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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in West Town

Salad lunch spots

A midday salad break is the only way to reset before the afternoon takes over.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Plenty Goods Cafe image 1
Plenty Goods Cafe image 2
Plenty Goods Cafe image 3
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Bright, modern cafe filled with natural light and a clean, inviting atmosphere. The vibe is cute and fun, attracting those seeking healthy, fresh options with unique flavor combinations. The space feels open and welcoming, ideal for casual meals or meetups.

Salads come in massive portions with fresh, crisp kale and veggies. Unique options like the Egg Roll in a Bowl and shawarma salad offer great value and high-quality chicken.

Meals work well for a one-off lunch or a weekly subscription program. Natural light creates a great atmosphere for meeting friends during lunch.

People are saying

"I loved the kale taco salad; it was so flavorful and fresh."

"The takeout here is thoughtfully prepared and delicious."

"This lunch spot's menu is flavorful, healthy, and always fresh."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a variety of healthy menu items, including vegan and gluten-free options.

2

Prices for salads start around $16, which is higher than some competitors.

3

Adding extra protein like chicken costs $6, which may be considered steep.

02
Art's Drive In image 1
Fast food restaurant

Small fast food spot with old school Chicago vibes and a retro diner design creates a friendly, family atmosphere that feels genuine. Outdoor space is pet friendly and colorful, offering a warm, welcoming setting. Music and clean surroundings add to the classic, community-focused experience.

Greek salad features incredibly fresh ingredients like crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes. Its special homemade dressing is light yet flavorful, enhancing the salad without overpowering it.

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."

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

"The Greek salad's feta and homemade dressing are amazing."

Good to know

1

There is free parking onsite.

2

The restaurant is allergen considerate.

3

The place is very clean.

03
Silli Kori image 1
Thai restaurant

Cozy space with dim lighting, exposed brick, and a family-owned vibe creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The quiet, calm mood pairs well with a nice patio featuring plants and candlelight. The place feels homelike and relaxing, making it suitable for casual or intimate dining.

Crunchy rice salad with chicken stands out with its crisp texture and rich flavor. Even small lunch salads pack a flavorful punch that complements the menu well.

Lunch offers a lunch set deal with a small appetizer and a generous entree portion. Dishes like Red curry, Basil fried rice, and Khao Soi come with flavorful salads and a great price from Monday to Friday.

People are saying

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

"The khao soi salad is life-affirming and warm."

"You should try the lunch special; it's a great deal."

Good to know

1

Silli Kori is a BYOB restaurant with no corkage fee.

2

The prices at Silli Kori are reasonable for the area.

3

Pickup orders typically have a quick turnaround of 15-25 minutes.

04
KASIA'S DELI, INC. image 1

Small deli with limited seating and an open kitchen where staff slice meat and cook food in view. Offers authentic Eastern European groceries alongside traditional Polish dishes like pierogies and chicken noodle soup. Atmosphere is clean and well-organized, best suited for takeout or quick meals.

Salads here include cabbage salad, beet salad, and pasta salads that stand out for their flavor. The vegetable salad (Olivye) features a strong mustard taste but the mayo is less appealing.

Polish cuisine and sandwiches with chips make for a hearty lunch here. Soups are available to go, and sandwiches are large enough for two meals. Lunch combos come at an affordable price.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches to be incredibly tasty and fresh."

"Their salads and sandwiches are freshly made and delicious."

"This lunch spot's sandwiches are always fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Street parking is busy; consider arriving early or using nearby neighborhoods.

2

Seating is limited with only two tables available inside the deli.

3

The deli is best suited for takeout due to limited seating.

05
JJ Thai Street Food image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, intimate space with authentic Thai street food vibe and upbeat Thai music creates a lively atmosphere. Limited seating suits cozy dining and BYOB policy adds flexibility. Popular spot often requires reservations and fits well for fun date nights.

Salads here pack a punch with the beef salad and papaya salad standing out for their bold flavors. The grilled mushroom salad delivers a rich, intense taste that complements the lighter options well.

Lunch draws a steady crowd, so going early helps avoid waiting. Portions come in smaller sizes than typical Thai spots but still fill the plate nicely.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is so authentic, like eating street food in Thailand."

"The papaya salad here is spicy and flavorful."

"The Lunch Spot's wings were moist, steaming hot, and super crunchy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours and rainy weather.

3

Street parking is the only option available.

06
Shokolad Pastry & Cafe image 1
Ukrainian restaurant

Small, bright space offers authentic Ukrainian cuisine with a cozy, calm atmosphere and light jazz music in the background. The setting feels warm and homey, inviting for leisurely meals or relaxing breaks away from busy surroundings.

Fresh and flavorful carrot and cabbage salads stand out here. The cucumber salad and a fresh salad with tarragon dressing add variety. The so-called Caesar salad comes with lemon, crackers, and Parmesan but lacks traditional dressing.

Low key atmosphere suits a relaxing lunch with friends. Offers a calm spot to enjoy meals while catching up or working quietly.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really great and delicious."

"The carrot and cabbage salads were so fresh and flavorful."

"This lunch spot's pickle soup is delicious, with potatoes and barley."

Good to know

1

The cafe is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own drinks.

2

Expect slow service during busy brunch hours, especially on weekends.

3

There are only two vegetarian options available on the menu.

07
Kama Bistro - Wicker Park image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

Modern Indian restaurant with contemporary lounge vibe and beautiful architectural design creates an upscale atmosphere. Music leans toward Afrobeats, contributing to a lively, sometimes loud energy. Unique Indian fusion cocktails stand out alongside highly praised dishes like lamb vindaloo and paneer.

Beet and goat cheese salad offers a refreshing sweetness with decadent spiced walnuts and an unexpected kick. Flavors come together in a complex, light dish perfect for hot weather.

Lunch includes a pop-up Italian menu on Mondays and options for private gatherings with about 20 people. Lunch hours are not listed online but the spot stays open, even on quieter Sundays.

People are saying

"The food here is packed with flavor and seasoned to perfection."

"The beet and goat cheese salad has decadent spiced walnuts."

"This Lunch Spot's food is top-notch, especially the chili potatoes."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on Saturdays with special pricing on drinks and appetizers.

2

A pop-up Italian menu is available for lunch on Mondays.

3

There is an additional charge for dining in that is not clearly communicated.

08
Koko's Mediterranean Grille image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers cozy, quiet atmosphere with generous portions and fresh, satisfying gyros. The vibe is welcoming and peaceful, attracting those seeking comforting and healthy meals. Food arrives promptly, with standout items like chopped Greek salad and chicken Caesar wrap.

Chopped salads stand out with fresh, crisp greens and generous portions. Greek salads come with both house dressing and creamy Tzatziki sauce, adding extra flavor to every bite.

Offers Mediterranean cuisine that works well for lunch or on the go. Provides catering options with tasty food suitable for work events or gatherings.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Greek with perfectly seasoned meats and fluffy rice."

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

"I thought the chopped salad was one of the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The Greek Salad costs $10 or $12.50 with chicken.

2

Paid street parking is available every day except Sunday.

3

Koko's Mediterranean Grille opens early for breakfast.

09
Zayna Mediterranean Grill image 1

Spacious dining area with high ceilings and colonial-era cafe vibe creates a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. The place feels welcoming and friendly, with a quiet, dignified ambiance that invites connection. It blends casual comfort with a sense of tradition.

Salads come in huge portions with a crisp, fresh mix and really good, fresh taste. Options include Greek salad with chicken shawarma and fattoush salad with lamb, both filling and healthy.

Lunch features killer specials with options like healthy shawarma. Groups often come in to enjoy a satisfying midday meal.

People are saying

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be delicious and fresh."

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

"The salad was so fresh and crisp."

Good to know

1

Prices are affordable, with many dishes under $20.

2

The restaurant maintains a clean environment throughout.

3

Takeout portions may be smaller than dine-in servings.

10
Chengdu Bistro West Town 蓉小馆 image 1

Chinese restaurant offers a cozy, beautiful space with cramped tables and a busy, loud atmosphere where conversation can be challenging. A large, dog-friendly patio provides casual outdoor seating with live music. The vibe suits groups looking to share dishes in a lively setting.

Spicy cucumber salad offers a perfect crunch and bold flavors that balance heat well. Garlic cucumber salad stands out as a notable small dish that complements the meal.

Quick lunches happen here, especially after shopping trips. Service during lunch tends to be slow and unattentive.

People are saying

"I loved the Chinese food, especially the Dan Dan noodles."

"The cucumber salad was loaded with flavors and added the perfect crunch."

"This Lunch Spot has immaculate food with amazing flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for peak dining hours.

2

A small bowl of Dan Dan noodles costs $6.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan options, including Mapo Tofu.

11
Hummus Grill Chicago image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small Mediterranean restaurant offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with a clean, inviting space. The vibe stays quiet and peaceful, attracting those seeking a relaxed meal. Known for exceptional hummus and falafel, it stands out for flavorful, fresh dishes.

Salads come with insanely fresh ingredients and a good dressing. The Jerusalem Salad matches the quality of the Baba Ganoush and hummus, making for a light, tasty meal.

Freshly made meals come out quickly, making it easy to grab lunch on the go. Takeout is common among coworkers, and seating is available for those who want to eat in.

People are saying

"The Jerusalem Salad was delicious and tasted just like home."

"The hummus here is so smooth and creamy, it's divine."

"The chicken shawarma at this Lunch Spot is insanely delicious and moist."

Good to know

1

Hummus Grill Chicago is a Zabiha Halal restaurant.

2

The restaurant is clean and focuses on cleanliness.

3

Parking at Hummus Grill Chicago is limited.

12
Nikko Sushi Izakaya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Multi-level Japanese restaurant combines sleek modern decor with traditional elements and offers a fun, inviting vibe highlighted by EDM house music. The atmosphere feels upscale yet lively, with attentive service and a clean, elegant interior. Fresh sushi and a diverse drink menu complement the energetic setting.

Fresh options include an octopus salad, tuna carpaccio, and a house salad. The seaweed salad has very little seaweed. Avocado wraps add a tasty twist to the salad choices.

Lunch offers an all you can eat menu under $35 including tip. The option to order from the dinner menu at lunch lets you try the sushi bar.

People are saying

"I thought the sushi here was the best in the city."

"This lunch spot's sushi is so fresh and delicious."

"Their vanilla and matcha soft serve was amazing."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat option is available on weekends only.

2

Reservations are recommended for the all-you-can-eat service.

3

They charge extra for any leftover food from the all-you-can-eat menu.

13
Pierogi Kitchen image 1
Polish restaurant

Polish restaurant with a modern farmhouse vibe and cozy decor serves authentic dishes on Polish pottery. A full bar offers crafted cocktails and Polish beers, complemented by great music and a small patio. The atmosphere blends a hipster energy with a relaxing, clean space.

Beet salad stands out with its fresh, vibrant flavors and appears consistently across dishes. It pairs well with hearty options like Kielbasa and complements other traditional sides.

Seating happens immediately on arrival for lunch, even on busy days. The meals offer excellent flavor and create a spontaneous dining vibe that works well for midday breaks.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and authentic Polish."

"This lunch spot's pierogis were so yummy and delicious."

"I found the beet salad to be very good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted cheese and potato pierogis, wine, or beer.

2

Trivia night happens every Thursday at 8pm with a fun atmosphere.

3

Parking is easy to find nearby, making access convenient.

14
Casa Tequila Chicago image 1
Mexican restaurant

Warm, vibrant decor creates a welcoming atmosphere with low lighting and live mariachi music enhancing the experience. Outdoor dining areas offer a vibrant patio setting that complements the lively indoor space. The crowd gathers for well-crafted margaritas and a festive vibe that fills the room.

Salads here feature grilled chicken cooked to perfection and options like steak additions. The taco salad bowl and salmon salad stand out for their flavors.

Lunch specials come in huge portions and pair well with house margaritas and tequila shots. The overall cost for two people can be over 90 dollars including drinks.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The grilled chicken salad was flavorful and grilled to perfection."

"Our server Kevin made this Lunch Spot experience wonderful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Thursday, 4 pm to 6 pm.

2

Margarita Mondays offer special pricing on margaritas.

3

Girls Night is a popular event at the restaurant.

15
Falafel & Grill image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Outdoor seating offers a relaxed, secluded patio with Mediterranean music playing softly. Indoor space feels clean and airy but can be uncomfortably cold due to strong air vents. The atmosphere balances intimate and open vibes, creating an easy-going dining experience.

Salads feature cucumber salad and tabouli with fresh, vibrant flavors. They pair well with hummus and stuffed grape leaves for a solid Mediterranean mix.

Beef shawarma sandwich stands out as a go-to lunch option. Lunch visits often happen around 1pm, focusing on this popular sandwich.

People are saying

"This Mediterranean food is packed with flavor and really delicious."

"Their salads and meats really hit the spot."

"This lunch spot's shawarma is juicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited; consider using the Jewel parking lot next door.

2

Street parking is available near the restaurant.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

16
Yuzu Sushi & Robata Grill image 1

Small space filled with Japanese manga art and comic book style design creates a cozy, cool atmosphere. Live music performances, including DJs and saxophonists, add energetic vibes. The place draws a crowd that appreciates authentic sushi paired with unique drinks like sake flights.

Salads include the Avocado and Mango Salad and Seaweed Salad, both fresh and flavorful. They pair well with other dishes like the robata sampler and chicken katsu.

Lunch features bento boxes that are filling and well-prepared. The menu includes a great lunch special and pairs well with a large selection of wines, beers, and specialty cocktails.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is always fresh and delicious."

"The bento boxes at this Lunch Spot are very good and filling."

"The salads here are so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4:30 to 6:30 pm on weekdays with $3 takoyaki and $5 off jumbo rolls.

2

On Tuesday nights, enjoy $5 off jumbo rolls and $3 off regular rolls.

3

Reservations are charged for cancellations, so plan accordingly.

17
Wolf & Company image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines upscale vibe with neighborhood coziness in a gorgeous space featuring a patio right off a popular trail. It offers creative craft cocktails praised for balance and presentation. The venue includes a market and butcher shop, adding a unique grocery element to the dining experience.

Salads stand out with the Martini Salad offering an original and flavorful twist. Large portions and fresh ingredients like golden beets make the salads a solid choice alongside other menu items.

An enormous Chopped Salad serves multiple people for lunch. The spot works well for family meetups and offers a satisfying midday meal.

People are saying

"I found the burgers to be incredibly tasty and flavorful."

"The salads here are massive and made with great quality ingredients."

"You have to try their burgers; they have tremendous flavor."

Good to know

1

The establishment has had issues with food safety, including unrefrigerated ingredients.

2

Dishes were washed in the hand washing sink, raising health concerns.

3

The bathroom is located far from the patio, which may be inconvenient.

18
Bloom Plant Based Kitchen image 1

Vegan restaurant with beautiful decor and a hipster vibe offers outdoor dining and modern, inviting atmosphere. The space feels immaculate and lively, though music volume can be high. It suits both casual nights and romantic dates.

Salads feature a Nicoise with rich flavors and an Endive Salad combining pickled onion, caramelized pecans, raisins, apples, kale, dill, and a lemon coconut dressing for a crisp, tangy, and slightly sweet taste.

Lunch happens in a window between brunch and dinner, with a brief closure to switch menus. The lunch menu hides under brunch, making it a bit tricky to find online around 1 pm.

People are saying

"The Ube Panna Cotta is heavenly and my favorite dessert anywhere."

"Their plant-based dishes are creative and delicious, even for carnivores."

"The lunch spot menu descriptions were confusing and inaccurate."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to ensure seating.

2

Happy Hour offers discounted appetizers and drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

The restaurant accommodates gluten allergies with a variety of options.

19
Cafe Istanbul image 1
Turkish restaurant

Coal-fired grill for spit-roasted lamb defines the dining experience with authentic Turkish flavors. Warm, cozy atmosphere fills tight indoor and outdoor spaces, enhanced by an open kitchen and lively bar. Close tables and spirited vibe create an intimate, bustling setting reminiscent of Istanbul meyhanes.

Arugula salad stands out with its fresh peppery flavor and pairs well with doner. Turkish salad and the daily soup complement the meal with simple, fresh ingredients.

Late lunch offers a large portion zucchini 'pancakes' similar to a crab cake. The spot stays very quiet on weekday late lunches and skips doner or iskender during lunch hours.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is full of flavor, especially the kebabs."

"The Turkish salad here was a great starter."

"This lunch spot's Iskender was phenomenal, served with tasty chicken kebab."

Good to know

1

The buffet costs $50 per person, offering unlimited meats, salads, drinks, and desserts.

2

Expect an 18% service fee added to your bill automatically.

3

A 3% charge applies for credit card payments.

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West Town, Chicago

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