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Best of Southside

Lunch spots for dates

A midday meal is the perfect excuse to step away and spend some focused time together.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Hiro Japanese Restaurant image 1
Hiro Japanese Restaurant image 2
Hiro Japanese Restaurant image 3
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Japanese restaurant

Boutique Japanese restaurant offers an intimate space with calming wood interiors and authentic decor influenced by eastern design. Atmosphere stays relaxed and personal, enhanced by a chef who performs with energy and humor. Fresh sushi and a great sake selection complement the warm, charming vibe.

Affordable lunch specials include two rolls with soup or salad for 9.99. Sushi and ramen make it a solid spot for a quick lunch. Staff greet warmly even near closing time.

Small setting offers a cozy atmosphere ideal for quick date nights or takeout. Friendly owner and thoughtful hospitality create a welcoming vibe, with dishes like katsudon curry standing out.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot has great sushi and other tasty Japanese flavors."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Thursday is ladies night with BOGO wine and sake.

2

Karaoke night happens every Wednesday and Thursday.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during karaoke nights.

02
Raices | Fast Casual Mexican image 1

Space combines boho style with modern Mexican art and features a salsa bar with whole peppers and limes. Atmosphere balances fast casual ordering with sit-down dining, creating a peaceful and clean vibe. Live music and a well-stocked bar add to the relaxed energy.

Offers a fast casual Mexican experience with flavorful dishes ideal for working lunches.

Quesibirria stands out as a shared dish that sparks conversation. The spot offers BOGO 50% cocktails all day every day, setting a relaxed vibe for a date night.

People are saying

"This casual spot's corn tortillas are the best I've had."

"This lunch spot has incredible flavors and great food."

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Raices offers an all-day happy hour with 50% off cocktails.

2

Live music occurs on Tuesdays and Fridays, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Kids meals are priced at $8, providing affordable options for families.

03
Championโ€™s Mexican Sports Bar image 1

Mexican sports bar with huge TVs everywhere creates a lively, welcoming atmosphere ideal for watching games. Outdoor seating offers a relaxed, casual vibe with a pleasant breeze and reduced noise. Comfortable padded benches and unique decorations like cute ducks add to the inviting environment.

Lunch specials offer fantastic food that suits a quick lunch break well. The spot works for both lunch and dinner with solid options.

Champion fajitas stand out as a favorite dish, sparking great conversation. Friendly service adds to the relaxed, inviting atmosphere for couples.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be genuinely good and tasty."

"The food at this lunch spot is so good."

"Nikko's service for date spots was exceptional and attentive."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $3.50 each.

2

Happy Hour runs from 2 to 5 PM on weekdays.

3

Music trivia takes place on Wednesdays.

04
Celenoโ€™s Bistro image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian bistro offers a cozy family atmosphere with live guitar music serenading diners. The space includes a private room for larger parties and a buffet option alongside regular menu items. Tables sit close together, creating an intimate but sometimes tight dining experience.

Lunch offers a buffet with a slice of pizza, soda, and a fried dough dessert for $12.99. The meal is delicious and leaves diners satisfied.

Ideal for a date night or celebration with a casual vibe. The chicken parmesan and shrimp scampi stand out as memorable dishes.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is served by the most kind, welcoming, and hardworking staff."

"This lunch spot's pizza has a crisp crust and delicious sauce."

"These date spots have the most authentic and flavorful Italian food."

Good to know

1

Celenoโ€™s Bistro offers a buffet-style dinner starting at 5pm.

2

Lunch prices are $11.99, with a full bar during happy hour.

3

The all-you-can-eat buffet runs from 11am to 2pm.

05
Babaโ€™s Halal image 1
Fast food restaurant

Black tiles create a classy setup in a food court setting. Preparation happens openly, letting people choose ingredients along the way. The atmosphere stays pleasant and inviting, with generous portions of flavorful halal dishes that echo New York street food style.

Lunch offers good portion sizes with some dishes like the lamb salad showing a perfect balance of ingredients. Meals come at a reasonable price and provide enough food for leftovers.

Sharing a lamb platter or a lamb gyro works well for couples here. Many come back multiple times, making it a familiar spot for dates.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavor-packed, and reminds me of NYC Halal carts."

"The gyro meat here is so tender and flavorful."

"This lunch spot's food is so delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Babaโ€™s Halal is located in the food court of Avenues Mall, right when you first walk in.

2

The lamb platter costs $10 and includes a side salad.

3

Expect to pay around $20 for a lamb platter that feeds two people with drinks.

06
Kyuramen x TBaar - Jacksonville image 1

Private booths with curtains and call buttons create a cozy, intimate atmosphere reminiscent of authentic ramen shops in Japan. The space features bamboo-themed decor and thoughtful amenities like USB and power outlets at each table. The environment feels spotlessly clean and welcoming, making it ideal for quiet meals or date nights.

Lunch specials include a bowl of ramen, one appetizer, and a drink for about $16. The combo offers a great deal with affordable pricing and solid portions.

People are saying

"I found the spicy ramen here to be excellent."

"The lunch special here is unbelievable, with ramen, an appetizer, and a drink."

"It's got private cubicles and curtains, perfect for date spots."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is available Monday to Friday from 11:30 am to 4 pm.

2

Expect the restaurant to be busy on weekends, especially during lunch hours.

3

Seating is usually fast during weekdays, even at peak times.

07
YH Dim Sum image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Large, bright space with natural light and spacious seating creates an inviting yet elegant atmosphere. Clean, updated interior features ply board walls and a bar serving strong cocktails. Dim sum and authentic Cantonese dishes complement the relaxed, comfortable vibe.

Lunch offers dim sum with good value specials that include soup and spring roll. Portions are generous enough to take home for another meal.

The spot offers a great vibe for date night with a setting that suits both intimate dinners and casual bites. It balances a relaxed atmosphere perfect for couples and family gatherings alike.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is delicious and authentic."

"This lunch spot has authentic, delicious dim sum and Cantonese food."

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Dim sum is only served during lunch hours from 11 am to 2 pm.

2

Happy hour on drinks runs Monday to Saturday, 5-7 PM.

3

Starting July 15th, all-day dim sum is available.

08
M Brothers at Mayo image 1
New American restaurant

Open concept kitchen and modern decor create a romantic, serene atmosphere with live saxophone and piano music enhancing the experience. The space feels private and relaxing, suitable for quiet business meetings or date nights. Guests enjoy carefully paired wines and gourmet dishes in a hidden gem setting inside a hospital campus.

Lunch offers delicious food suitable for client meetings or casual meals. The spot works well for an extended lunch near Mayo Clinic or a relaxed dinner with friends.

Quiet atmosphere suits date nights and celebration dinners well. It works for extended lunches or intimate meetings too.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here offer out of this world amazing food."

"The food here is out of this world amazing for Date Spots."

"This Lunch Spot has amazing food and dining experiences."

Good to know

1

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

2

The restaurant is located inside the Mayo Clinic, making it convenient for visitors.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

09
Tsunami sushi &Hibachi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a modern, elegant interior with robotic food delivery adding a unique touch. Atmosphere stays clean and welcoming with ample seating in booths, creating a relaxed vibe suitable for groups. Music is modern and lively, enhancing the overall energy.

Lunch offers an all-you-can-eat menu with hibachi, appetizers, and a large variety of sushi. Service runs fast and attentive, and the menu is affordable with many choices.

Offers a mix of sushi and non-sushi options with strong flavors like red curry that suit different tastes on a date night.

People are saying

"I loved the all-you-can-eat sushi and hibachi dishes."

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The food here is amazing, especially the all-you-can-eat sushi."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat sushi buffet is priced at $16.99.

2

Sashimi is available, which is rare for all-you-can-eat sushi places.

3

The restaurant closes at 9:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

10
Mandaloun Mediterranean Cuisine image 1

Lebanese restaurant offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with elegant dรฉcor and romantic vibe. Guests enjoy authentic Mediterranean cuisine featuring smoked eggplant baba ganoush and fresh pita. Weekend nights feature belly dancing entertainment and a hookah patio adds a relaxed touch.

Lunch features a buffet with Mediterranean dishes offering great quality and taste. The buffet suits weekday and weekend meals, providing a varied selection enjoyed by families and couples alike.

Fancy decor and a refined vibe create a setting suited for a romantic date night or a family meal. Lunch here impresses with its atmosphere and presentation.

People are saying

"This food tastes like my mom's kitchen, so authentic."

"You've got to try this lunch spot's amazing buffet."

"The Lebanese dishes here are bursting with authentic flavors."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes at 9:30 PM.

2

The lunch buffet is available from Tuesday through Friday until 2 PM.

3

Mandaloun Mediterranean Cuisine is closed on Mondays.

11
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant image 1

Modern Italian restaurant with cozy atmosphere and thoughtful design blends traditional and contemporary styles. Busy evenings feature efficient service and well-timed food delivery. Menu offers varied seafood and pasta dishes with portions suited for both dining in and taking home.

Lunch offers perfect portions with great value. Late lunches include Italian dishes.

Perfect for special nights with excellent rigatoni with meatballs and sausage that gets finished. The atmosphere makes date nights feel special and memorable.

People are saying

"The food here is hot, fresh, and tasty."

"The staff here is super welcoming and attentive."

"The service here makes Date Spots feel so welcoming and attentive."

Good to know

1

Parking for a full restaurant can be challenging; arrive early to find a spot.

2

No reservations are needed; expect quick seating even on busy nights.

3

Lunch portions are a great value, perfect for a midday meal.

12
CASA MARIA TEQUILA BAR & GRILL image 1

Spacious Mexican restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere where families and friends gather. The environment feels welcoming and clean, creating a sense of dining with friends. Known for authentic tacos and spicy margaritas, it offers a lively experience with friendly staff.

Lunch specials run until 3PM and cost $10.99. Large, delicious entrees fill the menu, and service handles large parties smoothly.

Street tacos offer a flavorful bite that keeps couples coming back. Weekly visits highlight its consistent appeal for date nights.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing."

"I found it to be an excellent lunch spot with delicious food."

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available, offering discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

Cinco de Mayo is celebrated with a big party every year.

3

Lunch specials are offered for $10.99 until 3 PM.

13
Zen Dumpling image 1
Asian restaurant

Modern space with minimalist decor and zenlike atmosphere offers a calming, peaceful vibe. Fresh dumplings are made behind a glass panel, adding to the authentic dining experience. Clean, spacious layout supports a relaxed setting with unique silverware and chopsticks.

Lunch offers a delicious Chinese menu with satisfying appetizers and entrees. Large reservations are easy to secure, making it a solid choice for a leisurely, semi-higher end meal.

Mongolian Beef stands out as a flavorful choice. The spot offers a cozy vibe with soup and dumplings that invite repeat visits for date nights.

People are saying

"I found the soup dumplings to be juicy and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's soup dumplings are beyond delicious."

"These Date Spots have the freshest, most delicious dumplings I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller purchases.

14
Spliff's Gastropub - South Jax image 1

Gastropub combines dark, worn interior with friendly, laid-back vibe and community feel. It offers multiple entertainment options like pool, darts, blackjack, and live music, creating a lively atmosphere. The space supports late-night socializing with seating that encourages conversation.

Lunch offers a great experience with consistently good meals. The spot serves as a reliable choice for group lunches and casual dining in the area.

Offers a laid-back vibe with consistently great food. Serves hamburgers that appeal to those trying something new.

People are saying

"They have a great beer selection with tons of options."

"The food at this lunch spot is amazing."

"The food here is great for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens on Saturday nights, starting at 10pm.

2

Trivia night is every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Blackjack is available on Wednesday nights.

15
BO SUSHI image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a calm, home-like atmosphere with comfortable lighting and peaceful surroundings. Sushi is fresh and high quality, often praised for its excellent rolls and sashimi. Prices remain affordable, making it suitable for any time of day.

Lunch specials offer generous portions and great value. Bento boxes and hibachi lunches arrive within 10 minutes.

Calm vibes set the tone for a relaxed date night. Drinks like the Golden Dragon and Batman Bomb add a fun twist to the evening.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and thoughtfully prepared."

"I loved the sushi here; it's among the best."

"The sushi here is always fresh and super delicious."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials offer great value and are generous.

2

Prices at BO SUSHI are competitive compared to other sushi places.

3

The restaurant has recently changed ownership and menu items.

16
Hurricane Grill & Wings-Julington Creek image 1

Sports bar with a chill beach vibe and tropical decor creates a casual, inviting atmosphere. Live music and multiple TVs showing NFL games add to the family-friendly energy. Outdoor patio offers a pet-friendly space that complements the relaxed setting.

Offers good deals for lunch, like a burger and fries for 10.99. Serves as a great lunch venue with consistent options.

Hand-breaded chicken tenders stand out with sauces like nuclear, Fire and Ice, and Sweet Chili adding bold flavors. The spot also offers a good selection of beer to complement the meal.

People are saying

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

"The food options here are great for Date Spots."

"This Lunch Spot is super quick and accommodating for large parties."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky due to nearby businesses, but there is rear parking available.

2

Daily specials include $.99 wings, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

Trivia night happens every Tuesday, providing a fun atmosphere.

17
Milano's Italian Restaurant Pizza and Bar image 1

Italian restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with a family-friendly vibe and a friendly bar crowd. The space feels cozy and welcoming, suitable for gatherings. It stands out for its authentic Italian food and excellent pizza.

Lunch offers generous portions like calzone and stromboli that can be shared or saved for later. Lunch specials include tasty options such as eggplant parmesan, with service that treats guests well.

Frequent orders of pizza make this spot a go-to for casual dates. The menu offers Grouper Piccata, veal parm, and lasagna, all cooked well and paired with cheesy garlic bread that stands out.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the cheesy garlic bread; it's the best I've ever tasted."

"This lunch spot's food is amazing and worth every penny."

Good to know

1

On Thursdays, they have a pizza special for $1.50 per slice, with extra charges for toppings.

2

They offer daily specials, such as chicken parmigiana on Tuesdays.

3

Chicken Parm night features a nice portion, spaghetti, and garlic bread for $12.99.

18
Applebee's Grill + Bar image 1

Restaurant combines open-air bar with multiple TVs showing sports, creating a lively and social atmosphere. Patio and bar areas offer pet-friendly seating and a neighborhood vibe that feels like a second home. Music and local sports decor add to the casual, welcoming energy.

Quick service and consistently great food make it a solid choice for lunch. The mushroom Swiss burger stands out, and the spot works well for casual meals or grabbing takeout for family.

People are saying

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

"The bar staff here is fantastic and welcoming."

"The host Kevin was so kind and professional."

Good to know

1

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

2

Trivia night takes place on Thursdays at 7pm on the patio.

3

The restaurant has a kids' menu available for $1.25.

19
Rainbow Sushi Japanese Restaurant - All You Can Eat image 1

Small space with tables packed closely creates a community feel amid beautiful Japanese design and colorful murals. Laid-back atmosphere features 90s alternative rock music at a comfortable volume. Crowds tend to be large groups, making it lively but relaxed.

The lunch spot offers a $15.99 to $16 all-you-can-eat special that provides good value. Weekday lunches are affordable and not crowded, making it a solid choice for midday meals.

Frequent visits highlight this spot as a solid choice for a date night with its all you can eat sushi offering. Couples often return weekly, making it a reliable go-to date spot.

People are saying

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

"The all-you-can-eat sushi here is a great deal."

"The all-you-can-eat sushi here is amazing and fresh."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat lunch is priced at $16, offering great value.

2

Service stops at 3:30 pm, so arrive before 3 pm for lunch.

3

Expect the restaurant to get packed during weekends and evenings.

20
Miller's Ale House image 1

Sports bar environment fills the space with many TVs showing various games, creating a lively yet not chaotic atmosphere. Bar and booth seating offer roomy tables and clean, attractive surroundings. Noise levels rise during major sports events, but the vibe remains fun and welcoming.

Lunch features killer specials and a light wing option. The menu includes a decadent dessert called Captain Jack Treasure.

Casual atmosphere helps people feel at ease on dates. Menu offers extra crispy wings, osso buco, and classic burger and fries options.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and super fresh."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is tasty and well served."

"Mr. Derek handled my issue without hassle or hesitation."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Thursday at 8pm.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

3

Expect a wait time of about 20 minutes for food during peak hours.

21
Chili's Grill & Bar image 1

Huge bar anchors a lively sports bar atmosphere with loud energy and casual vibes. The space feels relaxing yet active, drawing groups for family dinners and game watching. Staff interactions add to the friendly, low-key environment.

Lunch service runs extremely fast with a focus on value through deals like the 3 for me promotion and BOGOHO entree offers. These lunch deals provide a solid option for weekday meals.

Seating involves some wait time, making it a casual spot for couples. Menu options include burgers, steak with vegetables and fries, and dishes like Cajun shrimp pasta that can be swapped for chicken.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, hot, and fresh."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is fast and friendly."

"The burgers and margaritas make for great date spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour drinks are only available in the bar area.

2

Regular prices apply in the dining area during happy hour.

3

A 2 for 1 beer promotion is offered during happy hour.

22
PDQ Jacksonville: Bartram Park image 1

Chicken restaurant offers outdoor dining for dogs and a fun drink machine with endless combos. Atmosphere stays quiet and clean, with occasional loud music outside. Drive-thru lines often back up, filling the parking lot and slowing exit.

Lunch offers a quick ordering kiosk that speeds up service after rush hours. Meals suit families and those seeking a fast casual experience with consistent quality.

Kind staff and a welcoming atmosphere make this spot easy to enjoy for couples. Service is attentive whether dining in or using the drive-thru, creating a relaxed setting for a date.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be perfect and fresh."

"The tenders here are hot, tender, and so flavorful."

"Lucy was so kind and patient helping with the Lunch Spot menu."

Good to know

1

The drive-thru line can get backed up, so plan accordingly.

2

Parking can be limited due to drive-thru queues during peak hours.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment, including bathrooms.

23
LongHorn Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with a western vibe in its decor and a recently added outdoor deck. The space can feel crowded and loud near the kitchen, but seating is usually quick even for larger groups. The environment balances casual dining with a sense of celebration and attentive service.

Affordable lunch specials include a burger with soup or salad priced below fast food. Well cooked steak lunches come in under $15, paired with exceptional service during the midday hours.

Ribs come out superb and pair well with mac and cheese. Caesar salad offers a fresh, lighter option alongside hearty dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always prepared correctly."

"This Lunch Spot's steak is perfectly cooked and flavorful."

"The steaks here are tender, flavorful, and melt in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Parking is right outside the door.

2

There was no wait for a table at LongHorn Steakhouse.

3

Expect slow service during peak hours, especially on weekends.

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