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Best of Joliet

Lunch spots

Made for those who treat their midday break as a non-negotiable window for a proper meal.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
Azul Celeste Bar and Grill image 1
Azul Celeste Bar and Grill image 2
Azul Celeste Bar and Grill image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Modern, clean space with authentic Mexican tacos and excellent margaritas offers a laid-back vibe. Walkable from hotels, it suits family meals and casual lunch gatherings. Upbeat atmosphere with Latin music and live baseball games keeps energy lively.

Walkable from nearby hotels, this spot offers a solid choice for lunch. Groups of all ages come here, making it a comfortable place for family meals and casual gatherings.

People are saying

"The steak and shrimp tacos were amazing and flavorful."

"I thought the food here was just awesome."

"I will definitely be back to this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Half-price margaritas are available on Thursdays.

2

The restaurant is cash only, so bring cash or use the ATM.

3

They charge a 4% fee for credit card payments.

02
Chicago Street Pub image 1

Small, dark Irish pub offers a cozy dive bar vibe with lively, friendly atmosphere and live music. Lunch features hearty sandwiches and specials perfect for casual meals. Regulars enjoy well-poured Guinness and tasty burgers cooked to order.

Lunch offers a great selection of sandwiches and bar eats with specials that stand out. The menu suits a casual midday meal well.

People are saying

"It's a friendly neighborhood bar with a welcoming, comfy atmosphere."

"The live music makes the atmosphere feel so lively and comfortable."

"The lunch spot has amazing burgers and fresh salads."

Good to know

1

Live traditional Irish music starts at 7:30 pm on Mondays.

2

Expect live music performances on weekends.

3

Happy hour deals are available with great discounts.

03
Burrito Guacamole image 1

Offers drive-thru service for quick lunch with authentic Mexican dishes like steak tacos and quesabirrias. Atmosphere is simple with ample parking. Salsa and hot sauce bar adds variety but chips and cheese cost extra when dining solo.

Drive-through service makes lunch quick and convenient. Options focus on tacos and burritos ready during a short break. Chips and cheese come at a noticeable extra cost when dining solo.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be absolutely delicious and authentic."

"The tacos from the Drive Thru are fresh and delicious."

"This lunch spot has delicious, fresh burritos and tacos."

Good to know

1

The drive-through makes it a quick trip for lunch.

2

There is plenty of parking space available.

3

Portion sizes are generous for the price.

04
Pitstop Corner Cafe image 1

Cozy cafe boasts appealing interior decor and a calm atmosphere perfect for relaxing. Guests enjoy fresh sandwiches and hearty breakfast wraps served quickly with consistent quality. Clean and well-maintained, it suits both casual meals and lunch breaks.

Offers quick sandwiches and a variety of delicious meals for lunch. Food quality stays consistently excellent throughout the day.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"I loved the great coffee here."

"I found the lunch food here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers three bread choices for sandwiches.

2

The menu includes freshly brewed coffee, teas, sandwiches, and baked goods.

3

The cafe did a great job with to-go orders, especially when I was in a rush.

05
The Irish Corner Cantina image 1

Restaurant offers great lunch specials in a cozy, family-friendly setting with a kid nook full of games and books. Eclectic seating and lively touches like arcade games and darts keep the vibe casual and fun. Multiple TVs make it a solid spot for sports fans.

Lunch features great specials and a casual vibe. It works well for quick bites or relaxed meals with friends.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent, especially the buffalo shrimp."

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

"It's family friendly with a cozy area for kids."

Good to know

1

The place is family-friendly and has a kids area for casual outings.

2

DIY craft nights and trivia events are hosted regularly.

3

Live music and karaoke nights are popular on weekends.

06
Jitters image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy coffee shop shines with vintage decor and a piano ambiance. Lunch features good sandwiches and strong coffee. Warm, inviting vibe makes it a popular spot before game days.

Offers good sandwiches and coffee that stand out during lunch. Breakfast and lunch options are solid and satisfying.

People are saying

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

"It's a super cute and cozy vibe here."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was impeccable, especially Lily's attentiveness."

Good to know

1

Jitters closes at 2 PM and is not open on weekends.

2

They served gluten-free options and alternative milk for those who are intolerant or had a preference.

3

The coffee costs around $4-5 for a large iced coffee.

07
Tonto Burrito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with colorful decor and slot machines offers a lively, cozy vibe. Friendly staff provide attentive service making it a great lunch spot. Regulars rave about well-seasoned steak tacos and top burritos.

Strong focus on customer satisfaction makes this a reliable spot for lunch. Service is attentive, ensuring a good experience during the midday meal.

People are saying

"The birria tacos are amazing, tender, and gooey."

"I thought the burrito here was the best I've ever had."

"The Quesabirria tacos here are flavorful and the best I've had."

Good to know

1

The prices at Tonto Burrito are affordable.

2

Portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

Breakfast burritos are served all day long.

08
Juybe's Breakfast and Lunch image 1

Bright, remodeled space offers a cozy, peaceful atmosphere with kid-friendly amenities and friendly service. Portions and prices balance well for a family-friendly sit-down experience. Spot stays spotless and welcoming, perfect for delicious lunch.

Spot offers friendly service and delicious food for breakfast and lunch. The environment stays spotless and welcoming, making it a reliable choice for midday meals.

People are saying

"The food at this lunch spot is always fresh and delicious."

"The pancakes here are light, buttery, and done perfectly."

"The hash browns are golden brown and crispy, not greasy."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable for breakfast and lunch options.

2

Portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

The restaurant is family-owned and has a welcoming atmosphere.

09
Richardson's Downtown Sports Bar and Grill image 1

Sports bar and grill with a cozy atmosphere and family-like vibe. Burgers are a solid grab-and-go lunch despite long lines. Outdoor seating and a full bar with cold beer add to the inviting energy.

Lines get long during lunch rush hours. Burgers order well online and make for a solid grab-and-go lunch. Frequent visits show it works as a reliable lunch spot.

People are saying

"You have to try the brisket sandwich; it's fall-off-the-bone tender."

"The food at this bar is excellent and full of flavor."

"The Lunch Spot staff was so friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Fish fry is available on weekends with a live DJ.

2

Bingo nights occur every Friday, providing a fun atmosphere.

3

Expect longer wait times during lunch rush hours.

10
Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings image 1

Offers a clean atmosphere and juicy cheesesteaks that make lunch reliable and tasty. Wings add flavorful variety while quiet energy keeps it relaxed for quick meals.

Strong food quality and service make it a reliable choice for lunch. Frequent visits show it works well as a weekly lunch spot.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing."

"I loved the fresh, hot sandwich with quality ingredients."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is great and the staff is so friendly."

Good to know

1

They have a buy one get one free deal on wings.

2

The food is prepared and served within 10 minutes of ordering.

3

The restaurant has indoor seating for about 14 people.

11
Taqueria Los Paisanos #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with exceptional steak and birria tacos in a cozy atmosphere perfect for lunch dates. Quick service helps beat the rush. Family-friendly vibe with loud music and close seating keeps it lively and comfortable.

Cozy atmosphere suits a lunch date well. Quick service keeps things moving, letting you finish before the lunch rush hits.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so delicious and authentic."

"The salsa here is really good, especially with the chips."

"The food at this lunch spot is delicious and the portions are generous."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers generous portion sizes for the price.

2

Expect a busy lunch crowd if you arrive after noon.

3

In-house made tortillas enhance the authenticity of the dishes.

12
Cherry Hill Cafe image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Pan-Americana diner shines with county-style decor and a family-friendly atmosphere. It serves quick, affordable meals with friendly staff, perfect for lunch. Weekends bring a lively vibe that adds to its down south charm.

Offers quick, no-frills meals with affordable prices and friendly staff. Open for both breakfast and lunch, making it a convenient spot for a simple meal.

People are saying

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

"The staff at this lunch spot are attentive and friendly."

"These hash browns are made with real potatoes, not frozen."

Good to know

1

The cafe gets extremely busy on the weekends; expect a wait for a seat.

2

Prices are reasonable, with sandwiches around $11.

3

The cafe is very clean and well-maintained.

13
El Flamingo image 1
Bar & grill

Bar and grill offers spacious dance floor and live DJ with reggaeton and house music. Lunch features Puerto Rican snacks like Alcapuria and Jibarito in a clean, well-designed space. Atmosphere fits casual meals and lively nights.

Super nice atmosphere suits lunch or casual outings. Menu features Alcapuria, Papa Relleno, Jibarito, and other Puerto Rican snacks.

People are saying

"This Puerto Rican food tastes so classic, like grandma's kitchen."

"The drinks here are good, especially the piรฑa colada with real pineapple."

"The Puerto Rican food at this lunch spot is amazing."

Good to know

1

El Flamingo is closed on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, especially during DJ events.

3

The menu may have limited items available due to stock issues.

14
Joe's Hot Dogs image 1
Hot dog restaurant

No indoor seating gives a roadside stand vibe with a mom-and-pop feel. Quick, classic hot dogs with cheese dogs and crispy onion rings make it perfect for lunch or late-night snacks. Outdoor stand-and-eat tables add to the simple, nostalgic charm.

A quick stop for lunch offers cheese dogs, onion rings, and fries. It suits both casual midday meals and late-night snacks.

People are saying

"I thought the hot dogs here were the best."

"This lunch spot feels like a nostalgic hometown gem."

"I thought the chili cheese dogs were awesome."

Good to know

1

Joe's Hot Dogs has no seating available inside the establishment.

2

Customers can eat in their cars, take food home, or sit on stand-up benches outside.

3

Joe's Hot Dogs offers hot dogs, fries, Italian beef, and polish sausage with sauerkraut.

15
Rax image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food joint with retro 1980s decor and a clean, friendly vibe. Known for steaming hot roast beef sandwiches, it draws families and travelers alike. Lunch hours stay busy, making it a reliable family lunch spot with a simple, dependable menu.

Lunch hours stay nice and busy with a steady flow of diners. The spot serves as a reliable choice for family meals and draws people willing to travel long distances for lunch.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and tastes delicious."

"I found the roast beef sandwich here to be the best I've ever had."

"This lunch spot's roast beef sandwich is better than the other chains."

Good to know

1

Dine-in service closes at 7 PM, while drive-through remains open later.

2

They no longer offer a salad bar, removed during the Covid pandemic.

3

Prices can be high; expect to pay over $30 for two people.

16
McBride's on 52 image 1
Restaurant

Large indoor space with plenty of seating and a lively outdoor patio with a small bar that welcomes dogs and smoking. Patio offers a casual lunch spot perfect for hanging out with friends. Vibe mixes reggae music and karaoke with a sports bar feel and TVs.

Outdoor seating on the patio offers a casual spot for lunch. It suits hanging out with friends over drinks during the midday meal.

People are saying

"Kryssie's food recommendations made me feel right at home."

"The ribs here are so tender, they just fall off the bone."

"The sandwiches and burgers at this Lunch Spot are juicy and very good."

Good to know

1

Children eat free on Wednesdays.

2

Trivia night happens from 7 to 9 pm.

3

Free poker is offered on Thursdays.

17
Metro Grill & Bar image 1

Open kitchen creates an interactive dining vibe perfect for lunch or dinner with groups. Cozy elegance shifts to a loud sports bar with karaoke and buckets of beer. Enjoy games like slots and video games or relax on the outdoor patio with comfy furniture.

Offers a nice setting for lunch with groups. Suitable for both lunch and dinner occasions.

People are saying

"I loved the wedge salad with creamy garlic dressing."

"You have to try the saganaki; it's awesome Greek food."

"The meatloaf sandwich at this Lunch Spot is absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

Half-price appetizers are available on Mondays.

2

Singo Night occurs every Sunday with live performances.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially on weekends.

18
Habanero Mexican Fine Cuisine image 1

Enjoy authentic Mexican dishes like mole sauce and habanero steak in a family-friendly atmosphere with wooden chairs and outdoor seating. Lunch specials include pozole and steak tacos with great deals before 4p. Friendly vibe and notable margaritas make it a fun spot.

Lunch specials run from 11a to 4p with combo plates, lunch, and drink deals. Pozole, steak tacos, and veggie burritos feature in the lunch specials. Arriving before 4p helps save money.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fantastic and well seasoned."

"You have to try the chicken enchilada with mole sauce; it's the best."

"I found the margaritas to be very good."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available from 11am to 4pm.

2

Tuesdays feature half-price house margaritas.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment throughout.

19
YURA NUNA image 1
Korean restaurant

Family-run Korean spot offers grandma-level recipes in a cozy, clean space perfect for lunch. Large portions like spicy buldak chicken satisfy hearty appetites. Cheerful service and a warm atmosphere make it a great casual lunch spot.

A bowl served here offers a yummy option for lunch. The spot has a decent-sized space to sit and eat inside during lunch or early dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tasted just like the 80s and 90s."

"The lemonade here is so refreshing and not too sweet."

"I loved my lunch bowl; it was incredibly yummy."

Good to know

1

There is parking in the back.

2

The restaurant closes at 7 pm most days.

3

The space is clean, including the bathrooms.

20
Rosemary Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Small seating area offers an intimate setting with lots of daylight and a clean, modern vibe. Known for phenomenal steak and eggs and best coffee in the county, it suits solo diners and groups alike with a casual, local-flavored lunch menu.

Offers a casual diner vibe suitable for solo diners, pairs, or groups. Serves breakfast and lunch with a focus on local flavors.

People are saying

"Their coffee is delicious with so many flavors and options."

"The food and atmosphere here make for great date spots."

"It's a really nice local lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $75 for a breakfast for four before tip.

2

Credit card payments incur an additional fee.

3

There are no gluten-free options available on the menu.

21
Chicago Style BBQ image 1

Hole-in-the-wall spot offers excellent rib tips and fresh barbecue with a clean, welcoming vibe. Short waits make it a fast lunch spot despite higher prices and weekend closures. Ordering ahead helps skip the wait.

Short waits make it easy to grab a quick lunch here. The spot suits a fast meal during a busy lunch hour.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always served hot."

"These ribs and tips were excellent, truly fire."

"The Lunch Spot food was sensational and amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of around 45 minutes for food after ordering.

2

Reservations are recommended if you're in a hurry.

3

Prices are high due to food inflation, with meals costing around $17.

22
Louie's Waffle House image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Bright, colorful decor and whimsical selfie spots make it fun for kids. Offers solid lunch options beyond waffles, including soups. Comfortable booths add to the cheery atmosphere and free photo spots create a unique welcome.

Offers a great selection of food beyond waffles, including lunch and soups. Serves solid options for both breakfast and lunch.

People are saying

"The food here is great and satisfying."

"The breakfast service here is always friendly and fast."

"The lunch here is delicious and delivered quickly."

Good to know

1

Birthday waffle parties are available for younger kids.

2

A new pizza service will start in the afternoons and evenings.

3

The menu offers a large variety of breakfast options for all dietary choices.

23
China Kitchen image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant offers authentic dishes like BBQ pork fried rice and crab rangoon with large portions and vegetarian options. Lunch specials feature sesame chicken and unique twists like teriyaki satay chicken. Cozy vibe suits dates despite tight waiting area.

Lunch specials include options like sesame chicken with upgrades such as shrimp fried rice and crab Rangoon. Some dishes, like the satay chicken, come with unexpected twists like teriyaki sauce instead of traditional satay sauce.

People are saying

"I found the egg rolls to be phenomenal and very tasty."

"I found the fried rice to be very good and authentic."

"The satay sauce at this Lunch Spot is just peanut or sweet soybean."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 20 minutes for meals during busy periods.

2

Prices are generally reasonable for the quality of food provided.

3

The dinner portions are larger than lunch portions.

24
Sharks Fish & Chicken image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food joint serves exceptionally good chicken and crispy shrimp at inexpensive prices. Lunch specials make it a quick, affordable spot for midday meals. Atmosphere feels crowded and unwelcoming with some unpleasant odors.

Lunch specials offer quick, affordable options during the midday break. The spot suits those looking for a casual, straightforward lunch break meal.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and cooked to order."

"The fried fish and shrimp have a wonderfully crispy breading."

"The combo and fries at this Lunch Spot were great."

Good to know

1

The combo meals offer good value for the price.

2

Lunch specials are available, providing affordable options.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment for diners.

25
Jameson's Pub Joliet image 1

Sports bar buzzes with many TVs and a large outdoor patio thatโ€™s dog-friendly. Lunch offers comfortable seating and great service, though loud music can disrupt calm. Energetic inside, cozy outside, noise levels rise during games.

Comfortable seating and great service make it a solid spot for a workday lunch. Music plays a bit loud, which can affect the lunch vibe.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great."

"I loved their American food, especially the bacon cheeseburger."

"The food at this lunch spot is delicious and reasonably priced."

Good to know

1

Bingo night happens every Tuesday with drink specials.

2

Game day specials are available during major sports events.

3

A 3% surcharge applies to credit card payments.

26
Al's Steak House Restaurant image 1

Old school steakhouse offers classic mafia-style decor and curvy booths for a cozy feel. Lunch features family style meals perfect for group gatherings. Expect long waits during busy times like holidays.

Lunch includes family style meals and options suitable for group gatherings like funerals. Wait times can be long during busy lunch events such as holidays.

People are saying

"I thought the food was genuinely delicious and fresh."

"The steaks here are incredible, making it a great dinner spot."

"The Filet with potatoes and soup is so good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special occasions like anniversaries and Christmas parties.

2

Menu options may be limited for those with gluten and dairy allergies.

3

The restaurant can accommodate large gatherings, including funeral lunches and birthday parties.

27
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store image 1

Rustic decor and a real fireplace create a cozy vibe. Lunch offers varied dishes for all tastes. Close tables foster a lively atmosphere filled with families and casual diners.

Options cover breakfast, lunch, and dinner with many choices available. Lunch includes a variety of dishes to suit different tastes.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and perfectly cooked."

"The breakfast staff here is so kind and friendly."

"Our server Tina was so friendly and caring during our Lunch Spot visit."

Good to know

1

There was no wait to be seated during my visit.

2

Expect a short wait for food during busy hours.

3

Prices for drinks are higher than average, with coffee costing over $3.

28
El Molcajete Mexican restaurant image 1

Small Mexican spot buzzes with loud music and TVs showing American shows. Tacos and margaritas pack bold flavors that shine despite the fast food vibe. Lunch offers good value with meals plus pop for $13, but service can be slow during breaks.

Lunch here includes Mexican dishes with options like a meal plus a can of pop for about $13. Lunch breaks can feel tight since service sometimes takes longer than expected.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos, is really good."

"This burrito's tender pork and Fritos offer an explosion of savory goodness."

"The tacos here are delicious and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Taco Monday and Tuesday offer special deals on tacos.

2

Bring cash to avoid ATM fees, as some vendors may not accept cards.

3

Expect longer wait times during lunch hours on weekdays.

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