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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Monica

Authentic lunch spots

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

Based on 838 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Desvelados Santa Monica image 1
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Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with stunning design and beautiful decor creates a cozy yet lively atmosphere. Music plays softly while a large screen TV shows NBA games behind the bar. The place welcomes families and groups, featuring large tables for celebrations.

Food comes out fresh and packed with authentic Mexican flavor. The blend of upscale looks with genuine taste creates a unique dining experience. Generous portions and good prices add to the appeal.

Downtown spot offers a perfect lunch with an ambiance suited for both date nights and casual midday meals.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is amazing."

"The food here is so flavorful and truly authentic Mexican."

"This lunch spot has delicious, authentic Mexican food with generous portions."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers margarita and taco specials.

2

Santa Monica charges a 10.75% city tax on all bills.

3

The menu features a variety of innovative burritos and tacos.

02
Sushi Kanpai Santa Monica image 1

Sushi restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with spacious seating and a clean, pristine interior. The vibe is relaxed and personal, often quiet with few diners, creating an intimate setting. Staff and chefs contribute to a welcoming feel, complementing the high-quality sushi experience.

Dishes combine authentic Japanese flavors with some western touches. Ramen stands out as notably authentic compared to other spots. Sushi also delivers a genuine taste true to traditional styles.

Generous portions come with the lunch set menu featuring ramen and donburi bowls. The broth is flavorful and the menu offers reasonable prices with many options.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is incredibly fresh."

"This Lunch Spot has fantastic ramen and delicious donburi bowls."

"I thought the Japanese food here was delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 50% off on all hand rolls until 6 PM.

2

Reservations are required to meet a $50 per person minimum on weekends.

3

Parking is available in a small lot behind the restaurant.

03
Monica Cafe image 1

Cozy space with lofted seating and unique wall art creates an inviting atmosphere. Soft jazz music plays quietly, supporting a calm, work-friendly vibe. The environment blends Midwest/East Coast big city classiness with a welcoming neighborhood feel.

Breakfast offers authentic Menemen with perfect seasoning. The atmosphere feels homey and unique, creating a genuine experience.

Strong espresso and smooth lattes pair well with fresh, satisfying salads and light lunch options. Breakfast and lunch menus offer healthy, not overly heavy choices for any time of day.

People are saying

"The breakfast here is so fresh and delicious."

"The staff here is so friendly, they make you feel like family."

"You have to try the ร‡ฤฑlbฤฑr for your lunch spot; it's rich and comforting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect a wait during weekend brunch hours, especially after 10am.

3

The cafe accepts credit cards and mobile payments, but not personal checks.

04
LA PUREPECHA COCINA MEXICANA image 1

Small Mexican restaurant with spartan interiors and paper plate service offers a super casual and family-friendly vibe. Background music features Mexican tunes while TVs show local sports and events. The atmosphere feels welcoming but leans toward quick dining rather than lingering.

Flavors hit with authentic Mexican taste in every dish. Spanish phrases on the walls add to the genuine vibe. Tacos and burritos come through as true to Mexico.

Comfort food remains available for lunch far from home. Friendly service at the counter supports a relaxed lunch date vibe near the beach.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is oozing with flavor and moisture."

"I found the food to be authentic Mexican cuisine."

"The tacos at this Lunch Spot are freaking delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a 1 plus 1 deal on tacos.

2

Specials are available Monday through Friday with $2 off select items.

3

Street parking is available, but can be hard to find.

05
Yagul Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Small, cozy restaurant with a family-run feel and casual atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes two small tables, one suitable for dogs. Loud juice machine and blenders near dining area affect the otherwise relaxed vibe.

Food features authentic Oaxacan flavors with dishes like mole that are hard to find elsewhere. Every item is impeccably seasoned and fresh, delivering genuine Mexican breakfast and traditional meals.

Offers a quick lunch option with a menu suitable for both breakfast and lunch. Serves consistently good meals that fit well for a casual brunch or lunch stop.

People are saying

"The breakfast burritos here are phenomenal and delicious."

"The authentic Mexican breakfast food here is delicious and filling."

"The food here is delicious; every bite is amazing."

Good to know

1

Yagul Cafe is a family-owned establishment known for its authentic Oaxacan cuisine.

2

The cafe seats around 30 people, making it an intimate dining experience.

3

Expect to pay around $20 for chicken enchiladas, which may be considered small in portion.

06
SaMoโ€™s Oaxaca image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with three tables and a wall mural creates a cozy, family-owned vibe. Atmosphere blends authentic Oaxacan charm with clean, simple design and good music. Food features fresh, flavorful Oaxacan dishes like birria tacos and mole, offering a standout fast casual Mexican experience.

Vibrant Oaxacan dishes like tlayuda and authentic tacos deliver a truly traditional Mexican taste. The food offers an authentic Oaxacan vibe that feels genuine and satisfying.

A good-sized burrito fills you up for lunch. Arriving by 11:30 helps avoid the lunch rush and the staff offers friendly service.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic Oaxacan."

"I thought the street tacos were the best I've had anywhere."

"The street tacos at this Lunch Spot are loaded with meat and fixings."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms available at SaMoโ€™s Oaxaca.

2

Parking is a little dense in that small strip mall.

3

A simple burrito costs almost twenty dollars with a can of soda.

07
Papi Tacos & Churros image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with vibrant indoor/outdoor seating and constant Mexican music creates a fun and lively atmosphere. The space features stunning artwork and pretty lights, offering a cozy and clean environment. The vibe stays busy but chill, attracting those who appreciate halal Mexican food.

Halal options include authentic birria tacos and burritos with rich, traditional flavors. Mexican street food offerings deliver genuine taste and a delicious, authentic experience.

Busy but not loud atmosphere defines lunch here, with efficient and friendly service handling the rush smoothly.

People are saying

"I thought the birria tacos were the best Mexican food I ever had."

"I found the authentic tacos to be incredible and flavorful."

"The birria tacos at this Lunch Spot are unforgettable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is 100% halal.

2

There is no restroom available for customers.

3

Four street size tacos with avocado cost $22.

08
Z Garden Mediterranean Cuisine image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with a covered patio and comfortable seating, including couches and outdoor options. Atmosphere feels relaxed yet vibrant, with authentic music playing at a moderate volume. Casual setup where guests order and pay at the counter before seating themselves.

Fresh, authentic flavors define the menu. Warm atmosphere and authentic music on the patio add to the experience.

Offers quick lunch options with a Mediterranean menu suitable for daily visits. Serves as a reliable spot for a decent, fast meal on the go.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned."

"The flavors here are fresh and authentic, especially the hummus and grilled meats."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious, especially the chicken shawarma."

Good to know

1

This is a casual restaurant where you order and pay before finding a table.

2

There is free parking outside the restaurant.

3

Z Garden offers catering services at reasonable prices.

09
Ugo Trattoria image 1
Italian restaurant

Quaint Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and lovely patio. Music plays softly, creating a calm, inviting vibe without loud noise or crowds. The setting feels warm and simple, offering a relaxed dining experience.

Food captures the heart of authentic Italian cuisine with excellent quality and genuine flavors. The bruschetta stands out as fresh, flavorful, and truly authentic.

Lunch here comes quickly during a quiet service with few people around. Food tastes very good and can be enjoyed in the sun on the high street.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Italian, bursting with fresh flavors."

"The Italian food's gnocchi is perfectly soft and delicious."

"The pasta at this Lunch Spot is fresh and homemade."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features Italian beer like Peroni on tap.

2

An automatic 20% gratuity is added to all bills.

3

The restaurant charges $5 for card payments.

10
Bruno's Italian Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian trattoria with classic vintage design and traditional Italian music creates an authentic atmosphere. Outdoor patio overlooks the pier, blending Italian and Californian vibes. Staff speak Italian, enhancing the genuine feel.

Italian dishes come with authentic charm and a fresh, hot presentation. The pasta, especially fettucine alfredo, tastes perfectly delicious and true to tradition.

Lunch offers a relaxing time with a different kind of meal focus. The panini stands out as a solid choice for a midday bite.

People are saying

"The pasta and gnocchi here are delicious."

"The food here is authentic and delicious, especially the pasta."

"This Italian lunch spot has the best pizza and pasta."

Good to know

1

Expect large portions; sharing is recommended.

2

A $3.60 charge applies for each additional topping on pizzas.

3

They charge extra for protein additions to dishes.

11
Nick The Greek image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant offers a casual, cozy atmosphere with authentic music enhancing the vibe. Seating includes a nice outdoor area and high chairs for kids, though indoor space can feel warm and smokey. The place fills up during busy times but maintains a low-key, friendly energy throughout.

Shawarma and pita wraps deliver authentic local style with tasty Greek flavors. Music adds to the authentic atmosphere, though sauces stay simple and traditional.

Offers a quick lunch option with a casual vibe. Serves well for a fast meal during work breaks or casual outings.

People are saying

"The Greek food, especially the gyros, is delicious."

"I loved the Mediterranean food, especially the amazing falafel pita."

"I found the food to be authentic Greek cuisine."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunchtime, especially on weekends.

2

Online ordering is recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant has limited seating, so plan accordingly.

12
Takuma IZAKAYA JAPANESE image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, contemporary space offers a cozy, low-key atmosphere with a calm, inviting vibe ideal for quiet dinners and thoughtful conversation. Patrons enjoy authentic Japanese flavors alongside warm sake, making it suitable for after-work meet-ups and intimate gatherings.

Flavors stay true to traditional Japanese cooking with authentic down-home style. The cuisine offers a genuine taste that reflects classic recipes and ingredients.

Lunch features family recipes from Japan served by the owner and chef. The lunch special includes options like Mackerel, and tables are usually available even for late lunch around 3:30.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing, especially the fresh fish."

"This lunch spot's karaage chicken is crispy and tender."

"I found the flavors to be authentic and amazing."

Good to know

1

Limited parking is available in front of the restaurant.

2

Metered parking is available on Wilshire and side streets.

3

The menu includes snacks, salads, sashimi, hot dishes, and desserts.

13
Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery image 1

Traditional Italian deli combines market, cafรฉ, and quick-stop in a bustling, cozy atmosphere with authentic Italian grocery offerings. Outdoor seating includes stone picnic tables for enjoying sandwiches. The vibe recalls Little Italy in Manhattan with a quaint, small-town charm.

Italian food features authentic ingredients and traditional flavors. The deli offers a wide variety of fresh, high-quality Italian goods including a meatball sandwich with genuine marinara sauce.

Ordering online helps skip the wait during lunch. The Godmother sandwich stands out, alongside potato and cucumber salads and a chicken salad option for next-day meals.

People are saying

"The Godmother sandwich with the works is the best choice."

"I thought the Godmother sandwich was the best I had ever had."

"Their authentic sandwiches, especially the Godmother, are wicked good."

Good to know

1

They accept only cash and debit card.

2

You need to grab a ticket with a number and wait until they call out the numbers.

3

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.

14
Tacos Por Favor image 1
Mexican restaurant

Large interior with authentic Mexican aesthetic and plenty of seating creates a casual, warm and welcoming atmosphere. Noise levels rise during busy times, reflecting a lively vibe. Offers a great variety of Mexican dishes, including many vegetarian options.

Tacos here deliver authentic Mexican flavors with generous portions. The food feels genuine and not gentrified, capturing classic tastes well.

Exceptional vibe and great lunch options make this spot stand out. Metered parking is available nearby before the lunch rush.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was authentic and amazing."

"I thought the Mexican food here was great and very authentic."

"The Lunch Spot's tortillas and salsa are exceptional."

Good to know

1

Street parking is the only option available, with limited metered spots.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian choices on the menu.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere, but wait times are generally short.

15
Kappo Miyabi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Minimalist design blends traditional Japanese elements with modern charm in a serene, elegant space. Open kitchen adds interactive dining energy while booths provide privacy. Atmosphere suits both casual and intimate meals with a calm, authentic vibe.

Elegant and serene ambience creates an immersive setting with authentic Japanese elegance and modern charm. The menu offers high-quality izakaya dishes true to traditional flavors.

Lunch features premium sushi omakase with eight pieces including snowcrab handroll, hamachi, sweet shrimp, salmon, ootoro, kanpachi, halibut, and red snapper. Specials like sushi and sashimi come at a set price and attract repeat visits.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The sushi and sashimi at this Lunch Spot were fresh and generous."

"The sushi here is so fresh and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

The Omakase experience offers a curated selection of sushi and sashimi.

2

A 22% service charge is automatically added to the bill.

3

Expect to pay around $35-$50 for udon dishes.

16
Lares Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with live mariachi music and folk art decor creates a cozy, authentic atmosphere. Seating includes both indoor and outdoor options, with a small, friendly dining area upstairs. Superior margaritas complement the festive, family-friendly vibe.

Mexican food here is authentic and true to LA style. The atmosphere feels genuine with live music adding to the experience.

Lunch offers good value with a variety of solid selections. Waitstaff accommodate special requests, and the setting feels cool and cozy.

People are saying

"I had one of the best wet burritos in my life."

"I found authentic Mexican food here, not a tourist trap."

"The chili relleno is my number one choice for a Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough; limited street parking is available.

2

Asada nachos cost $17.95 plus 10.75% tax.

3

Lares Restaurant offers free re-fills on drinks.

17
XUNTOS image 1
Tapas bar

Spanish tapas bar offers a cozy art deco interior with soft warm lighting and a down-to-earth yet elegant vibe. The atmosphere ranges from loud and lively to more intimate upstairs seating, attracting those seeking authentic Spanish flavors paired with an extensive vermouth and cocktail selection.

Tapas here are excellent and very authentic, closely matching traditional Spanish flavors. The food consistently delivers a genuine Spanish experience.

A lunch menu runs alongside a happy hour, drawing a varied crowd. Weekend lunch options show limited variety and quantity.

People are saying

"The garlic shrimp and scallops were perfectly cooked."

"I found the Spanish food here to be very authentic."

"This Lunch Spot organized free meals for responders during the fires."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy evenings.

2

Happy hour is available on weekdays with a limited menu.

3

The restaurant adds a 4% employee benefits fee to the bill.

18
Rita's Gate Of India image 1
Indian restaurant

Small, cozy space filled with Indian art and music creates a relaxing, homely atmosphere. Quiet and intimate setting suits meeting locals and date nights. Decor blends antique pictures and Bengali culture paintings with a slightly industrial feel.

Food tastes like homemade Indian cuisine with each plate made individually. Dishes are flavorful and authentic, including Bengali specialties prepared with care.

Lunch offers delicious dishes with a satisfying variety. Quick searches often lead here for a late lunch option.

People are saying

"I found the Indian food here to be the best I'd tried in LA."

"The Garlic Naan was piping hot, fresh out of the oven."

"This Indian Lunch Spot has the best food I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not have restrooms available for customers.

2

There is no parking available at this location.

3

The medium spice level is on the spicier side, so adjust your order accordingly.

19
El Cholo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Large dining room with historic decor and a courtyard-like interior creates a warm, festive atmosphere. Outdoor patio and family room add to the kid-friendly, lively vibe. Strong margaritas and classic Mexican dishes complement the authentic, nostalgic setting.

Offers authentic Mexican cuisine with a home-style feel. The food delivers a genuine dining experience true to southern California flavors.

Lunch features a special menu with solid options. Outdoor seating on the patio offers a relaxed vibe, and iced tea with chips is a common choice.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious, especially the salsa."

"I found the Mexican cuisine here to be truly authentic."

"The food at this lunch spot is really good."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult; consider using valet services.

2

Happy hour offers two drinks for $44, providing a good ambiance.

3

The restaurant accommodates large groups of 15-20 people easily.

20
Maria Sol image 1
Mexican restaurant

Ocean-facing patio offers breathtaking views and warmth from scattered heating lamps. Live music from street artists creates a lively atmosphere with a touristy vibe. Fresh, locally sourced seafood and exceptional margaritas complement the energetic seaside setting.

Fresh and authentic Mexican flavors stand out in a stylish atmosphere. The menu offers a solid selection of dishes at an affordable price, including a notably thick clam chowder.

Lunch offers a chance to enjoy drinks alongside the meal. The spot provides a nice view to complement the midday break.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food here is served with quick, friendly, and welcoming service."

"I enjoyed the authentic Mexican food and its fresh flavors."

"The tres carnes fajitas at this Lunch Spot were so good."

Good to know

1

Check your bill carefully as extra charges may be added.

2

Expect a reasonable cost of about $50 for two entrees and drinks.

3

Outdoor seating is available, but the upper level may be closed.

21
Noma Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Spacious sushi restaurant with Japanese-style decor and a retro Showa-era atmosphere. The vibe is cozy and relaxing, featuring modern jazz and instrumental music that complements the classic wood finishes. Guests watch chefs at the sushi bar while enjoying a calm, inviting environment suited for casual or special dinners.

Spacious interior creates an authentic Japanese atmosphere. Sushi is fresh and prepared in a simple, traditional style.

Lunch features good selections with both lunch and dinner specials. Meals come out tasty and satisfying.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the omakase, is so fresh and beautifully presented."

"The sushi here is so fresh and authentic."

"The Lunch Spot's fish is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Noma Sushi does not accept reservations and is walk-in only.

2

The restaurant has a system for managing the waiting list.

3

Parking is limited, but there is a large parking area behind the restaurant.

22
Casa Martin | 3rd St Promenade image 1

Mexican restaurant offers a cozy, stylish atmosphere with live Mariachi music and outdoor seating on a promenade. The space feels warm and inviting, blending a laid-back vibe with exquisite decoration. Guests enjoy a mix of traditional dishes and notable margarita flights in a lively setting.

Food shows excellent quality and authentic Mexican flavors, especially dishes like the Cielo, tierra y mar Molcajete. Some parts feel touristic, but the core menu stays true to traditional tastes.

Lunch features guacamole as a notable item. The manager or owner personally serves everyone during lunch.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the fish tacos, is fantastic."

"The manager here really cares about your lunch experience."

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

Good to know

1

Expect an 18% automatic service charge on your bill.

2

Happy hour offers better value with a 2 taco special.

3

The average entree costs around $25.

23
Ghisallo image 1
Pizza restaurant

Back patio offers cozy outdoor seating under olive trees with quaint lighting, creating a chill and intimate vibe. Sidewalk tables provide a chance for people-watching in a lively neighborhood setting. Dog-friendly space adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

Pizza here aims for authentic Neapolitan style but does not fully capture it. It stands out as a spot for those seeking delicious pizza on the west side, though it may not satisfy strict authenticity.

Slices come as an option alongside whole pies for lunch. Options include Market Veggie and Buffalo Chicken pizzas, suitable for team meals.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza had a delicious, fluffy, and crunchy sourdough crust."

"I loved the authentic Neapolitan pizza here."

"The cacio e pepe pizza at this Lunch Spot is delicious."

Good to know

1

A $5 per person cake cutting fee applies for birthday celebrations.

2

Expect to pay around $80 for two pizzas and two beers, including tip.

3

Online ordering may not work reliably; consider calling instead.

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