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Best of Temecula

Authentic lunch spots

An authentic lunch spot that takes the midday break seriously, not just a place to grab a bite before rushing back to work.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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01
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Spacious dining area features a lovely mural and Latino Cubano music that creates a chill, quiet atmosphere. The place balances a clean, neat decor with a casual vibe, avoiding loud music and focusing on food. Craft beers on tap complement authentic Mexican dishes known for their exceptional flavor.

Incredibly rich flavor and fresh ingredients define the authentic Mexican cuisine here. The dishes offer a delicious and flavorful taste true to traditional Mexican food.

Lunch offers a great spot for a casual date with options that pair well with a Modelo beer. Positive word-of-mouth highlights it as a go-to lunch choice.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Oaxacan food to be amazing and homemade."

"This Lunch Spot's Oaxacan food exceeded all expectations."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos and drinks.

2

The restaurant offers authentic Oaxacan cuisine, not just typical Mexican dishes.

3

Reservations are not required, but it's good to check for busy times.

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Spacious dining area with beautiful wall carvings and soft lighting creates a warm, inviting atmosphere suited for families and large groups. The environment feels clean and welcoming, supporting both casual and business meals. The place stands out for its authentic Hyderabadi vibe and comfortable seating.

Authentic Hyderabadi Biryani and South Indian dishes deliver flavorful and high quality experiences. The food stays true to traditional Indian cuisine with authentic tastes throughout.

Lunch offers excellent flavor and generous portions at very good prices. Specials provide strong value for the money.

People are saying

"The authentic biryani here tastes like home."

"You've got to try the lunch specials; the prices are unbeatable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers an Indian street food buffet on Wednesday evenings.

2

Expect to pay around $20 for two people during the buffet.

3

The $8 lunch special includes a drink but is dine-in only.

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Large indoor and outdoor seating areas create an open dining environment with a self-serve sauce station offering options like garlic sauce and mango chili. The atmosphere is casual with a mix of family-friendly energy and a focus on authentic Middle Eastern flavors. Food portions tend to be smaller, but the juicy kabobs and flavorful wraps stand out as highlights.

Plates like the Gyro and Chicken Kabob come fresh and true to Middle Eastern roots. The food tastes consistently authentic and flavorful.

Lunch features a burger and fries that stand out for their flavor. Food consistently comes out delicious and satisfying during midday visits.

People are saying

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

"The food at this lunch spot was delicious and well cooked."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging in Old Town, so arrive early.

2

The restaurant offers an easy online ordering service.

3

Portion sizes are generous, making it a good value.

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Pizza restaurant offers modern remodeled interior with a sweet, friendly vibe. It serves authentic New York style pizza with a variety of options, including Sicilian thick crust. The place features daily lunch specials and fresh dough sold on-site.

Slices serve authentic New York style pizza with a clear East Coast influence. The food consistently tastes genuine and traditional.

Lunch specials include two slices and a drink for $9. The daily lunch slice special offers incredible value and a great deal at a low price point.

People are saying

"The lunch special is a great deal for two slices and a drink."

"I found the pizza to be authentic New York style."

Good to know

1

The daily lunch slice special offers two slices and a drink for $9.

2

The restaurant maintains a clean and welcoming environment.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted for all purchases.

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Cozy interior with traditional decor and soft Korean music creates a serene dining atmosphere. The space feels luxurious and comfortable, attracting those seeking authentic Korean cuisine with generous portions. Noise from outside occasionally disrupts the otherwise clean and quiet environment.

Dishes serve authentic Korean flavors with fresh ingredients. Specials like jajangmyeon and jjambbong offer tastes rarely found elsewhere.

Lunch offers reasonable prices under $20 with combos like Bulgogi and Soon Tofu. Dishes include whole grilled mackerel, seafood green onion pancake, and gimbap, all served with a balanced aroma of green onion and sesame oil.

People are saying

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

"I found the Korean food here to be so authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is free in the plaza and very easy to access.

2

The restaurant's closing time is around 9pm, but they may turn away customers earlier.

3

The portions are generous, often enough for two or more people.

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Small, clean Cuban restaurant with bold tropical wall art and a lively, fun atmosphere filled with authentic music that evokes island vibes. The space feels like a family kitchen during a party, welcoming and joyful. Seating includes indoor and a few outdoor tables.

Bold, authentic Cuban flavors fill the menu with care and pride. The food, music, and atmosphere all reflect genuine Cuban culture.

Busy spot for lunch with a quaint vibe. The oxtail special offers authentic Cuban flavors that melt in your mouth.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Cuban food and flavors here."

"The owner makes you feel like family at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Portion sizes are generous, so come hungry.

2

Prices are reasonable compared to other Cuban restaurants.

3

Ask for sauces on the side to avoid overpowering flavors.

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Space feels like family home with a chill atmosphere and quiet energy even at busy times. Walls display historical decor that invites reading while waiting. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed option to the clean, comfortable interior.

Shawarma stands out with its authentic Middle Eastern flavors. The food is consistently fresh and delicious, showing clear expertise in traditional recipes.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and amazing."

"The Lunch Spot portions are so generous, you'll have leftovers."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges a 4% fee for non-cash orders.

2

The meat served is Halal.

3

Expect large portions; one plate can serve two people.

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Tiny, old school Korean BBQ spot offers a fun and festive atmosphere with a friendly, welcoming environment. Free games and complimentary ice cream add to the unique dining experience. The place plays 80's music and provides mini fans to keep guests cool.

Authentic Korean BBQ features quick-cooking meat paired with plentiful side dishes like kimchi, soybean paste soup, and fish cake. These sides add to the genuine Korean dining experience.

Lunch offers fresh specials that provide great value. Seating happens quickly around 1pm, making it a convenient spot for a family meal.

People are saying

"The authentic Korean BBQ flavors, especially the marinated meats and banchan, are amazing."

"This lunch spot has incredible, fresh meat and tasty sides."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for parties of 7 or more.

2

The restaurant has ample parking available for guests.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly and maintains a clean environment.

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Mexican restaurant with colorful murals and traditional folk art creates a cool vibe inside and on the dog-friendly patio. Atmosphere suits both intimate dinners and lively gatherings, with shaded outdoor seating featuring misters. Strong, tasty margaritas and standout dishes like guacamole and carne asada tacos complement the inviting setting.

Food offers delicious authentic Mexican flavors with fresh ingredients. Dishes consistently deliver a genuine taste true to traditional recipes.

Lunch offers a relaxed atmosphere with enjoyable food and drinks. The spot works well for casual midday meals and family gatherings.

People are saying

"The chicken flautas at this Lunch Spot are so tasty."

"I found the Mexican food here to be really delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using nearby lots.

2

Rice and beans cost an extra $5 with entrees, unlike many other places.

3

Expect large portion sizes that provide good value for the price.

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Space feels like a cozy, colorful spot with spice aromas and tasteful decor that evoke Hyderabad. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed to lively during events like IPL matches. Seating is simple, with a cafeteria-style layout and accommodations like high chairs for kids.

Authentic Hyderabadi cuisine shines with genuine Indian spices and a strong Indian aroma. The flavors match what you find in India, offering a fresh and true taste of the region.

Lunch options include a lunch special and a spicy gobi Manchurian appetizer. The spot suits a quick meal with enjoyable flavors.

People are saying

"I found the chicken biriyani here to be very authentic."

"This Lunch Spot has surprisingly good food, especially the biryani."

Good to know

1

The Chicken Pulao is a weekend special dish.

2

Expect small portion sizes for the prices.

3

Reservations are recommended for busy weekend nights.

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Whimsical decor resembling a steel worker's kitchen sets a unique scene with MTV classic videos playing on a big screen, creating a cool vibe. Energy feels fantastic and the atmosphere is generally good. Thoughtful touches like handwritten notes on to-go boxes add a personal feel to the experience.

Cheesesteaks use authentic Philly ingredients like whiz and ribeye, not sirloin. The rolls and sandwiches taste like they come straight from Philadelphia.

Lunch service moves quickly with about a 10-minute wait during rush hours. Regular orders include Yo' Cheesesteak, a common choice for client lunches.

People are saying

"I found the cheesesteaks to be very authentic."

"I found the cheesesteaks here to be great."

Good to know

1

Yo' Cheesesteak is closed for three days out of the week.

2

The portions are large, making the price worth it.

3

A teachers discount is available for educators.

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Small, family-run Italian deli with cozy atmosphere and authentic European vibe. Casual setting with limited seating, often busy with a friendly, welcoming energy. Offers high-quality Italian goods and sandwiches that draw a steady crowd.

Offers a wide range of authentic Italian deli foods and ingredients. Sandwiches and other items reflect true Italian flavors and traditional preparation.

Lunch features meatball subs and sandwiches with a nostalgic vibe. Seating inside the deli allows for a casual, quick meal experience.

People are saying

"I found the deli to be as authentic Italian as it gets."

"I devoured the homemade lasagna at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited, so you might want to be ready to eat in your car.

2

Expect a wait time during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

I found parking to be difficult because of how busy the place gets.

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Space features รผber-pink walls and mid-century modern style creating a cozy, chic vibe with upbeat house music. Small size includes VIP lounge and private rooms for intimate events or work. Outdoor seating offers a spot for people watching and chatting.

Matcha offerings lean toward an untraditional American style rather than authentic Japanese. Some find it authentic, but it differs from traditional Japanese matcha experiences.

Offers a wide variety of light lunch options alongside fresh macaroons and sweets. Suitable for a quick snack or a relaxed lunch with family between class or work.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot has such a cozy and inviting vibe."

"I found their matcha offerings to be very authentic and high quality."

Good to know

1

Parking in Old Town Temecula isnโ€™t the easiest.

2

You can sign up for a monthly membership that includes 4 free drinks.

3

Expect to pay around $23 for two matcha drinks.

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Full-sized bar with live DJ sets a loud, upbeat atmosphere that energizes the space. Clean, organized dining areas feature attractive decor and comfy bar seating. Authentic Mexican dishes accompany a wide variety of margaritas, creating a vibrant dining experience.

Hand-made tortillas and dishes deliver authentic Mexican flavors. The food tastes genuine and the environment stays clean and authentic.

Lunch offers great food with lunch specials that stand out. Meals serve well for a midday break.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's burritos are huge and delicious."

"I found the Mexican food here to be so authentic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos all day.

3

Karaoke night is every Wednesday starting at 8pm with no cover charge.

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Mediterranean restaurant with new formal decor and a pleasant, quiet atmosphere suited for relaxed dining. The dining room feels clean and welcoming, creating a friendly vibe. Known for high-quality kabobs and gyro plates, it offers authentic flavors in a calm setting.

Food shows a mix of authentic and fresh flavors, but some dishes like the beef shawarma and tzatziki sauce do not match traditional profiles. Overall, authenticity varies across the menu.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's food is so delicious and flavorful."

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

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes for dine-in at 8:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Kabob House does not include rice with their platters.

3

Expect smaller portion sizes compared to typical prices.

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Ramen restaurant offers a cool, relaxed atmosphere with dim lighting and a popular local vibe. The menu includes authentic Japanese ingredients with standout ramen dishes praised for flavor and quality. Seating shows some wear, but the overall space feels comfortable and clean.

Chefs use authentic Japanese ingredients and take care with authentic rolls. Ramen here is good but not quite at the level of authentic Japanese ramen.

Lunch specials come at an affordable price with tasty options. The spot stays quiet even during peak lunch hour with few diners inside.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be pretty good for American ramen."

"The Lunch Spot here has really affordable and tasty options."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky on Friday nights, but some spots are available.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.

3

Happy hour deals are available with discounted appetizers and drinks.

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