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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Central Minneapolis

Authentic lunch spots

Made for those who seek out unpretentious midday meals that reflect the true character of the city.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Trieste Cafe image 1
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Greek restaurant

Cozy Greek deli with Mediterranean vibes and fresh, made-to-order meals creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Limited seating and a steady lunch rush reflect its popularity among locals. Walls adorned with artwork and music add character to the quiet, friendly setting.

Food offers authentic Greek flavors with a strong sense of tradition. Dishes come packed with wonderful flavor that stays true to classic recipes.

Quick service and amazing taste make lunch here stand out. It offers a quiet spot perfect for a break and delivers healthy, delicious meals consistently.

People are saying

"I loved watching them chop the veggies fresh for my salad."

"I could eat the gyros lunchbox daily; it's the best lunch spot."

"The food here is authentic and full of wonderful flavor."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait during the noon hour due to high demand.

2

They are open only for lunch from 12 to 2 pm on weekdays.

3

The line moves quickly, even during peak hours.

02
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.

Food bursts with authentic flavors and is perfectly spiced. Presentation is beautiful, capturing true Indian cuisine.

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.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so flavorful and perfectly spiced."

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

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.

03
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.

Flavors pack a punch with authentic spices that bring back childhood memories. The nasi lemak features rice and rendang with a rich aroma, paired with a super tasty sambal that nails the Malaysian taste.

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

People are saying

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

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

"I loved the authentic Southeast Asian food, especially the kaya."

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.

04
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.

Cuisine features authentic Liberian dishes with a wide variety of options. Fu Fu stands out as a tasty example of the menu's authenticity.

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

People are saying

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

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

"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.

05
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant image 1

Underground setting with eclectic decor featuring old photos and celebrity memorabilia creates a cozy, intimate vibe. Guests gather around large round tables with lazy Susans, enjoying classic Italian tunes and a lively atmosphere. The place blends homey charm with a memorable, authentic feel.

Cozy and eclectic atmosphere feels like an authentic Mamma and Papร  ristorante. Food delivers hearty, authentic-tasting Italian flavors in a homey setting.

Lunch offers quick service that fits well with tight schedules. Staff handle large groups smoothly and allow ordering from a lunch menu with single servings.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"The Lunch Spot portions are huge and meant for sharing."

"The vibe here feels so authentic and inviting."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 11 PM.

2

Everything at Buca di Beppo is served family style.

3

Guests should come hungry because the portions are large.

06
Sonora Mexican kitchen and bar image 1

Large industrial space with open kitchen and modern decor creates a bright, authentic vibe. Patio offers a dog-friendly outdoor seating area with a great atmosphere. Loud music and echo in the dining room make conversation challenging.

Authentic Mexican flavors shine through every dish. Handmade flour tortillas and a burrito stand out for their genuine taste and preparation by authentic people.

Quick, attentive service stands out during the lunch rush. Staff remain friendly and efficient even when busy.

People are saying

"The brisket burrito and chicken nachos were amazing Mexican food."

"This Lunch Spot's tacos were fantastic and flavorful."

"The authentic Mexican flavors are a delight."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm on weekdays with $6 margaritas and half off appetizers.

2

Taco Tuesday offers all tacos for $3, featuring savory meats.

3

Reservations are recommended to avoid a wait during peak hours.

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.

Food offers a fresh and flavorful take on Mexican fast food with burritos, bowls, and tacos. Authenticity feels present in taste but ownership is not Mexican, which affects the overall vibe.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"The service here is quick, welcoming, and always comes with a smile."

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
Dancing Ganesha image 1
Indian restaurant

Spices fill the air in a spacious, comfortable setting with India-inspired decor and cozy atmosphere. Music adds to the welcoming vibe, making it suitable for dates or groups. The place offers great vegan options and nominal pricing compared to others.

Butter chicken and naan taste fresh with flavorful curry and perfectly spiced dishes. The cuisine delivers authentic Indian flavors that remind of home cooking.

Lunch offers fast service and full flavor with classics like tandoor specialties. The spot is usually not busy during weekday lunches.

People are saying

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

"The vegetarian options here are great with lots of variety."

"The Indian food here is delicious and tasted just like home."

Good to know

1

Dancing Ganesha offers great vegan and vegetarian options.

2

The restaurant is clean and accessible for people with special needs.

3

The menu features a variety of classic Asian Indian dishes.

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Central Minneapolis, Minneapolis

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