Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Boulder's best

Lunch spots

A lunch spot that respects your limited time off without making you feel like you are eating fast food.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Flatirons Terrace Senior Living image 1
Flatirons Terrace Senior Living image 2
Flatirons Terrace Senior Living image 3
View all

Scenic terraces offer unbeatable views and peaceful gardens. Cozy common areas foster a warm atmosphere with social activities. Lunch features a vast menu in a comfortable dining spot. Spacious homes balance independence and community.

Lunch offers a vast menu with many options. The dining area provides a comfortable spot to enjoy a delicious meal.

People are saying

"It felt so welcoming and comfortable, like home."

"The scenic views of the Flatirons were unbeatable."

"Vickie's knowledge made our tour so informative."

Good to know

1

The community has a good-sized storage area for residents, helpful for downsizing.

2

The location offers convenient parking and easy access to central Boulder.

3

Residents enjoy a variety of activities that promote social interaction and community engagement.

02
Pho 559 image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Spacious Vietnamese spot shines with open kitchen and authentic decor. Lunch is quick and easy, with a 15% discount from 1 to 4 PM. Cozy seating and large tables create a welcoming energy for groups and solo diners alike.

Offers a 15% discount during lunch from 1 to 4 PM. Lunch service is quick and convenient, making it easy to get in and out efficiently.

People are saying

"The pho broth here is so flavorful and rich."

"The tea here is delicious and the portions are generous."

"This lunch spot's pho has a perfect broth and plenty of meat."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a 15% discount during lunch from 1 to 4 PM.

2

Expect generous portions and reasonable prices on the menu.

3

The restaurant is casual, clean, and offers quick service.

03
Green Cube Taco Truck image 1

Generous portions of flavorful Mexican tacos shine here, especially the barbacoa lunch burrito and steak burrito. Located in an industrial area, it stays calm except for a busy lunch rush with construction workers. Prices stay reasonable and popular items like birria tacos sell out fast.

Barbacoa lunch burrito and steak burrito stand out as solid lunch choices. This spot works well as a go-to lunch option in the area.

People are saying

"These food trucks have the best barbacoa I've ever had."

"This burrito is seriously amazing, the best I've ever had."

"I found the food here incredible."

Good to know

1

Arriving earlier is recommended because they sell out quickly.

2

Avoid visiting at noon as they get busy with construction workers.

3

Their portions are generous, providing good value.

04
Curtis Park Deli - Boulder image 1

Sandwich shop offers phenomenal sandwiches with fresh bread and flavorful fillings. Quiet, low-key atmosphere makes it a great lunch spot. Free 2-hour parking nearby adds convenience despite some difficulty finding a spot.

Lunch features a trout and arugula sandwich among solid deli options. The spot stays quiet even during midweek lunch hours.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwich here was the best in Boulder."

"The food here is excellent, especially the fresh bread."

"I loved the veggie sandwich with pesto at this lunch spot."

Good to know

1

There is free 2-hour parking available in the garage behind the deli.

2

Parking can be challenging, but the garage offers convenient access.

3

The deli offers a variety of sandwich options, known for their generous sizes.

05
Lotus Moon : Vietnamese Plant-based Cuisine image 1

Vietnamese plant-based restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with simple decor and indoor-outdoor seating. Lunch features vegan pho and ham banh mi, making it a great vegan lunch spot with flavorful dishes and unique meat substitutes.

Lunch features vegan ham banh mi and vegan pho options. Vermicelli is also available for dinner but noted during lunch visits.

People are saying

"I loved the vegan Hainan chicken, it was crispy and tender."

"The banh mi here has amazing fillings and perfect bread."

"The vegan pho is an excellent lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Lotus Moon is the only fully vegan Vietnamese restaurant in Boulder.

2

The menu includes gluten-free and vegan options for diverse dietary needs.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

06
Scrooge Banh Mi Vietnamese Coffee and Matcha image 1

Small space with four counter seats offers a cozy, authentic vibe. Known for fresh banh mi with homemade bread and versatile chili crisp. Mason, the co-owner, crafts affordable lunches perfect for quick, satisfying meals near campus.

Mason, the co-owner, helps create delicious lunches that are both affordable and satisfying. This spot serves as a reliable choice for a quick, inexpensive meal near campus.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food, especially the banh mi, is amazing and flavorful."

"The bread here is freshly baked, with a perfect crusty and soft mix."

"This is my go-to lunch spot for affordable and delicious food."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a 'buy 2 get 1 free' deal for sandwiches.

2

It takes about 15 minutes to prepare a Banh Mi.

3

Seating is available, but outdoor seating is best during rush hour.

07
Cheba Hut "Toasted" Subs image 1

Sandwich shop with weed-themed decor offers Toasted Subs perfect for groups including adults with IDD. Chill vibe with a bar and outdoor patio makes it great for lunch or dinner. Televisions add to the relaxed atmosphere ideal for socializing.

Offers Toasted Subs that work well for groups including adults with IDD. Serves as a reliable spot for quick lunch or dinner with options suitable for catering.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were pretty good and tasty."

"The food here is always fresh, warm, and totally bomb."

"The sandwiches at this Lunch Spot were delicious and traveled well."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Catering orders can be placed easily through their website.

3

Vegan options are limited, primarily just the PB&J sandwich.

08
Los Dos Bros Taqueria food truck#2 image 1

Food truck serves authentic Mexican lunch with homemade tortillas and fresh salsas. Large burritos offer generous portions at fair prices. Relaxed vibe with chill people and vegan options make it a popular spot.

Food truck serves authentic Mexican lunch with a variety of options. Burritos are large enough for multiple meals and work well for a quick lunch-to-go.

People are saying

"I loved the tacos; they were so delicious and freshly made."

"The green salsa here is the best in town."

"You have to try the Pork Carnitas smothered burrito; it's ridiculous."

Good to know

1

The food truck is located at the Full Cycle parking lot (30th and Pearl).

2

Cash is required for payment, which makes tacos cheaper.

3

The food truck offers delicious vegan options.

09
Kabora Kebab image 1
Afghan restaurant

Mall food court offers spacious seating and a clean atmosphere with recent updates. Lunch options are solid and affordable, perfect for daily visits. A juice bar adds a fresh touch to the quiet, casual vibe.

Offers solid lunch options without high prices. Atmosphere matches typical counter service spots. Popular for daily lunch visits.

People are saying

"I found the gyros here to be fresh and delicious."

"The gyro sandwich was seasoned to perfection with tender meat."

"This lunch spot has delicious, authentic food like the combo plate."

Good to know

1

Kabora Kebab is located inside the Southwest Plaza food court.

2

The prices at Kabora Kebab are around $10.

3

Kabora Kebab is a no-frills counter service spot.

10
Qué Rico! image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, modern space offers fresh salsa bar and mountain views from stool seating. Quick lunches shine with excellent tacos and good value. Loud music creates a fun, family-friendly atmosphere perfect for a casual meal after hiking.

Quick lunches feature tacos lunch special with excellent tacos and good value. The spot suits grabbing a satisfying meal after activities like hiking.

People are saying

"I loved the tender birria and flavorful carnitas in this Mexican food."

"The vegetarian breakfast burrito was delicious and flavorful."

"The Lunch Spot menu has lots of great options."

Good to know

1

Qué Rico! moved to a new location across the parking lot from the previous spot.

2

Prices have doubled at the new location compared to the old one.

3

The menu displayed online may not reflect current prices.

11
Yotsuba Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Spacious sushi spot offers a semi-private dining area perfect for quiet lunches. Fresh, beautifully presented sushi shines in a relaxed atmosphere with minimal music. Family-owned charm adds an authentic vibe to every visit.

Lunch hours stay quiet here, making it a calm spot to eat. The atmosphere feels relaxed with few diners around.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The salmon lover roll is such a great value for the quantity and taste."

"This Lunch Spot's sushi and rolls are so delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Yotsuba Sushi allows BYOB since they do not have a liquor license yet.

2

Parking is easy and convenient near the restaurant.

3

The prices at Yotsuba Sushi are reasonable for the quality offered.

12
Cassiopeia: Cafe image 1

Cafe blends indoor bike parking and a women-focused bike shop with a cozy, light-filled space. Lunch offers healthy, fresh dishes anytime, perfect for a midday break. Friendly faces and a welcoming vibe make it great for coffee and community.

Lunch options come with healthy and delicious choices served at any time. The menu fits well for a midday meal with fresh, satisfying dishes.

People are saying

"This cafe has the best vibes and a welcoming atmosphere."

"It's a great work-friendly spot with plenty of tables and outlets."

"This lunch spot has unique and delicious options."

Good to know

1

The cafe closes at 3 PM, while the store remains open until 5 PM.

2

Waffle Wednesdays offer a two-dollar discount on waffles.

3

The cafe is dog-friendly and has a bike rack for multiple bikes.

13
Wing Shack Boulder image 1
Chicken wings restaurant

Enjoy generous portions of boneless wings at lunch with graceful service from a lively, clean spot. The vibe is laid-back but energetic with great music and kid-friendly touches like a library and wet towels.

Lunch here features generous portions, like 20 boneless wings that serve two and cost less than competitors. Staff such as Laura, Darrick, Elliot, and Megan provide graceful service even during busy lunch rushes.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good."

"The desserts here are amazing and great."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot are so attentive and make you feel like family."

Good to know

1

Wing Monday offers a special deal on wings every week.

2

A 20% service fee is automatically added to all bills.

3

The restaurant can accommodate large groups, making it suitable for gatherings.

14
Colorado Wilderness Rides And Guides image 1
Outdoor activity organiser

Outdoor adventures feature small group sizes and expert guides ensuring safety and fun. Lunch offers delicious meals with high-quality gear and snacks. Scenic mountain views enhance every activity, making it perfect for all skill levels.

Lunch and snacks are consistently delicious. The provided gear and food quality stay top notch throughout.

People are saying

"The guides made our adventure fun and memorable."

"I had a great time fly fishing with Tanner and learned a lot."

"The guide was superb and really great with our kids."

Good to know

1

The Amazing Race event is well organized and suitable for team building.

2

Activities include challenges that promote competition and collaboration.

3

The company provides all necessary equipment for outdoor activities.

15
Bento-ria image 1
Sushi restaurant

Family-run sushi spot offers affordable prices and generous portions in a friendly casual atmosphere. Popular for quick lunch near campus with a self-service system that adds convenience. Students return often for fast, quality meals.

Offers a quick lunch option with a location that suits both fast meals and relaxed dining. Lunch visits often happen multiple days in a row, showing consistent appeal.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is fresh, flavorful, and a great deal."

"You can't beat the quality for cheap, great sushi and poke."

"This lunch spot's Japanese cuisine is delectable and affordable."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; consider carpooling or using public transport.

2

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during busy lunch hours.

3

Prices are affordable, making it a popular choice among students.

16
La Choza image 1
Mexican restaurant

Red taco trailer shines with fresh handmade tortillas and spicy salsas. Quick service and affordable prices make it a top lunch spot. Outdoor seating in an industrial complex offers a cool vibe for enjoying crispy tacos and large breakfast burritos.

Food truck serves breakfast and lunch burritos that draw repeat visits. Lunch options come with quick service and casual vibe.

People are saying

"These street tacos are fantastic, with flavorful meat and fresh onions."

"I found the breakfast burrito here to be amazing."

"The Lunch Spot's taco meat was tasty and crispy."

Good to know

1

The price of $5.30 for the breakfast burrito is very affordable.

2

Limited seating may lead to wait times during busy hours.

3

Located in an industrial complex with available parking.

17
Nana’s Dim Sum & Dumplings image 1

Small space with hand-painted mural and kitchen window shows fresh dumpling making. Cozy seating and traditional Chinese music create a warm vibe. Lunch shines with beef pancake roll and many tasty options.

Plenty of enticing options make lunch choices easy. The charming ambiance suits casual meals or celebrations. The beef pancake roll stands out as a lunch favorite.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings, is delicious."

"I found the dim sum here to be amazing and phenomenal."

"The soup dumplings here are plump, juicy, and a delightful burst."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and seating is limited, so arrive early.

2

Expect to pay around $14 for 6 dumplings, which some find overpriced.

3

The restaurant has a pre-calculated tip starting at 12%, which is lower than average.

18
Bova's Market and Grill image 1

Small deli offers a home-like atmosphere with friendly chatter. Known for steak and cheese sandwiches, it serves quick, fresh halal meals perfect for lunch. Late-night visits reveal a wide variety of snacks making it a reliable spot anytime.

Hot lunches and snacks come together with steak and cheese sandwiches as a common choice. Frequent visits show it serves well for a quick, satisfying lunch break.

People are saying

"I thought the Greek food here was fantastic, especially the gyro."

"The food here is always hot, fresh, and amazing."

"This lunch spot's lamb gyro is made with fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

Bova's Market and Grill offers Halal food along with groceries.

2

The late hours are great for late-night cravings, closing around 1:30-2 am.

3

The food is always ready in under 5 minutes, perfect for a quick meal.

19
Brasserie Ten Ten image 1
French restaurant

French bistro offers an upscale dining experience with candlelit tables and live music. Outdoor seating provides a lively atmosphere perfect for business lunches or social gatherings. Decor is classy, creating a comfortable yet vibrant space.

Offers an upscale dining experience suitable for business lunches and meetings. Serves lunch and brunch with a focus on a pleasant atmosphere for social or professional gatherings.

People are saying

"It's an elegant place with a lovely, charming atmosphere."

"I think the happy hour deals here are fantastic."

"The food here is first-class with fab flavors and generous portions."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers affordable bites like fish and chips, sliders, and mussels.

2

Parking is available at the garage by the St. Julien hotel across the street.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like Valentine's Day.

20
Maisonette - French Café & Bakery image 1

Offers an authentic Parisian vibe with rustic, elegant decor and spacious indoor and outdoor seating. Lunch includes house made quiche and croissant sandwiches, perfect for a relaxed meal on the outdoor terrace. Atmosphere feels warm and calming with French music.

Lunch features house made quiche, French pastries, and croissant sandwiches. Outdoor terrace seating adds a relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"The pastries here are amazing and perfectly flaky."

"I found the quiche here to be excellent and amazing."

"This Lunch Spot has amazing French pastries and baked goods."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy, with an underground garage just across the street.

2

Expect limited pastry selection if arriving close to closing time.

3

The café has plenty of seating, making it suitable for groups.

21
Sherpa’s Adventure Restaurant and Bar image 1

Large outdoor patio and Nepalese decor create a relaxed vibe. Friendly staff and live music add to the laid-back atmosphere. Lunch features a tofu aloo special with authentic chai and generous portions for great value.

Lunch offers a delicious special featuring tofu aloo with authentic chai. Portions are generous enough for leftovers, making it a great value for money.

People are saying

"The patio offers a cozy, relaxed vibe with a nice view."

"This lunch spot's yak soup and momos are delicious and perfectly spiced."

"The chicken curry here is spiced beautifully and melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

The patio entrance is not wheelchair accessible; use the back alley.

2

Vegan options are available, but the restaurant is not allergen-friendly.

3

Lunch deals offer great value for money, especially for students.

22
Hao Way Chinese Cafe image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, quiet cafe serves crispy sesame chicken and Kung Pao tofu with quick, friendly service. Lunch combos cost less than $10 and offer generous portions. Calm atmosphere stays steady even at peak times, perfect for a fast, tasty meal.

Quick service and inexpensive lunch combos stand out here. Generous portions come at less than $10, making it a solid choice for a fast, tasty lunch.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the crispy General Tso's chicken."

"This lunch spot is quick, affordable, and tasty."

"This family-owned spot has great food at really reasonable prices."

Good to know

1

The line can be out the door around noon due to popularity.

2

Expect food to come out piping hot in 10-15 minutes.

3

Lunch combos cost less than $10 for generous servings.

23
Busaba Pearl St image 1
Thai restaurant

Modern dining space offers mountain views and a vibrant, cozy atmosphere with a skilled DJ and open-air bar. Lunch options suit families and solo travelers, handling busy days like graduations smoothly. Patio seating and roll-up doors create a pleasant vibe for road trip stops.

Lunch options include takeout and dine-in choices suitable for families and solo travelers. The spot handles busy days like graduations without issue and fits well into road trip stops.

People are saying

"I found the Pad Thai was cooked to perfection."

"I loved their great vegetarian and gluten-free options."

"This lunch spot has delicious food and great service."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located right by the Pearl St Mall and kitty corner from a parking garage.

2

Busaba Pearl St offers a variety of gluten-free options.

3

Vegan options are clearly marked on the menu.

24
Lonchera Los Paisas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican food truck serves authentic street tacos with fresh ingredients at affordable prices. Lines form quickly around noon, making it a popular lunch spot downtown. Standout tacos include al pastor and carne asada for quick, flavorful meals.

Long lines form around noon for quick tacos. Frequent visits show it serves as a reliable lunch spot downtown.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has the best street tacos you'll find."

"I thought these street tacos were authentic and couldn't be recreated elsewhere."

"I found the tacos to be super affordable."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $3 each, which may be considered high for their size.

2

Expect long lines for lunch, especially between 12 and 12:30 pm.

3

A drink costs $4, which adds to the overall meal price.

25
Illegal Pete's - Table Mesa image 1
Burrito restaurant

Burrito spot shines with best burritos and tasty margaritas. Lively vibe with 11 big TVs and loud music keeps energy high. Perfect for lunch with a fun crew and standout drinks on a roomy patio.

Lunch features fun vibes with a lively crew and notable drinks that stand out during the meal.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is so friendly and provides outstanding service."

"The fish tacos here are worth the wait."

"The food here is always good, especially the carnitas burrito."

Good to know

1

Tuesdays feature a BOGO free entree offer for teachers.

2

Expect a wait during busy hours, especially on weekends.

3

The burrito costs $15 before tip, which is higher than average.

26
The Ginger Pig Boulder image 1

Quasi food truck setup with Michelin-starred street food creates a casual vibe. Outdoor stools highlight quick, takeout-style dining. Lunch features affordable bento boxes that attract a lively crowd, especially families, making it a great lunch spot.

Lunch offers gourmet options that stay affordable. The bento box stands out as an excellent choice.

People are saying

"The bento box lunch spot is delicious and a solid deal."

"I never knew cucumber salad could be this tasty."

"I found the pork egg rolls to be amazing."

Good to know

1

There is no indoor seating; it's a takeout-only food truck.

2

Parking can be difficult; consider walking a couple of blocks.

3

Online ordering may not always work; calling ahead is recommended.

27
Five Spice image 1
Chinese restaurant

Cozy spot with a gorgeous view and friendly vibe suits family or friends. Lunch specials at $13 offer fast service and include tasty sides like egg roll and soup. Clean, welcoming atmosphere makes it a great neighborhood choice for a casual meal.

Lunch specials cost around $13 and include an entrée, egg roll, wanton, soup, and a side. The Mongolian beef lunch special stands out for its fast service and fair pricing.

People are saying

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

"The beef brisket here is so tender and juicy."

"The lunch special here is a great deal, including soup and an egg roll."

Good to know

1

Five Spice offers a lunch menu starting at $13, including an entrée and sides.

2

The portions at Five Spice are generous, often requiring extra rice.

3

Parking is available for both dine-in and take-out customers.

28
Arabesque image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Cozy Middle Eastern spot shines with a charming patio and open kitchen that serves fresh, delicious lunch dishes. Homey vibe blends with lively sounds and the owner's warmth. Perfect for a laid-back midday meal with a European cafe feel.

Open kitchen invites a relaxed pace to enjoy fresh, delicious dishes. Lunch offerings are consistently fresh and perfect for a satisfying midday meal.

People are saying

"The Arabic coffee and baklava are a must try."

"The tabbouleh here has incredible, homemade flavors that blew me away."

"The lunch spot food was delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Arabesque is only open from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Saturday.

2

They do not accept AMEX as a payment method.

3

Arabesque has an open kitchen, ideal for a relaxed lunch experience.

Discover more

Boulder, Colorado

Area guide
Loading Map...