Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Waukegan's best

Lunch spots

A midday meal that respects your limited break time instead of turning a quick bite into an hour-long ordeal.

Based on 579 Opinions
+576
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Master Sushi & drive thru image 1
Master Sushi & drive thru image 2
Master Sushi & drive thru image 3
View all

Modern design meets cozy vibes with Japanese-South Korean decor and a drive-thru option rare for sushi spots. Lunch is affordable under $15, perfect for quick meals or catching up with friends. Bright, clean space plays good music, welcoming groups and solo diners alike.

Lunch options cost less than $15, making it an affordable spot. Frequent visits show a variety of dishes and a chance to catch up with friends during a quick meal.

People are saying

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

"I thought the sushi here was the best I had ever tasted."

"The staff here is super friendly and always greets you warmly."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a drive-thru for quick takeout orders.

2

Prices are affordable, typically under $15 for a quick lunch.

3

The establishment maintains a high level of cleanliness throughout.

02
Liguez image 1
Restaurant

Modern restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and spotless environment suits family gatherings well. Offers outstanding breakfast and lunch in a relaxed, casual setting. Perfect for weekend meals with loved ones.

Offers outstanding breakfast and lunch options. Welcomes family gatherings especially on weekends.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful and delicious."

"The Mexican food here is delicious and well cooked."

"This Lunch Spot's chicken sandwich is beautifully presented and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The bathrooms are very clean and well-maintained.

2

Expect longer wait times during busy weekend brunch hours.

3

There is a parking lot in the back with security cameras.

03
Lucky Scottie Restaurant image 1

Historic building offers a lively vibe with speakeasy-style bar and live DJ music. Quick, fresh food makes it a great lunch spot for fast, flavorful meals. Enjoy superb Negronis and fun games for a full, inviting experience.

Food arrives quickly, making it a solid choice for a late lunch or takeout. The spot suits those looking for a fast, straightforward midday meal.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The Italian food here is so delicious and creamy."

"This Lunch Spot's burgers are juicy, large, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Thursday with $5 drinks available.

2

Taco Tuesdays offer $2 tacos, making it a popular night.

3

The kitchen closes early on show nights, so arrive in advance.

04
La Fondita Restaurante Mexicano image 1

Cozy Mexican spot offers authentic birria tacos and a quiet vibe perfect for lunch. Enjoy handmade specialties like squash blossom quesadilla and quick, satisfying chicken tacos for a midday break.

Chicken tacos stand out as a solid choice for lunch here. The spot works well for a quick, satisfying midday meal during a work break.

People are saying

"The handmade tortillas here are amazing with the Mexican food."

"These tacos are amazing and full of tender meat."

"The chicken burrito at this lunch spot was amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

The menu features unique options not commonly found elsewhere.

3

Prices have increased recently, so check the menu before ordering.

05
Waukegan Gyros image 1
Gyro restaurant

Gyro spot serves authentic gyros with generous portions at reasonable prices. Simple decor and a small outdoor area create a relaxed vibe. Perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch under $10.

Offers fast lunch options with a greasy spoon diner vibe. Meals come at reasonable prices, often under $10.

People are saying

"The food prices here are great and you get a lot for your money."

"The Greek food here, especially the gyros, is the best I've ever had."

"You can get a great lunch here for under $10."

Good to know

1

Prices for meals are generally under $10, making it very affordable.

2

Meal deals include gyros, fries, and drinks for a great price.

3

You can easily feed two people for under $12 with an extra drink.

06
Waukegan CM chicken Bobadod image 1

Vibrant atmosphere with K-pop music energizes the space. Comfortable bean bag seating suits casual lunch groups well. Free Pac-Man arcade and Korean snacks add playful, unique touches.

Lunch offers a great tasting food selection with options suitable for groups or family. The spot supports a nice sit down experience that works well for casual meals.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, hot, and tasty."

"I really loved their mango lemonade; it was phenomenal."

"This lunch spot has amazing food, perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

There was plenty of free parking available.

2

There was no wait when I visited.

3

The restaurant offers good Korean food, snacks, and bubble tea.

07
Avocado Express image 1
Brunch restaurant

Brunch spot shines with all-day breakfast and homemade sauce on chilaquiles. Lunch offerings are solid, making it a great midday meal choice. Atmosphere is lively, prices fair, and service fast, drawing regulars who love the avocado dishes.

Serves breakfast and lunch all day, focusing on lunch items during visits. Offers a solid spot to stop by for a midday meal.

People are saying

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

"I thought the Mexican food chilaquiles were the best I've ever had."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious with simple, fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

Avocado Express serves breakfast and lunch all day.

2

The restaurant has a policy to eat in 35 minutes once your dish is served.

3

Prices are reasonable, with a decent price point for the area.

08
bb.q Chicken Waukegan image 1

Halal Korean fried chicken is crispy and flavorful in a cozy interior with a laid-back vibe. Lunch offers boneless chicken combos and Korean-style meals, best ordered ahead to skip the wait. Entertainment includes a magnetic dart board and music videos on TV.

Lunch features Korean-style meals and a boneless chicken combo. Ordering ahead helps avoid a 15-20 minute wait for food.

People are saying

"This food is so delicious, fresh, and full of flavor."

"I thought the Korean fried chicken here was the best I've ever had."

"This lunch spot has amazing, juicy, flavorful chicken."

Good to know

1

Order ahead for quick service; otherwise, expect a 15-20 minute wait.

2

A half chicken meal costs nearly $20, and fries and drinks are extra.

3

All meat served is HALAL, ensuring peace of mind for diners.

09
Big Ed's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Huge, clean space with top-tier barbecue and a lively vibe from live jazz and a full bar. Comfy couches invite relaxation while hearty portions make it a solid lunch spot. Family connections add a warm, familiar feel to the casual dining area.

Offers a solid spot for late lunch with hearty portions. Family connections often bring food here, showing its role as a familiar lunch destination.

People are saying

"You have to try the brisket; it's some of the best American food around."

"I loved the key lime pie; it was divine and heavenly."

"This lunch spot's ribs and burnt ends are amazing."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to avoid missing out on menu items as they sell out quickly.

2

Free meals are offered on Thanksgiving Day, making it a popular time to visit.

3

Some menu items are only available on specific days, so check ahead.

10
Chili's Grill & Bar image 1

Open bar and lively music create a cheerful atmosphere perfect for socializing. Lunch specials offer great deals ideal for midday meals or holiday gatherings. Clean, inviting space balances casual vibe with moments of quiet and energy.

Lunch specials offer a great deal making it a solid choice for midday meals. The spot suits both personal celebrations and holiday lunches with co-workers.

People are saying

"I loved the food here; it was delicious and fulfilling."

"The lunch spot staff here are genuinely nice and make you feel welcomed."

"The service at these dinner spots is friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and there is usually no wait.

2

Happy hour drinks are available with discounted prices.

3

The restaurant has a generous amount of parking available.

11
Test Kitchen BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small barbecue spot shines with high-quality brisket and warm atmosphere where staff and diners connect. Lunch service is slow, often taking most of the break, but food remains solid. Owner's presence adds a community feel that keeps the place buzzing.

Lunch here involves a slow service that can take up most of a lunch break. Food quality is solid but the long wait times affect the overall lunch experience.

People are saying

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

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, just melts in your mouth."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot was so friendly and patient."

Good to know

1

Only certain meats are available on weekends.

2

They charged $10 for a side of fries with mild sauce.

3

I need to bring cash to avoid the credit card fee.

12
Anastasia's-Waukegan Restaurant & Sports Lounge image 1

Spacious sports bar offers ample seating indoors and out, with a quiet patio perfect for work lunches or celebrations. Staff stay attentive and witty even during busy times. Shuttle service and live streams add convenience and a lively vibe during games.

Large serving sizes make lunch filling enough for leftovers later. Staff stay attentive and witty even during busy lunch rushes. Groups fit comfortably for work lunches or celebrations.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, with perfect portions and presentations."

"You can enjoy great food while watching live sports here."

"Maggie was so attentive and witty during our Lunch Spot visit."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during major sports events.

2

Happy hour features $6 Moscow mules on Mondays.

3

Half-price pizza night occurs every Tuesday.

13
Green Tea Chinese Drive Thru -Waukegan image 1

Small restaurant with affordable lunch specials offers quick service ideal for drive-thru meals. Generous portions of classic dishes like garlic chicken come at practical prices. Calm atmosphere and spill-proof cups add convenience and comfort.

Affordable lunch specials run around $6.95 with classic dishes like garlic chicken and fried rice. Quick service suits a drive-thru lunch option well.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very good and fresh."

"The Drive Thru offers affordable meals with large portions."

"This lunch spot has tasty, affordable food with generous portions."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is only $6.95 on Mondays.

2

Expect generous portions for the price, making it great value.

3

Drive-thru service is quick, ensuring fresh and warm food.

14
Bob & Anne's Restaurant image 1
Family restaurant

Classic American diner shines with homemade food and a family atmosphere. Lunch features daily specials and full-size dishes like tilapia with peas. Small booths and kid-friendly games make it a cozy spot for all ages.

Daily-changing lunch specials offer variety alongside full-size dishes like tilapia with peas. The spot serves lunch anytime with a menu that complements breakfast and dinner options.

People are saying

"The food here is always delicious and amazing."

"The diner staff here are so friendly and helpful."

"This lunch spot's tilapia with peas is a great meal."

Good to know

1

Complete dinners are available for $9.75, providing good value.

2

There is plenty of parking available at the restaurant.

3

The menu features a blend of American, Greek, and Mexican dishes.

15
Hunan Hibachi Buffet image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese buffet serves shrimp and seafood with a varied lunch menu priced from $11.95 to over $20. Seating includes brown tables and booths in a dim, relaxed space. Large hall suits celebrations, while smaller tables offer cozy dining.

Lunch offers a variety of options like shrimp, seafood, and hibachi at a buffet style. Prices range from about $11.95 to over $20, with some noting a recent price increase.

People are saying

"The buffet food here is amazing and huge."

"The Japanese food here has a huge variety, including sushi and other dishes."

"The Lunch Spot has amazing selection and quality food."

Good to know

1

Lunch costs $11.95 with a variety of options including shrimp and seafood.

2

The buffet offers an excellent variety of food options.

3

The restaurant is clean and well-maintained.

16
Birrieria Jaliscos Restaurant image 1

Authentic Mexican spot offers best birria and homemade tortillas in a peaceful atmosphere filled with fresh aromas. Lunch features chilaquiles served all day with convenient pickup. Small, crowded space focuses on takeout with prices up to $30.

Lunch includes chilaquiles served even during dinner hours. Pickup is available at lunchtime. Prices run on the higher side, reaching up to $30 per person.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here are amazing and delicious."

"You have to try the handmade tortillas; they make a huge difference."

"You have to try the birria tacos with consomรฉ for lunch."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, but there is space for large vehicles.

2

Expect to pay around $30 for a meal, including tips.

3

The restaurant is primarily focused on takeout orders.

Discover more

Waukegan, Illinois

Area guide
Loading Map...