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Top picks in Chicago

Lunch spots

Made for those who treat their midday break as a non-negotiable opportunity to step away from the desk and reset.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Lotus Banh Mi - Chicago Loop image 1
Lotus Banh Mi - Chicago Loop image 2
Lotus Banh Mi - Chicago Loop image 3
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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.

02
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.

03
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.

04
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.

05
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.

06
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.

07
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.

08
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.

09
Brown Bag Seafood Co. image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seaside-themed spot offers cosy seating and a friendly atmosphere with lively music. Perfect for quick lunches, it features a grab & go style and a golden hour lunch special. Service is friendly, making it a welcoming place for a light meal.

Offers a grab & go style perfect for quick lunches or light meals. The golden hour lunch special provides a reasonable option, while the friendly service adds a positive touch to the experience.

People are saying

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

"The salmon plate is delicious and a good-sized portion."

"The friendly service here makes this lunch spot extra special."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted dinner plates and shareables.

2

Golden hour lunch special is a must-try for great value.

3

The restaurant only accepts private payment options with fees.

10
Hound Dog's Burger & Fusion Asian image 1

Korean restaurant shines with a recently renovated interior that feels fresh and bright. Quick lunch options include a Bul Go Gi sandwich blending Asian and American flavors. Cozy vibe stays chill and welcoming, perfect for a fast, comfortable meal.

Offers a quick lunch with a solid mix of Asian and American dishes. Known for the Bul Go Gi sandwich and a menu that suits breakfast and lunch well.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot offers amazing American and Korean food options."

"This place is a hidden gem, a must-go if you’re in the area."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served until 10:30 AM.

2

The restaurant will be open for breakfast and lunch on Saturdays.

3

The hours of operation will be extended to 6:30 AM - 5:30 PM each weekday starting in April.

11
Lizzano Focacceria & Spritzeria image 1

Enjoy traditional focaccia sandwiches with fresh ingredients and large portions in a quaint atmosphere filled with lively music and bright decor. Quick service during late lunch hours makes it a great lunch spot. Outdoor patio seating adds a welcoming vibe.

Food arrives quickly during less busy late lunch hours. Sandwiches and charcuterie make for a solid quick lunch bite or a leisurely lunch with a spritz.

People are saying

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

"I found the food here to be amazing and full of Italian flavors."

"This Lunch Spot's Italian sandwiches are authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available from Wednesday to Friday between 4pm and 6pm.

2

During happy hour, spirits and wine are $9, and Italian boards are 50% off.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian options on the menu.

12
Tuscan Hen Market image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian spot shines with fresh, flavorful meals and a well-maintained patio playing oldies. Lunch offers reasonably priced options and a cute outdoor balcony ideal for groups or casual hangouts.

Lunch here offers outstanding food with reasonably priced options. The spot features a cute outdoor balcony perfect for groups or casual hangouts.

People are saying

"The fresh pasta here is delicious and made with great care."

"The sandwiches at this Lunch Spot are fantastic."

"The patio has great vibes with music playing."

Good to know

1

Street parking is limited, but I found a spot right in front.

2

The pickup time for orders is between 11am and 3pm on April 30.

3

Expect a wait of about 5 minutes for sandwiches during busy hours.

13
Kin Sushi & Thai Cuisine image 1
Asian restaurant

Small Asian restaurant offers generous portions and lunch specials around $19.95. Black and gold interior with minimalist decor creates a calm, intimate vibe. Plants and candles add a relaxing atmosphere perfect for dates or family nights.

Lunch specials offer a great variety of options with generous portions priced around $19.95. Mini lunch choices like eggrolls and Pad Kee Mao provide a good value for the amount of food served.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is incredibly fresh and flavorful."

"The lunch specials here are a great deal for the amount of food."

"The vibe here is dark and intimate."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, providing ice buckets and glasses for wine.

2

The lunch special offers a variety of options priced at $19.95.

3

Expect generous portion sizes with all menu items.

14
The KTM Kitchen image 1
Indian restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic Nepali cuisine and local Nepali beer creates a warm vibe. Lunch bowls with tender goat and chicken offer quick, filling meals. Bright lighting adds a chic yet comfortable feel for any visit.

Lunch bowls feature tender goat and chicken with tasty Nepali flavors. Lunch specials come as affordable combos that are filling and served quickly.

People are saying

"The lunch specials here are delicious and affordable."

"The Nepali food here has authentic flavors and spices."

"The lamb chops here are tender and juicy."

Good to know

1

The food is ready for takeout when they say it will be.

2

The portions served are very generous.

3

The entire meal costs around 15 dollars.

15
FARE image 1
Health food restaurant

Health food spot offers plant-based options and an easy ordering process. Lunch hours bring a crowded scene with inconsistent seating but balanced portions keep meals satisfying and prices reasonable.

Lunch draws a crowded scene with inconsistent seating. Healthy options like the good food bowl make it a reliable choice.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be super delicious and healthy."

"I found the healthy food options here to be delicious and high quality."

"This lunch spot has delicious, healthy food."

Good to know

1

The meal costs between $16 and $18 without a drink.

2

FARE offers a diverse range of health-conscious options.

3

Seating can be inconsistent and lunch times may be crowded.

16
Pasta Via image 1
Italian restaurant

Open kitchen shows fresh pasta made daily, adding flair to the warm atmosphere filled with sauce aromas and upbeat music. Kiosks speed ordering, while tables with oil and Parmesan cheese create a casual yet sophisticated vibe. Perfect for a quick, reliable lunch spot or small group meals.

Warm, inviting atmosphere suits a quick lunch or casual meal. Catering handles groups of 10-15 with excellent results, making it a reliable lunch spot.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is made from scratch and tastes incredibly fresh."

"The food here is fresh, homemade, and tastes like authentic Italian cuisine."

"The owner's passion for hospitality makes this Lunch Spot feel so welcoming."

Good to know

1

All their pasta is made fresh daily.

2

They do not use any seed oils in their pasta.

3

Pasta Via offers great pasta at a wildly affordable price.

17
Lotus Banh Mi - Loop image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Spacious interior with soft jazz sets a calm, chill mood perfect for lunch. Vietnamese dishes like pho and banh mi offer lighter, healthier options. Location near workplaces makes it a convenient lunch spot with reliable hours.

Offers a lighter, healthier lunch option with a calm atmosphere. Stays open late enough to serve lunch reliably and is conveniently close to workplaces for a quick meal.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's food is fresh and delicious."

"The pho here is amazing and so flavorful."

"I remembered to have a Vietnamese coffee here."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during lunch hours, especially around noon.

2

The line moves quickly, so don't be discouraged by the wait.

3

They offer a few vegan options on the menu.

18
Mr.Quiles Mexican Food Truck image 1

Food truck offers authentic Mexican street food with homemade tortillas and bold, spicy flavors. Perfect for quick lunches or late-night cravings with generous portions and affordable prices. Atmosphere has good vibes for a fast, tasty meal.

Food truck serves quick Mexican meals ideal for lunch breaks. Frequented daily for grab-and-go or late-night eats.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were among the best I'd had."

"This lunch spot's food is fresh, flavorful, and packed with taste."

"This taco truck is my favorite food truck around."

Good to know

1

Prices at Mr.Quiles Mexican Food Truck are affordable.

2

They are located on Illinois near the Ice Cream Museum.

3

They have tap-to-pay options available for convenience.

19
Seedo’s Levantine Bakery image 1

Clean, organized bakery offers a fully halal menu with unique Palestinian baked goods. Healthy lunch options include organic turkey and pastrami sandwiches alongside treats like pistachio croissants. Welcoming atmosphere makes it a great spot for breakfast or lunch.

Offers healthy lunch options with sandwiches like turkey and pastrami made from high quality organic ingredients. Includes treats like date cake and pistachio croissant for a satisfying midday meal.

People are saying

"I loved the date cake; it was rich and tasty."

"I found the lentil soup to be warming and flavorful."

"This lunch spot's sandwiches are packed with unique, delicious flavor."

Good to know

1

The bakery is fully halal, catering to dietary restrictions.

2

Parking is limited and is paid street parking nearby.

3

Expect to find high-quality organic ingredients in all menu items.

20
Love Yourself Always image 1

Spacious and clean, this spot offers fresh ingredients and nourishing meals perfect for busy professionals. Quick, affordable lunches keep energy high without fast food. The welcoming atmosphere invites guests to relax and enjoy their meal.

Offers quick lunch options that are fresh and affordable. Serves nourishing meals suited for busy professionals avoiding fast food.

People are saying

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful, making lunch a great experience."

"These spinach wraps are fresh, fast, and delicious."

"You have to try the Frida Burrito; it's so fresh and healthy."

Good to know

1

They offer a wide variety of healthy menu items for breakfast and lunch.

2

Non-dairy milk and creamers are available for lactose-sensitive customers.

3

Prices are reasonable for the downtown area, making it budget-friendly.

21
Lito's Empanadas - The Sterling Food Hall image 1

Latin American food hall buzzes with lively atmosphere and quick service. Empanadas shine with Mexican-Colombian flavors, perfect for a quick lunch combo under $10. Prices stay reasonable, drawing a packed crowd during busy hours.

Offers a quick lunch with a combo including a beef empanada, side, and drink for about $10. Empanadas are filling and easy to grab during busy lunch hours.

People are saying

"These empanadas are perfectly crispy and packed with flavor."

"These empanadas are so good, I bought them for all my coworkers."

"These empanadas make a great lunch spot, especially the beef and potatoes."

Good to know

1

Lunch hours are usually packed, so arrive early to avoid long lines.

2

Expect a variety of empanadas, including vegetarian and sweet options.

3

A lunch deal costs about $10, including an empanada, a side, and a drink.

22
Umi Sushi by Weight Chicago image 1

Small space with about 10 seats offers a calm, quiet atmosphere perfect for a quick lunch. Enjoy restaurant quality sushi at a cheap price with a fast-food vibe. Self-service dispensers provide free sauces like spicy mayo and eel sauce to enhance your meal.

Offers restaurant quality sushi at a cheap price in the Loop area. Serves as a quick lunch option suitable for takeout or dine-in.

People are saying

"The sushi pieces here are huge and a great value."

"I loved the nigiri concept, paying by weight was perfect."

"This lunch spot's sushi is fresh and a great value."

Good to know

1

Umi Sushi charges by weight, allowing you to try various sushi without ordering a whole roll.

2

Each tray weighs about 1 pound and costs around $15.

3

The prices are very affordable, with meals typically under $20.

23
Earl’s Famous image 1

Sandwiches feature fresh ingredients and careful presentation, perfect for a hearty lunch with options like smoked salmon and grilled chicken. Casual vibe supports healthy, flavorful eating with scratch-made meals low in sodium.

Croissant sandwich serves as a hearty meal rather than a quick snack. It stands out as a solid choice for lunch and fits well into a breakfast and lunch routine.

People are saying

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

"Their healthy foods are made with fresh ingredients and taste amazing."

"This Lunch Spot's sandwich sauce added just enough zing."

Good to know

1

All sandwiches are made to order with fresh ingredients.

2

Prices for sandwiches range from $8 to $12.

3

Expect a wait time of about 10-15 minutes for your sandwich.

24
Firenze: Italian Street Food image 1

Italian street food spot serves quick, tasty lunches with crispy schiacciata bread and fresh ingredients. Perfect for business meals and casual downtown breaks, it offers a chill vibe in a food court setting. Great for those seeking no-fuss lunch options.

Offers quick, tasty lunch options that work well for business and staff meals. Serves as a reliable spot for work lunches and casual Friday treats downtown.

People are saying

"These sandwiches are so delicious and filled with flavor."

"The chicken pesto salad was incredible and so flavorful."

"The sandwiches here are fantastic, especially the bread."

Good to know

1

They require a minimum order of $75 for catering services.

2

Firenze caters easily for large groups, making events stress-free.

3

It's a great spot for a quick lunch downtown.

25
Ragadan image 1
Falafel restaurant

Small, clean spot with live plants offers quick, quality meals under $10. Known for top-notch burgers and crunchy falafels, it suits both meat eaters and vegetarians. Cozy, casual vibe makes it perfect for a fast, satisfying lunch.

Busy little spot serves fast casual meals with options for both meat eaters and vegetarians. Lunch runs under $10 and offers amazing food in a quick, convenient setting.

People are saying

"The Oklahoma onion burger is amazing and exceeded expectations."

"I found the falafel and burgers here to be the best."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but seating is limited.

2

Prices range from $7 to $11 for high-quality burgers.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

26
Madame Puffs and Thai Bistro image 1

Modern, chic space with live jazz music sets a warm tone. Lunch offers quick, tasty options like chicken pad Thai and pork puff specials. Upscale Thai dishes shine in an intimate setting with luxurious decorations and bright golden lettering.

Lunch features a pork puff and chicken pad Thai as part of a special. Quick meals can turn into ordering a full table of dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and full of flavor."

"This place is perfect for dates with its warm, intimate atmosphere."

"This lunch spot's puffs are flaky, well-seasoned, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drink.

3

Expect a separate charge for protein in dishes, which can increase total costs.

27
Le Cafe Station Grill image 1

Cozy spot with an intimate patio perfect for family lunches. Offers a varied menu with breakfast and lunch options. Decor is festive and warm, creating a welcoming vibe with soft music that supports easy conversation.

Cozy spot with a good mix of breakfast and lunch options. Works well for family lunches and offers variety with different dishes each visit.

People are saying

"I loved their delicious breakfast food and gluten-free options."

"The horchata latte here is to die for."

"This lunch spot's food is phenomenal and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB and provides champagne flutes for mimosas.

2

Community-oriented events are hosted regularly at the cafe.

3

Wine and paint nights are occasionally organized at the cafe.

28
Art's Drive In image 1
Fast food restaurant

Small fast food spot with old school Chicago vibes offers a grilled chicken sandwich that's a lunch favorite. Staff show thoughtful care and outdoor space is pet friendly and colorful, creating a warm, welcoming setting.

Grilled chicken sandwich stands out as a lunch favorite here. Staff show thoughtful care, even handing out sack lunches after an accident.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the burgers and hot dogs, is amazing."

"The feta on the Greek Salad is the best and freshest I've ever tried."

"This Lunch Spot's food is seriously good and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

There is free parking onsite.

2

The restaurant is allergen considerate.

3

The place is very clean.

29
Pockets Restaurant image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot serves fresh, healthy options with quick service perfect for lunch. Known for homemade ranch dressing, it offers calzones and wraps in a clean, friendly atmosphere ideal for families and office crowds.

Offers healthy lunch options with quick service. Suitable for family meals and casual dining.

People are saying

"I thought the calzone was delicious and had lots of cheese."

"I loved building my own salad with the toppings I wanted."

"This lunch spot's food is always fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Pockets offers a build-your-own option for salads and meals.

2

All ingredients used are fresh and of high quality.

3

Delivery service is fast, especially in the Chicago area.

30
Big Bird Sushi Bar & Thai image 1

Cozy sushi spot offers fast lunch specials that are affordable and tasty. Spacious seating fits groups or quiet nights out. Soft 2000s R&B sets a relaxing vibe in a clean, inviting space.

Offers a fast, affordable lunch with a lunch special that provides a great deal. Suitable for a casual lunch date or a quick meal.

People are saying

"The sushi here is phenomenal, with amazing textures and depths of flavor."

"I found the Pad Thai here to be hot and delicious."

"This lunch spot's Pad Thai is the best I've had outside Thailand."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

2

There was no parking available at the restaurant.

3

Prices average about $20 per person for a meal.

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