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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Des Plaines' best

Lunch spots

You need a lunch spot that respects your time and delivers a solid meal.

Based on 788 Opinions
+785
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Updated April 2026
01
KOW image 1
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Restaurant

Large space pulses with loud K-pop music and laser lights. Guests cook their own ramen at the interactive ramen bar. Lunch offers all you can eat Korean BBQ, making it a lively spot for food and fun.

Offers an all you can eat lunch special that provides great value. Lunch features a Korean BBQ style with plenty of options to enjoy.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The bulgogi here is top quality, maybe the best I've had."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is great, especially Audrey."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat option costs $33 per person.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait during weekend dinner hours.

3

A 50% charge applies for unfinished food left on the table.

02
ARI Sushi Japanese Restaurant image 1

Small Japanese spot shines with fresh sushi and a notable sake selection. Lunch specials offer generous portions like the salmon bento box. Cozy, bright space suits solo diners or small groups with quick, consistent service.

Generous portions come with the lunch specials, including 3 maki rolls, miso soup, and a ginger salad. The salmon bento box stands out as a main course option. Service stays consistent during busy lunch breaks.

People are saying

"I thought the sushi here was the best I've ever tasted."

"The ginger salad here is the best I've ever eaten."

"The lunch specials here are very good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers lunch specials that are very good.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm.

3

Quality fish and consistent service are hallmarks of the restaurant.

03
Qué bolà! Cuban Cafe image 1
Cuban restaurant

Cozy space with vibrant decor and Cuban murals sets a lively mood. Generous portions make it a great lunch spot. Cordatito coffee boosts energy after meals, enhancing the authentic vibe.

Cordatito coffee keeps energy up after lunch. Portions are generous enough to stretch into two meals.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be so authentic and delicious, just like home cooking."

"I couldn't get enough of their really good Cuban coffee."

"This Lunch Spot's food is delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 9:00 PM, so arrive early for dine-in.

2

They offer takeout if you arrive close to closing time.

3

Parking is available, but a pick-up lane is recommended.

04
Pita Pita Mediterranean Grill image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean flavors shine with daily specials under $20, perfect for a quick lunch. Clean, modern space with spacious seating and cultural touches creates a warm vibe. Outlets at every booth and a freestyle soda machine add convenience for a fast, satisfying meal.

Lunch offers a great selection of dishes including daily specials. Prices stay under 20 dollars for a large, filling meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"The falafel here is perfectly crispy and flavorful."

"This lunch spot has delicious, fresh food, especially the flavorful meats."

Good to know

1

Pita Pita Mediterranean Grill is certified halal.

2

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and well-presented dining area.

3

The portions are generous for the price paid.

05
CAVA image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean fast-casual spot offers fresh, healthy meals with quick, efficient service during lunch. Bright, clean space feels spacious and stylish but can be chilly. Friendly staff create a welcoming vibe despite steady lines.

Quick and efficient service stands out during busy lunch hours. Staff remain friendly and ordering online can sometimes lead to mix-ups.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and amazing."

"This place's date spots are amazing because Maggi is so kind and professional."

"The staff at this lunch spot are always quick, efficient, and friendly."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially around lunchtime.

2

CAVA offers a military discount for service members.

3

Portion sizes may be smaller compared to similar fast-casual restaurants.

06
Gigiotto's Pizzeria image 1
Pizza restaurant

Family-run pizzeria offers a cozy atmosphere with classic Italian music and nostalgic decor. Lunch specials provide great value and attract a busy crowd. Outdoor patio adds a relaxed touch to this popular spot.

Lunch specials run daily and offer good value. The spot gets pretty busy around lunch time, showing its popularity.

People are saying

"I found the pizza to be delicious and crispy."

"I found the food here to be yummy and fresh."

"This lunch spot has fantastic, not greasy, pizza."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available daily and are highly praised.

2

Pizza by the slice is available, though not heavily advertised.

3

Prices are considered reasonable for the quality offered.

07
Guzman y Gomez - Des Plaines image 1

Bright, clean space with a modern tone and festive atmosphere. Lunch features varied proteins with careful pricing. Families enjoy the outdoor patio and drive-thru convenience.

Lunch offers a mouth watering experience with various protein options. Pricing includes asterisks and add-on fees, so expect to check details carefully.

People are saying

"You have to try their burritos; they're so fresh and flavorful."

"The staff here is so friendly and genuinely welcoming, making the nachos a great experience."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot is so friendly and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Drive-thru service is available for quick orders.

2

Expect to pay around $15 for a cali burrito without sides.

3

Vegetarian and vegan-friendly options are plentiful on the menu.

08
Illusion Bar Grill Cafe - Des Plaines,IL. image 1

Bar and grill shines with a friendly atmosphere and large TVs for sports fans. Lunch offers delicious options perfect for sharing. Outdoor patio with giant umbrellas adds a cozy spot to relax.

Lunch features delicious items that look and smell amazing. Multiple options satisfy groups, with five different choices often bought for sharing.

People are saying

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

"These burgers are super flavorful and juicy."

"The lunch here is delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

2

The kitchen and bar are open late, serving food until midnight.

3

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

09
Sultan Kebab & Shawerma image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Narrow dining space offers a casual, quiet atmosphere with outdoor seating under string lights. Lunch specials like huge chicken shawarma wraps satisfy big appetites quickly. Friendly staff and large Mediterranean portions make it a comfortable spot for a filling meal.

Lunch offers huge specials like the #1 Chicken with rice and salad or a chicken shawarma wrap that fills you up. Convenient spot for a quick, satisfying meal before heading out or during work nearby.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and made to order."

"The Mediterranean food's chicken shawarma is seasoned to perfection."

"This lunch spot's food is remarkably fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available Monday to Friday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

2

Expect large portion sizes; the platter is very filling.

3

Prices for sandwiches start around $13, which some may find high.

10
VIA ROMA image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant shines with cozy atmosphere and lively energy inside, plus a charming patio outside. Perfect for casual meals and group lunches, it welcomes regulars warmly. BYOB policy adds a relaxed, personal touch to dining.

Offers a reliable spot for casual meals and group lunches. Serves well for both client meetings and everyday dining.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and the portions large."

"The Italian food here is amazing, bursting with flavor."

"This Italian Lunch Spot serves delicious, authentic food."

Good to know

1

VIA ROMA allows customers to bring their own beverages without a corkage fee.

2

VIA ROMA does not accept reservations.

3

Expect long wait times on weekends due to high demand.

11
CHICAGO RAMEN image 1
Ramen restaurant

Counter seating faces an open kitchen where chefs craft intricate ramen with quick service. Tight bar-style seating and authentic decor create a comforting Tokyo vibe. Lunch specials like red miso ramen and pork buns offer great value.

Lunch features excellent ramen with options like red miso ramen and pork buns. The lunch specials offer good value and quick service.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is rich and delicious."

"The ramen here is so rich and flavorful, perfect for date spots."

"This lunch spot's ramen has a rich, flavorful broth."

Good to know

1

There are only two tables for four people, leading to limited seating.

2

Expect high prices for extra toppings, like $7 for corn and chives.

3

The portion size is generous, offering good value for the price.

12
Bumper 2 Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Halal hamburger restaurant offers a comfortable, well-lit interior with a casual, hip vibe. The atmosphere feels welcoming and vibrant, though seating can be crowded and close together. Burgers and spicy chicken sandwiches come fresh, juicy, and flavorful, making it a standout for halal fast food.

People are saying

"The burgers here are so juicy and delicious."

"I found the Halal food here to be delicious and amazing."

"The Lunch Spot here is so fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

All meat served is 100% Zabiha Halal.

2

The restaurant is less than 10 minutes from the airport.

3

The burger takes about 25 minutes to prepare.

13
Mariachi's Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with authentic southern vibe and traditional cooking. Outdoor seating fills fast but keeps a friendly energy. Lunch specials like Taco Salad offer perfect midday flavors with quick, warm service.

Lunch specials offer authentic Mexican flavors with dishes like the Taco Salad sized just right for a midday meal. Service stays friendly and efficient even during busy lunch hours.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always well prepared."

"This is a great lunch spot for authentic street-style tacos."

"The pozole is the best Mexican food, available Fridays and Saturdays."

Good to know

1

Pozole is available on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Mariachi's Tacos is a BYOB restaurant.

3

The specials are clear and easy to read, making ordering simple.

14
Outback Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse shines with well-cooked steaks and a large modern bar. Lunch specials are reasonably priced and service is great. Loud music adds energy but can hinder casual talks in the warm, welcoming space.

Lunch offers reasonably priced specials with great service that enhances the experience. The overall vibe during lunch feels welcoming and satisfying.

People are saying

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

"The service here makes it a great spot for date nights."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is so friendly and quick."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available for guests.

2

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

3

Prices are better than expected, offering good value.

15
Sofia's Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant shines with authentic decor and flavorful tacos. Taco Tuesday offers a great lunch deal perfect for casual meetups or work lunches. Cozy, intimate space with a friendly vibe makes it ideal for family meals.

Taco Tuesday offers a deal that stands out for lunch. The spot suits family meals, casual meetups, and work lunches with a friendly vibe.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is seriously delicious and a 10/10."

"I found this place to be a hidden gem with authentic food and taste."

"This Lunch Spot's tacos are so flavorful and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday special is available every Tuesday.

2

Each taco costs $1.99, but some tacos are priced at $4 each.

3

The restaurant offers catering and takeout services.

16
The Gyros Factory – Best Gyros, Catering,Souvlaki, Fresh Cut Fries, Burgers, Italian Beef, Des Plaines image 1

Large, open space with newly remodeled interior offers a clean, comfortable setting. Authentic Greek gyros and beef tallow fries shine for lunch. Quiet, friendly atmosphere suits casual meetups with a touch of Greek flair from saganaki.

Gyros and beef tallow fries stand out for lunch. Saganaki adds a Greek flair. It works well for casual meetups.

People are saying

"The Greek food here is amazing, especially the gyros."

"The food here is amazing and flavorful."

"The food here is delicious and spot on."

Good to know

1

Parking is available close to the entrance.

2

Expect a little wait while your food is cooked to order.

3

Prices are around eleven dollars for a small gyro.

17
El Fast Burrito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot serves affordable tacos with quick lunch service, ideal for busy days. Live entertainment and karaoke add a chill atmosphere despite a low-key vibe. Watch for pricing quirks to enjoy quality meals without surprises.

Quick service delivers lunch tacos mostly fast except on Tuesdays. Pickup to go suits busy midday breaks near work.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food tacos were the best I ever had."

"I could eat this burrito every day because it was so good."

"I found the tacos at this Lunch Spot to be great."

Good to know

1

Expect a long wait if you arrive as a walk-in.

2

Menu prices may not reflect what you are charged.

3

Check your order before leaving to avoid extra charges.

18
Aladdin Kitchen and Market image 1
Turkish restaurant

Space blends an authentic Turkish market with a modern restaurant and an impressive bakery. It offers quick lunch options with consistent quality across meals. Atmosphere is family-friendly and cozy, perfect for shopping and dining.

Offers quick lunch options alongside meals suitable for special occasions. Serves lunch with the same quality found at breakfast and dinner times.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"The Turkish flavors at this grocery store are on point."

"This Lunch Spot has delicious, authentic, and fresh Mediterranean food."

Good to know

1

Expect a 3% fee for credit card transactions.

2

Döner may not be available at all times.

3

Quality food is offered at affordable prices.

19
Las Asadas Fresh Mexican Grill Taqueria image 1

Cozy, family-owned spot offers authentic steak tacos and flame-grilled steak. Super Burrito shines as a hearty lunch choice. Outdoor seating and group-friendly space make it great for company catering.

Super Burrito stands out as a hearty lunch option. The spot suits group meals and company catering, making it easy to bring friends or family for lunch.

People are saying

"I considered this the best burrito I had ever eaten."

"I found the tacos here to have great flavor and freshness."

"This Lunch Spot's Super Burrito is super flavorful and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on-site for customers.

2

Expect to pay around $4 per taco.

3

The establishment has limited indoor seating.

20
The Choo Choo image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Miniature trains deliver food in a vintage diner setting, creating a lively, nostalgic vibe. Kids love the train ride and horsey play before meals, making it a child-friendly lunch spot. Limited seating fills quickly during busy weekday lunches.

Busy weekday lunches bring a lively vibe with limited seating. Kids can enjoy a horsey and train ride before eating, making it a child-friendly lunch spot.

People are saying

"The kid-friendly train delivers your food right to you!"

"The burgers here are fresh, well-made, and cooked perfectly."

"This lunch spot is great for little kids; food arrives by train!"

Good to know

1

Bring quarters for the rides and vending machines.

2

Expect a long wait, which can be hard for kids.

3

The seating is very limited, so arrive early.

21
Caruso's Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small spot with thin crust pizza focuses on carryout and delivery, no dine-in. Lunch offers massive slices and a drink for $5, making it a great value lunch spot. Cozy, local vibe draws a neighborhood crowd despite occasional order mix-ups.

Lunch offers a massive slice of pizza and a drink for $5. Lunch specials provide good value. Orders can be placed ahead by phone, but mistakes happen sometimes.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be consistently flavorful and satisfying."

"The pizza here is delicious; my kids and I loved it."

"The pizzas arrived hot and tasted great for lunch."

Good to know

1

Caruso's Pizza is a takeout-only place and does not offer dine-in options.

2

The delivery service starts at 11 AM when they open.

3

Expect a $5 lunch special that includes a massive slice of pizza and a drink.

22
Sofia Grill image 1
Bulgarian restaurant

Small, cozy spot serves authentic Bulgarian cuisine with highlights like kebapcheta sausage and tripe soup. Lunch costs about $20, making it a pricier lunch spot. Expect a lively, crowded vibe during lunch hours with mostly small groups.

Lunch here costs around $20, which matches typical restaurant prices. The spot offers a solid lunch experience but leans toward the pricier side.

People are saying

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

"I found the meatball soup to be fantastic."

"This lunch spot has great food and soups."

Good to know

1

Lunch prices average around $20 per person.

2

Parking is plentiful and available near the restaurant.

3

Daily specials are offered, providing variety for repeat visitors.

23
CHICAGO SUSHI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot shines with quick service and satisfying portions at lunch. Cozy modern decor and bright Asian artwork create a calm vibe. Relaxing lofi and piano tunes add to the quiet atmosphere perfect for casual or special meals.

Lunch here features quick and efficient service with portion sizes that satisfy a short midday meal. The spot stays quiet during lunch hours, offering a calm atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, tasted so fresh."

"The beef curry here is delicious and the portions are huge."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect a wait during peak hours.

2

The restaurant has a small parking lot, so arrive early.

3

Menu includes unique items like Japanese hot dogs and curry dishes.

24
Karavan Restaurant image 1

Blending Kyrgyz design with a cozy atmosphere, this spot shines for lunch with plov and manty. Spacious and colorful, it welcomes families and groups with attentive service and a unique non-alcoholic bar.

Lunch features plov and manty, served with top-notch service. The spot suits groups, offering a family-friendly atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and awesome."

"The atmosphere here is so cozy and welcoming."

"The food and service at this lunch spot were excellent."

Good to know

1

Karavan Restaurant is the only Kyrgyz restaurant in Chicago.

2

The restaurant claims to be 'Halal' but allows customers to bring their own alcohol.

3

I was charged $40 for the iftar buffet at Karavan Restaurant.

25
Precision Research Inc image 1
Market researcher

Large fishtank creates a calm vibe in a clean, quiet space. Enjoy delicious lunch served in a neat setting. Easy parking and smooth payment make visits simple and stress-free.

Offers a light breakfast and a delicious lunch in a neat setting. Meals are provided during visits, making it convenient for midday dining.

People are saying

"I found the studies to be interesting and fun."

"I enjoyed a delicious lunch here."

"Parking was easy and accessible here."

Good to know

1

Payment is processed quickly via PayPal, Amazon, or virtual card.

2

Participants receive payment at the end of the survey.

3

Ample parking is available at the testing facility.

26
La Marina Mariscos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious spot with live mariachi music and a loud, energetic atmosphere. Offers an $8.99 lunch special featuring tasty burritos before 3pm. Colorful decor and many TVs make it a fun place for lunch and lively nights.

Offers an $8.99 lunch special before 3pm with good food. Burritos are a common choice for lunch.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the oysters and octopus, is amazing."

"The cocktails were refreshing, flavorful, and had the right amount of liquor."

"I tried the lunch special for $8.99 and it was a great deal."

Good to know

1

On Wednesdays, $5 margaritas are available all day with Hornitos tequila.

2

Taco Tuesday features $1.99 tacos, including shrimp.

3

Happy hour offers half-price drinks from 5 to 7 pm Monday through Thursday.

27
Andy's Cafe image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Cozy space with warm wooden tables and natural plants creates a family-like vibe. Diverse lunch menu features daily specials and classic burgers. Skylight adds soft light, making it a quiet spot to relax and enjoy meals.

Diverse lunch menu offers burgers, fries, and a different special each day. Lunches come well served with consistent quality.

People are saying

"Their Mexican breakfast, especially the Chilaquiles, is a must-try."

"The owner Hilda provides such friendly service at this cafe."

"I experienced the best breakfast and service at this lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky, so arrive early to find a spot.

2

Expect a wait during peak breakfast hours on weekends.

3

The cafe allows dogs on the patio and provides water for them.

28
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago OHare Airport image 1

Rooms stay quiet despite airport proximity and feature spacious modern decor with ample workspace. The large restaurant offers high-quality lunch with great value and serves all meals plus room service. Kids enjoy the popular pool area, and a free shuttle connects to the airport.

Lunch offers a good cost-benefit ratio with food quality matching dinner standards. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus room service is available.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were really friendly and welcoming."

"The breakfast here has great options and is outstanding."

"I was so impressed, I had lunch here the next day too."

Good to know

1

Parking costs an extra $20 per night at the hotel.

2

Breakfast buffet is available for $22 each morning.

3

The hotel is very close to the airport, making it convenient for travelers.

29
Balkanika Restaurant image 1
Bulgarian restaurant

Spacious spot with modern European design offers fast, friendly service perfect for lunch breaks featuring dishes like lamb. Weekend DJs create an energetic vibe near the bar and dance floor, while quieter rooms provide private spaces for conversation.

Fast and friendly service suits quick lunch breaks. European style serving means lunch can last up to two hours, offering a relaxed pace with dishes like lamb.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and freshly prepared."

"The authentic Balkan food here is packed with flavor."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and the portions are generous."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a large lot behind the restaurant.

2

Reservations are recommended for large gatherings to ensure seating.

3

Salsa classes are held every Tuesday night at 7pm.

30
Tiffany's Restaurant Cafe image 1
Family restaurant

Bright interior with jewel-toned décor and Tiffany lamps sets a retro diner vibe. Offers a great variety of breakfast and lunch options any time, all with consistent quality. Quiet, cozy atmosphere and attentive service make it perfect for relaxed dining or casual work.

Great variety of options includes both breakfast and lunch served any time of day. Food quality is consistently good with choices that suit different tastes.

People are saying

"The diner food here is simple, fresh, and delicious."

"The coffee here is excellent and hot."

"This lunch spot has great food with big, generous portions."

Good to know

1

Be cautious of small glass pieces in booth tables; it's a safety hazard.

2

The restaurant offers large free parking for customers.

3

Prices are reasonable and competitive for the area.

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