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Affordable lunch spots in Minneapolis

Made for those who want to eat well during the workday without spending more than they have to.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Rollicious image 1
Rollicious image 2
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Restaurant

Small dining space features cute lanterns and watercolor paintings that create a cozy, welcoming vibe. Atmosphere feels casual and relaxing, suitable for date nights or casual meals. The setting combines charm with a hole-in-the-wall feel and a porch-style dining room.

Close to campus, it serves Japanese-style food ideal for lunch or a quick snack. Options fit well for a quick bite before class or work.

Food comes at surprisingly inexpensive prices with portions that match the cost. Sushi items, sashimi, and street food all stay within an affordable range compared to most restaurants.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is fantastic, with fresh, flavorful rolls."

"I was surprised by how affordable the food was."

"The owners here are so nice and amazing."

Good to know

1

Rollicious is located within a hallway to the right of Shuang Chengs.

2

The location is ideal for those on the go who need something quick.

3

The prices at Rollicious are reasonable for the serving size.

02
Hikari Hand Roll Bar image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi bar with an open space concept offers a sleek, inviting atmosphere blending tradition and innovation. The vibe stays relaxed yet vibrant, fitting for casual dining or date nights. Guests enjoy exceptionally fresh, authentic sushi with solid hand roll portions and unique options like tuna belly.

Quick service with no wait time on Fridays makes it easy to grab lunch. The hand rolls stand out as a fresh, satisfying option, and attentive staff enhance the experience.

Sushi here is fresh and high-end yet stays affordable. The rice quality matches the price, making it accessible for regular people.

People are saying

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

"This Lunch Spot has the freshest, high-quality sushi around."

"I found the sushi to be fresh, high-end, and affordable."

Good to know

1

Day Funk events occur on Sundays, offering a lively atmosphere.

2

Reservations are recommended for busy Friday and Saturday nights.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using public transport.

03
AMA Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, cramped interior with limited patio seating creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, with dank lofi music adding a relaxed vibe. Popular spot known for fresh, high-quality sushi and affordable prices.

Meals arrive promptly for quick or leisurely lunches. The steak hibachi stands out as a delicious lunch choice. Staff remain welcoming even during busy hours.

Prices stay consistently affordable while offering delicious sushi and a complimentary miso soup with any order.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so good, I didn't dislike a single item."

"The prices here are super affordable."

"This lunch spot has seriously impressive sushi and sashimi."

Good to know

1

AMA Sushi does not accept reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

2

Expect a quick wait time despite the restaurant being busy.

3

They offer great lunch deals that are affordable.

04
OCOCO image 1
Asian restaurant

Skyway-level Asian restaurant offers a cozy, relaxed atmosphere with fresh, flavorful Malaysian and Thai street food. Seating feels comfortable and spacious, with a kiosk ordering system at the entrance. The place attracts those looking for generous portions and unbeatable prices in a quiet setting.

Quick service delivers Thai food efficiently during lunch hours. Delicious salads with flavorful dressings offer a satisfying, well-sized meal for a midday break.

Prices stay consistently affordable here. Food offers good value without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"The tofu salad bowl here is delicious, satisfying, and perfectly balanced."

"I found the food delicious and affordable."

"I thought the lunch special here was delicious and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Order at the kiosk at the entrance for a quick service.

2

Parking is available in a paid garage or on the street nearby.

3

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

05
Kramarczuk's Sausage Co. Inc. image 1

Old-fashioned deli setup with cafeteria-style dining and a full meat market creates a lively, authentic atmosphere. Eastern European influences show in mosaic artwork and beer selection, giving a vibrant, welcoming vibe. Sidewalk seating and attached bakery add to the inviting, bustling environment.

Lunch offers Ukrainian specialties with hearty portions like a huge cabbage roll. The deli serves as a great spot for a satisfying midday meal.

Large portions come with inexpensive prices. The food offers authentic Eastern European flavors that stay affordable throughout the menu.

People are saying

"The sausage here is so juicy and tender."

"This lunch spot has outstanding, hearty, and flavorful food."

"The food here is delicious and affordable with large portions."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has its own parking lot with an attendant for free.

2

There is a free parking lot just to the north for customers.

3

Credit cards are accepted for payment.

06
Asian Duck Cafe image 1
Southeast Asian restaurant

Small dining space with limited seating and cozy, homey vibes creates an intimate atmosphere. Interior features cheerful cultural décor but has poor ventilation leading to a smoky environment. Energetic couples and a welcoming mood define the experience.

Lunch offers very good options with a focus on Asian flavors. The spot quickly becomes a favorite for midday meals.

Prices stay very affordable despite current business costs. Food comes out quickly and service is friendly.

People are saying

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

"The Lao Sausage sandwich is a flavorful, perfect lunch spot."

"The food here is delicious and loaded with vegetables."

Good to know

1

Getting food to go or ordering delivery is a great option.

2

Parking can be a challenge; consider parking on Minnehaha Avenue just north of the cafe.

3

The cafe has limited seating for 5 or 6 people, making takeout preferable.

07
123 Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Fast-casual sushi spot offers affordable, large portions with a trendy atmosphere and quick service despite long lines. The vibe is lively and family-friendly, attracting a mix of office workers and young adults. Seating includes high stools that may feel less comfortable for longer meals.

Lunch here moves fast with speed and kindness even during rush. The ramen stands out as a solid quick meal, and a single roll often suffices for lunch.

Affordable prices pair with fast service and good quality food. Options include healthy poki and sushi bowls that come quickly and cost less.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's sushi rolls are packed with high-quality fish."

"The pork belly ramen here is so flavorful and delicious."

"I found the food and prices to be amazing and affordable."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during lunch hours, especially before 12 PM.

2

The price for a bowl of ramen is around $12, offering great value.

3

Sushi is made to order, ensuring freshness with every dish.

08
Taste Of East African image 1
East African restaurant

East African restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with a quiet, peaceful vibe that feels like home. Walls display colorful paintings that add to the inviting space. The place draws people looking for authentic Somali and East African cuisine with generous portions.

Lunch features East African dishes with authentic flavors. The spot offers a casual setting suitable for a midday meal.

Prices stay insanely affordable while offering full portions. The food combines delicious cultural flavors with a friendly atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is incredibly flavorful and delicious."

"Shafi's recommendations made our Date Spots experience so welcoming."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious and very fresh."

Good to know

1

Taste of East Africa offers some of the best Somali food in the Twin Cities.

2

The prices are very reasonable for the quality of food.

3

There is free parking available at the back of the restaurant.

09
Fuzzy's Taco Shop Taqueria image 1

Small space offers cozy, basement-like bar and outdoor patio with yard games. Atmosphere feels open yet secluded, attracting a chill crowd. Patio connects to courtyard, creating a dog-friendly, casual hangout.

A tiny taco joint offers a great lunch deal and a fun atmosphere. Friendly hosts provide helpful service and it suits both quick lunches and catering for groups.

Food comes out quick, fresh, and inexpensive. Tacos and bowls stay consistently affordable without sacrificing quality.

People are saying

"I loved the great tacos with hearty portions and unbeatable prices."

"This Lunch Spot has amazing food, especially the queso and shredded chicken."

"I found the tacos to be great and affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

The restaurant is dog-friendly, allowing pets on the patio.

3

This location has limited indoor seating but plenty of outdoor options.

10
Spice & Tonic - Indian Cuisine & Bar image 1

Small, dimly lit space with exposed wood beams and stone walls creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Background music plays softly, supporting a relaxing, comfortable vibe suited for casual or romantic dinners. Secluded booths and elegant decor add to the sense of privacy and charm.

Lunch offers affordable options with hefty portions. Vegetarian choices like the Veggie platter #2 and dishes such as dal makhani, coconut chicken curry, and butter chicken come with naan.

Lunch menu features hefty portions at very affordable prices. Food quality stays good while keeping costs low.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious coconut curry with its authentic flavors."

"The staff here are so kind and attentive during lunch."

"The food here is phenomenal and really good."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available in the lot next to the restaurant.

2

Vegetarian and vegan options are plentiful and perfect.

3

Their lunch menu offers great affordable options with hefty portions.

11
Lito’s Burritos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open space with beautiful mural, lots of plants, and pretty tile creates a cozy yet lively atmosphere. The vibe stays chill and friendly, welcoming both solo diners and groups without crowding. Lines move quickly despite a packed house, reflecting steady energy and community presence.

Portions come in generous sizes, often enough for leftovers. Burritos serve as a solid choice for lunch meals.

Meals come at affordable prices with simple breakfast burritos standing out as a budget-friendly choice. The food remains delicious while keeping costs low.

People are saying

"The salsa here is delicious and pairs perfectly with the amazing burritos."

"I found the burritos here to be excellent and tasty."

"I found the meal lovely, delicious, and affordable."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-minute wait in line during peak hours.

2

They offer a BOGO free burrito coupon for first-time visitors.

3

A horchata beverage purchase supports local mutual aid efforts.

12
Papá Chuy's Bakery image 1

Converted unit with a handful of small tables creates a cozy, homey space filled with the sweet aroma of pan dulce. Atmosphere feels relaxed and welcoming, offering a chill neighborhood vibe that invites lingering.

Sandwiches stand out as a go-to lunch option with good flavor. Seating is limited, making it mainly a to-go spot for lunch sandwiches, pastries, and casual vibes.

Pastries cost less than $2 each and offer large portions. Prices stay consistently inexpensive while the baked goods remain delicious.

People are saying

"I found the chicken and pastrami sandwiches amazing."

"The pastries here are delicious and affordable."

"I loved their pastries; they were very, very good."

Good to know

1

Cash is preferred; credit cards incur a 4% service charge.

2

The bakery offers a wide variety of pastries, all under $2 each.

3

Free street parking is available right outside the bakery.

13
Tacos El Kevin image 1
Mexican restaurant

Combination grocery store and restaurant offers authentic Mexican vibe with simple, functional interior resembling a supermercado. Atmosphere feels relaxed and inviting, with sounds reminiscent of early 2000s kitchens. Tacos stand out as highly flavorful and distinctive compared to other local options.

Street tacos come with all the fixings and stay affordable. Food stays fresh without any fancy extras.

People are saying

"These tacos are phenomenal, some of the best I've had."

"This is a perfect, quick lunch spot for cheap, delicious tacos."

"I found it delicious, fresh, and affordable."

Good to know

1

The tacos cost $3.25 each.

2

Expect a wait during peak hours due to popularity.

3

The parking lot is cramped and located at a busy intersection.

14
Thai Garden Fusion image 1
Thai restaurant

Cozy space with Thai music and a warm, inviting ambiance creates a chill, quaint atmosphere. Clean environment complements the authentic Thai vibe that feels like stepping into Thailand.

Lunch specials offer good variety and suit business meals well. Service slows down during late lunch hours but overall remains a solid lunch option near the university.

Offers affordable prices with delicious Thai food that feels real and satisfying.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Thai food, especially the pad see ew."

"I found the Thai food here to be delicious and affordable."

"This Lunch Spot's food is so tasty, especially the pineapple curry."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available for large groups, making it a great social option.

2

The restaurant offers affordable prices for its dishes.

3

Expect dishes to be spicy; even mild options can be quite hot.

15
Sushi Takatsu image 1
Sushi restaurant

Tight space with about 10 bar seats and a noren over the kitchen entry creates an intimate setting. Fast-paced vibe suits quick lunches, drawing long lines that move quickly. Sushi offers fresh, well-balanced flavors at reasonable prices, making it a reliable spot for authentic Japanese cuisine.

Lunch features a sushi bowl special paired with miso soup for $13. Service stays fantastic during rush and prices remain reasonable for quick meals.

Prices stay very affordable compared to downtown sit-down spots. Food comes with no frills but keeps costs low.

People are saying

"The sushi here is super fresh and delicious."

"This lunch spot is the best quick lunch in the skyway."

"I thought the food was affordable and no frills."

Good to know

1

Expect a line during lunch hours; reservations are not accepted.

2

Lunch specials offer great value but are not listed on delivery apps.

3

Limited seating makes takeout a popular option.

16
Skyway Wok image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, chaotic space in a skyway food court offers Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine with generous portions and affordable prices. Energy peaks during lunch with long lines for the Chinese buffet side, while the Vietnamese side stays quiet. Perfect for quick, takeaway meals rather than sit-down dining.

Offers Americanized Chinese food with generous portions at fantastic prices. Serves quick lunch options ideal for downtown workers.

Meals come at affordable prices with options that include good breakfast choices. This spot offers some of the most budget-friendly meals in the area.

People are saying

"The Chinese food isn't what it used to be."

"The Vietnamese food here is amazing, especially the pho and bun."

"I found the meals here to be really affordable and generous."

Good to know

1

Skyway Wok is only open for breakfast and lunch.

2

A three-item combo now costs almost $15.

3

Expect long lines for the Chinese buffet side, but the Vietnamese side usually has no wait.

17
Joe & Nya African Restaurant image 1

Small space with bright colors and upbeat music creates a warm and welcoming vibe. Tables feature thoughtful decorations enhancing the cozy, family-oriented atmosphere. The setting feels intimate, reminiscent of a West African home.

Lunch features African dishes like egusi with fufu and potato greens with rice. Takeout options include palm butter fufu for next-day meals.

Food comes at very affordable prices. Meals fit well within a tight budget.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and truly made with love."

"The food here is so tasty and well-seasoned."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is so delicious."

Good to know

1

Be prepared to wait for high-quality food or order ahead.

2

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

3

The menu features authentic dishes with a wide variety of options.

18
Ideal Diner image 1

Classic diner setup with counter-only seating and an open kitchen creates an intimate, nostalgic atmosphere. The vibe is cozy and welcoming, with a fun, old-school feel and greasy spoon charm. Small space encourages casual conversation and watching food preparation adds to the experience.

Classic Americana lunch counter serves breakfast and lunch only. The Reuben sandwich is a typical choice with old school diner vibes and a classic lunch spot feel.

Prices stay consistently affordable across the menu, especially for breakfast. Food quality matches the low cost, making meals both delicious and budget-friendly.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best diner food I'd ever had."

"The food here is delicious and affordable."

"This Lunch Spot has super affordable and very good breakfast."

Good to know

1

Expect a 45-minute wait on Sundays.

2

The diner has only 14 seats, so be prepared to wait.

3

There is no restroom available for customers.

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