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Best of Aurora

Desserts and lunch spots

Ending a midday break with something sweet makes the transition back to the rest of the day feel a little lighter.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
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Updated May 2026
01
Golden Banh Mi image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop repurposes old subway with bright colorful art and live plants throughout. Atmosphere feels welcoming and kind with chill hop and jazz music setting a relaxed vibe. Staff offer friendly service and unique touches like free Thai tea and fresh bread samples.

Strawberry desserts stand out with the Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu and a strawberry crepe cake featuring thin sponge layers, delicate crepes, and vanilla drizzle. Free desserts also impress with their quality.

Lunch features delicious banh mi with a mix of old-school flavors and modern twists. Options suit both dine-in and takeout, with service open through lunch and early dinner.

People are saying

"I ate the best sandwich I have ever had."

"This lunch spot has unbelievably delicious banh mi sandwiches."

"You have to try the matcha tiramisu for dessert."

Good to know

1

They make their bread in house daily.

2

The menu is small but they know how to do it right.

3

The variety of options includes specialty banh mi.

02
L Cafe & Food Court image 1
Armenian restaurant

Stylish, cozy space blends modern design with a family-owned vibe. Atmosphere feels welcoming and elegant, inviting guests to linger. Regulars enjoy fresh Mediterranean flavors in a clean, well-kept setting.

Desserts here are light, flaky, and perfectly balanced in sweetness. Quality ingredients make the flavors fresh and the offerings include special treats like the Napoleon.

No line appears during midday lunch, making it easy to get food quickly. Lunch catering options exist and can serve a team efficiently.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very delicious and well-cooked."

"The desserts here are light, flaky, and delightfully sweet."

"The kids chicken tenders at this Lunch Spot are cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging to find nearby.

2

The restaurant has no line during midday lunch hours.

3

Beverages do not have price tags; ask for prices before ordering.

03
Garden + Grain Seasonal Kitchen image 1

Space combines modern architecture with comfortable seating and nice lighting to create a gorgeous, inviting atmosphere. Live music adds energy without overwhelming the relaxing vibe. Cocktails and food stand out, with custom drinks and phenomenal dishes like pizza and salads enhancing the experience.

Decadent desserts come with homegrown honey and thoughtful touches like a dessert brought for a birthday. Staff help with dessert names and add a personal, sweet vibe to the experience.

Lunch offers healthy options and a quiet atmosphere. Staff handle special requests with patience and kindness, making it enjoyable even with small children.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the pizza."

"The lunch spot service was so warm, welcoming, and genuinely attentive."

"The pineapple dessert with mousse cake and gelato was fantastic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy weekends.

2

Expect a 10-minute wait if you don't have a reservation.

3

Self-parking is available and validated by the restaurant for free.

04
Il Forno di Tutti image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, intimate space with cozy decor and warm lighting creates a quiet, tranquil atmosphere. Live Italian music and authentic touches give a feeling of dining in an Italian home. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed option in a setting that feels far from its strip mall exterior.

Unique desserts combine cherry, grapefruit, and cookie flavors. Portions keep meals balanced without feeling stuffed.

People are saying

"You can tell the homemade Italian pasta is fresh and flavorful."

"The panna cotta dessert is light, smooth, and vanilla-kissed."

"The meatball sandwich at this Lunch Spot is terrific."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has ample parking available for guests.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

3

The menu features many vegetarian options for diverse dietary needs.

05
The Fortunate Prospector image 1

Cozy English pub vibe with dark wood decor and a traditional British atmosphere creates a warm, inviting space. Creative cocktails and Guinness on tap complement classic dishes like fish and chips and cottage pie. The setting suits lively gatherings and casual dining with a fun, relaxed energy.

Sticky toffee pudding stands out as a must-try dessert here. It offers a rich, sweet finish that many choose to save room for.

Staff ensures a wonderful lunch experience even with little ones around. The spot handles grumpy, hungry toddlers smoothly while serving satisfying meals.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and the service is super friendly."

"Our server Josh made our lunch experience great and fun."

"You have to try the sticky toffee pudding for dessert."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cashless; only credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Parking is available but incurs an additional fee.

06
Orejano Restaurant image 1

Bright, modern space blends indoor seating with an outdoor patio featuring string lights and umbrellas. Atmosphere feels like a family gathering with a local Latin vibe, balancing privacy and social energy. Multiple TVs show sports games, creating a lively yet welcoming environment.

Desserts feature chajá cake with peaches, dulce de leche, and meringue along with a variety of empanadas. Service includes occasional free dessert offerings.

Lunch feels like eating at home with friends and family. The patio offers a relaxed spot to enjoy meals, encouraging repeat visits.

People are saying

"I found the empanadas here to be the best and most fresh I'd ever had."

"The desserts here are delicious, especially the chajá cake."

"The empanadas at this Lunch Spot were all so delicious."

Good to know

1

You need to order in person instead of online if you have food allergies.

2

There is plenty of parking available.

3

We were able to have our dog on the patio.

07
Cuba Bakery & Café image 1
Cuban restaurant

Café style space with authentic Cuban decor and plenty of seating offers a warm, lively atmosphere filled with great music. The environment feels like stepping into a home with pleasant aromas and a clean, inviting setting. Meals are served counter style, showcasing authentic Cuban comfort food and pastries.

Desserts and bakery items come fresh daily with exquisite flavors. Pairing coffee with the tuxedo dessert and bing bong offers a heavenly finish.

Lunch features a beef rib plate with white rice topped in rib sauce, black beans, and fried plantains. Meals come with a meat, rice, and side combo that satisfies well.

People are saying

"The coffee here is strong and tastes just like Miami."

"This lunch spot's Cuban sandwich was delicious and packed with meat."

"The desserts here looked stunning and awesome."

Good to know

1

Free flan is offered on Tuesdays.

2

Expect a wait time of about 20 minutes for sandwiches.

3

Oxtails are available on Wednesdays.

08
Paris Banh Mi Cafe Bakery Aurora image 1

Counter service spot with backlit menus and comfortable seating offers a cozy, quaint atmosphere with occasional lively moments. K-Pop music videos play on TV, adding a unique cultural touch. Known for fresh in-house French bread and reasonably priced bánh mì sandwiches that draw a steady crowd.

Desserts feature a great selection including a pineapple coconut Princess that stands out. They pair well with boba drinks and offer a sweet finish to the menu.

Offers tasty and affordable bánh mì sandwiches often cut in half for lunch. Serves as a satisfying spot for a quick lunch or snack with consistent quality.

People are saying

"These Banh Mi sandwiches are outstanding and among the best I've had."

"You've got to try the sandwiches at this Lunch Spot; they're some of the best I've ever had."

"I found the desserts here to be extremely delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect limited menu options during late afternoons as items often sell out.

2

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible near the cafe.

3

Most sandwich prices range from $7 to $10, making them affordable.

09
Dillon's Dumpling House image 1

Cozy, modern space with calm, relaxing atmosphere and coffee shop vibes. Seating includes bar options when tables fill up, though the space can feel a bit cramped during busy times. Bright, clean interior supports quiet conversation and a pleasant dining experience.

Custard dessert dumplings feature super thick custard inside a bouncy steamed bun with a light sweetness. Sesame balls also appear as a popular dessert option.

Food takes some time to prepare during the lunch rush. It serves as a reliable option for a quick lunch when other spots are closed.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here has unique dumplings packed with flavor."

"This lunch spot's handmade dumplings are fresh and made to order."

"You have to try the custard dessert dumplings."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of roughly 25 minutes from ordering to receiving food.

2

They charge extra for white rice with your meal.

3

Bring cash as they do not accept credit cards.

10
Banh & Butter Bakery Cafe image 1

Bakery cafe combines local artwork and plants for sale with a glassed-in pastry kitchen visible to guests. Atmosphere feels trendy and comfortable, with a family vibe and sunny, relaxing decor. Space fills up quickly, attracting those who appreciate art, fresh pastries, and a cozy setting.

Unique pastries blend French techniques with Vietnamese twists and American desserts. The Ube Cream Puff stands out with light sweetness and strong ube flavor.

Offers a unique lunch experience with options like ume foam iced coffee and apple pastry. Serves well for both breakfast and lunch with a friendly atmosphere for groups.

People are saying

"The pork lemongrass sandwich had outstanding flavor."

"I'd come back just for their beautifully crafted, delicious desserts."

"The banh mi sandwiches here are flavorful with perfect bread."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited, so be prepared for a wait during busy hours.

2

The bakery offers whole cakes suitable for special occasions.

3

Prices are reasonable and support local craftsmanship.

11
Aroma do Brazil image 1
Brazilian restaurant

Cozy space with authentic Brazilian decor and family-friendly atmosphere invites easy conversation amid lively Brazilian music. Friendly staff enhance the warm, welcoming vibe. Strong, refreshing caipirinhas complement the flavorful Brazilian dishes.

Desserts come with true Brazilian passion and offer a fantastic variety. Sampling all options turns dessert into a spectacle.

Lunch offers a delicious and quick option with a satisfying variety. The spot works well for both casual stops and more relaxed meals.

People are saying

"The Brazilian lemonade here is so good and refreshing."

"I enjoyed the authentic experience from entree to dessert and drinks."

"The food at this lunch spot was incredible."

Good to know

1

The weekend buffet is available only on Saturday and Sunday nights; reservations are recommended.

2

Mid-week feijoada starts on Wednesdays, offering a unique dining experience.

3

The restaurant serves all-you-can-eat meats during weekend dinner hours.

12
Piramides Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with beautiful decor featuring blue walls and Mexican table tops creates a welcoming atmosphere that feels lively and inviting. The space includes an awesome patio area and offers Wi-Fi. Large, well-made margaritas complement a menu praised for dishes like birria tacos and queso fundido.

Guava pie stands out as a recommended dessert. Flan also appears on the menu but was not sampled due to fullness.

Quiet atmosphere suits a late lunch or casual midday meal. Offers a relaxed setting for drinks and lunch with friends.

People are saying

"The food here is always great and packed with authentic flavors."

"The tacos at this Lunch Spot are the best I've ever had."

"I found the desserts here tasty and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a great variety of dishes to try.

2

The restaurant and bathrooms are clean and welcoming.

3

The portions are very generous; many take food home.

13
King Buffet image 1
Buffet restaurant

Buffet restaurant offers a spacious, modern interior with bright lighting and clean, well-organized seating. Energy stays lively with stations like Mongolian BBQ and sushi bars where food is prepared fresh in view. The atmosphere feels inviting and comfortable, blending Chinese cultural decor with a contemporary vibe.

Desserts include a wide variety of options with fresh and flavorful choices. Ice cream and fruit add to the large selection alongside other dishes.

Weekday lunches cost $15.99 and offer great value with a variety of options. Portions are plentiful and the service is good.

People are saying

"This buffet has a great variety of Asian dishes."

"This lunch spot has a huge, diverse selection of food."

"I wish they had more steamed or baked barbecue pork buns."

Good to know

1

Lunch costs $16 per adult, while dinner is $21.

2

Expect a 20-minute wait on busy days like Valentine's Day.

3

The buffet has two rooms; reserve the first room for easier access.

14
Black Bear Diner Aurora image 1
American restaurant

Cabin-style restaurant with homey-rustic decor featuring bear-themed accents and walls adorned with travel items and old photos. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, clean and comfortable with spaced-out tables. Noise level can rise during busy times, but overall vibe is pleasant and inviting.

Desserts include bread pudding and other options that come highly recommended. Staff often go above and beyond when packaging desserts to go.

Lunch features friendly, accommodating service that supports families and seniors well. Meals come with great quality and a welcoming atmosphere for group gatherings.

People are saying

"The food here is always delicious and satisfying."

"Our server was so friendly and attentive at this lunch spot."

"The desserts here are outstanding, especially when you get them to go."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat fish fry on Fridays.

2

Expect a 10-minute wait for a table during peak hours.

3

Parking is available in front and at the back of the building.

15
Paris Baguette image 1

Korean bakery with an Asian Parisian style offers authentic European pastries that are light and not overly sweet. Spacious dining area includes indoor and outdoor seating with a calm, inviting atmosphere. Self-service layout features visually appealing displays and a tidy environment.

Desserts offer freshness and rich flavors that stand out. They suit quick treats and group enjoyment alike.

Lunch features baguette options and pre-made sandwiches. Warming up a curry croquette makes for a simple, fairly priced meal.

People are saying

"I found the pastries here to be fresh, flaky, and full of flavor."

"The desserts here are light, not too sweet, and absolutely delicious."

"This lunch spot has a delicious variety of pastries and baguettes."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult during busy times due to the location's proximity to Costco.

2

There is a large parking lot in the back, but front spaces are often reserved.

3

Corporate policy states no refunds on food items, so choose carefully.

16
Nana's Dim Sum & Dumplings image 1

Restaurant offers an open, calm layout with stunning decor and large booths for families. Atmosphere feels vibe-y and cool, suitable for groups and casual outings. Full bar features unique cocktails and affordable happy hour specials.

Mango and strawberry rice dessert stands out as a sweet option kids enjoy. Staff handle dessert timing well, even when the kitchen is busy, ensuring smooth service.

Tables are easy to find during lunch, even on Saturdays. The spot lacks a dedicated lunch menu, which shapes the ordering experience.

People are saying

"The dumplings here have a perfect skin and dough."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious."

"I thought the soup dumplings were the best bite."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 3pm on weekends and 4:30pm on weekdays.

2

The happy hour ends at 6pm, offering great value on drinks and plates.

3

Parking is available in a shared lot, but costs after 6 PM.

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