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South Coast Metro's best

Lunch spots

A lunch spot that offers a real break from the workday instead of just another quick bite.

Based on 628 Opinions
+625
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Updated May 2026
01
Dvine Mediterranean Experience image 1
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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 here is consistently fresh and flavorful with a strong Mediterranean influence. Staff are friendly and the dishes offer great taste for the price.

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 food here to be amazing and delicious."

"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.

02
Dave's Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Bright colors, neon signs, and hip-hop music create a fast-paced, energetic vibe with a street-food atmosphere. Spacious interior features unique ceiling decor and vibrant wall art that adds a fun, welcoming feel. The place fills quickly but moves efficiently, attracting those who enjoy bold, spicy chicken dishes.

Food features hot, flavorful chicken with great taste and friendly service that stands out in fast food.

Quick service makes it easy to grab lunch during breaks. Pre-ordering speeds up pickup, and the spot works well as a go-to lunch option near work.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good and tasty."

"This place is a great late night spot for a snack."

"I experienced great chicken at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

The food comes out quickly, making it great for a fast meal.

2

They don't accept cash; only cards and mobile payments are allowed.

3

The spice levels range from mild to 'cluckin' hot,' catering to all tastes.

03
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.

Food offers authentic Afghan flavors with dishes like Aushak, featuring thin ravioli filled with ground beef and topped with a herbaceous sauce. The taste is consistently delicious and comforting.

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."

"The Mediterranean food here is amazing, especially the tender and flavorful kebabs."

"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.

04
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.

Food here is fresh and flavorful with a focus on authentic Chinese dishes. The meals are light and tasty, appealing to both adults and kids.

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."

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and high quality."

"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.

05
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.

Food features delicious fish tacos, rich mole, and hearty molcajete dishes. Prices match the quality, and service complements the great food.

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."

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

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

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.

06
Fresh Off the Boat Fish Grill South Coast image 1

Eclectic Mediterranean spot offers outdoor patio seating with warm candlelight and dark red cushions, creating a cozy vibe. Indoor space features a bar with large TV for sports viewing and a lively atmosphere with loud music. Dining resembles fast-casual style with varied seating options including tables, bar, and patio.

Food features a fresh and delicious quality with a mix of Mediterranean flavors including Mexican, Italian, and Greek dishes. Salmon stands out as a particularly good option.

Offers a quick lunch option with fresh seafood. Suitable for both lunch and dinner with consistent service.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

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

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a great variety of tacos at discounted prices.

2

Dine-in specials on Taco Tuesday are not available for takeout.

3

Happy hour starts after 3:00 pm with beer specials.

07
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 here is consistently delicious and authentic with excellent flavors. The menu offers great Indian dishes that stand out for their quality and taste.

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 so many delicious vegetarian options here."

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.

08
SubVegan image 1
Vegan restaurant

Vegan restaurant offers generous sandwiches with fresh, flavorful bread and a variety of options. Calm, tranquil atmosphere includes a serene outdoor courtyard and peaceful video displays. Prices remain reasonable for substantial portions, attracting a steady lunch crowd.

Food here is very fresh and delicious, with a focus on vegan options. Prices stay reasonable while offering generous portions that even kids enjoy.

Big portions make it easy to save half for later. It serves as a reliable go-to lunch spot during work hours.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were absolutely delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's bread is warm, fluffy, crispy, and fresh."

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

Good to know

1

SubVegan accepts online orders even when the store is closed.

2

They sell their bread separately, allowing for customizable sandwiches.

3

Prices are reasonable for the amount of food provided.

09
Baja Fish Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with beautiful interior design and a classy yet relaxed atmosphere. Music shifts from Mexican banda to reggaeton and salsa, creating a lively but sometimes loud environment. A popular salsa bar and variety of Mexican drinks attract crowds, especially during lunch and dinner.

Food arrives very fast and maintains consistent quality. Flavors are exquisite and the overall experience combines great taste with quick service.

Quick service stands out even during the lunch rush. The spot gets extremely busy at lunch and dinner, making timing important. Baja Fish Tacos offers solid options for takeout or dine-in.

People are saying

"I found the fish tacos to be the best I've ever had."

"This lunch spot has delicious, fresh Mexican food that's not too heavy."

"I found the food here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The place can get very busy during peak times around lunch and dinner.

2

I suggest arriving early to avoid the busy times.

3

Baja Fish Tacos does not accept American Express credit cards.

10
Tandoori India Cuisine image 1
North Indian restaurant

Cozy interior with a star on the wall stands out in a simple setting. The atmosphere feels inviting with a mix of fresh herbs and generous wine pours enhancing the dining experience. Lunch specials offer affordable pricing compared to other options nearby.

Food features fresh ingredients and excellent quality with a focus on Indian cuisine. Staff provide polite and informative service about the dishes and maintain a clean, family-owned environment.

Lunch specials offer a 2-item combo with naan and yogurt or rice pudding before 3 pm. Prices stay affordable around $10.99, making it a solid spot for a simple and comfortable lunch.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has amazing, affordable lunch specials."

"The Indian pickles were a crowd favorite with our dinner spots."

"I found the Indian food here to have the best flavor."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available before 3 pm with a 2-item combo.

2

Takeout process is easy and reliable for quick meals.

3

The restaurant offers a vegan section on the menu with many options.

11
Kaisen Kaiten image 1
Conveyor belt sushi restaurant

Conveyor belt sushi setup offers fast-paced dining with mostly bar seating packed closely together. Atmosphere feels busy and casual, suited for small groups or solo diners. The space is cozy and simple, emphasizing a relaxed vibe over modern design.

Food offers authentic Japanese flavors with a wide variety served on a conveyer belt. Dishes stay fresh and well priced throughout.

Lunch hours offer a quicker seat with about five plates and miso soup costing around $35. Staff sometimes stand and gossip during busy Saturday afternoons, which can affect the pace of service.

People are saying

"The revolving sushi bar for Japanese food is really fun."

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"This lunch spot has great, fresh sushi and hand rolls."

Good to know

1

Prices are very reasonable, especially with daily specials.

2

Happy hour offers discounts on select items.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially during peak hours.

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South Coast Metro, Santa Ana

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