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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Arlington Heights

Authentic lunch spots

Made for those who refuse to settle for anything less than an authentic meal during their midday break.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sozai Banzai image 1
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Authentic Japanese restaurant

Cozy, homey setting with basic furniture and warm, inviting atmosphere creates a comfortable dining experience. Quiet and uncrowded, it offers authentic Japanese flavors with affordable prices and a clean, no-frills environment.

Food tastes fresh and made on the spot with authentic Japanese flavors. Meals serve as a casual Japanese style cafeteria experience without Americanized twists.

Rotating daily lunch specials highlight this spot alongside well-done Japanese comfort food staples. It serves as a reliable choice for both lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food here to be fresh and authentic."

"I thought the ramen here was above average and truly remarkable."

"This lunch spot offers authentic Japanese comfort food."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a rotating daily lunch special with varying meals.

2

You can order at the counter or on your phone and leave a tab open.

3

The restaurant is located in a strip mall with ample parking.

02
Curry NaanStop Indian Grill image 1

Open, spacious dining area combines industrial style with an Indian cultural twist creating a warm, laidback atmosphere. Background Bollywood music and videos add lively cultural flavor. Friendly staff support a casual vibe suited for quick meals or relaxed hangouts.

Authentic Indian dishes feature a perfect amount of spice and properly cooked basmati rice. Daily-changing buffets offer a variety of subcontinent flavors including desserts at reasonable prices.

Lunch features a buffet with several delicious options at a low price of $14.99. The buffet includes chai and bottled water, offering great value for Indian cuisine during weekdays and weekends.

People are saying

"The buffet here has so many delicious options."

"The Indian curry here is rich and flavorful."

"I loved the weekend lunch buffet with its delicious options."

Good to know

1

The lunch buffet is available from Friday to Sunday for $14.99.

2

A dosa buffet is offered every Thursday.

3

The weekend buffet is popular, so reservations are recommended.

03
CHENNAI CENTRAL - South Indian Kitchen image 1

South Indian restaurant with authentic Chennai decor including statues and meme posters creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Walls covered with Tamil cultural elements and a photo booth with Polaroids add unique touches. Space feels a bit cramped but warm, reflecting genuine South Indian spirit.

Dishes deliver authentic South Indian flavors with a focus on Chennai staples. Food consistently tastes true to Tamil Nadu cuisine and offers a genuine experience.

Lunch offers vegetarian and non-vegetarian thalis served on banana leaves. Dishes include chicken 65, parotta, dosa, and street style chicken biryani.

People are saying

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

"The Thalapakatti Goat Biryani is deeply flavorful and aromatic."

"This lunch spot's biryani had an authentic, homely flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a Thursday night dosa buffet as part of their weekly specials.

2

Buffets are available only on special occasions like festivals and events.

3

On weekends, a Grand Thali is available with extra varieties and special dishes.

04
Ramen USA image 1
Japanese restaurant

Low key, cozy Japanese eatery with a relaxed atmosphere and upbeat background music. Tables include self-service condiment carts and a complimentary salad bar. Decor features clean, humble Japanese style with cute plush decorations, creating a casual, comfortable vibe.

Food captures authentic Japanese comfort with dishes like ramen and rice bowls. Flavors stay true while adapting slightly to local American tastes.

Lunch offers a complimentary salad bar with meals costing $11 and up. Meals provide an unbelievable deal with plenty of leftovers for another meal.

People are saying

"I thought the ramen here was the best I've ever tasted."

"This Lunch Spot has the best ramen broth, rich and flavorful."

"I found the food here authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour menu available five days a week with 30% off ramen and 50% off appetizers.

2

The restaurant offers a complimentary salad bar for meals costing $11 and up during lunch hours.

3

Allergy warnings are clearly marked on the menu for those with dietary restrictions.

05
Taco Maya image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers vibrant atmosphere with colorful decor and a salsa bar featuring various options. Outdoor patio and party room add to the spacious setup. Fusion tacos and margarita flights highlight the menu.

Dishes deliver authentic flavors that feel genuine and satisfying. Every bite bursts with traditional taste that stays true to its roots.

Lunch offers 3 tacos with rice and beans for $10 on weekdays. Service runs quick, and the lunch specials provide good portions and solid value.

People are saying

"I loved their fusion tacos, especially the Indian-inspired ones."

"This lunch spot has amazing tacos with great variety."

"The food here is delicious and bursting with authentic flavors."

Good to know

1

Taco Maya offers $1 tacos on Mondays.

2

Free taco Tuesdays provide a great deal for visitors.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers.

06
Cilantro Taco Grill - Arlington Heights image 1

Bright, clean space with fun ambiance and decor celebrating crop pickers creates a lively yet chill atmosphere. Music and vibes contribute to a casual-dining feel that supports authentic Mexican food. The place stands out for its quality ingredients and fair prices.

Rice, beans, and salsas deliver truly authentic Mexican flavors. The food consistently tastes super authentic and stands out among local options.

Tortas serve as a solid lunch choice here. The spot suits casual office lunches but can feel quiet on weekdays.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is delicious and packed with flavor."

"I found the rice and beans tasted truly authentic."

"The tacos at this Lunch Spot are delicious and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $2 tacos, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and non-greasy environment.

3

Expect a total bill of around $65 for three adults and one child.

07
Fausto's Italian Kitchen image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy space with old-country Italian charm and family-style atmosphere offers both indoor and covered patio seating. Friendly, casual vibe feels like a warm kitchen with personable service and inviting decor. Small size keeps it intimate, perfect for gatherings and enjoying authentic Italian meals.

Offers a wide variety of authentic Italian dishes including salads and pasta. Food tastes delicious and true to traditional recipes.

Known for its quick service, this spot suits those looking for a fast lunch. Friends often gather here for a casual midday meal.

People are saying

"The pizza and focaccia here are so fresh and delicious."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is excellent, especially the panini and potato salad."

"The food here is authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Fausto's Italian Kitchen can accommodate around 32 guests for events.

2

Catering services are precise, with timely food delivery and generous portions.

3

The restaurant offers a diverse menu catering to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians.

08
Parea Greek Kitchen image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant offers beautiful new Greek decor and outdoor seating in the shade with complimentary valet parking. Atmosphere is cozy and lively, with Greek music enhancing the vibe. Staff provide attentive service and occasional traditional touches like Metaxa shots.

Food features authentic Greek flavors with fresh ingredients like Kalamata olives and calamari. Gyros come packed with genuine taste reflecting traditional recipes.

Lunch offers savory veggie and chicken options with well-prepared dishes. Specials come at reasonable prices and suit quick meals or takeout.

People are saying

"The food here is absolutely delicious and amazing."

"The Greek food here tastes so authentic and fresh."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

Parea Greek Kitchen offers complimentary valet parking.

2

Monday night specials are available.

3

The menu offers a very wide range of options.

09
Asian Bistro image 1
Chinese restaurant

Cozy, unpretentious dining space with a stylish Chinese redesign and jazz music playing softly. Atmosphere feels relaxed and homey, welcoming families and those seeking authentic Sichuan cuisine. Known for authentic Sichuan dishes, reasonable prices, and a modern ambiance that enhances the dining experience.

Offers authentic Sichuan cuisine with fantastically flavored dishes. Food stays true to traditional Chinese style without western influence.

Lunch specials offer good value and a popular menu during weekdays. Portions leave some still a bit hungry, and occasional missing items like egg rolls happen.

People are saying

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

"I found the Sichuan Chinese food here to be very authentic."

"I thought the food at this lunch spot was pretty good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant maintains a set meal price of $9.99, including soup and spring rolls.

2

Prices are very reasonable compared to other local restaurants.

3

The menu features a fantastic selection of authentic Sichuan cuisine.

10
Johnnie's Beef image 1
American restaurant

Small, crowded dining room with old school seating and no frills decor creates an authentic, straightforward vibe. Outdoor seating is covered and plentiful, offering a pleasant alternative when weather permits. Atmosphere feels packed with happy people enjoying quick service and excellent Italian beef sandwiches.

Authentic beef sandwiches come on the right kind of bread with high-quality Chicago Italian beef. Fast service stays consistent and the shop keeps a classic Italian sandwich charm.

Lunch comes out fast, making it easy to fit in a quick break. Meals for four adults run about $50, which feels like a solid deal. The spot serves up speedy service and affordable prices.

People are saying

"I had one of the best Italian beef sandwiches I've ever eaten."

"This lunch spot's Italian beef is a step above the rest."

"I found the authentic beef sandwich to be true to tradition."

Good to know

1

Credit and debit cards are accepted at this location, unlike others.

2

Parking is generally easy to find nearby, making access convenient.

3

Expect a fast turnaround even with long lines, particularly at noon.

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Arlington Heights, Illinois

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