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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown Santa Monica

Cool lunch spots

A lunch spot that manages to be cool without trying so hard that you feel out of place.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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01
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Spacious interior features modern design and beautiful chandeliers with a calm, clean atmosphere ideal for relaxed dining. A robot waitress named Bella delivers food, adding a unique touch to the experience. The place attracts those seeking high-quality sushi in a cozy, inviting setting.

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

Robot waitress Bella adds a unique touch to the vibe. A robot cat delivery brings a cool, futuristic feel to the experience.

People are saying

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

"The robot waitress, Bella, was super cool!"

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
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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.

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.

Small market offers almost everything needed with a super cool vibe. Employees stay friendly and the deli feels authentic with quality products.

People are saying

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

"I thought the sandwiches were perfect."

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.

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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.

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.

Pork broth makes the Seafood Udon mouth-watering and soothing in cool evening weather. The place has a cool modern interior and an authentic atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"The sushi here is top quality and incredibly fresh."

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.

04
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Rooftop setting offers stunning views and outdoor heaters that keep the space comfortable despite the breeze. Atmosphere blends casual enjoyment with a sexy, entertaining vibe, attracting a lively crowd. Accessibility features include elevator access and wheelchair-friendly seating.

A relaxed rooftop with beautiful views sets the scene for lunch. The menu offers good options and the service is attentive.

A super cool rooftop bar with a central bar and heat lamps all around. A DJ plays in the pool area early on, adding to the cool vibe before leaving.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot has delicious food that's artfully plated."

"It's a cool spot with a great vibe."

Good to know

1

Reservations are almost required due to high demand.

2

A $5 non-refundable reservation fee is charged per person.

3

Valet parking is available and convenient.

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Open hibachi-style setup offers an engaging dining experience with chefs performing theatrical grilling shows at each table. Dim lighting and cozy decor create a fun, lively atmosphere suited for date nights and family outings. A second-level bar adds to the venue's entertaining vibe and interactive energy.

Lunch features great specials with standout options like the lunch duet of chicken and shrimp. The service team including the GM, server, and chef contribute to a memorable dining experience.

Staff like Larry and Harry show cool tricks and kindness, making the experience lively. The dinner show and Chef Fabian's creative touches add to the cool vibe.

People are saying

"The staff at this Lunch Spot are so attentive and friendly."

"The chefs here are so cool and entertaining while they cook."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The staff celebrates birthdays with a special song and treat.

06
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Boutique hotel with warm, comforting vibe and beautiful, charming design offers a rooftop pool oasis and panoramic city views. Spaces range from relaxed rooftop bars to lively restaurants with strong energy. Guests encounter a mix of calm ambiance indoors and vibrant social scenes on the rooftop.

Lunch features stellar meals served in a hotel restaurant and at Calabra. Both spots offer satisfying options for midday dining.

People are saying

"The vibe here is modern, relaxed, and effortlessly cool."

"The staff here made my lunch feel so special and memorable."

Good to know

1

Valet service fee is $55, but some guests report being charged $70.

2

Additional $40 per night for amenities not disclosed at check-in.

3

The pool and bar may be closed for private events, impacting guest access.

07
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Rooftop restaurant offers cool views of water and Ferris wheel with a club-like vibe created by a live DJ and percussionist. Atmosphere suits large groups and blends beachy elegance with lively energy.

Trendy, chic vibe defines the lunch experience here. Express lunch offers great prices and Sundays bring a lively brunch and lunch scene.

A rooftop bar offers cool views and a creative drinks menu. The atmosphere feels really cool and inviting.

People are saying

"The food at this lunch spot is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"The atmosphere here is so cool and relaxed."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks, making it worthwhile.

2

Expect long wait times during busy events, like Valentine's Day.

3

The restaurant turns into a lively party after 9 pm with dancing.

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Downtown, Santa Monica

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