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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in San Marcos

Salad and lunch spots

A lunch spot where the salad is a substantial, filling main course instead of a sad pile of wilted greens.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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Updated May 2026
01
Mr. Shawarma San Marcos image 1
Mr. Shawarma San Marcos image 2
Mr. Shawarma San Marcos image 3
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Middle Eastern restaurant

Small space with a simple, bright interior resembling a taco shop creates a clean, cafeteria-like setting. Warm, welcoming vibe blends with Middle Eastern music to foster a friendly, joyful atmosphere. The place feels local and inviting, suited more for casual visits than formal dining.

Salads come with fresh herbs that add bright, flavorful notes. The shawarma salad features a Chipotle garlic dressing and offers a refreshing flavor that balances the meat well.

Offers a quick lunch option with delicious flavors suitable for families.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is amazing and so flavorful."

"The salad fixings were seasoned just right with the shawarma."

"This Lunch Spot's meat is fresh, well-marinated, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Come early on Friday to enjoy the BOGO Turkish Kumpir, a loaded baked potato.

2

The wait time for a to-go order is 30 to 40 minutes.

3

The price for two sandwiches is $33, which some consider high.

02
Thai Thai West Mission image 1
Thai restaurant

Remodeled interior features comfortable large booths and beautiful orchids as garnish. Atmosphere feels cozy and calm with background sounds of music and birds. Tables offer variety of spicy condiments for self-service, creating an authentic Thai dining experience.

Papaya salad stands out with its fresh flavors and pairs well with sticky rice. It often comes alongside spicy curries, adding a zesty contrast to the meal.

Lunch offers plenty of good choices with options that satisfy both lunch and dinner appetites. The pineapple red curry with white rice stands out and often leaves leftovers for next day.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"The lunch special here is a great value with plenty of food."

"The papaya salad here is incredible and authentic."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available for customers.

2

The restaurant offers take-out options for those on the go.

3

Most tables are reserved two hours in advance.

03
Money Pit image 1
American restaurant

Classic diner style with 50s vibes and walls covered in pop culture memorabilia creates a unique dine-in experience. Atmosphere feels fun and family friendly, drawing a local crowd with affordable prices and nostalgic music. Drive-thru option adds convenience to this popular spot.

Salads here stand out for their freshness and include options like grilled chicken salad and garden salad. They pair well with other comfort foods but hold their own as a solid choice.

Lunch offers fast service and a menu that satisfies both quick bites and casual meals. Options are consistent and appealing across lunch and dinner times.

People are saying

"I found the food to be fresh and tasty for the price."

"The lunch spot service is quick and the food is great."

"I found the grilled chicken salad to be the freshest."

Good to know

1

Expect limited seating during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Prices are very affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious diners.

3

The menu offers a large selection of items to choose from.

04
Felix's BBQ with Soul image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small dine-in area with cozy, dark interior and loud Motown music creates an informal, energetic vibe. Southern-style barbecue and soul food dominate the menu, featuring unique desserts and large lunchboxes. Atmosphere suits casual visits, though music volume can be intense.

Salads come very generous and crisp here. The Cobb salad is huge, and the house salad pairs well with other dishes like Gumbo.

Lunch specials offer great value with generous portions, like the baby back rib lunch. The menu features amazing deals that make it a solid choice for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is off the hook."

"This lunch spot's BBQ chicken and ribs are amazing."

"The tri-tip salad was tender, juicy, and had a great smoke flavor."

Good to know

1

The lunch special runs every day until 4 pm.

2

Lunchbox Meals are priced at $12, offering good value.

3

Prices for meals range from $12 to $15.

05
Sorrento's Pizza & Italian Restaurant image 1

Small, old-school Italian restaurant with cozy, nostalgic atmosphere resembling an Italian friend's home kitchen. Quiet and intimate setting fosters a family vibe with friendly energy. Decor feels like a time capsule from East Coast Little Italy, creating a welcoming, authentic experience.

Salads come with crisp fresh vegetables and are consistently ready and filling. They arrive fresh and well-packed alongside meals like the spaghetti lunch special.

Lunch offers generous portions that often last into the next day. The spaghetti lunch special includes salad, garlic bread, and a side of sauce, while the meatball subs provide a solid alternative.

People are saying

"The owners make you feel like family when you're here for Italian food."

"This lunch spot's owners are so kind and make you feel right at home."

"The salad here is so crisp and fresh."

Good to know

1

Wednesdays and Thursdays feature chicken parmesan nights with special pricing.

2

They offer a two-person meal special that provides good value.

3

Portions are large, often leading to leftovers.

06
The Mining Company image 1
American restaurant

Rustic, cozy design with a mining theme creates a casual and lively atmosphere. Bright, spacious interior includes a game room, private rooms, and a small patio. Regulars enjoy all-you-can-eat salad bar, $3 Sunday mimosas, and a light, affordable lager.

An all you can eat salad bar offers a variety of fresh options. The house salad served with meals is smaller but still delicious.

Good lunch deals make it a solid choice. Fish tacos stand out as a notably tasty option even for those who usually avoid cooked fish. Added to a weekly lunch rotation for variety.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here are superb, especially the steak."

"I enjoyed the huge salad bar with so many options."

"I loved the huge salad bar with so many options."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted dishes from a specific list.

2

Saturdays feature $7 Cadillac margaritas as part of daily drink specials.

3

Prime rib is served only on Friday and Saturday nights.

07
Shores Bar + Kitchen image 1

Bar and grill with a beach vibe and multiple TVs showing sports creates a lively atmosphere. The space feels chill and welcoming, with an outside patio that offers a quieter alternative to the loud indoor area. It attracts a mix of people enjoying games, live music, and a dog-friendly environment.

Salads feature options like the Tri Tip Cobb and Cobb with Cardiff crack dressing. Portions come generous, with salads served alongside hearty sides like elote corn ribs.

Quick service suits a lunch break from work. Lunch and a beer cost under $20 with a typical tip around $7. Service stays great during lunch rushes on weekdays and weekends.

People are saying

"You'll find a great selection of draft beer here."

"I loved the smash burger and Nashville hot chicken sandwich."

"I thought the Cobb salad was very good."

Good to know

1

Shores Bar + Kitchen is dog friendly, allowing pets on the patio.

2

Musical bingo happens every Wednesday night, a fun event to join.

3

Expect average wait times during busy hours like Sunday football.

08
Two Brothers From Italy image 1
Italian restaurant

Small space with limited seating and a few tables plus a bar top creates an intimate setting. Music features Frank Sinatra oldies, adding a classic vibe despite occasional loud kitchen noises. Offers pizza by the slice and homemade tomato sauce, with ice cold beer including popular local brands.

Salads feature fresh ingredients and pair well with calzones. Presentation is good but sometimes lacks a fork for convenience.

Slices of pizza by the slice and lasagna stand out as lunch options. Lunch tends to suit the menu better than dinner.

People are saying

"I loved their pasta and homemade sauce."

"I thought the salads were great and made with fresh ingredients."

"The lasagna at this Lunch Spot is hot and large."

Good to know

1

Evening deals are available for seniors, making dining more affordable.

2

The restaurant offers large portions at reasonable prices.

3

Pizza is available by the slice from the hot case.

09
Draft Republic San Marcos image 1
American restaurant

Large space combines arcade, bowling alley, and multiple bars with numerous TVs creating a lively, sports-focused atmosphere. Energy is fun and exuberant, appealing to both adults and kids with plenty of games and outdoor areas. Seating is ample but can be affected by minor issues like wobbly tables.

Salads come with lime cilantro vinaigrette and include options like citrus chicken and Caesar's salad. Side salads are small but flavorful, often paired with fries.

A nice area offers a relaxed vibe for lunch. The spot stays uncrowded on Saturdays, making it easy to hang out with friends.

People are saying

"I found the food to be very tasty."

"The salads here are great for family meetups and friends get-togethers."

"The bowling alley here is super cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Whiskey and Wings Wednesday features special deals during happy hour.

3

Parking validation offers 4 hours of free parking with a receipt.

10
Brickmans Restaurant & Bar image 1

Outdoor patio overlooks a picturesque golf course with fire pits, heaters, and multiple TVs for comfort and entertainment. Atmosphere stays relaxed and casual, with live music enhancing the experience. Patio welcomes dogs and families, creating a friendly and inclusive vibe.

Salads come with fresh ingredients like beet and goat cheese paired with perfectly cooked salmon. Options include large Caesar sides and a fantastic wedge salad that stands out.

Offers a relaxing lunch atmosphere with seating on the patio. Provides great value for the price during lunchtime.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating offers great views of the golf course."

"Heather's warm smile made my lunch visits feel so welcome."

"The salads here are always a highlight."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends and for special events.

2

The restaurant does not accept cash; only credit cards and mobile payments are allowed.

3

Happy hour features a better selection of appetizers and outstanding specials.

11
Panera Bread image 1

Bright interior and outside seating welcome dogs, creating a chill atmosphere despite some noise. Tables fill quickly with people on laptops, making seating scarce during busy times. Large parking lot with EV chargers supports easy access and convenience.

Salads come with lots of avocado and chicken, especially the southwest salad. Options include a strawberry chicken salad and smaller salads that pair well with soup.

Wait times stay under 10 minutes even during busy lunch hours. The spot offers a nice atmosphere for a midday meal.

People are saying

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

"The salads here are large and delicious."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was well prepared and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking lot is large and includes EV chargers for electric vehicles.

2

The restaurant is clean and well-stocked with pastries and other foods.

3

Expect to pay around $17 for a small salad and a cup of soup.

12
Boudin SF image 1
Bakery

Clean bakery with a focus on famous sourdough bread and bread bowls. Atmosphere suits friendly gatherings despite some concerns about cleanliness and maintenance. Menu changes include new salads alongside classic offerings.

Salads feature crisp and fresh lettuce with options like the Little Gem salad replacing the Cobb. They taste delicious and get remade promptly when needed.

Lunch offers a pick two special that can feed two people for $14. The smoked brisket sandwich is a notable option. Service includes staff who go out of their way to ensure an enjoyable meal. This spot suits relaxed lunches with friends but is not ideal for quick meals.

People are saying

"I tried the brie, apple, and fig sandwich; it was really good."

"I found the salads here to be delicious and excellent."

"I loved loading up on bread at this Lunch Spot for sandwiches and French toast."

Good to know

1

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

2

Online ordering is recommended to avoid long lines.

3

The lunch special can easily feed two people for $14.

13
Pan Asia Buffet image 1
Asian restaurant

Buffet offers Mongolian barbecue and hibachi stations with chefs cooking fresh food in front of diners. Spacious layout feels warm but tables are packed tightly, creating a noisy, crowded atmosphere as the crowd grows. Variety includes salad and dessert bars alongside Asian dishes.

Large and fresh salad selection complements the menu well. Simple salad bar offers a good variety alongside other dishes.

Lunch offers more food and options at a cost-effective price compared to dinner. The spot gets packed on Saturdays before 4 pm, with prices around $18.

People are saying

"The hibachi grill at this buffet is the crown jewel."

"The salad bar had a large selection of fresh greens and toppings."

"The hibachi grill options at this lunch spot are fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Crab legs are available on Fridays and Saturdays after 4pm.

2

Prices are about $21 per person on weekdays after tip and tax.

3

Parking is very limited; expect to park nearby.

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San Marcos, California

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