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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Lincoln Square's best

Coffee and lunch spots

A midday break with a cup of coffee and a proper meal helps reset the afternoon.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
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Updated April 2026
01
Nhu Lan Bakery image 1
Nhu Lan Bakery image 2
Nhu Lan Bakery image 3
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Restaurant

Small storefront with four seats focuses on takeout and offers authentic Vietnamese sandwiches including vegan options. Atmosphere feels welcoming and approachable with straightforward, no-frills setup. Sandwiches are fresh, reasonably priced, and often considered among the best in the area.

Vietnamese coffee stands out with a rich, bold flavor. The iced coffee and the Nhu Lan special offer consistent quality and a satisfying taste.

Constant customer flow shows this spot is popular for lunch. It offers quick, delicious options ideal for a grab and go meal.

People are saying

"I found the Banh Mi here to be fresh, flavorful, and amazing."

"The vegetarian banh mi sandwiches are tasty and flavorful."

"The banh mi sandwiches here are fresh and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

They offer a buy five sandwiches, get one free promotion.

2

Nhu Lan Bakery specializes in takeout, with limited seating available.

3

Vegan options include four different sandwiches and vegan pho.

02
Ka Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop offers a quiet, relaxing atmosphere with a homie feel ideal for studying or casual lunch. Space stays super clean and lowkey, tucked away in a strip mall. Regulars enjoy fresh, well-made sandwiches and reasonably priced drinks in a peaceful setting.

Coffee here stands out for its exceptional quality and great value, especially with the all-day breakfast special pairing coffee and an egg sandwich. The Thai iced coffee is notably distinctive and flavorful.

Frequent visits show this spot serves quick, delicious breakfast sandwiches and lunches. The sesame-chicken wrap stands out as a solid lunch choice.

People are saying

"These sandwiches are fresh, tasty, and unbelievably good."

"I thought the coffee here was delicious and amazing."

"The ladies running this lunch spot are so friendly and kind."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy to find near the cafe.

2

The prices at Ka Cafe are very reasonable.

3

Ka Cafe offers a breakfast deal for $6.25, including a bagel sandwich and coffee.

03
Capriccio - Artisan Pizza & Coffee image 1

Small cafe-style pizzeria with a modern Italian-inspired design and cozy, intimate atmosphere. Warm lighting and curated music create a relaxing, inviting vibe that blends Italian and Argentinian influences. Spacious outdoor seating with umbrellas complements comfortable indoor seating.

La Colombe coffee stands out with its excellent quality and lovely flavor. The cappuccino and caramel latte both deliver rich, satisfying taste.

Offers a quiet atmosphere suitable for working during lunch. Serves as a reliable neighborhood option for an early or casual lunch.

People are saying

"I loved the pizza; it was well seasoned and cooked to perfection."

"The artisan coffee here is good."

"You have to try the Baciata special for lunch."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for busy weekend brunches.

2

The restaurant opens at 10 AM, which is late for coffee service.

3

Gluten-free pizza may not be safe for those with celiac disease.

04
Cafe Mas image 1
Coffee shop

Bold murals and colorful decor create an artistic atmosphere with a cozy, inviting vibe. Quiet spaces and a back room with a couch support work-friendly comfort, while a small play area welcomes young children. Spanish pop ballads add to the relaxing ambiance throughout.

Coffee here features organic options and no extra charge for plant milks. Espresso drinks and lattes stand out, paired well with vegan pastries in a cozy atmosphere.

Freshly ground coffee and vegan lunch eats make this spot stand out. The molletes portion is large and feels wholesome and nutritious.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great iced coffee here; it was super refreshing."

"I tried the power burrito and it was amazing."

"The Lunch Spot portions here are large and feel wholesome."

Good to know

1

Cafe Mas offers a variety of vegan food options and quality coffee.

2

Parking is free on Foster and is usually easy to find.

3

Soy milk, oat milk, and almond milk are available as milk alternatives.

05
Bayan Ko Diner image 1

Diner offers a cozy, homey vibe with charming decor featuring dark wood and plant motifs. Seating is close together, creating an intimate but sometimes cramped atmosphere, with an upstairs patio providing outdoor, dog-friendly space. Music leans toward fabulous R&B, enhancing the relaxed, casual mood.

Coffee here is tasty and above average with a notably good decaf option. Prices stay reasonable while the flavors stay creative and delicious.

Silogs offer a light but hearty meal ideal for lunch or brunch. It serves as a reliable spot for Friday lunches with a menu worth exploring further.

People are saying

"I thought the brunch here was amazing, especially the Cubano burrito."

"The empanadas and lumpia at this lunch spot are awesome."

"I found the coffee here to be delicious and tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy weekends.

2

The diner is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own alcohol.

3

Brunch is served daily from 9am to 3pm, except on Tuesdays.

06
Las Maria's Breakfast Club image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Cozy neighborhood breakfast spot with charming decor and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Features a kids' activity section that keeps children entertained. Known for friendly service and a relaxed, down-to-earth vibe.

Homemade cinnamon coffee offers plenty of flavor without milk or sugar. Bottomless coffee comes with the $12 daily breakfast plate, which includes eggs, meat, and pancakes or toast.

Homemade soups and lunch sandwiches stand out alongside solid breakfast items. The lunch menu offers a good variety and is often underrated.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and generously portioned."

"You have to try their special coffee; it's amazing."

"The lunch sandwiches here are delicious and filling."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during weekend brunch hours.

2

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

3

Parking is available on the street, but it can be limited during busy times.

07
Cafe Libra image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor patio offers colorful umbrellas and comfy seating, creating a cozy, peaceful vibe ideal for relaxing or working. Upbeat music and games like Jenga add to the friendly, inviting atmosphere. The space suits both small gatherings and larger groups, with a layout that minimizes street noise.

Rich, flavorful coffee comes with unique drinks like the cookie butter mocha and blueberry latte. Options include hot and cold banana lattes that are tasty and not too sweet.

Lunch features authentic Balkan cuisine with options like a cevapi sandwich. Drinks include a latte alongside tasty dishes served all day.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be well made."

"They have super unique ice cream and gelato flavors."

"I had a tasty cevapi sandwich for lunch here."

Good to know

1

Cafe Libra offers breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner with authentic Balkan cuisine all day.

2

The cafe stays open pretty late for a cafe.

3

Cafe Libra offers non-dairy options for their gelato and ice cream.

08
Hilltop Restaurant image 1
Family restaurant

Nostalgic 90s diner vibe fills a space with timeless furnishings and classic diner atmosphere. The place offers a relaxed, comfortable setting with quick service and reasonably priced meals. It attracts those seeking a simple, familiar breakfast or lunch experience near a hospital.

Bottomless coffee costs $3.00 and serves well. Coffee and food arrive on time. Plates and mugs show heavy wear.

Old-timey diner atmosphere shapes the lunch experience with a classic, old fashioned vibe. The spot serves traditional breakfast and lunch dishes in a setting that feels like stepping back in time.

People are saying

"I loved the tasty, old-fashioned diner food here."

"The food here is good and the prices are great."

"I thought the coffee here was the best in town."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available on the side of the restaurant.

2

The prices at Hilltop Restaurant are great.

3

The food is ready very quickly.

09
Willow Cafรฉ and Bistro image 1

Outdoor patio on a leafy square offers natural light and a relaxed, community-focused vibe. Indoor space feels small but charming with a warm, inviting atmosphere suitable for multigenerational groups. The cafรฉ balances a cozy ambiance with lively yet comfortable energy.

Coffee here is consistently good with seasonal lattes like chai apple cider and caramel apple butter. Servers bring a baby latte for toddlers, making it easy to enjoy a latte while kids have fun.

A spot for lunch or dinner with options like smash burgers. Service can be slow, with orders sometimes taking over an hour and mix-ups like eggs added unexpectedly.

People are saying

"The patio is a cute, cozy outdoor space, perfect for brunch."

"I loved the cafe's atmosphere and pastries."

"I enjoyed their coffee and sweet treats."

Good to know

1

Expect busy patio seating during weekends around brunch time, especially in nice weather.

2

Parking in the area can be hard to find; allow at least 15 minutes before your reservation.

3

The Bistro area opens at 10am, so plan accordingly if you arrive early.

10
R&A Sourdough image 1
Bagel shop

Open air kitchen dominates the small space, creating a modern, chill vibe with friendly atmosphere. Patio seating offers a beautiful outdoor spot with flowers enhancing the experience. Walk-up window supports quick takeout, though indoor waiting area feels cramped on busy days.

Coffee comes in dark roast and cold brew with vanilla syrup options. The coffee quality ranges from very good to average depending on the visit.

Sandwiches serve as the main lunch option here, attracting a steady crowd working from home. Frequent visits show it as a reliable spot for a midday meal.

People are saying

"I loved the lox bagel with a generous portion and delicious dill cream cheese."

"The bagel at this Lunch Spot is so fresh and delicious."

"The coffee here was very, very good."

Good to know

1

Order ahead on the website to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect 10-15 minute wait times on weekdays and up to 30 minutes on weekends.

3

The bakery only has outdoor seating; no indoor waiting area is available.

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Lincoln Square, Chicago

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