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Top picks in River North

Lunch spots

You need a lunch spot that understands you have a day to get back to.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Lizzano Focacceria & Spritzeria image 1
Lizzano Focacceria & Spritzeria image 2
Lizzano Focacceria & Spritzeria image 3
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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.

02
Poke San image 1
Seafood restaurant

Bright neon signs and kitschy decor create a vibrant vibe. Outdoor patio offers a cozy spot to enjoy fresh poke bowls with unique ingredients like kimchi. Perfect for a cute lunch atmosphere with generous portions.

Cute atmosphere creates a nice spot to sit and have lunch. Offers great lunch options suitable for both lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"The poke here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The Japanese food here is so fresh, especially the fish."

"This lunch spot's Hawaiian bowl is so fresh and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Poke San is open from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

2

Expect generous portion sizes for poke bowls, great for the price.

3

Prices for poke bowls are competitive, offering good value.

03
Protein Bar & Kitchen image 1
Health food restaurant

Health food restaurant serves high-protein meals in a clean, quiet atmosphere with self-ordering kiosks. Perfect for a quick, healthy lunch or snack with consistent, delicious options. Prices stay reasonable and service includes mobile ordering and rewards.

Offers healthy options that work well for lunch or a quick snack. Provides consistent and delicious meals suitable for a midday break.

People are saying

"I found the healthy food here to be great and served quickly."

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

"Their Mexican food, especially the bowls, is super filling and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The menu offers customizable healthy options for various dietary needs.

2

Prices for bowls are around $12, comparable to similar fast-casual places.

3

Mobile ordering is available for quick service.

04
Marshall's Landing image 1
American restaurant

Enjoy river views and a wrap-around bar with comfy seats for lunch or meetings. Staff are quick and friendly, perfect for business lunches or group events. Private rooms add a quiet touch despite lively music, making it versatile for work or socializing.

Lunch here offers prompt seating even during busy hours and amenable staff who accommodate post-lunch work needs. The spot suits both business lunches and larger group orders for events.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The river views here are absolutely stunning."

"The staff at this lunch spot are so friendly and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

2

Marshall's Landing is a popular spot for hosting corporate events and parties.

3

The venue offers a spacious area suitable for networking events.

05
Lure Fishbar - Chicago image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood shines with fresh oysters and crab claws perfect for lunch. Quiet, elegant vibe suits fancy dining and focused afternoons. Beautiful boat decor and funky wall art create a unique, comfortable space indoors and on the small patio.

Lunch features a lunch special alongside oysters and crab claws. The spot suits casual meals and working afternoons.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, high quality, and delicious."

"The service here is top-tier, attentive, and genuinely welcoming."

"This lunch spot's seafood, especially the oysters, is delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 PM to 6 PM, including weekends.

2

Enjoy half-off wine bottles during happy hour.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

06
Just Salad image 1
Health food restaurant

Small space fills with a busy crowd at lunch, drawn by quick service and fresh salads. Friendly staff keep lines moving fast. Prices reflect quality and convenience, with easy pickup options to skip waits.

Quick service and friendly staff keep the lunch line moving fast. Offers a variety of salads, bowls, and wraps ideal for a workday meal.

People are saying

"The staff at this Lunch Spot is super friendly and efficient."

"I found the salads to be always fresh."

"The takeout salads are enormous and fantastic."

Good to know

1

Ordering ahead is recommended to avoid long lines during lunch hours.

2

Expect long wait times around noon; consider ordering ahead.

3

Prices can be high, but they offer a variety of salads, bowls, and wraps.

07
Zombie Taco image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco spot inside a hotel lobby offers funky atmosphere with old arcade games and live DJs. Quick service and casual vibe make it great for lunch, though music can get loud. Bar area with check-in adds a lively vibe blending dining and entertainment.

Quick service suits lunch well with a casual vibe. Music can get loud, especially on weekends, which might affect the lunch atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the breakfast burritos."

"The bartender Simon was the best, making our experience a true delight."

"This Lunch Spot's Zombie Burrito was outstanding and filling."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6pm with great deals on food and drinks.

2

A DJ performs on Friday and Saturday nights, enhancing the nightlife experience.

3

Weekend vibe nights at the Moxy Hotel feature lively music and a vibrant atmosphere.

08
Bongiorno's Cucina Italiana & Pizzeria image 1

Cozy, family-owned spot shines with authentic Italian pizza and Italian beef sandwich for lunch. Small, crowded space buzzes with a lively atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers a pleasant break from the noise.

Lunch features Italian beef sandwich with mozzarella and sausage pizza. Pizza stands out as very good during midday meals.

People are saying

"The pizza here is amazing; the staff makes you feel so welcome."

"The Italian food here is served by the friendliest, most attentive staff."

"This lunch spot's Italian beef sandwich is delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located behind the Trump Tower in downtown Chicago.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Reservations are recommended during busy dinner hours.

09
Hawksmoor Chicago image 1

Steakhouse shines with coal-cooked steaks and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, warm dining room. Lunch delivers incredible flavors and top quality. Private rooms suit both intimate and business gatherings.

Lunch offers a wonderful and excellent experience with incredible flavors. The meals stand out for their quality and satisfaction.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The dinner service here is efficient and genuinely hilarious."

"The Lunch Spot's beef was perfectly cooked and everything was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5pm-6pm with great deals on steak, burgers, and oysters.

2

Reservations are recommended for the Sunday roast, which is only available on Sundays.

3

The restaurant offers gluten-free options and is knowledgeable about dietary restrictions.

10
Brehon Pub image 1
Restaurant

Irish pub offers authentic atmosphere with a quiet back area and a lively front room. Lunch specials provide great value and variety, served efficiently by a single bartender. Multiple screens and games like pool create a fun sports spot with a relaxed, neighborhood vibe.

Lunch specials stand out with good value and variety. A single bartender handles lunch service smoothly while keeping up with other tasks like pool.

People are saying

"The food and beer at this pub were awesome."

"I loved how the burgers were cooked to order."

"The bartender was so attentive during lunch service."

Good to know

1

The pub charges an extra 3% on the bill for credit card payments.

2

Expect a $1 table fee for games, payable in quarters or bills.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

11
Galleria Market image 1
Convenience store

Upscale convenience store offers exceptional sandwiches and a lively vibe with a DJ playing music. Perfect for a quick lunch with grab-and-go setup and a cozy sit-down area. Combines supermarket variety with a bodega feel for a unique experience.

Frequent visits show it serves as a reliable lunch spot. Options cater well to midday meals with consistent availability.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were the best in the city."

"The deli sandwiches here are exceptionally good."

"This lunch spot has the best handmade sandwiches."

Good to know

1

Galleria Market offers a wide variety of items, including groceries and deli options.

2

Prices at Galleria Market are generally considered affordable for the area.

3

The deli inside Galleria Market is known for its great sandwiches.

12
Schneider Deli River North image 1

Small deli space with cozy atmosphere feels like a soda shoppe from the past. Friendly energy and authentic vibe make it welcoming. Lunch shines with a quarter pound pastrami sandwich and specials that offer great value.

Quarter pound pastrami sandwich stands out for lunch. Lunch specials offer good value and satisfy a range of tastes.

People are saying

"These bagels are soft, super fresh, and perfect."

"The breakfast sandwich here is delicious, especially on fresh bagels."

"I had a great pastrami sandwich on rye for lunch here."

Good to know

1

Takeout is recommended due to limited seating inside.

2

Online ordering is advised for weekend breakfast to avoid long lines.

3

Expect a line during busy hours, especially on weekends.

13
Yasemi, A Modern Mediterranean Restaurant image 1

Spacious spot with modern decor and an energetic vibe from loud music. Chicken lunch bowl shines as a delicious option during restaurant week. Dim lighting means you need a personal light to read menus.

Chicken lunch bowl offers a delicious option. Lunch during restaurant week provides a fantastic experience with solid choices.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is fresh and delicious, especially the hummus."

"The chicken and beef kebabs are perfectly grilled and full of flavor."

"The chicken lunch bowl was delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4-6pm with unique cocktails at reasonable prices.

2

Enjoy $2 oysters during happy hour, a great deal for seafood lovers.

3

The restaurant adds a 4% surcharge to all bills, so plan accordingly.

14
Ema image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant features a warm, modern interior and lively yet relaxed vibe. Lunch bar offers great value with tasty options for business or casual dates. Extensive gluten-free menu ensures accommodating choices for dietary needs.

Offers a great value lunch bar with delicious options suitable for business or casual dates. Provides a positive experience that encourages repeat visits.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly incredible."

"The chicken kebab here is prepared and presented perfectly."

"This lunch spot's food is full of flavor and amazing."

Good to know

1

Ema offers an extensive gluten-free menu with many options.

2

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly.

3

Happy hour features generous portions but a limited list of spreads.

15
Dough Bros Pizzeria & Sub Shop image 1

Small pizzeria with a brick oven offers a cozy spot for lunch. Enjoy a lunch special with two slices, salad, and drink. Retro vibe with ESPN on TV and a walk-up window makes it casual and quick.

Lunch includes a special with two slices of pizza, a side salad, and a drink. The menu offers a solid deal for midday meals.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza was amazing and really legit."

"It's the perfect late night spot for a quick slice."

"This lunch spot's pizza is the best I've had, tasting like home."

Good to know

1

Parking is not available nearby, so consider alternative transport options.

2

Pizza slices are available for $4.50 each, which is a good deal.

3

The pizzeria is open late, making it a great option for night owls.

16
Potbelly image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop buzzes with busy energy and offers original-sized sandwiches perfect for lunch breaks. Breakfast options shine alongside a clean space decorated with historical photos. Quick, filling meals make it a reliable lunch spot with unique character.

Sandwiches serve as the main option during lunch. Frequent visits happen around meetings or work breaks, making it a reliable quick lunch spot.

People are saying

"The food here is really good."

"The Lunch Spot staff's positive energy is infectious."

Good to know

1

This Potbelly location is often very busy; expect longer wait times.

2

Online ordering may be unreliable due to high in-store demand.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment for diners.

17
STK Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Modern steakhouse offers a lively atmosphere with bold neon decor and live DJ sets. Lunch features a steak and fries special with butter and fantastic service. Cocktails are fresh and flavorful, making it a trendy spot for midday meals.

Lunch features a steak and fries special with butter. The atmosphere stays awesome and service is fantastic during midday meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and high quality."

"The service during Happy Hour was amazing, especially from Olivia and Sonia."

"The service at this lunch spot was unforgettable and exceptional."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Expect a one-hour wait for a table during peak dining hours.

3

Cocktails are priced at $9 during happy hour.

18
Sinya Mediterranean image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean wraps make for a quick lunch in an airy, spacious spot with soft lighting. Plenty of outlets support working from home in a calm, casual vibe. Tasteful decor blends upscale design with comfort.

Mediterranean wraps offer a quick and casual lunch option. The spot works well for working from home and provides a cozy atmosphere even on rainy days.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is fresh, flavorful, and authentically delicious."

"The hummus here is perfectly smooth and memorable."

"This lunch spot has a gorgeous, chic cafe vibe."

Good to know

1

Knafeh is only available at the River North location from 4 PM to 10 PM.

2

The place is legit zabiha halal.

3

They give free hummus and salad with each order.

19
Crushed By Giants Brewing Company image 1

Spacious second-floor brewpub offers a cozy atmosphere with modern decor and fantastic artwork. Perfect for a casual lunch with friends, it serves good food and great beer options. Wide, cushioned bar stools add to the relaxed vibe.

A cute little spot offers a really nice lunch experience with good food and great beer options. It suits casual midday meals with colleagues or friends.

People are saying

"They have a great mix of beers on tap."

"The burgers here are cooked just right and packed with flavor."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious."

Good to know

1

The brewery is located on the second floor of the AMC building.

2

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

3

The kitchen closes at 9pm, so arrive early for food.

20
P.F. Chang's To-go image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small space offers quick takeout and a chill atmosphere with great staff vibes. Lunch features sesame chicken and tasty Chinese dishes. Pricing is on the higher side but some dishes like Brussels sprouts and egg noodles with tofu stand out.

Quick service and tasty Chinese dishes make this a solid choice for lunch. The sesame chicken lunch bowl stands out as a popular option for a fast, flavorful meal.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and delicious."

"The customer service at this lunch spot made my experience pleasant."

"Vito was so patient and made great suggestions for my daughter."

Good to know

1

Takeout service is quick and convenient, ideal for lunch or dinner.

2

Prices are generally high compared to similar options in the area.

3

The restaurant has a small seating area for those who prefer to dine in.

21
The Lobby image 1
American restaurant

Luxurious interior with live violin and cello music sets an elegant tone. Lunch features tandoori chicken and excellent service in a calm, refined space. Views of an ice skating rink add charm, though tables near busy areas can disrupt the quiet.

Lunch offers tandoori chicken and other dishes with excellent service. The spot has a great ambiance that suits midday meals well.

People are saying

"The holiday tea experience with magical Mr. and Mrs. Claus is so kid friendly."

"I found the holiday tea terrific and wonderful."

"This lunch spot has great ambiance and amazing food."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is available from 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM, Monday through Sunday, and can be booked on OpenTable.

2

Reservations are recommended for holiday-themed tea events like Halloween and Christmas.

3

The restaurant offers a separate menu for vegetarian options and accommodates dietary restrictions.

22
Cocoro Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Enjoy authentic izakaya vibes with a cozy, laid-back atmosphere perfect for quiet meals or sake at the counter. Lunch features katsu kare and ramen specials with consistent quality for dine-in or takeout. Experience genuine Japanese dining in a warm, relaxing space.

Lunch offers specials with a great menu featuring dishes like katsu kare and ramen. Food quality stays consistent whether dining in or taking out.

People are saying

"I found the most authentic Japanese food outside of Japan here."

"The dinner spots here are amazing, with delicious sushi and ramen."

"This lunch spot's food is amazing and prepared with attention to detail."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Lunch specials are available during the day, offering good value.

3

The restaurant features a menu with authentic Japanese dishes beyond typical sushi.

23
Mendocino Farms image 1
Sandwich shop

Vibrant atmosphere with faux grass benches and blue farm accents energizes the space. Exceptional food and vegetarian options make it a great lunch spot. Popularity causes long wait times during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

Exceptional food and service create a solid lunch experience. The atmosphere suits casual meals but long wait times during business hours make it less ideal for meetings.

People are saying

"I was so pleased with the fresh ingredients and amazing flavor of this sandwich."

"This lunch spot has exceptionally delicious food."

"You have to try the Thai mango salad."

Good to know

1

Expect an average wait time of 20-30 minutes for your meal.

2

Prices are higher than typical fast food options.

3

Mendocino Farms offers vegetarian and vegan menu items.

24
TARY image 1
Cafe

Cozy cafรฉ with authentic Kazakh decor offers a calm spot for lunch with unique Central Asian pastries. Plenty of seating and strong WiFi make it great for work or socializing. Tables stay available even when busy, perfect for casual meals.

Lunch offers amazing food and a relaxing atmosphere. Tables are available even when busy, making it suitable for casual meals with friends, family, or business.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was super good."

"You have to try the unique Kazakh food here; it's so authentic."

"This lunch spot has amazing food and coffee, I loved it."

Good to know

1

Parking is reserved for commercial vehicles only, leading to potential tickets.

2

TARY serves unique Central Asian pastries and drinks not found elsewhere.

3

The cafe gets packed, making tables hard to get at times.

25
Einstein Bros. Bagels image 1

Huge space with loads of seating offers a warm vibe. Bagels with egg and bacon make a tasty breakfast. Friendly staff serve orders fast, perfect for a quick lunch during busy hours.

Fast service handles the lunch rush well. Frequent visits show it works as a solid quick lunch spot with consistent performance.

People are saying

"The staff here are super friendly and welcoming."

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"The staff here is so friendly and efficient for your lunch spot."

Good to know

1

This location has no dining room, so eating in is not an option.

2

Restrooms are for customers only; purchase required for access.

3

Limited paid street parking is available, with a $16 self-park lot nearby.

26
Daveโ€™s Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Colorful artwork and loud 1980s rock create a vibrant atmosphere. Friendly staff dance and engage, adding energetic vibe. Spacious patio and walk-up counter suit a casual lunch spot with smooth, consistent service.

Lunch offers a casual and fast atmosphere with friendly staff who keep service smooth during busy times. The food quality stays consistent, making it a reliable spot for a quick midday meal.

People are saying

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

"The Reaper Chicken Sandwich is seriously spicy; I had to sign a waiver."

"This lunch spot has friendly staff who are helpful and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

Daveโ€™s Hot Chicken is halal, making it a great option for those who need it.

2

Parking next to the restaurant is limited, fitting maybe 7 or 8 cars.

3

The restaurant is very clean, including the bathrooms.

27
The 101 Bar, Grill & Rooftop image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean dishes shine with fresh flavors while the rooftop bar offers spectacular city views. Enjoy lunch in a relaxed vibe with fire pits and private couches. Live music adds a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing or unwinding.

Rooftop seating offers a great spot for lunch with a relaxed vibe. Frequent visits confirm it works well for both late lunch and regular midday meals.

People are saying

"The rooftop views of the city are beautiful."

"The bar staff, especially Trevor, were the sweetest and best."

"The poached eggs at this Lunch Spot were hard boiled."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available 7 days a week from 5-7pm.

2

Reservations are typically required, but walk-ins may be accommodated if available.

3

The happy hour offers a great selection of drinks and appetizers at unbeatable prices.

28
The Peninsula Spa & Wellness Center image 1

Spacious facilities feature a stunning lap pool and a luxurious steam room for relaxation. Lunch served poolside is really good and pairs well with a 90-minute massage. Atmosphere shifts from calm to noisy near busy areas, blending gym and spa services effectively.

Lunch arrives poolside and tastes really good. It often comes with spa treatments like a 90-minute massage.

People are saying

"The spa massages here are wonderful, maybe the best I've ever had."

"Liz gave such a relaxing and wonderful facial."

"The spa day here was absolutely magical."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure preferred appointment times and pool access.

2

The spa is currently undergoing renovations, impacting available amenities.

3

Expect limited services during renovations; some key facilities may be unavailable.

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