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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Arlington Heights

Lunch spots

A midday break is the only way to reset before finishing the rest of the day.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Chick 'N Fizz image 1
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American restaurant

Space combines retro diner decor with escape rooms and a sauce bar, creating a lively and fun atmosphere. Bright, colorful, and casual, it attracts younger crowds and groups looking for a playful dining experience. Wings stand out as crispy and juicy, complementing the nostalgic vibe.

Food features amazing flavor and excellent quality consistently. Service complements the outstanding dishes well.

Quick service and a relaxed vibe make it a solid choice for lunch. Owners often interact with diners, adding a personal touch to the casual atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is so tasty and fresh, especially the juicy chicken."

"These Wisconsin cheese curds are golden, melty, and full of flavor."

"The owners and staff at this lunch spot are super friendly."

Good to know

1

Wacky Wednesday offers a BOGO 50% off deal every Wednesday.

2

Expect to pay around $10 per person for a meal.

3

The menu features chicken wings, tenders, and a few sides.

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.

Exceptional Indian cuisine shines here with well-executed dishes that consistently impress. The food offers a memorable dining experience with rich flavors and quality preparation.

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."

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

"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
MAAX Asian BBQ & Hot Pots image 1
Hot pot restaurant

Large space with unique modern decor and individual hotpots at each seat creates a clean, comfortable setting. Atmosphere suits gatherings but can be noisy with limited privacy. Friendly staff offer a photo service that adds a memorable touch.

Food here stands out for its amazing quality and consistently delicious flavors. The dining experience pairs great service with well-prepared dishes that impress on every visit.

Offers a great lunch deal with a vast self-serve bar and friendly staff. Food has lots of variety even within the lunch special, making it a solid spot for a casual, family-friendly meal.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and really delicious."

"I loved the variety of Chinese food options, especially for hot pot and meat dishes."

"This lunch spot has super friendly staff who make you feel welcome."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a 2-hour limit for all-you-can-eat dining.

2

The price for unlimited hotpot and BBQ is $36.99 per person.

3

A birthday meal is free with three paying adult meals within three days of the birthday.

04
Hong Kong Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, family-run take-out spot offers large portions with authentic Chinese flavors and customizable spice levels. The atmosphere is simple and clean, focused entirely on quick, fresh service without dine-in options. Known for affordable lunch specials and consistently hot, well-packed orders.

Food comes from scratch and serves fresh dishes with large portions. Quality stays consistent and flavors stand out in every order.

Lunch specials include fried rice, a spring roll, and a tasty egg roll. Portions are generous and prices are inexpensive, often enough for multiple meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, with generous portions."

"The egg foo young here is so good, you'll want more even when full."

"This Lunch Spot's food is delicious and the portions are generous."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is take-out only, with no dine-in service available.

2

Expect large portions that are great for leftovers.

3

Lunch specials are offered at very reasonable prices.

05
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.

Food features excellent South Indian dishes with a focus on authentic Tamil Nadu style. The thali offers a home-style experience with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

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 food here is authentic South Indian, just like Chennai-style."

"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.

06
Sozai Banzai image 1
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 arrives freshly cooked and hot, showcasing authentic Japanese flavors without Americanized twists. Meals offer great value with consistently delicious taste and quality.

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."

"The food here is delicious and authentic Japanese."

"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.

07
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 offers authentic Japanese flavors with dishes like shoyu ramen and takoyaki that are both fresh and filling. Portions come generous and affordable, served promptly by pleasant staff.

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."

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

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

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.

08
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.

Delicious food stands out with consistently fresh pizza, sandwiches, and Italian dishes. Plates come well presented and always plentiful.

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 here is fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

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

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.

09
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.

Food features a fresh blend of fusion Mexican and Indian cuisine with quick service. Dishes come out fast and include tasty options like horchata.

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."

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

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

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.

10
Naomi Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Cozy interior contrasts with an unassuming, slightly run-down exterior, creating an intimate and peaceful atmosphere. Booth seating offers unique comfort while soft music and quiet decor enhance the relaxing vibe. Sushi stands out for its freshness, flavorful rolls, and top-notch quality at low prices.

Food stands out for its authentic Japanese flavors and well-presented dishes. Cocktails complement the terrific dining experience.

Fast service makes it a solid choice for a quick lunch. The spot suits casual meetups with a relaxed pace.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is fresh, flavorful, and consistently tasty."

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

"The sushi here is really fresh and good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

Parking is somewhat limited, so arrive early.

3

Expect longer wait times during weekend dinner hours.

11
Porky's BBQ and Catering Arlington Heights, Illinois image 1

Small dining area offers a cozy, laid-back vibe with a fun, BBQ-themed look. The atmosphere stays chill and welcoming, filled with the smell of barbecue that draws people in. Generous portions and reasonable prices make it a spot where food quality and value stand out.

Food features perfect fries and sandwiches alongside porky's beans with a tasty BBQ twist. The menu offers amazing, delicious BBQ dishes worth paying for.

Comfy spot for lunch with options like pig out platters and corn on the cob. Accommodates groups well and offers a solid team lunch experience.

People are saying

"I loved their pulled pork sandwich and sweet potato fries."

"The food here is smoky, tender, and flavorful."

"The smoked wings at this Lunch Spot are very good and a large portion."

Good to know

1

They offer delivery or pickup options for convenience.

2

Parking can be rough since it is in downtown Arlington Heights.

3

Expect generous portion sizes that provide good value for money.

12
Bird's Nest image 1
Restaurant

Sports bar with many TVs and large open windows creates a connected, spacious feel. Atmosphere is loud and energetic due to music and speaker placement. Crowd gathers mainly for games, enjoying rock and jam band music.

Wings and chicken skewers stand out with great flavor. The menu also includes onion rings and wraps at reasonable prices. Food quality consistently impresses with yummy, satisfying options.

Offers a solid spot for lunch and drinks with options like wings and onion rings. The setting includes watching football while eating.

People are saying

"It's a sports bar with many TVs to watch the big games."

"The burgers and curly fries are good."

"The food, especially the wings, is meaty, juicy, and worth the price."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect long wait times on Friday and Saturday nights.

3

The late-night menu is available until 1am on weekends.

13
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 traditional Greek dishes with excellent quality and great service that enhances the dining experience.

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 dinner entrรฉes were excellent with good portions."

"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.

14
The Village Grill image 1
Brunch restaurant

Retro tables and chairs create a cozy, old school diner vibe with seating at the breakfast bar, tables, or booths. The atmosphere stays comfortable and quiet, encouraging conversation in a clean, family-run setting. Generous portions and all-day breakfast add to the local, welcoming feel.

Food here is made with care and offers a variety of good choices, including vegetarian options and both breakfast and lunch items. Portions are plentiful and come at an affordable cost.

Offers a variety of good food choices including vegetarian options and both breakfast and lunch items. Prices run slightly higher than nearby towns for lunch.

People are saying

"The diner food here is amazing, with fresh ingredients and large portions."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"This lunch spot has delicious food with fresh ingredients and large portions."

Good to know

1

Generous portions are served, providing good value for the price.

2

Credit card payments incur additional fees at the counter.

3

An egg surcharge is posted in the restaurant but not on menus.

15
Osaku Sushi & Ramen image 1
Asian restaurant

Small Asian restaurant with limited seating and a grab-n-go vibe. Atmosphere feels low key and uninviting for dine-in, focusing mainly on takeout. Food quality stands out with fresh sushi and flavorful ramen despite the simple setting.

Food offers fresh, authentic Asian flavors with excellent taste and good value under $15. Extra care is taken for kids' food allergies, and packaging is done well.

Lunch offers a lunch special that fills you up and includes miso soup. Portions come at a fair price and feature sushi options in a mom-and-pop setting.

People are saying

"The ramen here is flavorful and delicious."

"The lunch special here is a great deal with plenty of food."

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

Good to know

1

Osaku Sushi & Ramen has only two small tables, making it mostly a takeout place.

2

Takeout is the best option because of the small size.

3

The restaurant is open on Mondays and Sundays.

16
El Barrio Fresh Market image 1

Supermarket offers fresh produce and international groceries with a focus on Hispanic and Latin American products. Atmosphere is clean and well-organized, supporting quick shopping and casual dining. Regular special promotions highlight popular items like tacos with generous portions and affordable prices.

Offers a wide range of Hispanic, Caribbean, and African foods with a notable hot food section. Some food items show signs of poor condition and expiration, so caution is advised when purchasing.

The deli area offers a fantastic selection for lunch. The taco lunch special stands out as a solid choice.

People are saying

"These tacos are delicious and overflowing with fillings."

"This lunch spot has great prices and a great selection."

"I found the food here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The market offers a special deal on tacos every Tuesday and Thursday.

2

Expect to pay $7 for three tacos and a drink on taco special days.

3

The store is always clean and well-organized for a pleasant shopping experience.

17
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.

Food here is consistently fresh, tasting, and delicious with a great selection. Casual dining offers a much needed spot with fantastic flavors across all locations.

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."

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

"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.

18
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.

Food comes out fresh, hot, and delicious with great portion sizes. Sandwiches set a gold standard in their genre.

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."

"I thought the food here was delicious and remarkable."

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

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.

19
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 a fantastic selection of authentic Sichuan cuisine with impressive novelty and variety. Food comes in good quantity, is reasonably priced, and consistently delicious and authentic.

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.

20
Jet's Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Detroit-style pizza features a thick, crispy crust with caramelized cheese edges and fresh toppings like grilled chicken and pineapple. The atmosphere is friendly and clean, with quick service and easy-to-use ordering app. Takeout-only setup attracts those seeking hot, delicious slices and unique pizza options.

Food arrives fresh and hot with fast delivery. Options are consistent and tasty every time.

Lunch offers a combo deal with two square pizza slices and a soda for just over $9. The slice combo provides a quick, affordable meal option.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was great and cheap."

"I found the Detroit style pizza to be very good."

"The food here is fresh and tastes amazing."

Good to know

1

Jet's Pizza locations only offer takeout.

2

They charge a 3.5% fee for using a credit card.

3

The lunch combo includes two square slices of pizza and a bottle of soda for $9.

21
Chili's Grill & Bar image 1

Bright, warm lighting and multiple sports screens create a lively yet comfortable atmosphere with a fun buzz at the bar area. The crowd is happy and engaged, making it a good spot for family and friends to gather. Efficient service with tablet ordering adds to a smooth dining experience.

Food comes out fast and includes mozzarella sticks and nachos noted for their quality. The salmon matches fine dining standards and overall dishes are consistently good.

Lunch specials stand out with great options and good value. The atmosphere stays fun and relaxing during the lunch hour.

People are saying

"The Mexican food staff is super cheerful and attentive."

"Leo's service made my lunch hour fun and relaxing."

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

Good to know

1

You can pay at the table using a tablet for faster service.

2

The restaurant offers a 3 for me deal that provides good value.

3

Lunch specials are available and considered awesome by many visitors.

22
Jameson's Original Charhouse image 1

Steakhouse combines old school Chicago vibe with live music that fills the space with vibrant energy. The interior feels cozy and elegant with closely set tables and outdoor enclosed patio for dining. Atmosphere ranges from inviting to lively, especially on music nights.

Food here is consistently excellent with a perfect balance of flavor and quality. Service matches the food with stellar attention, making every meal a great experience.

Lunch offers a quiet, comfortable environment with a very good selection on the menu. Drinks, food, and service stay consistent even during busy holiday celebrations.

People are saying

"The filet mignon and ribeye make these dinner spots outstanding."

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

"This lunch spot has a diverse menu with delicious food."

Good to know

1

Free entertainment is available in the bar after 7:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Live music often occurs on Friday nights in the bar where food is served.

3

Parking can be limited by 5:00 pm when the place fills up quickly.

23
Yen Yen Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant with old school atmosphere and quiet ambiance features Chinese music for background sound and serves tea before meals along with fortune and almond cookies afterward. The space feels outdated with peach walls and a musty smell, creating a no-fuss dining environment.

Food here stays consistently fresh and delicious with a focus on authentic Chinese dishes. The quality is top notch and the flavors are absolutely delicious, though prices lean toward the higher side.

Lunch offers big portions with affordable prices and fresh, authentic flavors. Specials provide great value and include dishes like shrimp egg foo young.

People are saying

"The kung pao shrimp had just the right kick."

"I thought the Chinese food here was the best I ever ate."

"The lunch specials here are a great value."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials offer good value with reasonable prices.

2

Expect a wait for a table, but it usually doesn't last long.

3

Takeout food is well packaged to remain hot.

24
Hokkaido Ramen Santouka image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant inside a busy market with consistently long lines and a crowded lunchtime atmosphere. The space feels like a hole in the wall and can be uncomfortable during peak times. Known for rich, flavorful ramen broth and big portions, it attracts many seeking authentic Japanese ramen.

Food here is consistently delicious and efficiently prepared to order. The dishes stand out as exceptional for a food court setting.

Long lines form during lunch hours inside the Mitsuwa market food court. Finding an empty table is tough, so one person should grab a table while another waits in line.

People are saying

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

"I found the spicy Miso Ramen to be amazing."

"This lunch spot has the best ramen I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines, especially during lunch hours and weekends.

2

Reservations are not accepted; arrive early to avoid waiting.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but the restaurant previously operated as cash-only.

25
Portillo's Arlington Heights image 1
Fast food restaurant

Restaurant features 1930s gangster theme with retro, nostalgic charm and lively atmosphere. Interior design includes unique lighting and special details that create a fun, engaging space. Setup offers both self-order kiosks and register options with a narrow, single-lane drive-thru.

Food arrives fresh and hot with super fast preparation. Quality stays consistent and excellent across visits and locations.

Lunch here offers plenty of seating even on Saturdays when arriving early. The spot serves quick meals, though waiting 10 minutes for fries can feel long during a short lunch break.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the hot dogs and Italian beef, is a Chicago staple."

"The food here is fresh and served hot."

"I loved the Italian beef sandwich with grilled onions."

Good to know

1

Cash is not accepted; only credit or debit cards are accepted in the drive-thru.

2

The cheese fries are not vegetarian due to the frying method used.

3

Portillo's Arlington Heights is now only a drive-through location.

26
Panera Bread image 1

Cafe offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with freshly baked bagels and high-quality ingredients. It tends to be quiet and convenient for quick meals or coffee, though finding a table can be challenging during busy times.

Food here is consistently fresh and delicious, made with high-quality ingredients. Portions are generous and the taste keeps people coming back.

Offers a quick lunch option with a convenient setup. Suitable for grabbing a meal or coffee with a mix of fast and relaxed pacing.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the hearty and flavorful soups here."

"I loved coming here for breakfast pastries."

"I found the food to be fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has sufficient parking available for customers.

2

Expect difficulty in finding a table during peak hours.

3

The restroom is clean and well-maintained.

27
Arlington tap house image 1

Bar and grill with modern interior and pool tables, slot machines, and dart boards for entertainment. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and relaxing during the day to a loud, party vibe late at night with a strong DJ presence. Crowds vary, with weekdays better for playing games and weekends drawing a rowdier, energetic group.

Food stands out with great quality and impressive dishes like the bacon cheeseburger. Drinks complement the menu well, making the overall dining experience solid.

Cheeseburgers and a couple of beers make for a solid lunch combo here. The spot works well for grabbing a casual, satisfying midday meal.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really good."

"It's a fantastic late night spot, open until 4 am."

"The food here is awesome, especially the burgers."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday night, making it a fun outing.

2

Arlington Tap House is one of the only 4 am bars in the area.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere on game nights for an exciting experience.

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