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Santa Monica's best

Lunch spots

A lunch spot that respects your limited time without making you feel like you are eating at a cafeteria.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 1
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 2
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Japanese restaurant

Spacious interior with modern design and beautiful chandeliers creates a calm vibe. Lunch features affordable bento boxes with large portions like teriyaki chicken and crunch roll. A robot waitress named Bella adds a unique, cozy touch to dining.

Lunch offers great deals with large portions that stay affordable. Bento boxes include teriyaki chicken, crunch roll, and ginger salad in a pleasant atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing, especially the fresh, well-prepared sushi."

"The lunch special here is a huge, affordable plate."

"It's a perfect spot for a romantic date night."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features items priced around $5 to $7, with good-sized portions.

2

The lunch special costs $24 for a full plate, including a nice roll and sashimi.

3

The restaurant and bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.

02
Desvelados Santa Monica image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant shines with stunning design and a cozy yet lively atmosphere. Perfect for lunch downtown, it suits both date nights and casual meals. Large tables welcome families and groups, while NBA games play softly on a big screen.

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."

"I thought the food was delicious and outstanding."

"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.

03
Lady & Larder image 1
Cheese shop

Compact cheese shop shines with curated fine cheeses and secret lunch menu sandwiches like the French Girl. Enjoy patio seating and grab a box of Lady Crackers for a perfect bite. Adorable atmosphere and occasional cheese samples make it a cozy spot.

Two sandwiches come from a secret lunch menu including the French Girl. A box of Lady Crackers often accompanies the meal.

People are saying

"I had the best sandwich Iโ€™ve had in such a long time."

"The sandwiches here are amazing, especially the creative spread."

"The charcuterie here is beautiful and delicious."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a variety of charcuterie board fixings, wines, and sandwiches.

2

Lady & Larder features products from local and independent artisans.

3

They accommodate dietary restrictions when curating gift baskets.

04
Rabano image 1
Restaurant

Spacious spot shines with heated outdoor patio perfect for dogs and people watching. Lunch menu blends Korean and Mexican dishes with a focus on healthy, organic options. Bright, airy design keeps atmosphere relaxed and friendly.

Offers a variety of Korean, Mexican, and healthy dishes for lunch. Serves fresh, healthy food and drinks in a clean, functional setting.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, tasty, and always good."

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

"The staff here is super friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

Rabano offers a variety of dishes suitable for all tastes, including options for kids.

2

The kids menu includes a drink for a very reasonable price.

3

Rabano now offers breakfast burritos all day.

05
Sushi Kanpai Santa Monica image 1

Cozy sushi spot offers spacious seating and a relaxed vibe with friendly staff. Lunch sets feature generous portions of ramen and donburi at reasonable prices. Clean, quiet space makes dining personal and enjoyable.

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 loved their happy hour, it was generous and ended at 6pm."

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.

06
Katsu Bar image 1
Restaurant

Bright, lively spot with huge portions and a mini-library for book swapping. Welcomes dogs with treats and water, creating a friendly vibe. Lunch specials suit casual meals and accept credit cards for easy payment.

Lunch features specials and accepts credit cards. Options suit a casual midday meal or early dinner.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the katsu sandwiches, is perfectly fried and juicy."

"The katsu curry here is heavenly."

"The fried chicken at this Lunch Spot is crispy and not greasy."

Good to know

1

Katsu Bar has a parking lot with plenty of free parking.

2

You pay at the counter first and then receive your food.

3

They have lunch specials and accept credit cards.

07
Offhand Wine Bar image 1

Modern interior and vinyl DJ sets create a stylish vibe. Lunch offers amazing sandwiches with consistent quality. Community enjoys natural wines in a bright, welcoming space perfect for early evenings or smooth Fridays.

Lunch features a new service with amazing sandwiches. Food quality stays fabulous throughout.

People are saying

"I loved their natural wine selection, especially the skin contact options."

"It's a cool, chill spot to hang out with friends."

"The sandwiches at this Lunch Spot are delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-7 PM, Monday through Saturday.

2

There is ample street parking available nearby.

3

The wine list features mostly California natural wines.

08
Miyako Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese spot shines with fresh sushi and cozy vibes. Lunch features affordable bento boxes perfect for groups or quick meals. Intimate setting with cherry blossoms and retro art makes it great for dates or casual dinners.

Offers simple lunch options with bento boxes around twenty dollars per person. Suitable for both small meals and big group outings.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and beautifully presented."

"I thought the ramen here was pretty good and spicier than I expected."

"This is a great lunch spot for casual, tasty sushi."

Good to know

1

Miyako Restaurant closes at 9 PM.

2

Parking may be hard to find due to limited street parking.

3

Expect to pay around $20 per person for lunch.

09
Horchata Mexican Food & Bakery image 1

Small Mexican eatery buzzes with locals grabbing fresh breakfast burritos and quick lunch. Casual spot shines with homemade-style flan and amazing eclairs. Perfect for a satisfying midday meal with solid Mexican flavors and fresh bakery treats.

Lunch offers a solid selection with Mexican flavors and fresh bakery items. The spot works well for a quick, satisfying midday meal.

People are saying

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

"The Mexican food burritos here are packed full of flavor."

"I tried the burritos here and they were really good."

Good to know

1

Expect a lunchtime rush due to many local workers picking up food.

2

Parking can be difficult as the restaurant shares space with Pavilions.

3

Seating is limited, so be prepared for potential wait times.

10
The Curious Palate image 1
New American restaurant

Open-air seating creates a calm atmosphere perfect for family lunches. Burgers and fries come with a house-made sauce that stands out. Bright, spacious space feels homey and curated, ideal for casual meetups.

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

People are saying

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

"This Local Spot's fresh, from-scratch cooking uses local ingredients."

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

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.

11
LA PUREPECHA COCINA MEXICANA image 1

Small Mexican spot offers comfort food with friendly service for a relaxed lunch near the beach. Spartan interiors and paper plate service keep it casual and family-friendly. Background Mexican tunes and local sports on TV add to the welcoming vibe.

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."

"You have to try their thick, homemade tortillas; they're full of flavor."

"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.

12
The Cloverfield image 1
American restaurant

Large outdoor patio with warm fires creates a cozy, dog-friendly spot near the airport. Smooth jazz sets a peaceful vibe perfect for groups and families. Friendly ambiance makes it a great lunch spot for meeting friends or casual celebrations.

Offers a convenient location near the airport with easy walking access. Serves lunch with a friendly ambiance suitable for meeting friends. Functions well for brunch, lunch, or dinner options.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating has a great vibe and atmosphere."

"The large patio is dog friendly and they even give pups a treat."

"This lunch spot's large patio is dog and kid friendly."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available on the premises.

2

Reservations are required for outdoor seating.

3

Happy hour, called social hour, offers special deals.

13
MARU SUSHI AND RAMEN image 1

Cozy spot with cherry blossom tree and floral ceilings sets a warm, romantic mood. Lunch features a curry donkatsu rice special perfect for solo diners. Bar offers an authentic izakaya vibe with a laid-back, friendly crowd.

Offers a curry donkatsu rice lunch special that suits solo diners. Quiet and convenient for a solo lunch downtown.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food, especially the bento boxes, had a great variety and large portions."

"The sashimi here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"This lunch spot's seafood ramen is so good, I finished the whole thing."

Good to know

1

The bar is open until midnight for late-night drinks.

2

There is a public parking lot nearby with 90 minutes of free parking.

3

The restaurant is open until 12 midnight, making it ideal for late-night snacks.

14
MIXT Salads image 1
Salad shop

Bright, airy space with plenty of sunlight and comfortable seating offers a cozy, relaxed vibe. Fresh, customizable salads with generous portions make it a top healthy lunch spot. Perfect for a quick, casual midday break with a standout view.

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

People are saying

"I was obsessed with these brilliant salads; I could eat them for every meal."

"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.

15
Nick The Greek image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant shines with authentic music and a cozy atmosphere. Quick lunch options suit busy days, while outdoor seating offers a relaxed vibe. Friendly energy and kid-friendly high chairs make it great for casual outings.

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."

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

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.

16
Monica Cafe image 1

Cozy space with lofted seating and unique wall art invites you in. Strong espresso and smooth lattes complement fresh salads and light lunch options. Soft jazz music creates a calm, work-friendly vibe blending big city class with neighborhood warmth.

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 are so welcoming, it makes you feel appreciated."

"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.

17
RIZE THAI SUSHI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small space with beautiful decor offers a quiet vibe. Lunch features fresh entrees and an $18 sushi platter that shines. Affordable prices and happy hour with cash or digital pay make it a smart choice.

Lunch offers fresh entrees and an $18 sushi platter that stands out. Good lunch deals make it a solid choice for midday meals.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing and tasty."

"The lunch special here is an unbeatable deal."

"The salmon here is amazingly good and melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 20% off the check but requires cash payment.

2

Parking is available in front of the restaurant on the right side.

3

The nearest ATM is not within walking distance for cash payments.

18
Takuma IZAKAYA JAPANESE image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, contemporary space offers a cozy vibe perfect for quiet dinners and thoughtful conversation. Lunch features family recipes like Mackerel, served late with tables usually available. Warm sake complements authentic Japanese flavors, ideal for after-work meet-ups.

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."

"It's a quiet place to really enjoy your meal and chat."

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.

19
Ugo Trattoria image 1
Italian restaurant

Quaint Italian spot offers cozy atmosphere and lovely patio for a calm lunch. Food arrives fast and tastes great, perfect for a relaxed midday meal. Soft music adds to the inviting vibe without noise or crowds.

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.

20
Simply Salad image 1
Salad shop

Salad shop serves customizable salads and fresh wraps with generous portions. Quiet, clean space with modern interior and street views. Perfect for light, filling lunch but expect waits during rush hours.

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

People are saying

"The salads here are so fresh and delicious."

"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.

21
Yagul Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Small, cozy spot with a family-run feel and casual vibe. Quick, tasty meals make it a great lunch stop. Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly table, though loud blenders can disrupt the calm atmosphere.

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."

"This Mexican food is so fresh and has amazing flavors."

"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.

22
Augie's On Main - Chicken Restaurant Santa Monica, CA image 1

Outdoor seating creates a quiet courtyard perfect for relaxed hangouts. Menu features crispy chicken and creative sandwiches known for freshness. Quick, healthy options make it a great lunch spot with a chill vibe.

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

People are saying

"I found the spicy chicken sandwich to be one of the best."

"The outdoor seating is pleasant and a chill spot to hang out."

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

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.

23
Santa Monica Seafood Market & Cafe image 1

Seafood market blends fresh seafood with a lively oyster bar and casual dining. Quick lunch shines with a lobster roll deal perfect for solo or friends. Atmosphere mixes bustling energy and quiet spots, creating a true community hub.

Offers a quick lunch option with a lobster roll deal that stands out. Works well for a casual meal solo or with friends, especially when arriving early to avoid crowds.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The market has an excellent selection of fresh seafood."

"This lunch spot has excellent, fresh seafood and fish."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the back of the market.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

Prices for fresh seafood are comparable to upscale restaurants.

24
Hungry Pocket Falafel Halal House image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Cozy Mediterranean spot near college offers halal falafel and lamb gyro with fresh sauces. Perfect for a quick, affordable lunch between classes. Expect a friendly vibe and some parking challenges.

Offers a quick and convenient option for lunch, ideal for grabbing a meal between classes. The spot serves Halal falafel and has been a reliable choice for over 10 years.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and served hot."

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

"I considered the falafel sandwich the best Lunch Spot I had ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking may be hard to find during school hours.

2

There is a free parking lot with about 10-15 spots available.

3

Only some items on the menu are halal.

25
Cafe Bolivar image 1

Bright cafe offers authentic arepas and natural sunlight that energize afternoons. Comfortable seating suits both casual lunch and focused work. Walls adorned with artwork add a creative touch to the warm vibe.

Sunny, warm afternoons suit this spot well for grabbing a cold drink and light lunch. Weekday visits show it works nicely for a casual midday meal with friends.

People are saying

"The coffee here is strong, rich, and exceptionally good."

"I found the arepas here to be tasty and packed with flavor."

"The arepas here are packed with flavor and freshly made."

Good to know

1

Cafe Bolivar has indoor, outdoor, and counter seating options available.

2

There is 20-minute parking available in front of Cafe Bolivar.

3

The parking meter accepts both card and coins for payment.

26
SaMoโ€™s Oaxaca image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot with family-owned vibe and a vibrant wall mural sets a warm tone. Fresh, flavorful Oaxacan dishes like birria tacos shine here. Perfect for lunch with a filling burrito and friendly staff, especially before the rush.

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.

27
Cafe Zella image 1

Small cafe offers large portions with a focus on breakfast and lunch. Cozy space with limited outdoor seating and great matcha pairs well with solid lunch options. Order at the counter and expect some wait during busy times.

Lunch includes solid options paired with great matcha. Both breakfast and lunch menus offer reliable choices.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"The Local Spot has great coffee and tasty salmon bowls."

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

Good to know

1

Customers must walk to the counter to order and pay.

2

Expect a 10-minute wait for coffee and 20 minutes for burritos.

3

Salsa with the burrito is available only if paid extra.

28
Papi Tacos & Churros image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers halal Mexican food in a vibrant atmosphere with stunning artwork and pretty lights. Lunch is busy but chill with efficient service and lively Mexican music. Indoor and outdoor seating create a cozy, clean space perfect for a fun meal.

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."

"These churros are warm, fresh, and melt in your mouth."

"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.

29
Z Garden Mediterranean Cuisine image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean flavors shine in a relaxed, vibrant setting with authentic music and comfortable seating. Quick, reliable lunch options make it a great fast meal spot. Casual ordering at the counter keeps things easy and efficient.

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 pita bread is warm, fluffy, and comes with a delicious dipping sauce."

"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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