying meals. The spot works well for a late lunch when options are limited.

People are saying

"The spring rolls here are super fresh and tasty."

"The wagyu pho at this Lunch Spot is amazing, with tender beef and rich broth."

"The Modern Wagyu Pho has a deep beef flavor, though the broth isn't very hot."

Good to know

1

Dinner is very affordable at about $25 per person.

2

The menu is unique and visually fun to look at.

3

There is no MSG in the pho.

02
VeLa Brunch&Thai Restaurant image 1

Small, cozy space with modern vibe and grooving music creates a lively atmosphere. Outdoor seating overlooks the street with additional heating for comfort. The place stands out for its authentic Thai flavors and reasonable prices.

Food offers Thai comfort with a modern twist and beautiful plating. Ambiance features grooving music and under-banister lighting, paired with clean, tasteful dishware.

Lunch service includes a special menu with some items from dinner like Tamarind Prawns. The milk tea menu stands out as a great choice for lunch or brunch.

People are saying

"The food here is packed with flavor and very tasty."

"The food feels like Thai comfort food with a Modern twist."

"I planned to come back to this Lunch Spot and try other dishes."

Good to know

1

Parking is tricky, but there is a spot next door for customers.

2

Prices are reasonable, especially for a full-service restaurant.

3

The restaurant offers an extensive menu with authentic Thai dishes.

03
Angkor Chef image 1
Cambodian restaurant

Small, modern Cambodian restaurant offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with clean lines and stylish decor. The space feels relaxed and inviting, allowing easy conversation without crowding. It stands out for its unique Cambodian flavors presented in a fresh, contemporary setting.

Modern fusion shapes the menu with traditional Cambodian dishes. The space features a modern, clean ambiance and beautifully decorated interior that feels more comfortable than typical Southeast Asian spots.

Offers a beautiful, business-lunch environment that feels fairly intimate. Lunch deals provide great value with excellent food quality.

People are saying

"The Cambodian food here is delicious and authentic."

"This lunch spot's dishes are so fresh and delicious."

"The decor feels modern and comfortable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties, especially on weekends.

2

A major public parking garage is right across the street for easy access.

3

The metro system runs down First Street, making it convenient to reach.

04
Agua Salada (Contemporary Mexican Seafood) image 1

Outdoor setting shaded by tents creates a casual atmosphere reminiscent of Mexican beachside spots. Live Banda and corridos music energizes the space alongside a top-tier bar serving drinks like Micheladas and margaritas. Beautiful decor and a small, intimate layout enhance the authentic vibe.

Offers a fresh take and modern twist on Mexican seafood with dishes that highlight contemporary flavors and presentation.

Lunch features traditional sangria and a family-friendly atmosphere. Meals offer a great midday option after travel or work.

People are saying

"The seafood here is delicious, especially the shrimp tacos."

"I thought the Mexican food here was great and modern."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is next level."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash-only, which was not communicated prior to ordering.

2

There is ample parking available, including shaded options.

3

Portions are generous and larger than expected for seafood.

05
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 cafรฉ, making it suitable for relaxed dining. Friendly environment complements the authentic Taiwanese flavors served.

Small, clean, and modern interior sets the tone. Serves modern Taiwanese comfort food with authentic flavors.

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

"The Modern beef shank was so tender, it melted in my mouth."

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.

06
Suspiro image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines modern tropical decor with a quiet, elegant atmosphere ideal for sharing moments. Speakeasy at the back offers a cozy balcony, live music, and a wide selection of cocktails. Outdoor patio provides a comfortable, inviting space with amenities like blankets.

Modern decor creates a tropical setting with a super modern and beautiful ambiance. Tapas and Peruvian Pisco drinks come with a modern touch.

Fast service stands out during lunch hours. Friendly staff like Oswaldo and Steve provide attentive and pleasant service. The lunch offerings include beautifully presented dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is unforgettable and delicious."

"This lunch spot has delicious paella and seafood."

"The Modern food is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended on busy Friday evenings.

2

Expect a large party gratuity for groups of five or more.

3

The restaurant accommodates dietary needs, offering vegan and vegetarian options.

07
Saapaaduu image 1
Indian restaurant

Restaurant combines contemporary elegance with traditional South Indian decor featuring brass and gold-plated utensils. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming with tasteful background music enhancing the dining experience. Seating is tight and cramped, creating a bustling environment during busy times.

Casual yet modern ambience sets the tone. Food offers a modern take on traditional South Indian dishes with elegant presentation.

Lunch features festive meals like Diwali and Pongal with a wide variety of food served on banana leaves during special events.

People are saying

"The South Indian food here is so authentic and tasty."

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

"I loved their modern take on presentation and traditional dishes."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for special events like the Pongal lunch due to high demand.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere during peak times; arrive early if possible.

3

Walk-in customers may face long wait times or seating issues.

08
MiMi's Kitchen image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Small Asian fusion restaurant offers a cozy, modern vibe with stylish dรฉcor and comfortable seating. Atmosphere stays quiet and inviting, fitting for casual meals or intimate evenings. Menu features varied dishes like hot pot, sushi, and sizzling rice bowls with generous portions.

Clean and modern look with a cozy yet Asian modern vibe. Food comes with nice presentation on hot plates, serving Asian fusion hot pot dishes.

Sizzling plate dishes offer a decent lunch option similar to spots like Pepper Lunch and Sizzling Stone. The setting suits casual meals for occasions like birthdays or simple treats.

People are saying

"The gyoza here are so crispy and tender, I ordered another round."

"The sizzling pork belly here is delicious and flavorful."

"The Japanese infusion dishes here are some of the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The menu offers a variety of sushi, hot pot, and sizzling rice bowls.

2

Portion sizes are large, making it a good value for the price.

3

Parking is available in the lot, but can be difficult to find during busy hours.

09
Pho San Jose image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Modern decor features a grass wall, neon sign, and giant mascot painting, creating a unique and clean atmosphere. Spacious indoor and covered outdoor seating offer a relaxing vibe with warm lighting and festive touches. Younger crowds frequent the place, drawn by its fresh pho noodles and rich broth.

Clean spaces with a modern vibe set the tone. Decorations are cute and modern, giving a fresh twist to the usual look.

Lunch draws a crowd around 12:30 PM, causing waits near 30 minutes. Outdoor seating under umbrellas offers a pleasant spot when weather is good.

People are saying

"The pho here has phenomenal meat and a well-done, flavorful broth."

"I finally tried the bun rieu, it has thinner noodles."

"This lunch spot's pho is fresh, delicious, and amazing."

Good to know

1

There was plenty of parking at Pho San Jose.

2

Pho San Jose accepts both credit cards and cash.

3

Expect a short wait during peak lunch hours.

10
Thien Huong Sandwiches & Bakery image 1

Modern banh mi shop with cozy wicker seating and a bright, roomy interior shares space with a coffee shop. Quiet v-pop music plays, creating a pleasant atmosphere despite some signs of wear. Sandwiches feature fresh bread and meats, drawing steady lines but limited seating.

Clean and semi-modern design sets the tone. Quiet modern v-pop music plays in the background.

Small lunch orders work well here with fresh bahn mi that keeps well for next-day meals. The spot offers a simple, satisfying lunch experience.

People are saying

"The banh mi sandwiches are generously sized with fresh bread and meat."

"I love coming here for their great sandwiches."

"The banh mi here are generously sized with fresh bread and meat."

Good to know

1

Expect a long line during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is excellent, making it easy to visit.

3

Buy 3 sandwiches and get 1 free with their promotion.

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.

Bright lights create a contemporary feel throughout the space. Paper to-go bags feature a modern design with a catchy slogan. Remodeling gives the place a fresh, modern vibe.

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."

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

"The place feels super modern and clean with bright lights."

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
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.

Spotlessly clean and spacious, the place offers a fresh and modern feel. The modern decor enhances the overall experience with a sleek twist on the classic hot pot.

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."

"It's spotlessly clean and has a fresh, modern feel."

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.

13
FITOOR image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

Modern Indian restaurant combines live DJ performances and fire dancers to create an energetic atmosphere with upbeat music. Interior features modern dรฉcor and ambient lighting, while outdoor seating offers a relaxed environment. Tables are placed closely, contributing to a lively but less intimate setting.

Ambiance blends modern chic with traditional charm through sophisticated decor. Cuisine offers modern Indian dishes with a rustic vibe.

Lunch here suits groups well, from teams to families. The spot works for casual gatherings and special occasions like Father's Day with a friendly atmosphere and versatile menu.

People are saying

"The food here is fabulous, creative, and flavorful."

"The ambiance is a perfect blend of modern chic and rustic vibes."

"This Lunch Spot's food is creative with authentic Indian flavors and a modern twist."

Good to know

1

FITOOR has a belly dance performance on Saturday and Sunday evenings.

2

On weekends, they have a DJ and belly dancers.

3

A belly dancer performs on Fridays and Saturdays with a live DJ.

14
Pho Dang image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Modern Vietnamese restaurant with clean, stylish decor and a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Seating is comfortable, encouraging relaxed meals. Unique touches like bamboo straws and homemade pickled garlic add to the authentic vibe.

Space feels modern and clean with a stylish mix of traditional and contemporary decor. Interiors include cozy wooden elements and a spacious layout for casual meals.

Lunch hours stay quiet with no crowd. The chili sauce packs a spicy kick suited for midday meals. Seating can be limited, sometimes requiring extra people to wait outside.

People are saying

"I thought the pho here was among the best I've ever had."

"The Modern broth is clear, rich, and deeply flavorful."

"The pho here is good, with quality meats and broth."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $20 for a bowl of pho.

2

There is an extra charge of $2.50 for fresh noodles.

3

Parking is available on-site, making it easy to access.

15
Yoshi sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Spacious interior blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern decor and features dim lighting that creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. The environment suits both casual dining and special occasions, with a mix of quiet moments and occasional lively sounds. Amenities include mini claw machines and digital ordering options, adding a casual, interactive touch.

Decor blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern touches and contemporary decoration. Sushi styles include both classic and modern approaches.

Lunch specials offer bento boxes around $17 with a main course, miso soup, California roll, salad, and gyoza. Options include a nigiri lunch special that is affordable and satisfying.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the rolls, was amazing."

"The sashimi here is so fresh and generously cut."

"The decor is a charming blend of traditional and modern touches."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high popularity, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect a slight wait during peak hours as the restaurant is quite popular among locals.

3

Parking can be challenging, so plan extra time to find a spot.

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