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Top picks in Illinois

Lunch spots

A midday meal that feels like a break from the day rather than just a quick refueling stop.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Da Local Boy Cafe image 1
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Hawaiian restaurant

Small, colorful space with Hawaiian decor offers a friendly vibe and authentic island dishes. Lunch brings amazing plates and lively weekdays with no weekend lines early on. Soft Hawaiian tunes add to the relaxed atmosphere.

Lunch features Hawaiian plate lunch with amazing lunch plates. The spot feels full of life on weekdays and has no line early on weekends.

People are saying

"The Hawaiian food here is amazing and authentic."

"This local spot's Huli Huli chicken is tender and flavorful."

"The plate lunches here are shockingly delicious and generously portioned."

Good to know

1

The Spam Musubi costs only $3.

2

Expect limited menu items on certain days; check for specials.

3

The portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

02
Bubby's Beefs & Red Hots image 1
American restaurant

Small business serves authentic Chicago-style beef and hot dogs with huge portions. Friendly, locally owned spot offers free hugs creating a welcoming vibe. Perfect for a reliable lunch spot with steady crowds and easy repeat visits.

Lunch here fits well into a weekly routine with consistent visits. The spot offers reliable options that make it easy to return for midday meals.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was so good."

"This Italian beef sandwich is the best I've ever had."

"I thought Bubby's Chicago Dog was the best I had."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of about 18 minutes during lunch rush hours.

2

The meal costs around $24, offering good value.

3

Bubby's offers great prices for its menu items.

03
Kimbop image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small space with modern Korean decor and whimsical lighting sets a cool vibe. K-pop music adds lively energy. Lunch specials like fried rice offer great value and flavor. Perfect for quick meals or intimate dining with friends.

Lunch offers good value with satisfying portions like the Fried Rice lunch special. The menu includes options like a tuna lunch special with great flavors and consistent quality.

People are saying

"The Korean fried chicken here is super juicy and crunchy."

"This lunch spot's ramen soup made me drool."

"The Salmon here is so fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Kimbop offers many vegetarian and vegan options on its menu.

2

All sauces at Kimbop are made from scratch for freshness.

3

Prices at Kimbop are reasonable for the quality of food served.

04
Yummi Wraps image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic shawarma and bright dining area. Lunch shines with moist grilled chicken and lentil soup that warms you up. Outdoor seating adds fresh air on warm evenings.

Lunch features a lunch special with moist grilled chicken and a long kefte skewer. Lentil soup served alongside has a perfect amount of salt and offers warmth on cold days.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and made with care."

"This Mediterranean food's falafel is perfectly seasoned and has a satisfying crunch."

"This lunch spot's chicken kabob is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Yummi Wraps offers authentic Mediterranean cuisine with generous portions.

2

The restaurant is Halal certified, catering to dietary preferences.

3

Prices at Yummi Wraps are considered excellent for the quality of food.

05
Yeero Revolution image 1
Greek restaurant

Cozy Greek spot serves authentic street food with generous portions and affordable prices. Quick lunch options fit workday needs. Warm, inviting vibe with Greek music and videos creates a unique dining experience.

Offers a quick and affordable lunch option during workdays. Provides a satisfying meal without stretching the budget.

People are saying

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

"This Greek food tastes like it's straight from Greece."

"This lunch spot has fresh, delicious Greek food with amazing flavor."

Good to know

1

Bring cash to save 3% on your order.

2

Expect large portions; two gyros with fries and a drink cost about $33.

3

Online ordering is recommended for quicker lunch service.

06
Snack & Shrack Restaurant image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small space with calming atmosphere feels like home. Lunch specials feature perfectly cooked shawarma and falafels with fresh, healthy food. Known for generous portions and authentic Middle Eastern flavors, it suits both quiet and lively moods.

Lunch specials come with falafels and chicken shawarma cooked perfectly. Meals offer fresh and healthy food at a great price.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food, especially the beef shawarma bowl, was out of this world."

"The lunch special here is a great price and delicious."

"I thought the falafel was fantastic and fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and available on-site for all customers.

2

Expect large portion sizes, especially for meat dishes.

3

Prices are generally affordable, with most meals under $15.

07
Lotus Banh Mi - Chicago Loop image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Simple, elegant design creates a clean, bright space with a chill vibe and soothing music. Quick, reliable lunch options include small Pho perfect for midday meals. Seating is usually available as most diners choose takeout.

Offers quick lunch options with two sizes of Pho, where the small size fits well for a midday meal. Known for being fast and reliable in the neighborhood for lunch.

People are saying

"The pho here has a hot, flavorful broth."

"This lunch spot's banh mi and pho are terrific options."

"The vegetarian Bahn Mi is delicious, savory, and spicy."

Good to know

1

Most diners get takeout, so there are usually spots to sit inside even during busy times.

2

Expect a lunch rush, but the line moves quickly.

3

The sandwiches are reasonably priced for the Loop area.

08
Spring Forest Deli and Catering image 1

Outdoor garden seating offers a peaceful vibe perfect for lunch. Huge, fresh sandwiches like grilled chicken Caesar wraps and turkey on garlic bread stand out. Locals love the affordable prices and unique touches like gaming machines and gelato keep energy lively.

Lunch features grilled chicken Caesar wraps, turkey sandwiches on garlic bread, and chicken pesto paninis on toasted flatbread. Daily lunch specials offer variety, with options to enjoy in outdoor garden seating.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating here is a beautiful garden space."

"I found the sandwiches here to be on point."

"I loved the fresh and delicious sandwiches at this lunch spot."

Good to know

1

The deli has a huge and diverse menu with sandwiches, burgers, and salads.

2

Prices are generally under $10 for most items, making it affordable.

3

The outdoor seating area is spacious and dog-friendly.

09
Maharaj Indian Grill Restaurant & Banquet image 1

Spacious interior with opulent decor sets a warm tone. Lunch features a $12 combo with tasty appetizers and mains, perfect for groups. Large banquet hall suits special occasions with elegant vibes and soothing background music.

Lunch offers a $12 combo with a mix of appetizers and main courses. Meals come with fantastic flavors and satisfy groups like colleagues.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always on point."

"The naan here is served by the kindest, most attentive staff."

"The lunch specials here are delicious."

Good to know

1

They have lunch specials available throughout the week.

2

The restaurant can host special events like Diwali celebrations.

3

Expect a diverse menu featuring authentic Indian vegetarian cuisine.

10
Charred Fork image 1
Halal restaurant

Spacious Halal restaurant shines with bright decor and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for small groups. Lunch features huge portions and tasty specials like the chicken rice bowl. Unique touches include hand-washing sinks and house-made fountain soda.

Lunch offers huge portions and great specials with satisfying meals like the chicken rice bowl. The spot works well for grabbing food and hanging out with friends.

People are saying

"The brisket sandwich was so delicious and tasty."

"The char on the chicken sandwich was incredible."

"The brisket sandwich at this Lunch Spot is cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is HALAL, catering to dietary needs.

2

Portion sizes are generous, often enough for two meals.

3

The prices are reasonable for the quality of food.

11
Kurumaya Japanese Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant offers authentic dishes in a cozy atmosphere with tight seating. Lunch features large bento boxes priced fairly around $12 to $13. Quiet and clean space invites soft conversation and warm hospitality.

Lunch offers a good selection of bento boxes priced around $12 to $13. Portions come large and satisfying, making the lunch specials a fairly priced choice for a filling meal.

People are saying

"The lunch spot here is an amazing deal for the price."

"I found the authentic Japanese food here to be delicious and expertly prepared."

"The Katsu Curry here is enormous and truly delicious."

Good to know

1

The bento costs only $13, offering good value for lunch.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred.

3

Expect a wait during peak lunch hours, especially on weekends.

12
Hangry Cluck image 1
Chicken restaurant

Small dining space offers a clean, welcoming atmosphere with a fun, relaxed vibe. Crispy halal chicken shines as a delicious lunch option, perfect for work meals or casual dates. Generous portions keep energy high during busy times.

Chicken stands out as a delicious and filling option for lunch. It works well for both work meals and casual afternoon dates.

People are saying

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

"This Halal food is flavorful and hits hard."

"This Lunch Spot's food was so delicious, I came back two days in a row."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges a service fee and taxes 14% on all orders.

2

Parking is limited and can be challenging in the area.

3

The chicken served is Halal, catering to specific dietary needs.

13
European Deli & Subs Inc image 1

Cramped aisles create an intimate, bustling vibe with authentic European imports and massive fresh sandwiches. Lunch features homemade hot meals like the tasty Cajun Jack Panini. Small outdoor seating offers a quiet spot amid lively crowds.

Lunch offers a variety of fresh Polish food and homemade hot lunches. Sandwiches like the Cajun Jack Panini come in perfect sizes and taste delicious.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches to be huge and delicious."

"It's an authentic old-school deli with a traditional menu."

"I loved the huge, delicious sandwiches at this lunch spot."

Good to know

1

The deli offers a deal where you can pick 3 hot or cold foods for $9.99.

2

There is no indoor seating, but a couple of tables are available outside.

3

During peak hours, like lunchtime, expect a wait for your order.

14
Uncle Shawarma image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Bright space with vibrant decor and authentic Middle Eastern music creates a lively, family-friendly vibe. Daily lunch specials feature chicken and steak shawarma with rice and salad, offering high-quality food at reasonable prices. Staff provide free food samples, enhancing the welcoming atmosphere.

Daily lunch specials include chicken and steak shawarma, rice, salad, and pita. Prices range from about $10 to under $22, offering enough food for lunch and dinner. The food quality is high and suitable for a quick meal.

People are saying

"I thought the shawarma was the best Mediterranean food I'd ever tasted."

"They greet you with a delicious sample of lentil soup."

"This Lunch Spot's food is fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned."

Good to know

1

Uncle Shawarma gives out a free sandwich to celebrate their 6 months anniversary.

2

They offer daily lunch specials with high-quality food.

3

The area has good parking and is very safe.

15
Curry Kitchen image 1
Indian restaurant

Cozy Indian spot shines with authentic Nepali food served in copper bowls. Lunch offers a vegetarian special on beautiful plates with just-right portions. Enjoy views of downtown and a large bar area in a clean, relaxing space.

Lunch features a vegetarian lunch special served on beautiful plates with a great spread that offers tasty portions without too many leftovers.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"The momos here are full of authentic Nepali flavor."

"This lunch spot has fabulous food with great flavors."

Good to know

1

The restaurant currently operates as BYOB until they obtain their license.

2

There is easy street parking available near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant can accommodate almost 100 people at once.

16
Frida's Cocina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with spacious design and a beautiful mural. Lunch specials are reliable and tasty, perfect for midday meals. Atmosphere mixes community vibe with sports bar energy, making it lively and welcoming.

Lunch specials offer excellent food and satisfy consistently. Frequent visits show it as a reliable choice for midday meals.

People are saying

"I loved the Mexican food here; everything was delicious!"

"These al pastor tacos are the best I have ever had."

"This Lunch Spot's burrito is packed with flavor and Takis."

Good to know

1

Parking at Frida's Cocina is easy and accessible.

2

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities.

3

Prices at Frida's Cocina are affordable and reasonable.

17
Frantonio's Italian Deli & Cafe image 1

Cozy deli with Italian decor offers a family-friendly vibe perfect for lunch. Plenty of seating supports quick or relaxed meals. Staff serve gluten-free options and light sandwiches in a warm, authentic setting.

Cozy and comfortable atmosphere suits quick meals or relaxed lunches. Offers many options, including gluten-free choices, with attentive staff serving filling yet light sandwiches and more.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible and made with pride."

"I loved the authentic Italian sandwiches here."

"This lunch spot has authentic Italian sandwiches and entrees."

Good to know

1

Frantonio's offers a variety of vegetarian sub options alongside meat options.

2

Catering services are available for events, ensuring great-tasting food.

3

Credit card payments are accepted, with tip options of 20% or 25%.

18
Eggs with Benefits image 1

Hole-in-the-wall spot offers big portions with Korean flavors perfect for lunch. Minimalist decor and self-serve ordering create a chill vibe. Spacious seating and great lighting make it welcoming for quick meals.

Bowls stand out with big portions and Korean flavors that work well for lunch or a snack. The bacon and egg sandwich offers a solid, fast casual option for midday meals.

People are saying

"The breakfast sandwich here is so good, it brought us back to life."

"The Japanese Hash Curry Bowl is a fantastic combo."

"This is the best and most affordable lunch spot near campus."

Good to know

1

The Target underground parking is free for the first hour.

2

The evening taco menu is available from 4 to 10 pm.

3

They probably do not accept cash, but they accepted my Apple Pay.

19
Italian Homemade Company image 1
Italian restaurant

Spacious, clean interior with an open kitchen sets a relaxed vibe. Pasta dishes are exceptionally delicious, perfect for lunch with friends. Enjoy a variety of choices and pair meals with Italian wines for a great midday break.

Offers quality lunch options with a variety of choices. Serves meals that are well priced and suitable for meeting friends.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta here is delicious and fresh."

"The food here is so authentic, it transports you straight to Italy."

"I learned to make amazing pasta in a fun, small class."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 pm, Monday through Friday.

2

Pasta 101 class teaches how to make authentic pasta.

3

Happy hour features $7 cocktails and espresso martinis.

20
Thimi's Empanadas image 1
Argentinian restaurant

Small corner spot serves handmade Argentinian empanadas with a laid-back vibe and minimal seating. Perfect for a quick lunch, grabbing 2-3 empanadas offers a satisfying midday meal. Outdoor tables are being added for more dining options.

Every empanada offers a great taste and suits a quick lunch or snack. Stopping by for 2-3 empanadas works well for a satisfying midday meal.

People are saying

"These empanadas are some of the best I've ever eaten."

"The shrimp empanada's flavor was perfectly seasoned and robust."

"These empanadas are delicious and perfect for a Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited due to street restrictions and competition.

2

The restaurant is not open on Sundays.

3

There is minimal seating inside, making takeout a better option.

21
Shabu Plus Rotary Hot Pot Wicker Park image 1

Rotary hot pot offers an interactive dining experience with mini trains delivering fresh ingredients. Lunch is an all-you-can-eat deal priced affordably around $18. The fun atmosphere features anime decor and a DIY sauce bar perfect for groups and families.

Lunch offers an all-you-can-eat option priced around $17.99 to $20, delivering good value and affordability. The menu is delicious and satisfies expectations for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The food delivery via train and conveyor belt is so fun!"

"The staff here is so friendly and kind."

"The staff here is so friendly and kind during your lunch spot visit."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers 90 minutes of all-you-can-eat hot pot.

2

Expect a 45-minute seating limit for dining.

3

The all-you-can-eat experience costs $25.00 per person.

22
Sarra Grill image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers authentic Middle Eastern dishes with a clean, bright interior. Lunch specials provide great value and friendly service. Enjoy a warm, relaxed atmosphere with chill music perfect for groups.

Lunch specials cost around 10 dollars and offer great value with plenty of food and variety. Friendly service, especially from the hostess, adds to the pleasant experience.

People are saying

"This Mediterranean food is so delicious and flavorful."

"The lunch special here is an amazing deal with delicious food."

"The falafel here is perfectly crunchy outside and creamy inside."

Good to know

1

The lunch special costs only $10 and offers great value.

2

Parking is easy and accessible near the restaurant.

3

They offer excellent vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.

23
Mira Sushi evanston image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi spot blends modern cozy vibe with all-you-can-eat lunch featuring fresh sushi at great value. Soft music and cute decor create a peaceful atmosphere perfect for casual outings or dates. Ordering via tablet adds convenience to the meal.

All-you-can-eat lunch offers fresh sushi options at a lower price than dinner. The lunch special runs weekdays around $25 and serves promptly.

People are saying

"I found the sushi to be amazing and really fresh."

"I loved the all-you-can-eat sushi deal; it was a great value."

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

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat lunch special costs $25, offering great value.

2

Weekend lunch prices increase to $31.99, but the menu remains the same.

3

Parking is easily accessible near the restaurant.

24
Lotus Banh Mi - Naperville image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant offers modern decor and natural light for a calm vibe. It serves tasty lunch options quickly, perfect for downtown workers. Cozy and chic space welcomes families and casual diners with self-service condiments and steady music.

A clean, quick lunch spot with tasty options. Open during lunch hours, it fits well into a downtown lunch routine.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, has an authentic, flavorful broth."

"The banh mi here is fresh, flavorful, and has a super crispy baguette."

"This lunch spot has delicious, fresh food."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy to find since it's right at the corner, near US Bank.

2

The restaurant is very clean and comfortable.

3

They offer good gluten-free options.

25
Azul Celeste Bar and Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Modern, clean space with authentic Mexican tacos and excellent margaritas offers a laid-back vibe. Walkable from hotels, it suits family meals and casual lunch gatherings. Upbeat atmosphere with Latin music and live baseball games keeps energy lively.

Walkable from nearby hotels, this spot offers a solid choice for lunch. Groups of all ages come here, making it a comfortable place for family meals and casual gatherings.

People are saying

"The steak and shrimp tacos were amazing and flavorful."

"I thought the food here was just awesome."

"I will definitely be back to this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Half-price margaritas are available on Thursdays.

2

The restaurant is cash only, so bring cash or use the ATM.

3

They charge a 4% fee for credit card payments.

26
DeLishka Sandwiches & Bites image 1

Small sandwich shop offers freshly baked bread and imported cheeses on wooden trays. Cozy, modern vibe makes it a great lunch spot with filling sandwiches like house-made smoked turkey and bacon. Quality ingredients ensure a fantastic midday meal every time.

Sandwiches serve as a filling lunch, often enough for two people. Food quality is consistently fantastic, making it a reliable spot for midday meals.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwich here was the best I ever had."

"This lunch spot's sandwiches are huge and made with high-quality ingredients."

"The homemade meats and unique European flavors really stood out."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a limited menu focused on sandwiches, chips, and drinks.

2

Prices for sandwiches are around $13, providing good value.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred.

27
Sonny's Italian Kitchen image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, spotless dining room offers a family vibe with vintage photos and music. Massive Italian sandwiches like Focaccia Italian make lunch satisfying and perfect for next-day meals. Atmosphere feels like home, casual and polished.

Lunch offers massive Italian sandwiches like the Focaccia Italian and Italian subs that stay great for next-day work meals. The spot serves consistently delicious and satisfying lunch options.

People are saying

"You have to try the breaded steak sandwich; it's phenomenal."

"You have to try their chopped salad; it's amazing."

"The breaded steak sandwich is a huge and delicious Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Sonny's Italian Kitchen closes at 8 PM.

2

The restaurant uses quality ingredients.

3

The portion sizes at Sonny's Italian Kitchen are generous.

28
Taste 222 image 1
Restaurant

Offers an elegant yet cozy atmosphere with old school R&B music that suits both quick weekday lunches and large events. Features a versatile open floor plan including a private room, bar, and breezy patio. Perfect for a midday break or stylish gatherings.

Quick weekday lunches attract a downtown crowd with a salad and sandwich selection that suits the lunch rush. The atmosphere features inviting decor and pleasant music, creating a nice spot for a midday break.

People are saying

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful during Happy Hour."

"The American Food here, especially the peanut butter mousse cake, is amazing."

"The cornbread and mac & cheese at this Lunch Spot are really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with 13 food options and 9 drink options.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid waiting during peak hours.

3

The happy hour menu offers good value for money with reasonably priced items.

29
Sushi Susie (Deerfield) image 1
Sushi restaurant

Cozy sushi spot shines with authentic decor and unique cat art. Lunch specials offer quick service and fair prices, perfect for a calm midday break. Quiet ambiance dominates except near the bar where blenders run loudly.

Lunch specials include 2 rolls and 4 pieces of sashimi for about $15. Food arrives quickly and prices stay fair with reductions before 3pm. The spot feels nice and chill for a midday meal.

People are saying

"I thought the sushi here was high quality and very tasty."

"I thought this all-you-can-eat sushi buffet was the best I'd ever had."

"The lunch special here is awesome and excellent."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat option is priced reasonably at $30 per person.

2

Lunch prices are fair before 3pm with price reductions.

3

Sushi is clearly labeled, making it easy to identify contents.

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