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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Little Italy's best

Authentic lunch spots

Made for those who demand a no-nonsense, traditional meal during their midday break.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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Updated April 2026
01
Cairo Kebab image 1
Cairo Kebab image 2
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Mediterranean restaurant

Cozy space offers authentic Egyptian cuisine with simple, elegant decor and 90s Arabic music setting a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The vibe feels like a family home, making it ideal for casual meals or dates. The dining area is clean and spacious, enhancing the comfortable experience.

Food features authentic Egyptian flavors with dishes like Koshary and lamb shawarma standing out. Appetizers such as hummus, baba ghannoug, and falafel taste traditional and well-prepared.

Ambient atmosphere suits lunch with friends or colleagues. Food includes incredible hummus and delicious kebabs.

People are saying

"I experienced authentic Egyptian cuisine bursting with Eastern flavors."

"The soup here is so flavorful and comforting."

"The lunch spot here feels like being hosted by a caring friend."

Good to know

1

The prices at Cairo Kebab are very reasonable for the portion sizes.

2

Parking is conveniently located across the street for just $3.

3

Cairo Kebab is a halal restaurant, catering to dietary restrictions.

02
Fontano's Subs image 1
Sandwich shop

Old school corner deli with a classic Italian sub shop vibe and no-frills atmosphere. Quiet and laid-back with simple, cozy decor featuring linoleum tables and shelves of snacks. Known for authentic sandwiches with fresh bread and generous meat portions.

Subs here deliver an authentic Italian sub experience that sets a new standard. The whole vibe feels like a true Little Italy spot from start to finish.

Lunch here handles the rush smoothly with quick service and satisfying meals. The lunch meat stands out as a distinctive feature, appealing even to those who usually avoid it.

People are saying

"I considered this the best sub sandwich I've ever had."

"I found these subs to be the real deal, an authentic Italian sub."

"I became hooked on this place as my go-to lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a bit challenging in the area.

2

The subs are reasonably priced and generous in portion.

3

You can order a sandwich or make it a meal with chips and a soda.

03
Conte Di Savoia image 1

Italian deli with classic checkerboard floors and a tin pan ceiling creates an old school cool vibe. Atmosphere feels like a step back in time to a neighborhood shop with rich, authentic character. Sandwiches stand out as some of the best, complementing the genuine, nostalgic setting.

Offers authentic Italian sandwiches, classic espresso, and a wide range of genuine Italian products. The deli maintains a traditional Italian vibe throughout.

Lines form during lunch hour but move steadily. Offers quick bites and authentic Italian groceries for a convenient midday stop.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here to be amazing and really good."

"Their authentic Italian sandwiches are super delicious."

"I found the sandwiches here to be incredible, loaded with fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

Prices are very reasonable compared to other sandwich shops in the area.

2

The deli has about four tables available for dining.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during peak lunch hours.

04
Jim's Original image 1
Hot dog stand

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.

Offers an authentic Chicago street food experience with Polish hot dogs featuring authentic sausage, fried onions, and pepper. Stands out for delivering authentic Polish street food flavors beyond typical options.

Easy parking makes grabbing a porkchop sandwich or Polish sausage quick and convenient. The spot works well for both lunch and late-night meals.

People are saying

"I thought the Polish sausage here was delicious."

"I found the Polish sausage here to be authentically flavorful and juicy."

"This lunch spot's Polish sausage is grilled to perfection."

Good to know

1

Jim's Original is no longer open 24 hours.

2

There is no indoor dining at Jim's Original.

3

Parking is very easy during lunch hours.

05
Peanut Park Trattoria image 1
Italian restaurant

Rooftop dining with a retractable roof offers a quaint and intimate setting complemented by large open windows that blend indoor and outdoor spaces. Atmosphere balances comfortable space and lively energy, though noise can rise during busy times. The setup supports group gatherings while maintaining a pleasant view and inviting vibe.

Quaint spot serving authentic Italian-style pizza and pasta with a no frills, friendly neighborhood vibe. Food stays true to classic Italian flavors.

Lunch features orchiette pasta served in a casual setting with friends.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta here is so delicious."

"I loved the authentic Italian-style pizza and pasta."

"The pasta at this Lunch Spot is so good."

Good to know

1

Peanut Park Trattoria offers a happy hour between 4-6pm with $3 off pizzas.

2

Brunch is served on weekends with a special menu.

3

Expect long wait times on holidays like Valentine's Day.

06
Siri Indian Restaurant image 1
Indian restaurant

Small dining space creates an intimate setting with a cozy, elegant ambiance and dim, romantic lighting. Atmosphere stays inviting and calm despite limited capacity and occasional congestion. Guests experience a stylish environment suited for casual meals and special occasions.

Dishes feature complex flavors and perfectly spiced ingredients. South Indian specialties like Dosa and chicken biriyani deliver authentic taste and fresh quality.

Lunch features a buffet with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options during the week. The buffet lets you try a variety of dishes in one meal.

People are saying

"The flavors here are so authentic and bursting with spices."

"The seafood here has a fantastic peppery kick."

"This lunch spot's food is authentic, fresh, and impressive."

Good to know

1

Dosa night happens every Wednesday with unlimited dosas for $12.

2

Lunch buffet is available during the week for $10.

3

Reservations are recommended for dosa night due to high demand.

07
Chilango Mexican Street Food image 1

Mexican street food spot offers a cozy, homey atmosphere with bright chairs and a small, inviting space. The vibe stays lively and casual without feeling crowded, accompanied by fantastic music that enhances the experience.

Food follows authentic Mexican recipes with tacos and burritos that taste genuine. The place also features an authentic aesthetic that matches the traditional vibe.

Lunch specials offer tasty and affordable options. Bowls serve as a quick lunch or flavorful dinner in a casual setting.

People are saying

"The Mexican food empanadas are loaded with bananas and Nutella."

"I loved the authentic aesthetic and delicious Mexican food."

"This chicken bowl lunch spot is fresh and thoughtfully prepared."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available on a late Saturday afternoon.

2

The process of placing a pickup order is super easy and smooth.

3

Expect a wait during busy times due to to-go orders.

08
Ghareeb Nawaz UIC image 1
Indian restaurant

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.

Food stays authentic and fresh with a focus on affordable Indian Pakistani dishes. The place keeps it simple, serving good, no-frills meals that maintain traditional flavors.

Lunch specials cost around five dollars and offer well portioned meals. Options like chili chicken paratha provide a quick, inexpensive lunch under ten dollars.

People are saying

"The food here is incredibly affordable and the portions are generous."

"I found the food here to be amazingly fresh and authentic."

"You can get a super cheap and hearty lunch special here."

Good to know

1

Each dish can easily feed 3 people because of its size.

2

One chicken biryani costs between $8 and $10.

3

Ghareeb Nawaz UIC is halal.

09
Adda Indian Cuisine image 1
Indian restaurant

Soft lighting and jazz piano create a cozy, antique atmosphere with a lively vibe. Spacious seating includes booths and a bar with a full display of drinks. The setting suits date nights and casual dining with a pleasant neighborhood view.

Food bursts with authentic flavors, perfectly spiced and fresh. Kerala chicken with butter naan delivers a genuine Indian gravy taste.

Buffet options make lunch easy and quick. Biryani stands out as a popular choice for several days in a row.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious, I'm still thinking about it."

"I found the Indian food here to be authentic and bursting with flavor."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious and the portions are great."

Good to know

1

Adda Indian Cuisine offers a variety of vegetarian options on the menu.

2

Gluten-free friendly dishes are available at Adda Indian Cuisine.

3

Parking is plentiful and available on the street near the restaurant.

10
Lotus Banh Mi - Chicago UIC image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small, cozy space with bright sunlight and wood tables creates a peaceful, inviting atmosphere. Music stays chill and unobtrusive, making it suitable for working or relaxing. Known for authentic Vietnamese food with consistently flavorful pho and banh mi sandwiches.

Pho noodle soups show super authentic flavors. Some dishes deliver authentic Vietnamese taste, while others do not feel authentic.

Offers a peaceful atmosphere for lunch with options that are both light and filling. Serves as a reliable spot for a quick, easy, and satisfying midday meal.

People are saying

"The pho here has the best, most flavorful broth."

"The pho and banh mi here are delicious."

"The pho noodle soups taste amazing and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking is hard to find, with metered parking except on Sundays and a garage costing $3 for 2 hours.

2

The total cost is $24 USD, with $17 for beef pho and $6-7 for spring rolls.

3

They charge $10 for a sandwich and don't skimp on the meat.

11
ML Kitchen image 1
Restaurant

Cozy restaurant with a laid back vibe and a see-through raised floor over a rock garden creates a unique setting. Music plays softly, enhancing the relaxing atmosphere. Generous portions and a huge variety of dishes attract a diverse crowd seeking casual dining.

Chinese dishes show mixed authenticity with some flavorful moments but also excessive greasiness that detracts from true taste.

Lunch specials cost around $11.50 and come in generous portions that can last for two meals. Service stays friendly and fast even during busy lunch hours.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is savory, sweet, and perfectly saucy."

"The General Tso's chicken at this Lunch Spot is crispy and saucy."

"I found the food here to be authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, with a small lot available for customers.

2

Street parking is also available nearby for additional convenience.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment for diners.

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Little Italy, Chicago

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