Small space with about 10 seats and a minimalist bar offers a calm, quiet atmosphere. Casual, fast-food vibe suits quick, affordable sushi meals. Self-service dispensers provide free sauces like spicy mayo and eel sauce, enhancing the simple setup.
Offers restaurant quality sushi at a cheap price in the Loop area. Serves as a quick lunch option suitable for takeout or dine-in.
Charges by the pound make sushi here very cheap. Offers restaurant quality sushi at a low price, ideal for a quick lunch or dinner.
"The sushi pieces here are huge and a great value."
"I was surprised at how cheap the sushi was for the huge portions."
"This lunch spot's sushi is fresh and a great value."
Good to know
Umi Sushi charges by weight, allowing you to try various sushi without ordering a whole roll.
Each tray weighs about 1 pound and costs around $15.
The prices are very affordable, with meals typically under $20.
Small sushi restaurant offers a casual and relaxed atmosphere with good music and real chopsticks enhancing the dining experience. The space feels cozy and welcoming, suited for quiet evenings or casual dates. Affordable prices pair with high-quality sushi to create a satisfying local spot.
Open during lunch hours with great prices makes it easy to pop in for a quick meal. The spot suits casual lunches with friends or coworkers near the area.
Sushi comes at very cheap prices without sacrificing quality. Service is fast and the overall cost feels fair and affordable.
Good to know
Cash is required for purchases less than $15.
The prices for food are great at $4.49 per plate.
A $5 menu is available for select items.
Spacious setting combines low light and modern vibes with traditional dining and ceramicware. Atmosphere feels like a family gathering with quiet energy and no background music. Known for authentic Northeastern Chinese cuisine with affordable prices and generous portions.
Lunch specials stand out with great value around $7 and include dishes like mutton shaomai. These options offer a delicious and satisfying midday meal.
Dishes come at very cheap prices without sacrificing quality. The food offers great value for the cost.
Good to know
The lunch specials are around $7, offering great value.
Portion sizes are generous, making it ideal for sharing.
They provide free bottled water with your meal.
Sushi restaurant offers affordable prices and fresh, tasty rolls served in small, shareable portions. Atmosphere is casual and cute, suitable for quick takeout or casual dining. Customers can bring their own beverages, adding to the relaxed vibe.
Lunch offers great food with tasty dishes served quickly. The spot stays quiet on Sundays, making it easy to find a table for groups.
Sushi prices stay very cheap here, making it a solid choice for a budget-friendly date night. The quality holds up well despite the low cost.
Good to know
They offer a bring-your-own-bottle (BYOB) option.
Takeout orders are labeled and in sturdy containers.
The food is prepared in approximately 6 minutes.
Outdoor dining features standing tables under heat lamps, creating a warm, quaint atmosphere with an old school neighborhood vibe. The space feels lively and cozy despite limited seating, attracting those who enjoy quick, quality chicken sandwiches in a casual setting.
Super fast service keeps lunch moving even during busy hours. The chicken sandwich stands out as a solid choice, and the menu easily handles dairy and soy allergies.
Food and drinks come at cheap prices here. The chicken sandwich and beer both cost little and serve fast.
Good to know
Free chicken sandwich and nugget events are held regularly.
There is no indoor seating available; enjoy your meal outside.
Prices are generally under $10, making it an affordable option.
Small, humble chicken spot with fast service and affordable prices. Atmosphere is casual and good for a quick, relaxed lunch. Known for juicy grilled chicken and spicy homemade salsa that stand out in a downtown setting.
Lunch here is consistently fast, fresh, and budget-friendly. Service stays quick even during the lunch rush, making it a solid choice for a workday meal.
Workers on lunch break find fast, cheap options here. The chicken stands out for being both affordable and well made.
Good to know
Chicken Planet offers meals for under $10, making it budget-friendly.
The restaurant is open Monday through Friday only.
Expect to wait in line if you arrive right when they open.
Vietnamese restaurant with a simple, barebones dining area and authentic, home-cooked vibe. Atmosphere feels like eating in someone's kitchen, with rich flavors and cash or Zelle-only payment. Known for high-quality pho and banh mi that many consider the best in the city.
Lunch offers rich flavors and an authentic vibe with Vietnamese dishes that encourage good conversation.
Prices stay pretty cheap compared to other pho spots nearby. Food quality matches the low cost, making it a good value option.
Good to know
Cash is the only accepted payment method; Zelle is also accepted.
Bring cash as cards are not accepted.
The portions served are very generous for the price.
Sandwich shop offers hefty 12-inch subs with excellent bread and a blend of white American cheddar and Swiss cheese. Atmosphere stays clean and inviting with a glass window showing the kitchen. Prices remain very reasonable, making it a popular spot for budget-friendly lunches.
Quick service delivers large sandwiches and chili at affordable prices. Lunch deals offer great value for downtown workers seeking budget-friendly options.
Good to know
Prices for a sub, soup, and drink start at around $10 after tax.
Expect fast service even if the line looks long.
They accept Apple Pay and other mobile payment methods.
Space blends Central Asian decor with warm, cozy atmosphere and beautiful artwork. Staff contribute to a welcoming vibe with attentive service and thoughtful gestures. The setting invites relaxation and a sense of being transported to Asia.
Lunch offers set meals that suit families and individuals. Meals come with convenient options and create a pleasant atmosphere for casual dining.
Food costs stay low while portions come very generous. Prices keep meals affordable without skimping on quantity.
Good to know
Expect large portion sizes; sharing is common.
Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for tipping.
Parking is available on the street, but can be limited during busy times.
Small sushi restaurant with limited seating and a clean, simple decor featuring paper umbrellas on the walls. Atmosphere feels cozy but cramped, with a mix of quiet dining and loud music that can feel like a disco. Offers fresh sushi at great prices in a relaxed setting.
Sushi stands out as a healthy, filling lunch option here. It offers quality and value, making it a solid choice for a quick or relaxed midday meal.
Prices stay very cheap while the sushi remains pretty good for what you pay. The menu offers delicious options without stretching your budget.
Good to know
Gorilla Sushi offers affordable sushi with a variety of traditional and fusion rolls.
Dine-in and carry-out options are available for convenience.
Parking can be an issue, so plan accordingly.
Classic dive bar with a fishing theme and historic charm updated through thoughtful renovations. Atmosphere stays relaxed and cozy, attracting an older crowd who share stories in a lively yet low-key setting. Features include outdoor seating, multiple TVs, and a jukebox system, with music leaning toward pop country and hip-hop rather than punk or metal.
Lunch features home-cooked meals like meatloaf, pork chops, and corned beef with mashed potatoes and gravy. A weekday lunch special runs from 11 AM to 2 PM.
Cheap drinks and cheap beers make this spot a go-to for locals. The bar keeps things simple with good service and a sunlit patio in warmer months.
Good to know
Lunch is served from 11 AM to 2 PM on weekdays.
They host a Monday Night Foodball pop-up event.
Expect a rotating selection of local cooks at food pop-ups.
Small space offers authentic flavors and a homey, cozy atmosphere with self-order kiosks and a self-serving sauce station. The vibe is casual and welcoming, attracting those seeking affordable, well-portioned Chinese dumplings and bao. Decor is simple but pleasant, enhancing the overall experience.
Light lunch options and a variety of dishes make this spot good for a late lunch. The place gets packed at lunch, so visiting between lunch and dinner helps with seating.
Food comes with very cheap prices and large portions. Bao and other dishes offer solid value without skimping on quality.
Good to know
Parking costs $2.50 per hour using a mobile app.
A bathroom is available for paying customers only.
They offer a variety of vegetarian and pescatarian options.
Outdoor counter service with no-frills setup and standing eating areas creates a classic Chicago food stand vibe. The atmosphere feels old-school and authentic, with the smell of grilled onions adding to the experience. Security presence and heat lamps under the awning contribute to a practical, laid-back environment.
Easy parking makes grabbing a porkchop sandwich or Polish sausage quick and convenient. The spot works well for both lunch and late-night meals.
Prices stay cheap, around $5 for a hot dog with fries. Food quality matches the low cost, and service is super fast.
Good to know
Jim's Original is no longer open 24 hours.
There is no indoor dining at Jim's Original.
Parking is very easy during lunch hours.
Small, modern space with all seats facing large windows creates a bright, inviting atmosphere. Laid-back vibe suits quick meals or quiet meetings, enhanced by pasta-themed decor and barstool seating along the window. Fast service and fresh, flavorful pasta define the experience.
Quick service fits well into a lunch break. Small portions offer a great lunch size. Options suit carry out or a last-minute meal.
Prices stay very cheap but the pasta often feels dry and tastes incredibly cheap despite the low cost.
Good to know
PastaFi is open until midnight on weekdays and 2 am on weekends.
PastaFi offers gluten-free pasta options for those with dietary restrictions.
All sauces at PastaFi are made with fresh ingredients every morning.
Tiny fast food spot blends Greek and American road culture with an open kitchen where staff prepare food in plain view. The atmosphere stays lively and welcoming, with chill music adding to the inviting vibe. Limited seating means most eat standing or take food to go.
Offers a fast and good lunch with an old-school Chicago lunch counter vibe. Serves straightforward, satisfying meals ideal for a quick midday stop.
Prices stay cheap here, making it easy to grab greasy fast food without spending much. Food comes out quick and satisfies cravings on a budget.
Good to know
Jimmy's Gyros & Grill offers a late night special.
The restaurant closes at 3am, making it a late-night option.
There is no bathroom available at the restaurant.
Small counter with several stools offers minimal seating, emphasizing pickup and delivery over dining in. Atmosphere feels unwelcoming and lacks ambiance. Known for huge portions, amazing prices, and authentic high-temperature wok cooking.
Great lunch specials offer good value with options like egg drop soup and beef and mushroom dishes. Portions often come with enough to save half for another meal.
Food comes with cheap prices and generous portion sizes. Meals taste good and cost little.
Good to know
Lee's Wok is primarily a pick-up or delivery place, not suitable for dining in.
Expect large portions for a reasonable price at Lee's Wok.
The website menu and the in-store menu are different.
Small Indian restaurant with huge portions and very reasonable prices attracts budget-conscious diners. Interior is no-frills and cramped, creating a basic and somewhat dull atmosphere. Friendly environment includes a prayer corner, adding a cultural touch.
Lunch specials cost around five dollars and offer well portioned meals. Options like chili chicken paratha provide a quick, inexpensive lunch under ten dollars.
Offers super cheap prices with large portions. Butter chicken paratha and Biryani stand out as incredibly cheap options.
Good to know
Each dish can easily feed 3 people because of its size.
One chicken biryani costs between $8 and $10.
Ghareeb Nawaz UIC is halal.
Small, tightly packed hot dog spot with limited seating and a cozy interior. Loud, angsty house music fills the space, creating a lively, club-like atmosphere. Strong food and smoke aromas blend with a communal vibe popular among college students and tourists.
Busy during lunch with many high school students, it offers quick service and great hotdogs. The spot suits a casual lunch with a short wait that feels worth it.
Offers cheap prices with Chicago style hot dogs that are both delicious and quick for a bite.
Good to know
Devil Dawgs on State doesn't accept cash payments; only credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.
The seating area is limited, so be prepared for a wait during peak hours.
Expect a busy atmosphere, especially around 5PM on Fridays.
Mexican restaurant offers a bustling, family-style atmosphere with authentic decor and an open kitchen. The space feels cozy and crowded, filled with families and friends enjoying late-night dining. Music plays loudly, creating a lively and energetic vibe.
Lunch offers fantastic value with good service that is not rushed. The spot works well for an early lunch or late dinner hangout with friends or family.
Tacos cost only $3.25 per plate, making meals around $15 per person. Food comes out fast and cheap without sacrificing authenticity.
Good to know
The restaurant closes at midnight.
Finding parking on weekends is difficult due to the location.
Call ahead for carry out orders to minimize wait time.
Spacious pizza restaurant with old Chicago feel and walls adorned with historic photos. Atmosphere is warm and family-like, offering a cozy mom-and-pop shop vibe. Plenty of seating and simple, stylish decor create a welcoming environment.
Fast service appears just before the lunch crowd. Orders can be placed a day ahead for next-day delivery. The place stays packed during the lunch rush, maintaining its long-standing quality.
Offers cheap pizza and Italian ice with quick service. Food is simple and affordable without fancy frills.
Good to know
Handicap parking is available in the lot.
Ricobene's does not offer delivery to all nearby locations.
Prices for sandwiches are around $17.99, which may vary.
Small, hot interior creates an intimate setting with a friendly atmosphere. Affordable prices pair with tasty dishes like egg foo young and orange chicken to attract those seeking value. Consistent quality and takeout convenience make it a reliable choice for casual Chinese food.
Lunch specials come with huge portions and include combos like orange chicken with chicken fried rice plus pot stickers or crab Rangoons. Options also feature chicken lo mein and triple delight spicy dishes.
Menu prices stay low with affordable dishes and fast service. Meat tends to be cheap and rubbery, reflecting the focus on cost over quality.
Good to know
The prices at Wen Cai Chinese Kitchen are great for takeout.
Parking is available at Wen Cai Chinese Kitchen.
The portions are large, providing good value for the price.
Small, cafeteria-style restaurant with minimal decor and a casual, cozy setup. Atmosphere is friendly and chill, with kitchen sounds audible and a mix of smells. Offers inexpensive, hearty portions of northern Indian and Afghani dishes.
Lunch specials cost between $4.99 and $8, offering vegetarian options and large portions. Prices stay reasonable and meals deliver good taste.
Offers cheap and authentic Indian and Pakistani food with lunch specials that combine good taste and low prices. Serves delectable dishes late into the night at very affordable rates.
Good to know
Lunch specials are available for $4.99, allowing two people to eat for under $20.
The restaurant is known for its large portion sizes compared to the price.
Expect a small dining room; parties larger than four may be uncomfortable.
Small space with limited seating and quirky decor creates a cozy, inviting vibe. Fun elements like an Asian snacks wall and games add to the casual atmosphere. Sushi balls priced at $1 offer a convenient, affordable way to sample various flavors.
$1 sushi balls offer a very affordable lunch option. Eight sushi balls plus two dessert ones make a perfect portion for lunch or a light dinner, all for about $16 for two people.
Prices stay really cheap while the sushi remains fresh and delicious. Presentation looks photogenic without cutting corners on quality.
Good to know
Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.
The restaurant has very limited seating, mostly for quick bites.
Prices are very reasonable, with sushi rolls starting at $1.
Drive-in hot dog stand with car hop service and classic 1950s style creates a nostalgic atmosphere. Eating in cars or at outdoor seating offers a fun family vibe with an authentic old-school Chicago feel. Iconic giant hot dog on the roof marks the well-maintained location.
Lunch comes quickly with a carhop service delivering meals right to your car. The spot suits a busy lunch hour with a drive-in setup that lets you eat while watching the activity around you.
Affordable crewneck sweatshirts cost around $24 and hold up well after many washes. Other prices feel less cheap, especially compared to a $5 hot dog and fries deal in the city.
Good to know
Superdawg Drive-In is a drive-in restaurant where you eat in your car.
Parking at Superdawg Drive-In can be challenging.
The bathroom is very clean and well-maintained.
Buffet-style setup with a mom-and-pop feel creates a casual, clean, and organized atmosphere. The place draws a steady crowd looking for affordable prices and generous portions of authentic Chinese food. Lighting is modest, contributing to a simple, unpretentious vibe.
Offers a great deal on lunch for two with quick service. Feels like the kind of lunch counter spot that fits well for a fast midday meal.
Good to know
A regular plate with a drink costs $10.
They offered a 50% off deal during opening weeks until August 25th.
The portion size is generous for the price.
Huge dining room with modern design and electronic tablet ordering creates a bright, clean, and efficient environment. Atmosphere feels family-friendly and lively, with cozy decor and pleasant music. Cantonese and sushi dishes offer authentic flavors that complement the warm vibe.
Lunch specials include a free hot drink before 11 AM or after 2:30 PM. Meals are filling and cost about $120 for three people. Food quality is consistently good during lunch.
Food offers authentic flavors and is generally cheap and filling. However, some items or visits may not feel cheap.
Good to know
Parking on the Clark Street lot can be validated at the restaurant.
Expect a 1-hour wait time for dim sum on busy days like Christmas.
Breakfast or lunch specials come with a free hot drink before 11 AM or after 2:30 PM.
Bars on windows and austere seating create a prison lunch room atmosphere with a run-down look. The place has a cash-only policy but includes an ATM inside for convenience. It offers an authentic, hole-in-the-wall vibe favored for its consistent, spicy fried rice.
Lunch specials serve large portions at a reasonable price. The dining area feels like a prison lunch room with bars on all windows, including the order spot.
Prices stay mostly cheap with dishes like pepper steak standing out. Fried rice costs more and the side of Sirachi feels like a cheap mix.
Good to know
Hing Wang is a cash-only establishment.
Parking can be tight.
A large to-go box can feed 3-4 people.