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Best of Tustin

Authentic lunch spots

A midday meal that offers a real taste of tradition rather than the usual corporate lunch fare.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Shufeng Kitchen蜀风小厨 image 1
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Compact space with cozy atmosphere and inviting décor filled with the aroma of Sichuan spices. The energy is casual and welcoming, attracting those who appreciate authentic Sichuan cuisine with generous portions and bold flavors.

Dishes showcase authentic Chengdu flavor with fresh ingredients and bold spices. The Sichuan cold mung bean jelly stands out for its genuine taste rarely found elsewhere in the U.S.

Offers a great lunch time option with a perfect lunch place vibe.

People are saying

"The soup here is spicy, numbing, and fragrant."

"This authentic tofu pudding is silky, delicate, and melts in your mouth."

"I loved the extra bullfrog at this Lunch Spot; it was the right amount for two."

Good to know

1

The restaurant specializes in authentic Sichuan cuisine with a focus on braised dishes.

2

Portions are large and prices are very affordable, often under $10 per dish.

3

Reservations are not required, but arriving early is recommended due to limited seating.

02
Kuramoto image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, intimate space with only bar seating creates a cozy and exclusive atmosphere. Interior blends modern design with natural wood and stone elements, offering a minimal and classy vibe. Sushi quality is exceptionally fresh and creative, attracting those seeking authentic Japanese cuisine.

An intimate setting serves authentic omakase Japanese cuisine that feels like being in Japan. The chef's skill set delivers creative and high-quality dishes true to traditional flavors.

Lunch features an Omakase service that offers great value and is fairly priced. Reservations are common for business lunches.

People are saying

"The sushi here is high quality and beautifully presented."

"The lunch omakase here is a great value."

"I found the Japanese cuisine here to be creative and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to hold your seat at Kuramoto.

2

Lunch omakase is very reasonably priced, making it a great value.

3

Getting a seat without a reservation is very risky.

03
TANAKAYA Japanese Soba Restaurant image 1

Japanese restaurant offers authentic soba noodles made in-house with delicate preparation and top-notch quality. Atmosphere is cozy and quiet, suitable for conversation but with plain decor and no background music. The place often has long wait times due to popularity and fresh noodle preparation.

Fresh, authentic soba noodles stand out here. The zaru soba offers a genuine taste true to traditional Japanese style.

Lunch draws a crowd with a 15-minute wait for a table. The lunch combos come in huge portions.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the soba, is fresh and delicious."

"This lunch spot's soba is the best I've had."

"I found the soba noodles here to be super authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of up to 40 minutes during dinner hours.

2

Arrive early to avoid long lines, especially on busy days.

3

Parking is readily available near the restaurant.

04
Sutha Thai Kitchen image 1
Thai restaurant

Small mom-and-pop Thai restaurant with a cozy dine-in space and few tables that fill up quickly. Atmosphere feels hole-in-the-wall and casual, with outdoor seating available. Regulars come for authentic flavors and great value lunch specials, while take-out orders keep the pace lively.

Cuisine features authentic Thai flavors with dishes that stay true to traditional recipes. The food offers a delicious and genuine taste of Thailand.

Lunch offers a solid value with $10 specials featuring about five or six choices. Popular dishes include drunken noodle and Lunch Basil Chicken.

People are saying

"I found Sutha Thai Kitchen served the best Thai food in Tustin."

"I enjoyed the authentic Thai food."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was real quick."

Good to know

1

They offer a $10 lunch special with several choices.

2

Take-out is available for busy weeknights.

3

Outdoor seating options are available for dining.

05
Thai Chaiyo Tustin image 1
Thai restaurant

Small dining space with about eight tables creates a cozy, homey atmosphere that feels like an extension of a family home. Walls display homemade art and each table features a real rose, enhancing a calm and welcoming vibe. Friendly environment and authentic Thai touches make it a casual spot with a mom-and-pop feel.

Dishes show clear care and craft with layers of authentic Thai flavors. Portions come large and the food tastes well made and authentic.

Lunch specials come under $15 and offer solid value with flavorful dishes. The spot serves great lunch deals that satisfy well.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's yellow curry is the best I've ever tasted."

"The Thai flavors here are so authentic and well made."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy to find as the restaurant is located in a strip mall.

2

The restaurant offers a solid lunch special for under $15.

3

There is no wait at 6 pm, making it a convenient time to visit.

06
EverSpring Modern Chinese image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern Chinese restaurant combines clean, sleek interior with robot servers that deliver food, creating a futuristic dining experience. The atmosphere feels inviting and vibrant, with both indoor and outdoor seating options. Self-ordering kiosks add to the tech-forward setup, distinguishing it from typical Chinese eateries.

Authentic flavors stand out across a wide variety of dishes, including sesame ball and crispy beef. The food tastes true to traditional Chinese cuisine with only slight tweaks in some items.

Lunch arrives very fast and tastes good. Offers a buy one get one half off lunch special, making it a perfect spot for quick work lunches after shopping.

People are saying

"This food is phenomenal, especially the crispy beef."

"This lunch spot has delicious food with incredibly generous portions."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a lunch special: buy one get one half off.

2

Food ordering is similar to fast food; scan a QR code to order.

3

The restaurant is clean and well-maintained.

07
THAI FAVORITE CUISINE image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, casual Thai restaurant with a cozy, inviting atmosphere and bright, clean interior after renovation. The space feels comfortable and spacious, with a private room for large parties. Aromas of authentic Thai cooking fill the air, creating a vibe reminiscent of a night market.

Smoky wok-char flavor defines the authentic Thai noodle dishes here. Stir-fried eggplant tastes like a genuine Chinese stir-fry with oyster sauce, while pad see ew and Tom yum soup deliver classic Thai flavors. The choo chee salmon curry is creamy with perfectly cooked salmon but less traditional in taste.

Lunch specials offer good value and include a variety of items. The spot is usually not crowded on Saturdays, making it easy to get a quick meal.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and consistently great."

"The authentic Thai food here is so flavorful and fresh."

"This lunch spot has authentic Thai food, especially the fried pork belly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and seating is usually available immediately.

2

The restaurant offers a lunch special that includes a variety of items at a good price.

3

Parking is easy, but the lot is small and can fill up quickly.

08
Seven Grams image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern Chinese restaurant with bright, clean interior and tight seating arrangements creates a lively, sometimes loud atmosphere. Trendy music and cultural decor add to the energetic vibe. Known for authentic, highly praised dumplings and noodles.

Mid-coastal Chinese dishes like Xiaolongbao and pig-ear salad offer an authentic taste. The food feels more authentic and elevated than typical spots, though the decor and service have an international vibe.

Quick and efficient service stands out during weekday lunch. The spot consistently delivers a satisfying lunch experience with reliable timing.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is authentic and elevated, with bold, clean flavors."

"I found the food here to be truly authentic Chinese."

"The dumplings and XLB at this Lunch Spot are excellent."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait up to 30 minutes during peak hours on weekends.

2

Parking is convenient with plenty of spaces available in front.

3

Prices are reasonable, averaging around $14 per person.

09
MASALA BAE image 1
Indian restaurant

Small dining space offers a chic and lively setting with loud background music that creates a fun and energetic atmosphere. The place has a warm, family-friendly vibe enhanced by attentive staff who engage with children. Crowded seating adds to the bustling feel during busy times.

Food delivers authentic Indian flavors with dishes like Hyderabadi biryani that have a perfect spice kick. Cooking stays true to tradition, creating a refreshingly genuine taste experience.

Lunch features a buffet with garlic naan, mango lassi, and chai tea. It suits a Sunday meal and offers a variety of Indian dishes.

People are saying

"I thought the buffet was out of this world."

"The lunch buffet here was a great value."

"I found the Indian food here to be truly authentic."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat lunch buffet is available Tuesday to Thursday from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM.

2

The buffet stops serving at 2:15 PM, despite being advertised until 3:00 PM.

3

Kids under 5 years old eat free at the buffet.

10
India Kitchen Tustin, CA image 1
Indian restaurant

Large dining room features colorful tablecloths and Nepalese music, creating a friendly atmosphere with a slow pace. The interior feels old-fashioned and plain, contrasting with a sketchy exterior. Quiet environment suits those seeking a calm meal.

Flavors stay authentic, rich, and perfectly balanced across all dishes. The lunch buffet offers a fresh and tasty experience with consistent quality and great options.

Lunch features a authentic buffet with consistent quality on weekdays. The tandoori chicken stands out as a highlight during the lunch buffet.

People are saying

"I thought the buffet was delicious with lots of options."

"The flavors here are authentic, rich, and perfectly balanced."

"I loved the lunch buffet here; it was amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the buffet to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait during peak lunch hours on weekends.

3

The buffet offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.

11
India Gate Restaurant image 1
Indian restaurant

Spacious Indian restaurant with cozy ambiance and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Indian movies and music videos play on TVs, adding to the vibe. Lunch buffet offers a wide selection of curries at reasonable prices.

Food delivers authentic Indian flavors with fresh ingredients and top-notch hospitality.

Lunch features a buffet of Indian food available from 11am to 3pm. Pricing ranges from $15.99 to $17.99, offering a great value for the quality and variety.

People are saying

"The buffet's goat curry and chicken dishes were delicious."

"This lunch spot has a delicious and affordable buffet with endless naan."

"The food here is so flavorful and perfectly spiced."

Good to know

1

The lunch buffet is available from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM daily.

2

The lunch buffet costs $15.99 per person, with drinks charged separately.

3

Expect large portions at the buffet, offering a variety of dishes.

12
Chiang Rai - Tustin image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, cozy space filled with authentic Northern Thai vibes and vibrant, playful decor that transports diners to Thailand. Atmosphere feels fun and cheerful despite tight seating and crowding. Offers a pleasant visual experience with stylish, creative decorations.

Menu offers a huge selection of authentic Thai dishes with vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. KHAOSOI and other dishes deliver incredible, true-to-origin tastes.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and delicious, especially the som tum and khao soi."

"The authentic Thai food here has really good flavor."

"This Lunch Spot's papaya salad and softshell crab curry are unique and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

2

Expect longer wait times on weekends; plan accordingly.

3

Prices are on the higher side, reflecting the quality of ingredients.

13
Christakis Greek Cuisine image 1
Greek restaurant

Outdoor patio with string lights and a Greek statue creates a cozy, authentic tavern feel. Live guitar music plays softly, adding a relaxing atmosphere without overpowering conversation. The space welcomes guests for business lunches and casual dining alike.

Food features authentic Greek flavors with wines and cheeses that match traditional tastes. Dishes consistently deliver excellent and genuine Greek cuisine.

Cozy, welcoming atmosphere suits business lunches well. Lamb dishes appear on the lunch menu, offering a satisfying, delicious option.

People are saying

"The Greek food here, especially the lamb souvlaki, is tender and flavorful."

"This lunch spot's lamb is melt-in-your-mouth good."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner service, especially on weekends.

2

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

3

The menu includes unique items like lamb, which is available at lunch.

14
Taco Mesita image 1
Taco restaurant

Outdoor seating with ample shade and picnic tables creates a relaxed vibe enhanced by background music and palm trees. Large windows offer a panoramic kitchen view, adding a personal touch to the dining experience. Drive-thru option is available but has a challenging layout.

Fast service pairs with authentic Mexican food made from high-quality ingredients. Dishes like bean and cheese burritos, masa quesadillas, and tacos offer a home-cooked feel with a modern edge.

Fast service makes it a solid choice for a quick lunch break. The spot offers breakfast burritos that work well for casual team meals.

People are saying

"I drove from LA just for their bean and cheese burritos."

"The food here is super authentic with a modern edge."

"The breakfast burrito with jalapeno salsa is a 10/10."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $2 tacos and special pricing.

2

Happy hour features affordable margaritas and appetizers.

3

There is a discount for tacos after 9:00 pm.

15
CENTRO image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small dining space offers a cozy, rustic vibe with an open-air oven visible in the front area. Atmosphere feels like a warm Italian spot with close quarters and inviting decor. The place draws a crowd that appreciates authentic Neapolitan pizza paired with in-house brewed beers.

Rustic Italian salads, sandwiches, and wood-fired pizzas feature a crispy, chewy crust and high-quality ingredients. Pizzas taste authentic and offer a genuine Italian flavor.

Lunch specials run Thursday to Sunday with great value and a lunch set deal. Service can be slow, with the first dish taking about 30 minutes to arrive, and the place closes right after lunch service.

People are saying

"This pizza is the best I've ever eaten."

"The pizzas here are authentic with a delicious, crispy, chewy crust."

"The lunch special offers a great deal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to secure a table.

2

Parking can be challenging; use the rear lot for easier access.

3

Lunch specials from Thursday to Sunday offer great value.

16
Curry Do image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant with cozy wooden design and casual, relaxed atmosphere. Seating includes tables and counters, filling up quickly during peak times. Music plays at a moderate level, creating a pleasant vibe suitable for conversation.

Curry features a perfect balance of spice and flavor with a rich, aromatic sauce that tastes fresh and authentic. The music adds a somewhat cheesy vibe that feels genuinely authentic.

Lunch specials include a large plate of Curry Pork Belly, rice, and salad for $13.50. It serves as a quick lunch option with a good value for the price.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the crispy katsu."

"The authentic Japanese curry here has the perfect balance of spice and flavor."

"This Lunch Spot's food tasted delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs Monday-Friday from 3-7 pm.

2

Kids under 12 eat free on weekdays with the purchase of an adult meal.

3

The portion sizes are generous and reasonably priced.

17
Mama Lu’s Dumpling House - Tustin image 1

Chinese restaurant inside a supermarket with spacious seating and high ceilings creates a relaxed, modern vibe. Warm lighting and enjoyable music set a chill atmosphere suitable for groups. Large round tables encourage gatherings, while a big TV adds casual energy.

Northern Chinese dishes deliver authentic, comforting flavors with fresh ingredients. Dumplings and noodles come in huge portions that capture the heart of Shanghai's taste.

Lunch specials run Monday to Friday before 5 PM for $15.98, including a main dish with rice and soup. A wide variety of dim sum and weekday specials make it a solid go-to lunch spot.

People are saying

"I loved the Chinese food, especially the huge bowls of wonton soup."

"The Crystal dumpling was chewy and stuffed with meat and shrimp."

"The handmade dumplings here are fresh, flavorful, and taste so authentic."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are served Monday to Friday before 5 PM for $15.98, including a main dish, rice, and soup.

2

Mama Lu’s Dumpling House has various specials available.

3

Lunch time happy hour offers great deals on select items.

18
Claro's Italian Markets image 1

Small Italian market with nostalgic atmosphere and authentic old-school vibe. Crowded and lively, especially on weekends, with classic deli setup and Italian aromas filling the air. Offers a wide variety of imported Italian specialties and fresh baked goods.

Offers a wide range of authentic Italian products including deli items, bakery goods, and imported groceries. The homemade marinara sauce stands out for its genuine, flavorful taste.

Lunch features Italian cuisine with meatballs and lunch plate specials that stand out.

People are saying

"Their sandwiches are authentic, made with lots of fresh, high-quality meats."

"This lunch spot has authentic, flavorful Italian items and fresh sandwiches."

"I found authentic Italian products and imported deli meats here."

Good to know

1

Ample parking is available behind the center for easy access.

2

Expect longer wait times during lunch hours; plan accordingly.

3

The market offers a wide selection of authentic Italian products.

19
Holé Molé image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with outdoor seating only and a cozy patio that creates a welcoming atmosphere. The space features 50's surf music adding to a relaxed, beach-like vibe. Budget-friendly prices attract those looking for an inexpensive meal in a casual setting.

Food delivers authentic Mexican flavors with a clear focus on traditional taste. Dishes consistently reflect genuine Mexican cuisine.

Crowds build up during lunch hour and after work. Three tacos usually fill you up, though four are often ordered. Taco Tuesday draws a steady crowd, making it a popular lunch spot after shopping.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos were the best I had anywhere."

"This lunch spot's tacos are a steal, costing under $2 each."

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

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $1.50 to $2.00 each, making it budget-friendly.

2

Expect limited seating during Taco Tuesday, so arrive early.

3

Parking can be hard to find, especially on Taco Tuesdays.

20
Anjappar Chettinad Indian Restaurant image 1

Spacious dining room with simple tasteful decor and a beautiful peacock mural sets a welcoming South Indian vibe. Atmosphere feels calm and homely, suited for family and friends with friendly staff. Energy stays relaxed, making it comfortable for casual meals and special occasions.

Bold, spicy Chicken Chettinad and kara kozhambu deliver a true South Indian flavor. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including authentic biriyani and Rasam, taste close to home.

Quick and friendly service stands out during lunch. The menu offers a variety of dishes worth trying.

People are saying

"I found the food bursting with authentic flavors and spices."

"The vegetarian thali had an array of thoughtfully curated, flavorful Indian dishes."

"The Lunch Spot here is delicious, with many tasty dishes."

Good to know

1

Expect higher prices than those listed on the in-house menu.

2

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Special dishes are available during Diwali for a limited time.

21
Ye Dang Korean Restaurant image 1
Korean restaurant

Spacious interior suits family gatherings with a low-key, basic setting. Atmosphere fills with local Koreans, especially older adults, creating an authentic vibe. Known for authentic Korean cuisine, generous portions, and traditional dishes beyond typical barbecue spots.

Dishes feature deep, authentic flavors with fresh ingredients. Portions come huge and prices stay very reasonable.

Lunch here draws regular crowds, especially on Tuesdays. The spot suits casual family gatherings and quick weekday meals.

People are saying

"The seafood here is full of authentic Korean flavor."

"This Korean food is so fresh and full of deep flavor."

"The food here is authentic Korean, full of deep flavor."

Good to know

1

Expect the restaurant to get busy after 12 pm, especially on weekends.

2

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

The restaurant has no bathroom facilities available for customers.

22
CHANG'AN image 1
Chinese restaurant

Restaurant offers an elegant traditional Chinese design with dim, quiet atmosphere that stays calm even when busy. Tableside duck carving adds a luxurious performance element to dining. Space suits formal events and business gatherings with an upscale yet relaxed vibe.

Peking Duck here offers authentic flavors with attention to detail and high-quality ingredients. The experience closely matches what you'd find in Beijing, making it stand out for authenticity.

Lunch specials offer a fresh menu with options suited for business lunches and special occasions. The spot works well for family gatherings like birthday or Father's Day lunches.

People are saying

"The Peking Duck here has the most perfectly crisp skin and tender meat."

"This lunch spot has a gorgeous, cozy, and classy atmosphere."

"I found the Peking Duck here to be the best in Orange County."

Good to know

1

Be ready for the duck carving performance to begin at 12:15pm.

2

The flame show lasts only 5-10 seconds, so have your phone ready.

3

Reservations are required for the VIP room with a minimum spend of $150 per person.

23
El Torito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with electric cantina atmosphere and live DJ music creates a lively vibe. Spacious layout supports buffet-style service, while air conditioning keeps the environment comfortable. Guests enjoy unique margarita flights and a standout salsa bar.

Sunday Brunch offers a variety of authentic Mexican dishes and desserts. The mariachi band and decor create a vibe like Mexico City, and the building's old style adds to the authentic atmosphere.

Lunch includes an all-you-can-eat soup and salad option and a buffet style with all the fixings. Large groups can be seated quickly with no wait time.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot has excellent food, truly the best I've had."

"The authentic Mexican dishes here taste so good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 9pm on weekdays.

2

During football season, happy hour specials extend past 9pm.

3

Taco Tuesday features special deals on tacos.

24
Fanous Mediterranean Grill image 1

Outdoor and indoor seating create a modern, inviting space with a breezy patio featuring warmers for comfort. Music ranges from live performances to a DJ mix that keeps energy lively but conversational. Hookahs offer smooth, flavorful options, complementing the friendly, welcoming vibe throughout.

Juicy, tender Afghan kabab bursts with authentic spice. Persian pizza and pastries offer delicious, authentic flavors served fresh.

Lunch hours see very few diners, often leaving the place nearly empty. The menu includes kabob plates and lamb chops, with prices that can add up quickly, especially when ordering extras like hookah and drinks.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The staff here are so attentive and friendly."

"The Lunch Spot food was delicious and the portions were good."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every Friday night, creating a lively atmosphere.

2

Special bands perform on weekends, enhancing the entertainment experience.

3

Seating can be limited, especially in the crowded patio area.

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