Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in West Covina

Authentic lunch spots

You want a lunch that stays true to its roots rather than catering to the masses.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Jeun Tong Tofu House image 1
Jeun Tong Tofu House image 2
Korean barbecue restaurant

Small family-owned Korean barbecue spot offers an authentic, homey feel with specialized tofu soup as the highlight. Quiet and cozy atmosphere suits solo diners and families, with seven side dishes that are regularly refilled. Parking can be challenging during busy times, but prices remain reasonable compared to larger places.

Food features authentic Korean tofu and traditional Korean tofu soup. The atmosphere feels homey and genuine with no modern twists.

Lunch combos include both a meat dish and a tofu soup of choice at a cheaper price than other spots. Plenty of tables are available even on busy days, making it easy to find a seat.

People are saying

"The Korean food, especially the tofu stew and banchan, tasted incredible."

"I thought their tofu soup was the best I had ever tasted."

"I loved their authentic Korean tofu soup."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a little tricky because this plaza is busy.

2

Credit cards are accepted at the restaurant.

3

They offered takeout service.

02
Sweet Veggie - West Covina image 1

Small space with about eight tables creates a cozy, family-style vibe despite being crowded and cramped during busy times. Buffet-style setup includes self-service ramen and hotpot stations alongside a variety of vegan desserts and drinks. Atmosphere stays clean and welcoming with a casual, low-key energy.

Super authentic Taiwanese vegan food captures the true flavors of Taiwan. The menu offers a rich variety that stays true to traditional tastes.

Cozy space feels like eating with family. Lunch buffet offers a variety of selections at $14.99.

People are saying

"I loved the vegetarian buffet with all the instant noodle options."

"The dairy-free food here is amazingly tasty and delicious."

"I loved the authentic Taiwanese vegan food; it tasted just like Taiwan."

Good to know

1

The price for all-you-can-eat vegetarian food is $13.99, with no tip required.

2

Parking is easy and convenient, with plenty of free spaces available.

3

Expect heavy customer flow during meal times, which may lead to longer wait times.

03
Canaan Chinese Cuisine image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small Chinese restaurant offers busy atmosphere with loud energy and outside eating space. Menu includes great vegan options and a bowl of chili oil on each table. Popular for excellent Taiwanese and Chinese dishes with reasonable lunch specials.

Dishes showcase authentic Cantonese-style flavors with a focus on real Chinese cuisine. Quality and taste reflect traditional home-cooked meals, making the higher prices feel justified.

Lunch specials include soup, rice, and choices like cashew chicken, honey walnut shrimp, Mongolian beef, and broccoli beef. Prices stay reasonable and containers for takeout come free.

People are saying

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

"The Chinese food here is amazing, fresh, and not greasy."

"The authentic Chinese food here has spot-on ingredients and deep flavor."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of about an hour during peak times.

2

Prices are higher than average but portions are decent.

3

They offer a variety of vegan options on the menu.

04
Tokyo Central West Covina image 1
Japanese grocery store

Japanese grocery store offers an open concept with cleanliness and organization throughout. A large dining area includes amenities like a microwave and water dispenser, supporting a relaxed eating experience. The store features fresh sushi and seafood, a deli with bento boxes, and a variety of Japanese snacks and products.

Authentic Japanese products fill the shelves, including fresh sushi and bento boxes made in-house. The store offers unique meats and food items not found elsewhere.

Large dining area serves many lunch goers comfortably. Fresh baked goods, hot bar, and a wide selection of pre-made bento boxes, nigiri, and rolls offer quick, healthier options than fast food.

People are saying

"I found this Japanese grocery store to have a wide variety of products."

"I loved the fresh sushi here; it was always delicious."

"This lunch spot has so many fresh hot food and sushi options."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends.

2

Expect high prices on organic produce, like $18 for strawberries.

3

A large variety of fresh sushi is available every weekday around 11am.

05
Misky Misky Cocina Peruana image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Open kitchen reveals fire from the grill, creating a lively cooking scene. Atmosphere varies from cozy and inviting to loud and cafeteria-like, with a family-friendly vibe. Sparse seating and an outside patio add to the straightforward, authentic setting.

Offers authentic Peruvian cooking with a focus on ceviche. Food tastes very authentic and the atmosphere matches the cuisine.

Lunch offers a special menu priced at $15 with a limited selection of plates. Service is attentive and friendly, making the lunch experience pleasant.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Peruvian food; it was so delicious."

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

"The Lunch Spot food here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Payment is required before seating.

2

The restaurant now requires customers to order before sitting down.

3

There is parking available at the restaurant.

06
Krua Thai Cuisine image 1
Thai restaurant

Bright dining area with big windows and traditional Thai art creates an inviting, bar-like atmosphere. Spacious seating and clean, updated interior support a comfortable experience. Known for authentic Thai flavors and generous portions, it draws a steady crowd for lunch and dinner.

Dishes deliver authentic heat and flavors true to Thai cuisine. The atmosphere and food combine for a real deal authentic experience.

Lunch specials include a Pad Prik with pork, a salad with peanut sauce instead of soup, and a veggie fried roll. Options come with fried rice instead of white rice, all priced around $14.99.

People are saying

"I thought the Pad Thai was excellent and delicious."

"I found the food here to be authentic Thai."

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

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available daily, offering great value.

2

The restaurant closes at 10 PM every night.

3

Take-out is popular, with many customers opting for it.

07
El Torito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Historic architecture and traditional Hispanic decor create a pleasant, upbeat atmosphere with live mariachi music enhancing the experience. The space offers room for large parties and features a cozy fireplace. Lighting is low, contributing to a dim ambiance, while the environment can feel warm and humid at times.

Food offers a very good and authentic taste, close to homemade quality. Service feels like family, with Pedro providing an authentic experience.

Buffet lunch offers an excellent variety in a clean, comfortable setting. Suitable for late lunches and special occasions like graduations.

People are saying

"Our waitress Maria T kept the mimosas coming during brunch."

"This Lunch Spot's server, Maria, was so attentive and friendly."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day from 3PM to 9PM in the cantina.

2

Taco Tuesday features special deals on tacos and margaritas.

3

A $1 kids meal is available on Wednesdays with the purchase of an adult entrรฉe.

08
El Pescador West Covina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Space divides into bar area with club-like energy and casual dining with beachy decor. Bar side features loud music and TVs for sports fans, creating a lively atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers a modern Spanish villa style with a relaxed vibe ideal for families.

Flavors stay true to authentic Mexican roots with dishes like marlin tacos standing out. The seafood and appetizers deliver a genuine taste of Mexico.

Offers a casual lunch setting ideal for dates or gatherings with friends and family. The bar area serves margaritas alongside happy hour specials from Monday to Friday.

People are saying

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

"I loved the shrimp tacos at this Lunch Spot."

"The food here is truly authentic Mexican."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 10 am to 3 pm and 3 pm to 7 pm, Monday to Friday, only in the bar area.

2

Reservations are needed for weekend dining to ensure a table.

3

Parking is ample and easy to find in the shopping center.

Discover more

West Covina, California

Area guide
Loading Map...