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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Elmhurst

Lunch spots

A midday meal that feels like a genuine break from the workday instead of just a rushed refueling stop.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Salkara Indian Cuisine image 1
Salkara Indian Cuisine image 2
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Indian restaurant

Renovated Indian restaurant offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with tasteful decor and a clean, inviting space. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, making it suitable for casual dining. It stands out for serving authentic Kerala cuisine with flavorful dishes like tandoori chicken and dosa.

Authentic Kerala cuisine shines with fresh ingredients and excellent taste. The menu offers a wide variety of delicious South Indian dishes that satisfy cravings for real flavors.

Lunch features a buffet with a variety of dishes. The Sunday lunch buffet offers a solid selection for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The food here is really authentic and tasty."

"The Indian food here is fantastic, especially the tikka masala."

"The lunch buffet here is really good and fresh."

Good to know

1

Salkara Indian Cuisine offers takeout options for those on the go.

2

The restaurant features authentic Kerala style cooking and flavors.

3

Prices are budget-friendly, making it accessible for many diners.

02
Maharaj Indian Grill image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant offers a clean, spacious interior with cozy lighting and comfortable seating that creates an authentic atmosphere. Large tables and a banquet hall accommodate groups of various sizes, while a huge TV adds a modern touch. The environment balances quiet and lively moments, with some noise when full.

Food features excellent quality and great flavors across all dishes. Service complements the warm hospitality, making every meal satisfying.

Lunch specials offer tasty dishes with generous portions at reasonable prices. Options like the Chief Special Combo and buttered chicken provide satisfying meals that deliver good value.

People are saying

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

"The naan here is soft, buttery, and perfectly cooked."

"This lunch spot's food was absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian dishes and kid-friendly options.

3

Online ordering is available for takeout and delivery.

03
Pho lime image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Bright, modern space with a white, mint, and green color scheme creates a clean and comfy atmosphere. Tables are spaced to offer privacy while maintaining a casual vibe. Staff choose varied music to keep the mood fresh and friendly.

Food features very big portions with authentic flavors. Broth tastes fresh and noodles come out delicious.

Lunch offers an $11 special with a drink, appetizer, and entree. The spot serves authentic Vietnamese flavors and suits casual or date lunches.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here has incredible, flavorful broth."

"I thought the food here was really good and tasty."

"This lunch spot's pho broth is rich, aromatic, and phenomenal."

Good to know

1

The lunch special costs $11 and includes a drink, appetizer, and entree.

2

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the money.

3

Takeout orders separate noodles from broth for better transport.

04
Phase Three Brewing Company - Taproom + Kitchen image 1

Taproom and kitchen combine modern design with a sunlit space and eclectic decor, creating a welcoming, chill vibe. Large bar and outdoor beer garden offer lively and quieter seating options. Crowd tends to be energetic, with a mix of casual and upscale elements.

Food features a unique menu with clearly passionate preparation. Options are consistently excellent and pair well with a fantastic beer selection.

Busy Saturdays call for reservations to secure a spot for lunch. The place welcomes groups of all sizes, including families with babies and even those bringing along dogs.

People are saying

"The beer here is industry best, especially the hazy IPA."

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

"The people at this Lunch Spot are literal angels."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for lunch on busy Saturdays.

2

Expect a 15-minute wait during peak hours.

3

The menu features multiple Filipino dishes and ingredients.

05
Steak Burrito Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a clean, bright dining area with a simple, plain interior. Atmosphere feels casual and unpretentious, suitable for lunch, dinner, or takeout. Known for high-quality steak burritos and flavorful dishes that stand out in the neighborhood.

Food comes out fresh and made to order with generous portions. The menu offers delicious Mexican dishes served quickly and at reasonable prices.

Late lunch options include Steak Burrito and other Mexican grill items. Suitable for dine-in or take out during lunch or dinner hours.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The steak at this Mexican food place is so good, it's the best I've ever had."

"This Lunch Spot's food was delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 10-15 minutes during busy lunch hours.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of menu options, including vegetarian choices.

3

Prices are reasonable, with meals averaging around $15 per person.

06
Petra Falafel II image 1

Simple interior with bright lighting and colorful murals creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Family-run and clean, it offers authentic Middle Eastern cuisine with fresh, flavorful falafel and creamy hummus. The place is casual and inviting, suited for dining in rather than intimate occasions.

Food here is fresh and full of flavor, featuring well-seasoned chicken and beef shawarma. Jordanian dishes arrive quickly, made to order in about 10 minutes, with tastes that appeal even to toddlers.

Lunch offers healthy options with choices like the lunch platter, chicken wrap, and falafel platter. The price stays steady at $9.99, making it a solid value.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food's falafel is crispy and packed with flavor."

"The food here is so fresh and full of flavor."

"The shawarma wrap for lunch is grilled fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a ten-minute wait if you don't order ahead.

2

Parking can be tricky due to shared lot with busy businesses.

3

Prices are reasonable, with lunch options around $9.99.

07
Prairie Cafe image 1
Family restaurant

Small, quaint family restaurant with a warm, home-like atmosphere and friendly, lively staff who often sing and chat. Regulars create a small-town cafe vibe with a cozy, inviting setting that feels like stepping back in time.

Food comes out cooked perfectly with generous portions and great value. Breakfast options stand out with consistent quality and taste.

Offers a wide variety of breakfast and lunch choices in a cozy, mom and pop setting. Serves solid options for both meals with a friendly, casual vibe.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and reasonably priced."

"Mimi makes you feel like family during breakfast."

"This lunch spot's owner, Mimi, makes you feel like family."

Good to know

1

The prices are on the low side and portions are generous.

2

The cafรฉ is located in a quiet, quaint strip with ample parking.

3

Expect a packed house, especially on weekday mornings.

08
Primos Locos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open windows create an outdoor feel indoors, complemented by a vibrant atmosphere with live music and a cozy, art-filled dining space. Patrons enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine and notable margaritas in a welcoming setting with both front and backyard patios.

Authentic Mexican dishes deliver top-notch flavors and excellent quality. The food consistently impresses with its genuine taste and deliciousness.

Outdoor seating on the patio offers a pleasant spot for lunch on nice days. Groups gather regularly here, making it a reliable choice for a light lunch with friends or coworkers.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tasted so fresh."

"The tacos and margaritas here are delicious."

"The enchiladas at this Lunch Spot are fantastic."

Good to know

1

Free street parking is available near the restaurant.

2

The upstairs room is available for events and can impress guests.

3

Happy hour specials are offered, but specific times are not mentioned.

09
Southtown Hot Dogs image 1
Hot dog restaurant

Small space with retro decor and mid-century style creates a cozy atmosphere. Frequented by families and kids, it fills up quickly during lunch rush with many waiting for to-go orders. Offers large portions of Chicago-style hot dogs, gyros, and burgers at competitive prices.

Chicago style food shines with quality and speed here. The menu delivers legit Chicago diner style dishes that taste delicious.

Continuous lunch rush shows this spot is popular for quick meals. It works well for a snack or lunch and gets very crowded during busy times.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the Chicago style American food here; it's delicious."

"The atmosphere here feels so cozy with its cool retro decor."

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

The chili dog and fries cost nearly $9.

2

There is limited seating inside due to high customer volume.

3

The restaurant is often packed, especially during lunch hours.

10
Firewater BBQ & Brew - Elmhurst, Illinois image 1

Rustic, cabin-like space with rolling smoke creates a genuine smokehouse feel. Atmosphere feels like a family BBQ with lively energy, though noise levels rise when busy. Features include an arcade area and an inviting bar with live music, adding to the casual, fun vibe.

Barbecue comes out fresh and delicious with generous portions that often leave leftovers. Food arrives quickly and consistently tastes great.

Lunch offers a Granny Lunch Special with a sandwich, fries, and drink for $11. The brisket and ribs stand out as flavorful and satisfying. Prices stay affordable with filling portions.

People are saying

"These ribs are so tender and packed with flavor."

"The cornbread here is unreal, so moist with actual corn kernels."

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

Good to know

1

The wait for dine-in food at lunch is approximately 25 minutes.

2

There is no printed menu available, making ordering difficult for large groups.

3

Prices have increased despite a reduction in portion sizes for meat combos.

11
Fry the Coop (Elmhurst) image 1
Chicken restaurant

Small dining area with Tennessee chicken hut decor and seat-yourself booths creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Music and a chalk wall add to the family-friendly vibe. The place is known for best Nashville fried chicken sandwiches and unique beef tallow frying.

Food here is consistently fried in beef tallow, offering a unique flavor profile. The menu features spicy options and the quality stays excellent every visit.

Chicken dishes stand out during lunch with consistently good quality. Using points to order two lunches for free shows a rewarding system for regular visits.

People are saying

"I thought their chicken sandwich was the best I ever had."

"The food here is outstanding, especially the chicken."

"The chicken at this Lunch Spot is crispy, moist, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The base chicken sandwich costs $11, and fries are $5.

2

Expect a line to order food, especially during peak hours.

3

They charge an additional $0.60 for extra dipping sauce.

12
Sushi Time image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi restaurant with cozy, tight seating and limited indoor tables creates an intimate atmosphere. The place stays busy with takeout orders from delivery services, reflecting its popularity. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed option, distinguishing it from typical sushi spots.

Food features very fresh ingredients and arrives quickly. The dishes are consistently amazing and delicious.

Lunch specials offer great value and consistently impress. The spot draws regulars who enjoy a reliable, tasty lunch experience.

People are saying

"The sushi here is super fresh and really tasty."

"The Japanese food here is amazing, and the staff are so attentive."

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers outdoor seating during the summer months.

2

Parking is available directly in front of the restaurant.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; no cash payments.

13
Currito Elmhurst image 1

Clean, immaculate setting with great vibes and music creates a fresh atmosphere. Offers build-your-own bowls with many healthy, flavorful options including tofu and various dressings. Seating is ample and the ordering process is simple, catering well to those with food restrictions.

Food offers a variety of styles beyond just Mexican, with consistently fresh tasting and clean, delicious options. Service is attentive, making meals feel personalized and satisfying.

Frequent visits show this spot offers consistent lunch options with a friendly attitude from staff. Salads and other meals provide a pleasant surprise for midday meals.

People are saying

"The staff here makes the food perfect with their kindness."

"I found the healthy foods here to be fresh and delicious."

"The service at this lunch spot is always amazing and helpful."

Good to know

1

The protein portion sizes decreased by 50% compared to previous offerings.

2

Currito Elmhurst allows you to build your own bowl, catering to various dietary restrictions.

3

The total with tip for one salad is about $18, which may be considered high.

14
Yorky's image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food restaurant offers a comfortable casual setting with spacious, clean dining and real cutlery for dine-in. Atmosphere stays family-friendly and laid back despite often being crowded. Outdoor seating and drive-thru add convenience to the experience.

Food stays consistently fresh and plentiful with every order. Service is quick and reliable, matching the reasonable prices offered.

Busy during lunch hours with a steady crowd, it offers a great spot to grab lunch. Many find it worth the wait and a popular choice for lunch dates or quick breaks from work.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The chicken dinner here is juicy with a nice char."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot is amazing and always smiling."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak lunch hours; arrive early.

2

The Friday special features Stuffed Peppers, a popular menu item.

3

Prices are reasonable, with meals for three under $40.

15
Sushi Nest image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small and cozy sushi restaurant with quiet atmosphere and fresh, high-quality sushi. Offers a wide selection including unique rolls and tasty poke bowls. Window table upfront adds a fun seating option.

Food here is consistently fresh and high quality. Dishes come out a bit slow sometimes, but the flavors stay delicious and well-prepared.

Sushi lunch offers consistent quality and suits spontaneous stops. It works well for casual celebrations like a 13th birthday.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is fresh, unique, and has great flavors."

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"This lunch spot has the freshest sushi I've ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly during peak hours.

2

Expect longer wait times for takeout orders during busy dinner hours.

3

The all-you-can-eat option is available for a fixed price, which is a good deal.

16
Rainbow Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Quaint American restaurant offers light, airy decor with family-friendly atmosphere and spacious outdoor patio featuring colorful umbrella art. The vibe stays calm and inviting, attracting a steady flow of diners. Indoor seating mixes diner-style tables with whimsical seasonal decorations.

Food comes in big portions with plenty of options for everyone. Dishes arrive quickly and taste consistently good.

Lunch offers very good options in a cute local diner setting. The spot serves both breakfast and lunch with a friendly atmosphere suitable for casual dates.

People are saying

"I loved their minced ham and scrambled eggs; they were the best I've had in ages."

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"This lunch spot has great food and generous portions."

Good to know

1

There is ample free parking right at the building.

2

Parking is available in the garage right behind the location.

3

There was no wait at Rainbow Cafe during my visit.

17
Guac N Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a calm, casual atmosphere with clean, trendy decor and a vibrant, inviting space. The menu features fresh, flavorful tacos and standout guacamole, complemented by a variety of margaritas. The setting suits both quick lunches and relaxed dinners.

Mexican food stands out with delicious dishes and consistently excellent service. The menu features great margaritas alongside authentic flavors crafted with passion.

Lunch offers Quesadillas with chips and salsa in a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. Meals cost around $25 each without alcohol.

People are saying

"The pork belly taco melted in my mouth like butter."

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best in town."

"This lunch spot's food is so good, I couldn't believe it was gone."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait during peak hours, but service is quick at other times.

2

Prices are on the higher side, averaging $25 for lunch.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment throughout.

18
Ming Chef Asian Cuisine image 1
Chinese restaurant

Bright, spacious dining area with clean, modern decor creates a casual, lively atmosphere. Noise levels rise due to the open layout, but the mood stays happy and inviting. Family-friendly touches like kid-sized chopsticks add to the welcoming vibe.

Food here stays fresh and tasty with no greasiness. The menu offers authentic Chinese dishes served quickly by attentive servers.

The takeout lunch special offers a good meal option. Lunch hours can be quiet with few customers around.

People are saying

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

"The Korean soup here is especially great."

"The takeout lunch special here is good value."

Good to know

1

There is a free parking lot available for customers.

2

An automatic 18% gratuity is charged on all items, including takeout.

3

The restaurant closes at 9:30 pm.

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