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Bloomington's best

Lunch and dinner spots

Made for those who prioritize a consistent dining routine and want to know exactly where to find a reliable meal regardless of the time of day.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Smokestack Express image 1
Smokestack Express image 2
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Barbecue restaurant

Small space with an open kitchen fills with smoky aromas that reach the parking lot. Atmosphere feels welcoming and warm but includes a mix of classic rock music and TV noise. Free soft serve ice cream is available while waiting, adding a unique touch.

Smokestack Express offers quick lunch options ideal for grabbing a meal on the go. It suits both individual takeout and larger group orders with reliable catering services.

Family-owned spot serves consistently delicious food suitable for quick dinners or larger gatherings. Portions often come with extras to take home for later.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the brisket, is the best I've ever had."

"The brisket dinner here is perfectly smoked and tender."

"This Lunch Spot's brisket is tender and perfectly smoked."

Good to know

1

Order ahead to ensure availability, especially during busy afternoon hours.

2

Expect a short wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Complimentary soft serve ice cream is included with meals.

02
Itton Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small Japanese-style pub with kitschy decor featuring anime trinkets and city signs from Kanagawa creates an authentic atmosphere. Open-air seating brings lively energy with noodle slurping sounds adding to the experience. Known for exceptional ramen and a sense of community warmth.

Lunch offers a solid stop with hearty ramen and a casual vibe. It suits quick meals after travel or casual outings.

Busy dinner rushes run smoothly with efficient front of house staff. The spot works well for family dinners and quick meals, handling groups with ease.

People are saying

"I've never had ramen this good outside of Japan."

"The ramen here is fantastic, especially the spicy miso."

"I thought the ramen at this lunch spot was really great."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during busy dinner hours.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

Menu items range from $10 to $20, with daily specials available.

03
Bullvino's Churrascaria Bloomington image 1

Buffet restaurant offers authentic Brazilian style with white linen tablecloths and a large arena seating. Atmosphere stays laid-back and relaxing with Brazilian music enhancing the mood. Guests use green and red cards to signal readiness for meat service, which features skewered cuts brought directly to the table.

Lunch offers a Top-Shelf Lunch with all cuts of meat, sides, and a salad bar for under $50. The executive lunch provides excellent value, and the Ribeye steak comes served on a salt block.

Dinner features freshness, perfect temperature, and amazing wagyu steak. Food arrives faster at dinner than lunch, making it a smooth experience.

People are saying

"The Salad Bar had a huge selection and everything was fresh."

"The dinner here was delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The staff here makes your lunch spot experience top-tier."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials run from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant offers a special Monday through Thursday for $39.95.

3

Couples Night is a weekly event with special pricing and menu options.

04
Amazing Momo image 1
Asian restaurant

Cozy Tibetan restaurant offers authentic momos and phenomenal curry in a calm, welcoming atmosphere with aesthetically pleasing decor. The space feels like a peaceful retreat with relaxing music and attention to fine details. It attracts those seeking authentic Asian flavors in a clean, friendly setting.

Lunch here costs a bit over $20.00 and works well for a late lunch. It does not suit an office or work lunch setting.

Dinner here leaves you happily full and ecstatic. The spot works well for a random dinner stop during a busy day.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, flavorful, and comforting."

"You have to try the dumplings for dinner; they're fantastic."

"The param chicken curry at this Lunch Spot is so flavorful."

Good to know

1

The platter is priced at $16, and tea costs $7.

2

The restaurant offers many vegan and vegetarian options.

3

Parking is available, but the lot is dirty and gravelly.

05
Perkins American Food Co. image 1

Bright, clean space with cozy decor and an upscale diner feel creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere like coming home. Friendly energy fills the room, making it a comfortable spot for groups and families. Unique features include serving wine and beer alongside classic American dishes.

Busy on Saturdays but seating happens in less than 15 minutes. Known for quick service and suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here feel like home, thanks to Tom's warm welcome."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is amazing and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers after 9:00 pm.

2

Breakfast is served all day at Perkins.

3

The restaurant accommodates large groups without prior reservations.

06
Snuffy's Malt Shop image 1

Restaurant combines open kitchen design with hardwood floors and metal walls, creating a modern yet nostalgic vibe. Atmosphere feels lighthearted and warm but can become very loud during busy times. Seating includes a seasonal outdoor patio that adds to the casual dining experience.

Burgers and hot dogs come with crispy fries and generous portions. Lunch orders arrive quickly, making it easy to grab a classic American diner meal with malts and sides like onion rings.

Classic American diner fare includes crispy fries, onion rings, and malts with generous portions. The patio offers a casual spot for family dinners.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were pretty good and fresh."

"The food at these dinner spots is delicious and affordable."

"The burgers here are fresh, hot, and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

They closed at 8 pm instead of 9 pm during winter.

2

Parking can get a little tight during peak hours.

3

Meals come with no sides, and each add-on is overpriced.

07
IKEA image 1
Furniture store

Showrooms arranged as complete rooms create an inspiring maze that encourages exploration and creativity. The atmosphere feels serene with a Scandinavian aesthetic featuring clean lines and neutral colors. Amenities include a children's play zone and a casual food area offering affordable Swedish dishes.

Affordable meals include salmon, meatballs with cranberry sauce, and veggie balls with fries. The cafe offers a casual spot to eat while walking around or shopping.

Affordable dinners include a Swedish meatball plate with 12 meatballs, sauce, mashed potatoes, sweet peas, and cranberry sauce for $10. The spot welcomes families and offers a chance to walk around the store after eating.

People are saying

"I loved the Swedish meatballs with lingonberry sauce."

"I had a good lunch here, especially the meatballs."

"I loved their Swedish meatball dinner for comfort food."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right by the entrance, especially after 7 p.m.

2

Paying with a card is recommended to avoid long waits at the cashier.

3

IKEA offers a kid-friendly event that is fun for children.

08
Red Lobster image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with dim lighting and a quiet vibe. A bar area serves unique cocktails like Bahamas mama and margarita flights. The setting feels clean and inviting, suitable for dinners and special occasions.

All-you-can-eat lunch specials include clam chowder, salad, and cheese biscuit. The spot suits family gatherings and celebrations with friendly service.

Cozy and inviting atmosphere suits family dinners and special occasions. Offers all-you-can-eat shrimp and treats like ice cream after dinner.

People are saying

"Our server Jessica was amazing and the highlight of our meal."

"The servers here make your dinner spots amazing and memorable."

"Our server Jessica was the highlight of our Lunch Spot meal."

Good to know

1

They are having lobster fest right now.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted appetizers.

3

Expect a wait time of 30 minutes during peak dinner hours.

09
Grand Szechuan image 1
Sichuan restaurant

Round tables with lazy Susan create a family-friendly setting that encourages sharing and conversation. The space feels cozy and authentic with classic Chinese decor and soft Asian music. Hot tea arrives before meals, adding to the relaxing atmosphere.

Lunch offers combination specials priced between 10 to 12 dollars with generous portions. Dishes include Triple Kung Pao with chicken, beef, and shrimp, and Mongolian beef served with fried rice and an egg roll.

Dinner features delicious dishes that impress even on busy nights. The spot welcomes special occasions like New Year's Eve with consistent quality.

People are saying

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

"This Lunch Spot's Kung Pao is excellent with tender, juicy meats."

"I thought the dinner here was amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges an extra 3.99% fee for credit card payments.

2

An 18% gratuity is added to bills for parties of two.

3

The restaurant is very handicap accessible.

10
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant decorated with Forrest Gump memorabilia and movie quotes creates a nostalgic atmosphere. Loud music fills the space, making conversation challenging. Unique license plate signs at tables signal servers, adding interactive fun.

Lunch offers great food and cocktails with options for a light meal including appetizers and sides. It suits casual meetups and special occasions alike.

Fantastic drinks and great atmosphere stand out during dinner. Service is excellent, making it a solid spot for family or friends.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the shrimp, is delicious."

"The staff here are so kind and accommodating to kids."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was excellent and served hot."

Good to know

1

Trivia night features Forrest Gump questions and happens during meal service.

2

Happy hour offers a selection of discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Expect a fun and interactive trivia experience with prizes for participants.

11
Ze's Diner Bloomington image 1

Restaurant recreates 1950s diner style with checkered floors and colorful chairs. Atmosphere feels quiet and pleasant, offering a traditional diner experience with retro decor and music. Seating is somewhat tight but suits small groups well.

Offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a focus on quick, family-friendly meals. Serves as a solid spot for lunch or breakfast with plans to return for more.

Offers dinner service alongside breakfast and lunch. Plans to return indicate dinner options are worth exploring.

People are saying

"This diner's food is outstanding, truly a step above."

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

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious and awesome."

Good to know

1

They have a burger and shake deal on Tuesdays.

2

Kids eat free on Wednesdays, offering good value for families.

3

Half-price appetizers are available from 2 to 4:30 PM on Tuesdays through Thursdays.

12
Kura Revolving Sushi Bar image 1
Japanese restaurant

Revolving sushi plates and a robot drink delivery system create an interactive dining experience. The space feels crammed and lively, often noisy with a Tokyo-style sushi bar vibe. Ordering happens via touchscreen monitors, adding convenience and novelty.

Conveyor belt refills keep plates coming during lunch. Seating happens immediately with no wait on weekdays, letting you try different dishes easily.

Dinner features a conveyor belt sushi setup with robot entertainment and a fun plate chute game for kids. Tables and dinnerware stay very clean, and the staff remain friendly throughout the meal.

People are saying

"The revolving sushi bar is a fun experience with robots bringing drinks."

"I thought the concept and atmosphere were pretty cool."

"This Lunch Spot is super fun with its automated ordering and robot drinks."

Good to know

1

During busy times, expect a wait for a table of about 2 hours.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

Most items can be ordered via tablet and delivered on a conveyor belt.

13
Hong Kong Noodles image 1
Chinese restaurant

Spacious, modern Chinese restaurant with rotating center tables and tablet ordering enhances group dining. Atmosphere is noisy and lively, making conversation difficult. Offers authentic dim sum and a bright, welcoming space suitable for family gatherings.

Lunch specials offer generous portions with dishes like chicken and broccoli. Seating happens quickly during lunch hour, and the menu includes noodles, hot pot, and dim sum options.

Offers family-friendly dinners with options suitable for all ages. Also provides room service dinner for a relaxed meal in your hotel room.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is flavorful with huge, satisfying portions."

"The Dim Sum service was fast and attentive, they refilled our drinks."

"The lunch specials here have generous portions and are really flavorful."

Good to know

1

Dim Sum is available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9:30 am to 3 pm.

2

An 18% gratuity is automatically added to all bills.

3

Parking is limited in the back of the restaurant.

14
Applebee's Grill + Bar image 1

Restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with plenty of TVs showing major sporting events. Energy shifts from cozy and relaxing to rowdy and dark later in the evening. Staff create a welcoming environment that supports celebrations and casual dining.

Lunch here involves a variety of options like a full-sized Oriental salad and meals suitable for kids and adults. Expect slow service and a total cost around $80 for four without alcohol.

Groups gather here for birthday dinners and celebrations. The spot handles large parties smoothly and offers a family-friendly dinner atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"JD made our dinner spots perfect; he's the greatest asset."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was great and arrived quickly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with half-price appetizers and cheap drinks.

2

The dining area is clean and well-kept.

3

Expect a relaxed atmosphere during happy hour.

15
Las Cuatro Milpas Restaurant Bar image 1

Retro diner style blends with live music and multiple TVs showing sports or movies. Loud music creates a high-energy atmosphere that can make conversation difficult. A self-service sauce bar and expanding dance area add unique features to the space.

Fast service stands out during lunch with a lively vibe. Options like Carnitas and Shrimp taco make it a solid spot for a midday meal.

Dinner features loud music that makes conversation tough. The food stands out with memorable flavors that impress over multiple visits.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Mexican food; it tasted like home."

"This is a great lunch spot with delicious food."

"The birria tacos and burritos are huge and delicious dinner spots."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is a taco truck inside a larger venue.

2

Expect to pay around $53 for two beers and tacos dorados.

3

Credit card information is requested for pick-up orders.

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Bloomington, Minnesota

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