Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Buffalo Grove

Authentic lunch spots

A midday meal that feels authentic is the only way to break up the monotony of the workday.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Sanjo Ramen image 1
Sanjo Ramen image 2
Sanjo Ramen image 3
View all
Asian restaurant

Bright, cozy space with a stylish interior and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Energy stays chill and safe, with a unique vibe created by staff interactions and a diverse music mix. Known for authentic, richly flavored ramen that stands out in the suburban scene.

Broth uses authentic ingredients that capture the taste of Japan. Ramen offers a delicious, authentic flavor at a reasonable price.

Lunch here draws groups and first-timers alike. The spot offers a straightforward lunch experience with consistent availability shortly after opening.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here delicious and flavorful."

"I found the ramen here to be truly authentic and delicious."

"This lunch spot's ramen has a yummy broth and solid noodles."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

The menu features a variety of ramen options, including vegetarian choices.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but the tap-to-pay feature may not work.

02
Chicago Galbi House image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Korean barbecue restaurant with smokeless grills and spaced-out tables creates a clean, cozy atmosphere with bright lighting. Music complements the vibe, keeping noise levels low even when full. Unique touches include traditional-modern decor and call buttons for easy service.

Korean BBQ here offers an authentic dining experience with flavorful dishes. Banchan includes traditional sides like eggplant, gochu, mook, and kimchi, not just simple cucumber.

A clean and refreshing atmosphere sets the tone for lunch here. The cold noodles and rib lunch set offer excellent value, attracting mostly Korean groups that highlight the restaurant's authenticity.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot has authentic, quality Korean BBQ."

"I found the Korean food here to be so authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

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

03
Yeero Revolution image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant offers a cozy, clean interior with authentic Greek music and videos of Greece on TV. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, blending hip and classic vibes. Guests enjoy generous portions of Greek street food and beer in a thoughtfully designed space.

Generous portions showcase authentic Greek flavors with spectacular spices true to traditional street food. Pork belly yeeros closely match those found in Greece, reflecting fresh, heartfelt cooking.

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

"The authentic flavors here taste just like Greece."

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.

04
Pita w shawarma image 1
Restaurant

Wooden tables and chairs fill a clean, spacious room where Middle Eastern music plays softly, creating a friendly, family-oriented vibe. The menu offers generous servings of well-seasoned meats and fresh salads, attracting those seeking authentic Mediterranean flavors in a casual setting.

Food offers authentic Middle Eastern flavors with dishes like Shawarma and hummus that closely match traditional tastes. Pita w shawarma serves fresh, flavorful Mediterranean cuisine without needing to travel far.

Lunch features a chicken schwarma special with a large portion including mango juice, pita, rice, salad, and falafel. The meal costs about $15 and suits both lunch and nighttime cravings.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so authentic and flavorful, like Middle Eastern comfort food."

"The chicken shawarma lunch special is a tasty, big portion."

Good to know

1

The lunch special costs around $15 and includes mango juice, pita, chicken, rice, salad, and falafel.

2

Expect generous portion sizes that can easily satisfy hunger.

3

Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes offered.

05
Samarkand Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Interior combines classy design with an in-between style reflecting Central Asian roots. Loud live Uzbek music fills the space, creating a fun and lively atmosphere that feels warm and welcoming. The place attracts those who enjoy energetic dining experiences with cultural music and performances.

Dishes feature authentic Uzbek flavors with a focus on lamb chops, Cheburek, and signature salad. The food tastes fresh, savory, and stays true to Central Asian traditions.

Lunch offers a casual vibe with options suitable for both everyday meals and special occasions. Food quality stays consistently top notch during midday visits.

People are saying

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

"The food here tastes so authentic, like homemade tradition."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and tastes like home."

Good to know

1

Live music is available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings.

2

You can host events at this cafe.

3

Many menu items run out by late afternoon, limiting options.

06
Siam Siam image 1
Thai restaurant

Tall booths create private seating while elephant art decorates the walls, setting a distinct atmosphere. Soft music plays in the background, though it can feel loud when occupancy is low. The place offers authentic Thai cuisine with fair prices and generous portions, especially noted during lunch specials.

Food tastes fresh and natively spicy with dishes like the rice salad served quickly. The flavors match authentic Thai food from Chicago's North side in the 90s.

Lunch specials come with one appetizer and one main dish, plus soup, offering good portions at a reasonable price on weekdays.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and phenomenal."

"The Thai food here is delicious, especially the basil chicken."

"I found the Thai food here to be authentic and natively spicy."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available on weekdays and offer good portions at a reasonable price.

2

Delivery through the restaurant's website is cheaper than third-party apps.

3

The lunch options come with a small appetizer, adding extra value.

07
Nawabi Hyderabad House - Biryani Place image 1

Indian restaurant offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with traditional dรฉcor and soft lighting that creates a cozy, serene vibe. Spacious banquet hall includes an attached outdoor seating area and a bonfire sit-out, enhancing privacy and comfort. The setting suits both casual dining and special occasions, blending ethnic touches with modern comfort.

Food features authentic Indian spices and rich flavors. Vijayawada biryani and Hyderabadi cuisine stand out for their perfect spice level and genuine taste.

Lunch here includes a variety of dishes enjoyed during several visits, including a Diwali lunch. The spot serves meals late into the afternoon, with lunch available even just before 3 pm.

People are saying

"This biryani is aromatic, flavorful, and generously portioned."

"I found the biryani to be full of authentic flavor."

"The Lunch Spot biryani and chicken dishes are so flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant can accommodate large events, including birthday parties for over 250 people.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure availability.

3

They provide special services like cake and music for celebrations.

Discover more

Buffalo Grove, Illinois

Area guide
Loading Map...