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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Minneapolis

Unique lunch spots

A midday meal that offers something genuinely different from the standard rotation of local lunch spots.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Hikari Hand Roll Bar image 1
Hikari Hand Roll Bar image 2
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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.

Flavors blend Tokyo's essence into a unique dining experience. Every dish uses freshest ingredients to deliver distinctive tastes.

People are saying

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

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

"The handrolls here are an art form, meticulously crafted with fresh ingredients."

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.

02
Meet up noodle 碰个面 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Open kitchen with hand-pulled noodles visible through a window creates an engaging focal point. Atmosphere balances cozy and clean with a modern interior accented by Chinese bamboo and traditional hats. Space feels calm yet lively, suitable for quick meals or relaxed dining, often busy during peak times.

Comfortable atmosphere suits both quick meals and relaxed lunches. Lunch specials offer generous portions with enough for leftovers. Warm setting fits well for a midday break on a cold day.

Lamb Stew offers a very unique and different taste. Sour pickled soup brings a delicious and unique flavor to the menu.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Chinese food here full of spices and flavor."

"The sour pickled soup has a delicious and unique flavor."

"The beef noodle Lunch Spot has excellent broth and handmade noodles."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited to street only, which can be difficult to find.

2

Expect to arrive early for dinner on weekends due to high demand.

3

Prices are around $20 after tax and tip per person.

03
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.

Offers a unique selection of Polish and Ukrainian deli items with authentic flavors. The cafeteria style and Central and Eastern European beers add to the distinct food and drink experience.

People are saying

"The sausage here is so juicy and tender."

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

"I loved the unique comfort food taste here."

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.

04
Bryn Mawr Pizza & Deli image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small spot with New York-style design and family-run care creates a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Fresh, handcrafted pizzas feature thin crusts and high-quality ingredients. Community feel blends with consistently outstanding food and large portions.

Pizza by the slice offers a quick lunch option. Portions are big enough to eat half and save the rest for later.

Pizza features unique flavor profiles like the rosemary bianca and Plapo, each offering a distinct taste that stands out.

People are saying

"The pizza here has a fantastic crust and classic combinations."

"I loved the unique pizza options, especially the rosemary bianca."

"This Lunch Spot has the best pizza I've ever had."

Good to know

1

A 20% discount is available for first-time online orders.

2

Delivery is not available north of 55 Olson HWY.

3

Expect large portion sizes for both pizza and sandwiches.

05
Stock & Bond MN image 1
Restaurant

Art deco design creates a warm and inviting atmosphere with elegant, modern decor reminiscent of the Great Gatsby era. The space feels carefully curated and visually stunning, offering a cozy yet sophisticated vibe. Valet parking and coat check add to the hassle-free, comfortable experience.

Works well for business lunch meetings with space for 20+ people. Offers a relaxed vibe at the bar and quieter times during weekdays. Lunch options stand out more than dinner here.

Atmosphere stands out with a beautiful ambiance that feels extraordinary. The caviar tots offer a unique twist on appetizers, making the experience distinct from start to finish.

People are saying

"The Wagyu Bavette steak was flavorful and cooked perfectly."

"The ambiance here is truly unique and feels like stepping into something special."

"Our server Daniel was amazing and attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties, especially for special events.

2

Valet service is not recommended due to past negative experiences.

3

The restaurant offers a private room for events like wedding receptions.

06
Baba's Hummus House & Mana'eesh Bakery image 1

Middle Eastern restaurant with bright, airy decor and varied seating options including couches and counters. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming but can be busy and noisy, making it lively rather than quiet. Incorporates Palestinian heritage through art and design, creating a unique cultural vibe.

Offers packed orders for easy takeout, making it convenient to enjoy lunch on the go. Serves casual meals suitable for lunch or a relaxed afternoon working remotely.

Beef carries a unique flavor blending Cincinnati-style chili with Middle Eastern spices. Hummus stands out with a fluffy and smooth texture. The place offers a creative menu and a cute, distinctive atmosphere.

People are saying

"I've never tasted hummus this smooth and well-seasoned before."

"This is a delicious lunch spot with amazing hummus."

"The hummus here is so rich, creamy, and uniquely delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant tracks seating availability and informs customers if no seating is available.

2

They offer great options for vegans and vegetarians.

3

The restaurant provides healthy options for diners.

07
PURALIMA Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with vibrant atmosphere featuring creative art and a flower bar. Music plays a key role, creating a lively and welcoming vibe. Fresh margaritas stand out as a popular highlight alongside flavorful dishes.

Large portions make lunch stretch into dinner. Service is fast and friendly, ideal for a quick, affordable meal. Options lean toward healthy and satisfying, with a consistent crowd during lunch hours.

Menu features many unique options that stand out from typical offerings. Variety includes distinctive dishes not commonly found elsewhere.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and authentic."

"This lunch spot has amazing, fresh food made from scratch."

"The menu here has so many unique options."

Good to know

1

Expect smaller protein portions compared to other restaurants.

2

Extra toppings incur additional charges after three.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

08
The Cabana Club image 1
Restaurant

Patio overlooks a spectacular city skyline next to the river, creating a cozy and gorgeous atmosphere. Space fills with a welcoming and comfortable vibe, often enjoyed during sunsets. Creative cocktails and a variety of food choices complement the beautiful setting.

Offers a versatile menu suitable for both late lunches and family gatherings. Serves lunch alongside brunch and dinner, making it a consistent choice throughout the day.

Sauce on the brussel sprouts and the crunch of roasted garbanzo beans create a unique flavor combo. Ambient lighting and well-pitched background music add a distinctive atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The food and drinks here are so unique and inventive."

"The food here is mouth-watering and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 PM to 6 PM with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The Butter Board is available for $10 during happy hour.

3

The patio is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

09
American Swedish Institute image 1

Mansion combines historic architecture with contemporary art for a seamless visual experience. Atmosphere feels friendly and spacious, with holiday decor enhancing the setting. Unique features include an authentic Swedish cafe and an amazing kids' play area.

Lunch offers full-flavor Nordic cuisine with a focus on quality and taste. The spot serves exceptionally good food that suits both casual and more refined midday meals.

The space blends historical and contemporary architecture in a way that stands out. A unique kids play area and a gift store with distinctive items add to the experience.

People are saying

"This museum's ornate architecture and woodwork are stunning."

"The historical sites here are beautiful and well-maintained."

"It's a unique experience with a contrast of historical and contemporary space."

Good to know

1

Admission to the American Swedish Institute is free on Thursdays from 3-8 pm.

2

Tickets for events at the American Swedish Institute can sell out quickly.

3

Kids under 6 can enter for free at the American Swedish Institute.

10
Star Bar & Bistro image 1

Space combines mid-century modern design with twinkling starburst ceiling and neon-lit walls creating a retro, artsy vibe. Live music fills the room, sometimes loud, adding energy to the atmosphere. Comfortable seating and cocktail tables encourage relaxed conversation and socializing.

Lunch offers a different vibe than the cozy bar area, creating a unique atmosphere. Food and service stand out, making lunch feel like an experience rather than just a meal.

Unique menu items include Eggs Benedict served in a flaky pastry instead of an English muffin. The space offers a super unique, architecturally engaging vibe with retro, eclectic, and artsy decor.

People are saying

"The smashburger at this Lunch Spot is a must-try."

"The mellow groove and soft lights create a cool, mellow vibe."

"The food here is so unique, flavorful, and always fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for happy hour to secure a table.

2

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

3

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

11
Tender Lovin Chix image 1

Restaurant combines huge space with wall-to-wall TVs showing women's sports and football games. Bright, energetic atmosphere features a lively bar area and a killer DJ during events. Crowd enjoys Asian fusion fried chicken alongside a variety of cocktails in an inviting, upbeat setting.

Lunch offers crispy chicken with standout quality and crunch. It suits group meals and pairs well with happy hour.

Common comfort food gets a twist with creative and unique flavors. The breading on the chicken tenders stands out as very good and different from typical versions.

People are saying

"I found the food to be fresh and delicious."

"This lunch spot has the best chicken I've ever had."

"The chicken tenders have a unique, amazing crunch."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great food and drink deals.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere during football games and other major events.

3

DJ nights add to the fun, especially on weekends.

12
Cardamom image 1
Restaurant

Bright space blends Scandinavian and South Asian styles with a stunning live tree inside and views of a sculpture garden and skyline. Outdoor seating offers comfortable breeze and shade with lively conversation filling the room. Cocktails feature bold flavors, and vegetarian options stand out.

Quick and excellent lunch service stands out even on busy days. The menu offers great options, and the modern yet cozy atmosphere includes views of the Sculpture Garden.

Unique flavors define the menu with dishes and craft cocktails that stand out. The ambience and location add to the distinct experience, creating an environment unlike others.

People are saying

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

"This Mediterranean food's lamb burger is juicy and flavorful."

"The dishes here have such distinctive flavors."

Good to know

1

Brunch is offered seven days a week, making it a great option for any day.

2

Happy Hour features discounted lamb sliders, perfect for a light snack.

3

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially on weekends.

13
Midtown Global Market image 1

Indoor market resembles a European market square with authentic design and vibrant colors. Atmosphere blends chill vibes with lively energy, often featuring live music and performances. Variety of world cuisine and shops create a diverse, village-like experience.

Many options make it easy to find something for everyone in a group. Lunch choices include spots like Soul to Soul and Andy's Garage with consistently scrumptious food.

Many unique shops offer jewelry, clothing, and food from around the world. The area features a wide range of distinctive products not found elsewhere.

People are saying

"This market has an amazing variety of delicious foods and ethnic shops."

"I loved the superb live music they had here."

"It's a great lunch spot with something for everyone."

Good to know

1

Expect a variety of cultural food options available at the market.

2

Parking may be limited, especially for non-city dwellers.

3

The market hosts frequent events, including music and food demos.

14
Jade Dynasty Restaurant & Bar image 1

Spacious Chinese restaurant with live seafood tanks and dim sum carts creates an immersive dining environment. Atmosphere feels stunning and comfortable, blending beautiful decor with welcoming energy. Offers private event spaces upstairs, enhancing versatility beyond typical dining.

Lunch features huge portions and a menu with all the favorites at a very reasonable price. Food comes with perfect preparation and sauces, making it a solid choice for takeout or a sit-down meal.

Freshness of ingredients stands out with unique flavors in the dishes. The menu offers distinctive options that make the experience feel refreshing and different.

People are saying

"The dim sum here is amazing and there's a wide variety."

"The authentic Asian dishes here are truly unique and delicious."

"This lunch spot has fantastic, delicious food with huge portions."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $1 to $2 per hour.

2

The restaurant has a parking lot, which is rare for the area.

3

Happy hour is available, but details are not yet finalized.

15
TAP IN Kitchen & Cocktails image 1

Interior showcases stunning decor with art and literature treasures that capture attention. Atmosphere blends cozy relaxation with an elevated vibe, enhanced by live DJ music. Craft cocktails stand out as gorgeous and flavorful highlights.

Quiet atmosphere suits a late date lunch or a break between nearby baseball games. Servers provide personalized service, making occasions like birthdays special.

Cocktails stand out with unique flavors like the sesame drink and a Japanese whiskey mix. Mojitos and other drinks offer distinctive tastes worth trying again.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the loaded fries."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was excellent and super friendly."

"The drinks here are unique and flavorful, especially the sesame one."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends as the place fills up quickly.

2

Parking is limited; expect a small lot and street parking challenges.

3

Some menu items, like chicken and catfish, may run out during busy times.

16
The Sample Room image 1
American restaurant

Old school neighborhood bar vibe blends with cozy intimate setting and excellent vintage decor. Background features 80s alternative music and classic TV shows, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers comfortable heated seating despite small, cramped tables inside.

Very quiet atmosphere during weekday lunches makes it suitable for meetings or casual dining. Offers a solid option for quick lunches and works well for both brunch and happy hour occasions.

Unique flavors and a unique menu define the food here. The spot has a charming, cozy vibe with a unique flair that stands out.

People are saying

"I enjoyed their well-balanced and elevated cocktails."

"I found the food options to be always unique and wonderful."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was delicious and fantastic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating availability.

2

Parking is available in a small lot behind the building and on the street.

3

Happy hour offers discounted food and drinks, typically from 4-6pm.

17
The Camden Social image 1

Classic and elegant venue with an upscale dining atmosphere and live jazz music that creates a warm, inviting vibe. Spacious lounge offers a front-row seat to performances, enhancing the festive and cozy environment. Southern-inspired menu complements the authentic and social setting.

Lunch features well-presented dishes like croquettes, catfish, and fried chicken BLT. Bread pudding also appears as a notable option. Food quality during lunch shows improvement over brunch offerings.

Wings stand out with their super unique flavor. Food and cocktails offer a delicious and unique twist on classic dishes.

People are saying

"The brunch here is delicious and well-seasoned."

"The food and cocktails here are delicious and unique."

"The lunch spot's food was amazing, especially the juicy, seasoned wings."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Wednesday from 3-10pm and Thursday to Friday from 3-6pm.

2

The Sunday jazz brunch features a buffet style meal.

3

Live jazz performances are free on Fridays and Sundays.

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.

A very unique dining experience awaits in this small diner with a classic, old school vibe. Pancakes stand out as large and delicious.

People are saying

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

"The pancakes here are unique, large, and delicious."

"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.

19
Salt & Flour Kitchen image 1
Italian restaurant

Open kitchen and open concept design create a lively setting with DJ music enhancing the mood during brunch and dinner. Seating is tightly packed, making the space feel busy and energetic. Decor mixes expensive elements with casual touches, resulting in a unique but sometimes confusing atmosphere.

Memorable lunches come from the teamwork of Matthew and Chef Gary. They create a noteworthy experience that stands out during midday meals.

Upbeat DJ music plays during brunch, creating a unique atmosphere. Notes on the tables add a special touch that invites interaction.

People are saying

"The game liver mousse at these dinner spots was out of this world."

"The service here is so unique; they make great recommendations."

"Matthew's attentive service made our Lunch Spot visit memorable."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from Sunday to Thursday, which is rare on Sundays.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.

3

Parking is available in a nearby ramp for $10.

20
noa Minneapolis image 1
New American restaurant

Modern space with spa-like ambiance and trendy decor featuring floral touches creates a calm yet upscale vibe. Bar area stands out with a frost rail keeping drinks cold and unique cocktail presentations. Crowd varies from business diners to casual groups, with a setting suited for both conversation and events.

Lunch here suits group meals and quick stops alike. The spot offers a casual atmosphere and efficient service for midday breaks.

The NOA burger stands out with its unique flavor and the fries offer a distinct twist. Food here delivers a delicious and unique experience.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be delicious and juicy."

"The fried chicken sandwich lunch spot has a steady, delicious heat."

"The food here is delicious and unique."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 pm on weeknights with great food and drink deals.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for private events and busy times.

3

Paid street parking and parking garages are available nearby, but can be challenging.

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Minneapolis, Minnesota

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