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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Monica

Healthy lunch spots

Made for those who prioritize nutrient-dense ingredients when fueling their body during the workday.

Based on 678 Opinions
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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.

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.

Organic yogurt, pasture-raised eggs, and farmers market produce make the food feel fresh and healthy. Options include healthy breakfast choices, light lunches, and strong coffee throughout the day.

People are saying

"I found the healthy food here to be fresh, flavorful, and consciously selected."

"You have to try the Çılbır 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.

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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.

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.

A great spread of juices and healthy beverages stands out here. Classic Mexican dishes get a healthy twist, and the smoothies are genuinely nutritious and fresh.

People are saying

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

"I loved the healthy twist on their delicious Oaxacan classics."

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.

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Restaurant offers open-air seating with a calm, relaxing atmosphere that contrasts with nearby noisy spots. Space feels homey and curated, encouraging guests to unwind in a bright, spacious interior suitable for families.

Lunch features a burger and fries with a house-made dipping sauce. The spot works well for casual meetups and family lunches with kids.

Food focuses on fresh, organic, farm-to-table ingredients with a healthy and flavorful profile. Options include a healthy burger and a variety of tasty, nutritious dishes and drinks.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and prepared with fresh ingredients."

"The healthy food here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of the Santa Monica Place Mall.

2

The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

3

There are many vegetarian options available.

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Bright, airy space with plenty of sunlight and comfortable seating creates a cozy atmosphere. The vibe is relaxed, suited for enjoying fresh, customizable salads with generous portions. It offers a healthy, casual dining experience with a view that stands out.

Quick access to healthy lunch options makes this spot stand out. It offers a chill atmosphere for a relaxed midday break.

Salads feature fresh organic ingredients with many vegan options available. Customization lets you swap standard items like lettuce and cheese for alternatives like baby kale and sharp cheddar.

People are saying

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful with the healthy foods."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot is always amazing."

Good to know

1

Prices for salads start around $15, including tax.

2

The restaurant offers a large variety of salads and allows customization.

3

Portion sizes are generous, making salads a filling meal option.

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Cozy cafe with warm Eastern European vibes and a spacious sunny patio offers a calm, friendly atmosphere with good background music and a mix of locals and visitors. Seating suits quiet moments or casual chats, and the place is dog-friendly with amenities for pets. The setup encourages an elevated state of mind for working or relaxing without crowds or trendy distractions.

Lunch options include original and generous dishes. The spot suits a quick lunch or a relaxed meal.

Fresh ingredients create healthy and affordable breakfast options. Meals include a variety of healthy dishes and smoothies, like the Very Berry.

People are saying

"The owner Nino is such a charming and polite host."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was so friendly and efficient."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of 30-45 minutes during peak brunch hours.

2

Payment is made at the counter; no servers for outdoor seating.

3

They offer gluten-free options, but vegan choices are limited.

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Salad shop offers customizable salads and fresh wraps with a variety of toppings including multiple beans and meats. The atmosphere is quiet and clean with a simple, modern interior and views of the street scene. Prices remain reasonable while portions are generous and service is quick.

Offers light but filling meals ideal for midday. Gets busy during lunch rush, which can delay order pickup.

Salads feature super-healthy ingredients with a variety of toppings including multiple meat and cheese options. Meals are both healthy and affordable, offering a stress-free experience.

People are saying

"I found the healthy foods here to be delicious and fresh."

"The service at this lunch spot is so proactive and personal."

Good to know

1

Simply Salad offers healthy and affordable options for quick meals.

2

Prices are around $10 for a well-served salad bowl.

3

Parking on 2nd street can be tricky.

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Small Thai restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with quiet ambiance and good music. Lunch draws a steady crowd seeking authentic, flavorful dishes like Pad Thai, Khao Soi, and homemade egg rolls. Prices stay reasonable while portions balance freshness and satisfaction.

Lunch offers good prices and lunch specials that provide solid value. Dishes like Pad See Yu with basil are available and satisfy midday hunger well.

Fresh and organic food defines the menu. Homemade dishes stay light, avoiding heaviness or excess oil.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has tasty food at really good prices."

"I found the healthy foods here to be fresh and organic."

Good to know

1

The lunch special offers great prices and value for money.

2

Expect quick service as food arrives faster than estimated delivery times.

3

The restaurant is small, so seating may be limited during peak hours.

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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.

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

Mediterranean dishes offer healthy options with fresh ingredients. The veggie pita stands out as both satisfying and nutritious.

People are saying

"It's a great lunch spot for a quick bite."

"The chicken souvlaki plate and Mediterranean bowl are a slam dunk."

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.

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Outdoor seating fills driveway and backyard with a quiet courtyard and pleasant patio featuring heaters. Atmosphere stays chill and cool, inviting relaxed hangouts without indoor dining. Menu highlights include crispy, juicy chicken and creative sandwiches praised for freshness and flavor.

Quick and healthy lunch options stand out here. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed vibe for a midday break.

Quick and healthy lunch options include a Roasted Chicken sandwich that is full of flavor. The menu offers tasty and healthy choices, though the availability of these options could be clearer.

People are saying

"The chili dog at this Lunch Spot has fantastic, thick chili."

"I found the healthy foods here to be good tasting and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Only outdoor seating is available, so dress appropriately for the weather.

2

They only accept card payments; no cash is accepted.

3

You can bring your pets onto the patio, which is a nice touch.

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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.

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.

Fresh and healthy kabob plates stand out with satisfying flavors. The menu offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes that are both tasty and filling.

People are saying

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

"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.

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Outdoor dining area offers a spacious patio with plenty of heaters keeping the space warm and comfortable. Atmosphere blends lively yet calming vibes with the scent of wood smoke, creating an elevated backyard bar feel. Guests enjoy relaxed, leisurely meals in a mellow DIY setting that encourages conversation.

Lunch features a $22 plate topped with fresh herbs and flowers. The spot works well for a midday meal with a pleasant setting.

Fresh, organic, and local ingredients make the food stand out. Options are consistently healthy and affordable.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's food is fantastic and delicious."

"The healthy foods here are fresh and amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a huge free parking lot available for guests.

2

Reservations are limited to 90 minutes, so plan accordingly.

3

The restaurant accommodates various dietary restrictions, making it inclusive.

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Shared space with four restaurant stalls creates a food hall vibe that feels clean but somewhat characterless and stale. Music plays in the background, adding some energy to the otherwise quiet atmosphere. Seating is limited and can feel uncomfortable during busy times.

Smash burgers offer a solid choice for a casual lunch. The spot suits a relaxed meal rather than a quick bite.

Food features organic, grass-fed ingredients that keep meals both healthy and tasty. The menu includes options like a decent, affordable burger made with quality beef.

People are saying

"The burgers here taste amazing and healthy."

"This Lunch Spot has great, juicy, greasy smashburgers."

Good to know

1

They have a 50% off deal in the afternoon.

2

Parking is free in the lot at the back.

3

Seating is limited and shared with other shops.

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