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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Santa Ana's best

Authentic lunch spots

Made for those who seek out unvarnished, traditional cooking during their midday break.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill - Santa Ana, CA image 1
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill - Santa Ana, CA image 2
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill - Santa Ana, CA image 3
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Casual dining space with Mediterranean decor and comfortable seating offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with Greek music playing softly. Lighting is bright and the vibe suits casual gatherings or celebrations. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed option.

Menu offers an impressive selection of authentic Greek delicacies made with fresh ingredients. Dips like hummus and tzatziki come with freshly baked pita, and the Souvlaki Platter features tender meat, fluffy rice, grilled vegetables, and homemade tzatziki sauce.

Lunch offers fresh ingredients and a great vibe with a focus on Greek flavors. The spot feels like a hidden gem discovered during a break.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot has delicious, fresh food cooked perfectly."

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

Good to know

1

There was plenty of parking space available.

2

The restaurant is very clean, including the restrooms.

3

It was easy to park nearby.

02
Bangkok Taste image 1
Thai restaurant

Small Thai restaurant with cozy, homey vibe and natural light fills the space. Walls display Thai cultural decorations alongside modern furniture, creating a quaint atmosphere. Known for authentic, flavorful dishes and options for spice levels and vegetarian choices.

Food offers very authentic Thai flavors with the Pad Ka Pow standing out as the most authentic outside Thailand. Service is great and the atmosphere feels welcoming.

Lunch features specials including dishes like Drunken Noodles with beef. Portions are generous enough to leave leftovers for the next day.

People are saying

"The authentic Thai food here is packed with flavor and freshness."

"The curry here is packed with flavor and perfectly balanced."

"I loved coming here for the lunch special."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available, offering good value for meals.

2

Most dishes can be made with beef, chicken, pork, tofu, or vegetables.

3

The menu features standard Thai dishes like Curry, Pad Seeuw, and Pad Thai.

03
Tacos Madre Kitchen & Cantina image 1

Mexican restaurant with intricate artwork and lush plants creates a vibrant setting. Live DJ and saxophone performances bring a lively, sometimes nightclub-level energy. Spacious layout includes an outdoor patio and a well-appointed bar, attracting a crowd that enjoys music and socializing.

Sizzling fajitas, flavorful tacos, and classic enchiladas showcase authentic Mexican taste. The menu offers a wide variety of genuine dishes.

Lunch offers $13 specials and $2.50 tacos on Fridays. The Madre taco salad bowl with chicken is a solid choice for a quick bite.

People are saying

"I ate all the enchiladas before I could post a picture."

"The Lunch Spot's chicken tacos are among the best I've ever had."

"The interior is stunning and perfect for photos."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers great deals on tacos and margaritas.

2

Live DJ plays during Taco Tuesday on Fridays and Saturdays.

3

Expect a $5 charge for extra toppings like lettuce and sour cream.

04
Dvine Mediterranean Experience image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a clean and bright space with a quaint outdoor patio that feels cozy and inviting. The atmosphere stays laid back and lively, supported by a great music selection that encourages dancing. It suits casual lunches or dinner dates with friends and family.

Food offers authentic Mediterranean flavors with dishes like beef shawarma wrap and chicken shawarma pita. Portions come well-sized and the kabob dishes feel true to traditional recipes.

Offers a casual vibe suitable for lunch or dinner dates. Mediterranean dishes create a satisfying midday meal option. This spot serves as a reliable choice for a relaxed lunch experience.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food, especially the kebabs and hummus, was fantastic."

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be delicious and authentic."

"This Lunch Spot's food is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Parking is ample, but it gets busy around lunchtime.

2

The best time to visit is before or after the lunch rush.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of grilled meat and side options.

05
Little Pan Santa Ana image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Semi-open kitchen reveals handmade pan-fried buns with 24k gold black truffle option. Modern, casual space combines trendy Chinese decor with indoor and outdoor seating including dog-friendly tables. Atmosphere feels cozy and lively, with a clean and bright environment.

Shanghai-style dishes feature authentic pan-fried buns and dumplings with a warm, filling taste. The food stays true to traditional flavors, offering delicious, well-made pancakes and other Chinese staples.

Warm, attentive service stays consistent even during the lunch rush. Lunch specials include delicious dumplings and offer a quick, casual spot ideal for eating with coworkers or trying something new.

People are saying

"The pan-fried buns here are amazing with crispy bottoms."

"I found the pan-fried buns to be authentic and delicious."

"The pan-fried buns at this Lunch Spot are amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a lot, but it can get tight during peak hours.

2

The restaurant offers a special combo available Monday to Friday.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

06
Kebab Kurry Express image 1
Afghan restaurant

Cozy Afghan restaurant with traditional decor and soft lighting creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Family-run with spacious seating and Afghan art displayed on walls. Quiet environment with gentle music supports relaxed dining and authentic cultural experience.

Dishes like chapli kabob, qabli plow, and leek bolani deliver strong authentic flavors with balanced spices. The menu features a variety of kebabs, curries, and traditional Afghan items that taste fragrant and genuine.

Lunch features Afghan music with Ustad Nashenas playing softly. The menu includes kebabs and curries served quickly at a casual spot.

People are saying

"I found the Afghan food here to be really delicious and authentic."

"I found the food here to be really delicious and authentic."

"This Lunch Spot has delicious food, especially the Afghan kebabs."

Good to know

1

A single to-go order feeds two to three people.

2

Prices are generally higher compared to other Afghan restaurants in the area.

3

Expect to pay around $147 for a meal for four.

07
Brodard Express image 1
Asian restaurant

Cafeteria-style seating offers a clean, well-lit space with comfortable tables. Energy rises during peak lunch hours when the place gets backed up. Known for fresh banh mi and flavorful vermicelli bowls, it stands out as a top airport food option with vegan and vegetarian meals available.

Offers authentic Vietnamese food with a strong focus on traditional flavors. Serves jet fuel Vietnamese coffee and maintains genuine recipes without Americanizing.

Lunch features baguette sandwiches and pork spring rolls. Expect lines during peak lunch hours.

People are saying

"The Banh Mi here has perfectly crisp bread and fresh ingredients."

"I tasted authentic Vietnamese food, like with fresh mint leaves."

"The Veggie Delight Bahn Mi is a great Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Brodard Express is located in Terminal B Food court after security.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak lunch hours.

3

Vegan and vegetarian meals are available on the menu.

08
Papa K's Mediterranean Kitchen image 1

Small restaurant with authentic Egyptian dรฉcor and a clean, cozy atmosphere offers a welcoming, friendly vibe. Indoor seating dominates with some outdoor tables and free self parking available. Music and big screen TVs add energy, and occasional dancing follows dinner.

Seafood stands out as a highlight in the authentic Egyptian food here. Every bite feels thoughtfully prepared and true to traditional Mediterranean flavors.

Large portions make it easy to have leftovers for dinner or the next day's lunch. The menu offers wraps and options for both casual and more formal meals.

People are saying

"This Mediterranean food is delicious and generously portioned."

"I loved the authentic pita breads, just like eating in Doha or UAE."

"This Lunch Spot's food is delicious, fresh, and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially for special menu items after 7 pm.

2

The restaurant is closed during lunch hours, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect large portion sizes that provide good value for the price.

09
An Noodles and Pho image 1

Small, modern space offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with comfortable seating and spotless interiors. Guests enjoy unlimited noodle refills and complimentary drinks, creating a relaxed dining experience with a homey vibe.

Every dish bursts with authentic flavor and fresh herbs that lift the taste. The menu offers a wide variety of Vietnamese classics beyond pho, like garlic noodles and basil fried rice, all served in a no-frills, homey setting.

Clean and welcoming atmosphere suits both family lunches and weekday dates. Affordable deals make lunch options budget-friendly and casual.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here has an amazing, flavorful broth."

"This Lunch Spot's pho has an incredibly flavorful, rich broth."

"The pho broth is rich, aromatic, and simmered for hours."

Good to know

1

They are currently running a buy one, get one for $1 deal on pho.

2

Expect unlimited noodles with your pho order during the promotion.

3

The buy-one-get-one for $1 deal excludes the House special pho.

10
MasalaCraft - Santa Ana image 1
Indian restaurant

Bollywood movie posters and videos create a themed atmosphere with a friendly, homey vibe. Seating includes plentiful outdoor patio space alongside basic indoor arrangements. Free toppings like fried onions and chutney add a unique touch to the dining experience.

Food offers authentic Indian taste with dishes that are freshly made and reflect southern Indian cuisine flavors.

Lunch offers great deals with reasonable prices and delicious food. Staff provide helpful advice and samples to guide choices in the lunch combo specials.

People are saying

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

"The lunch combo here is a great deal."

"I found the Indian cuisine here to be very authentic and tasty."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available on Saturdays from 11 am to 5 pm.

2

The lunch special with garlic naan and an order of samosas costs around $16.

3

Parking is generally easy on Sundays.

11
Bangkok Kitchen image 1
Thai restaurant

Small dining space creates a cozy, upbeat vibe with clean, tidy surroundings and a hip atmosphere. Music playlist adds to the lively energy, while the kitchen's strong aromas sometimes affect comfort. Walls display photos of main dishes, enhancing the casual, intimate setting.

Food shows very authentic Thai flavors with dishes that stay true to traditional recipes. The menu offers a genuine taste that reflects classic Thai cooking.

Lunch hours get very busy with limited seating, so arriving early or late helps avoid waits. Meals for a family of four can reach around $100 without extras due to inflation.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and amazing."

"The Pad Thai service is friendly and personal."

"This lunch spot's food is beyond impeccable, every dish a 10/10."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant has about 10 tables, making it cozy but potentially crowded.

3

Expect to pay around $100 for a family of four without appetizers or desserts.

12
Niki's Halal Grill & Karahi - Authentic Pakistani and Indian Food image 1

Small, modest halal restaurant with a casual, unpretentious atmosphere and cozy, home-like vibe. The space feels like a hole-in-the-wall family-run spot offering authentic Pakistani and Indian flavors. Seating is limited but improved, creating a simple, no-frills dining experience.

Super authentic Pakistani and Indian cuisine shines here with flavorful dishes. The menu features homestyle halal food including BBQ Karahi and biryani that deliver genuine taste.

Lunch offers fairly priced specials and combo meals that attract groups and pairs alike. The experience centers on casual dining with a focus on value and variety.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and authentically Pakistani."

"I found the Pakistani and Indian food here to be amazing and authentic."

"The Lunch Spot's garlic naan is flavorful and crispy."

Good to know

1

Expect high prices for menu items, especially the chicken karahi.

2

Portion sizes are smaller than expected for the price.

3

The dining area may not be well-maintained or clean.

13
Tacos Los Cholos - Santa ana image 1

Spacious Mexican restaurant with painted murals reflecting Hispanic culture and an open kitchen where meats cook in view. The atmosphere is loud and lively, matching an asada on a weekend night with chill vibes inside and outside. Outdoor seating includes heated patio tables for comfort.

Tacos come with authentic Mexican flavors and a loaded salsa bar featuring all the essentials. The spot serves authentic street tacos but feels more like a sit-down restaurant now.

Lunch here suits quick breaks or full taco feasts. The spot stands out with its casual vibe and consistent presence near busy work areas.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best I ever had."

"The asada burrito at this Lunch Spot is delicious and quite large."

"I found the tacos to be authentic and really good."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during weekends as the restaurant gains popularity.

2

Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak hours.

3

Payment is required at the table before sending orders to the kitchen.

14
Benjies NY Deli image 1
Restaurant

Old-style New York deli with classic diner ambiance and retro booths creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. 70s music plays, enhancing the nostalgic vibe while a small, intimate bar adds a unique touch. Seating options include counter, booths, and dining tables, attracting families and lively conversations.

Authentic New York deli flavor shines through with nostalgic charm and Ashkenasi fare. Sandwiches like the Jewish deli Pastrami come full-size and true to tradition.

Sandwiches serve as hearty portions that can cover multiple meals. Options suit lunch, dinner, and brunch with consistent quality across all times.

People are saying

"This deli's pastrami and corned beef sandwiches are piled so high."

"This Lunch Spot's pastrami and corned beef sandwiches are the best."

"It's an authentic taste of New York with nostalgic charm."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

2

Expect prices around $19-$20 for sandwiches.

3

Children eat free with an adult entree on certain days.

15
Tasty Zone image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small space with updated furnishings and an ordinary home-cooked meal vibe. Atmosphere feels authentic Sichuan, serving large portions of traditional spicy dishes. Menu includes unique items like lamb and pickled pepper pork kidney, with some dishes prepared skillfully and others appearing pre-made.

Sichuan dishes here are very authentic and flavorful, matching the taste of restaurants in China. Portions come large and the flavors stay true to traditional Chinese cuisine.

Small size creates a chance of a wait during lunch hours. It works for an unplanned lunch visit.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is so authentic and delicious."

"I found the Szechuan food here to be delicious and authentic."

"I found the Sichuan food here to be so authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable, with dishes averaging around $15-$19.

2

Portions are large, providing good value for the price.

3

Credit cards are accepted for payment.

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