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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in the Loop

Affordable lunch spots

Made for those who need a reliable midday meal that respects their budget without compromising on their time.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated April 2026
01
Umi Sushi by Weight Chicago image 1
Umi Sushi by Weight Chicago image 2
Umi Sushi by Weight Chicago image 3
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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.

Sushi comes at a very affordable price of $14.99 per pound. The fish is high quality and the overall cost stays budget-friendly without sacrificing taste.

People are saying

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

"I found the sushi here to be delicious and affordable."

"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.

02
Curry Blah Blah image 1
Thai restaurant

Small space with cozy atmosphere and wok hei aroma fills the air. Self-order kiosk simplifies quick takeout, popular for authentic Thai dishes with reasonable prices. Limited seating creates an intimate vibe, often busy but welcoming.

Lunch specials offer great value with fantastic portions. Combos include curry, satay, rangoons, and salad at prices lower than similar spots nearby.

Prices stay consistently affordable across dishes. Food meets spice expectations while keeping costs low.

People are saying

"The drunken noodles and pad Thai were beyond tasty."

"The lunch specials here have fantastic, large portions."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant is small and has limited seating.

2

They offer lunch specials that are a good value.

3

Prices are extremely reasonable and portions are great.

03
Chicken Planet image 1
Chicken restaurant

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.

Offers inexpensive and fast meals with friendly service. Good for quick, affordable, and tasty options.

People are saying

"I love their spicy salsa so much I could eat it every day."

"This Lunch Spot's grilled chicken is always fresh and juicy."

"It's affordable, quick, and tasty."

Good to know

1

Chicken Planet offers meals for under $10, making it budget-friendly.

2

The restaurant is open Monday through Friday only.

3

Expect to wait in line if you arrive right when they open.

04
Osaka Sushi & Fresh Fruit Smoothies image 1

Small space offers fresh, affordable sushi with large pieces and amazing sashimi. Atmosphere blends Japanese and non-Japanese vibes with limited seating and an amazing view. Lunch specials and dinner deals provide good value in a casual setting.

Lunch specials offer inexpensive and perfectly sized portions for mixing sushi rolls. This spot suits those seeking a budget-friendly lunch option.

Sushi here stays affordable without skimping on taste. Pricing for rolls is inexpensive and the meals are filling and quick.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"Their lunch specials are pretty good and affordable."

"I found the sushi here to be fresh, tasty, and affordable."

Good to know

1

Limited seating means you may need to wait during peak hours.

2

Prices for sushi rolls are affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

Online ordering is available, but the system may crash frequently.

05
Taste of Japan image 1
Japanese restaurant

Casual Japanese restaurant with a clean, calm atmosphere and affordable, authentic cuisine. Quiet and low-key, it attracts those seeking generous portions and high-quality sushi and curry without fuss. The vibe suits quick lunches or relaxed dinners with straightforward, no-frills service.

Ordering ahead works well for lunch with options like the simple, sweet inari roll offering a light meal. The space has a casual but stylish vibe suited for quick lunches or relaxed dinners.

Sushi comes at inexpensive prices without sacrificing taste or authenticity. Every bite delivers affordable quality that feels like a treat.

People are saying

"This is a solid, no-frills lunch spot with fresh, tasty food."

"I enjoyed the ramen; it's the best Japanese food I've had."

"You can get shockingly fresh, quality sushi that rivals more expensive places."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, making it easy for walk-in diners.

2

Expect generous portion sizes for the price, ideal for sharing.

3

The restaurant is casual, suitable for quick lunches or relaxed dinners.

06
S2 Express Grill Downtown image 1

Restaurant combines unique decor with a warm, welcoming vibe and top-tier music including hip-hop, R&B, and afrobeats. Atmosphere feels both like a casual takeout spot and a lively club under the right circumstances. Clean environment supports a positive, chill energy throughout.

Fast service suits tight lunch breaks. Staff like FiFi provide excellent customer care and handle special requests smoothly. Buy1get1 specials add value for quick midday meals.

Menu items come at very affordable prices and fill you up well enough for a game or concert. Happy hour offers affordable drinks for dine-in, paired with fast service.

People are saying

"I experienced unique, great customer service here."

"FiFi, our server, made our lunch visit great."

"The food and happy hour drinks here are so affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs until 7pm with affordable drinks for dine-in only.

2

Live DJ performs on Taco Tuesdays, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Expect a fun vibe on Fridays when the DJ is present.

07
Cafecito image 1
Cuban restaurant

Cozy space with natural light and high exposed ceilings creates a relaxed vibe. Cuban music plays softly, enhancing an authentic Latinx atmosphere. Seating includes sofas and armchairs, inviting comfort alongside casual dining.

Sandwiches stand out as a quick, delicious lunch option with a Cuban cuisine focus. The spot offers a great lunch atmosphere and serves food that works well for both breakfast and lunch.

Breakfast offers affordable and delicious options with authentic flavors. Meals provide comforting value without high cost.

People are saying

"The Ropa Vieja sandwich was so good and generously filled."

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

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

Good to know

1

Expect food to be ready in less than 8 minutes.

2

The price is quite high for what you receive, costing $20 for a small portion.

3

There is a variety of vegan options available.

08
La Catedral Cafe - New Eastside image 1

Mexican cathedral-inspired decor creates a stylish, welcoming atmosphere with authentic religious statues and vibrant tiles. Bright windows offer breathtaking views that enhance the cozy, family-friendly vibe. A full juice and coffee bar adds variety to the breakfast experience.

Offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options with a charming atmosphere that stands out among nearby spots. Popular for casual lunch dates and regular visits.

Affordable prices stand out here, especially for food and coffee. The menu offers delicious options without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"The chilaquiles here are some of the best authentic Mexican food around."

"The food at this lunch spot was delicious and wonderful."

"I found the prices to be affordable."

Good to know

1

Call ahead to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Check in and get on the waitlist before arriving, as it fills up fast.

3

Parking is convenient as it is located in the same building.

09
Luke's Italian Beef image 1
Italian restaurant

Interior showcases vintage American Italian decor with 1950s-inspired elements and Chicago memorabilia. Atmosphere feels authentic and cozy, reflecting a classic Chicago beef establishment. Space is bright and relaxed, with a serve-yourself drink fountain adding to the casual vibe.

Fast and friendly service handles the busy lunch crowd efficiently. Offers quick meals ideal for a grab and go experience with reasonable prices.

Food comes with affordable prices and quick preparation. Beef sandwiches and pizza offer an authentic taste without high cost.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's Italian beef sandwich is flavorful and worth the mess."

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

Good to know

1

Expect to pay extra fees not disclosed on the menu.

2

There are no public restrooms available for customers.

3

The restaurant can get crowded quickly after opening at 10am.

10
Léa French Cafe Lake Street image 1

French cafe with Parisian decor, high ceilings, and marble floors creates a cozy, energetic atmosphere. Self-order kiosks speed up service amid a lively crowd. Bread and pastries stand out as authentic European-style offerings.

Croissant sandwiches stand out as a quick and excellent lunch option. Breakfast and lunch offerings are consistently good and suitable for a fast meal.

Offers quick, affordable French fare with items like a $10 Parisian baguette that captures a taste of Paris without high cost. Breakfast and lunch options stay decent and budget-friendly.

People are saying

"The French food quiche is thick, smooth, and flavorful."

"Their croissant sandwiches are heavenly, buttery, and flaky."

"It's a good, quick, and affordable French cafe."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; it's first-come, first-served.

2

Expect limited seating, especially during peak hours on weekends.

3

Self-service ordering is available via terminals.

11
Hyatt Regency Chicago image 1

Hotel offers modern design with spacious rooms featuring river views and comfortable beds. Common areas buzz with activity, creating a lively atmosphere despite occasional crowding. Amenities include a top-notch gym, club level access, and convenient on-site services like car rental and security.

Lunch offers a rich and varied buffet with consistently good food. The ground floor restaurant serves excellent meals and hosts lunches during conferences.

Booking through apps and deals makes the stay affordable. Nearby eateries offer excellent food at reasonable prices. Drinks at the lounge cost money but remain budget-friendly.

People are saying

"This hotel's downtown location is perfect for walking everywhere."

"The lunch buffet here is rich and varied."

"The staff here are so friendly, it's like they treat you like a rockstar."

Good to know

1

Restaurants remain open until 1am for late-night dining options.

2

Valet parking costs $80 per night, which is quite high.

3

The hotel does not offer shuttle service to O'Hare Airport; taxi costs around $60.

12
Jimmy's Gyros & Grill image 1
Fast food restaurant

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 inexpensive even late at night. Hand-helds and soul food offer tasty and affordable options for college students and downtown diners.

People are saying

"I found the Greek food, especially the gyros, to be excellent."

"This lunch spot is quick and friendly."

"I found the gyro to be affordable compared to other options."

Good to know

1

Jimmy's Gyros & Grill offers a late night special.

2

The restaurant closes at 3am, making it a late-night option.

3

There is no bathroom available at the restaurant.

13
Pittsfield Cafe image 1

Old diner inside an elegant 1930s building offers a cozy atmosphere with a quiet morning vibe and architectural charm. Seating is ample, including outdoor spots with an amazing view. The setting feels like a calm oasis amid a bustling city.

Cozy spot serves true American diner lunch with quality service. Offers a wide range of food options including sandwiches and dinner items.

Food comes in big portions and stays affordable. Breakfast options offer good value without sacrificing taste.

People are saying

"I found this diner to have delicious, classic American food."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was delicious and tasty."

"The food here is affordable and comes in big portions."

Good to know

1

They have early bird specials until 11am every day.

2

Credit card payments incur a 3% charge without prior notice.

3

The bathrooms require a key from management for access.

14
Macy's image 1
Department store

Historic department store showcases iconic architecture and an elegant dining room with walnut woodwork. Atmosphere blends classic charm with a quieter, less crowded pace. Features include holiday decorations, a Starbucks, and unique art exhibits.

The Walnut Room on the 7th floor offers a classic lunch setting with seating under a tree. Food court options also exist on the same floor for quicker meals.

Extremely affordable prices stand out here, with a good mix of clothes ranging from budget to higher-priced options. The store feels convenient for finding affordable items.

People are saying

"Ashley acted as my personal shopper for Women's Clothing."

"I had lunch under the holiday tree in the Walnut Room."

"I found some really affordable options here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required on weekends to dine at the Walnut Room.

2

Macy's has no on-site parking available; street parking is costly.

3

The Walnut Room on the 7th floor offers lunch and happy hour options.

15
Cantina on Madison, Casual Mexican Restaurant & Bar, Voted #1 Tacos image 1

Mexican restaurant with quaint decor and beautiful murals creates a cozy, laid-back vibe. Indoor and outdoor seating offer a chill atmosphere suitable for relaxing after a busy day. The place stays quiet and welcoming, making it easy to enjoy the surroundings.

Affordable lunch deals make this spot a solid choice. Advice suggests avoiding the restroom before eating, as it might affect your appetite.

Prices stay consistently affordable here. The spot offers a good vibe alongside budget-friendly options.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and delicious."

"I thought the prices were very affordable."

"The lunch deal here is very affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Taco Tuesday features select tacos for $2 each.

3

Live DJ on Saturday evenings creates a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.

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