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Top picks in New Jersey

Cheap lunch spots

Made for those who demand a midday meal that respects their budget without sacrificing the necessity of a sit-down break.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
A1NJIT Food truck image 1
A1NJIT Food truck image 2
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Mediterranean restaurant

Food truck offers bright lights and lively music that create a fun atmosphere with limited sidewalk space. The vibe stays energetic and welcoming, attracting a steady crowd. Known for quick service and a wide variety of affordable halal dishes, it stands out among local options.

Offers reasonably priced lunch meals that suit quick, on-the-go dining. Frequent visits show it serves as a reliable go-to lunch spot with consistent availability.

Food comes at a very cheap price without sacrificing quality. Plenty of good food options offer excellent taste for a low cost.

People are saying

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

"This Lunch Spot has delicious food, perfectly seasoned and cooked well."

"I found the food to be great and cheap."

Good to know

1

Food never takes longer than 6-7 minutes, even during busy times.

2

The food truck offers a large variety of halal food options.

3

Prices are very reasonable and portions are large.

02
Soup Dumpling Plus image 1
Chinese restaurant

Open room with tables placed close together creates a lively energy even when busy. Decor features toys and anime characters, adding a playful touch that appeals to families. Atmosphere balances authentic Chinese no-frills style with a warm, welcoming vibe from friendly staff.

Lunch features a very inexpensive special with big portions that offers great value. Seating includes comfortable booths in a casual setting.

Meals cost very little, with a group of five paying just 113 total. Prices stay consistently cheap across the menu.

People are saying

"The soup dumplings here are amazing."

"This lunch spot is the best for hearty soup dumplings."

"I found the prices here to be super cheap and affordable."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available Monday through Friday, but not on holidays.

2

Reservations are required to secure a table, especially during busy hours.

3

Health concerns have been reported by some diners after meals.

03
Charleys Cheesesteaks image 1

Sandwich shop offers well-kept, recently renovated space with a chill atmosphere and friendly people. Food comes out quickly and hot, featuring great sandwiches and tasty fries at reasonable prices. It stands out as a reliable and popular mall food option despite being somewhat hard to find.

Stops for lunch happen here often, even without other plans nearby. The spot draws consistent visits during lunch breaks, making it a reliable lunch destination with steady appeal.

Prices stay consistently cheap and reasonable. Food offers good value without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and yummy."

"The staff here is super friendly and helpful."

"I thought the prices were cheap and delicious."

Good to know

1

The meal does not include fries or a drink.

2

The food came out quickly.

3

The restaurant was clean.

04
Shah’s Halal Food - Cliffside Park image 1

Fast food restaurant with a super chill vibe and spotlessly clean environment. Atmosphere feels inviting and pleasant, enhanced by fire music playing. Known for distinct flavorful seasoning that sets it apart from others nearby.

Lunch comes out super fast with options like a combo platter that make it easy to grab a quick, satisfying meal.

Food costs stay very low here, making it a go-to spot for cheap meals. Options often balance affordability with decent taste.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and fire."

"The combo platters at this lunch spot are really filling."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

2

Expect generous portions for the price you pay.

3

They stay open late for late-night cravings.

05
Hunan Royal image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant offers generous portions and affordable prices with a busy atmosphere during peak times. Food quality ranges from typical to very good, with standout dishes like General Tso's tofu and chicken with broccoli. Online ordering adds convenience for takeout.

Lunch offers great specials with very good prices. The menu includes a jackpot lunch special that stands out.

Prices stay consistently cheap here, making it easy to enjoy meals without spending much. The value matches the good quality of the food served.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be the best."

"I thought this was the best Chinese food for lunch."

"The portions are huge for such a cheap price."

Good to know

1

Online ordering is convenient and easy to use.

2

The lunch menu prices are very good, offering great value.

3

Portion sizes are generous, especially for the price.

06
Flaming Bites Halal Grill image 1

Spacious indoor seating combines with a clean, cozy environment filled with the aroma of spices. The atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming, with friendly energy and a quiet vibe. Large screen displays and chic decor add to the comfortable, organized setting.

Busy lunch hours never affect the taste or portion size here. Meals stay delicious and filling whether for a quick lunch or late-night bite.

Prices stay consistently cheap here. Food portions match the very cheap prices well.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and tasty."

"This lunch spot's food is always delicious and fresh."

"I found the prices to be very cheap for the amount I received."

Good to know

1

Free gyros are available during the grand opening from 12 PM to 2 PM.

2

Prices are generally affordable for halal food.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of halal options.

07
Rumba's Cafe image 1
Cuban restaurant

Small space with Latin-inspired decor creates a lively and welcoming atmosphere filled with outgoing locals. The environment often feels crowded and noisy, adding to its energetic vibe. The cafe offers an affordable dining experience with a strong Cuban cultural presence.

Lunch offers simple, home-style food that feels like a grandmother's kitchen. Quick service fits well for a fast, casual meal during midday hours.

Food prices stay consistently cheap with meals that are bulky and filling. Staff remain friendly, adding to the overall value.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"I found the food to be cheap and filling."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Most plates at Rumba's Cafe are under $10.

2

Daily specials are available, changing each day of the week.

3

Expect longer wait times on weekends for brunch.

08
홍반장 팰팍 (HONG BAN JANG) | Korean Chinese Palisades Park, NJ image 1

Korean restaurant offers cozy atmosphere with warm, welcoming vibes suitable for families, groups, or casual dates. It features authentic Korean Chinese dishes like jjajangmyeon and seafood noodles made in-house. Lunch specials provide affordable prices with generous portions.

Lunch specials offer great deals with incredible prices. The spot gets busy quickly right before the lunch rush.

Set menus offer really cheap prices with a decent amount of food. Korean Chinese dishes come at very affordable rates that fill you up quickly.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot has hearty servings of tasty, crispy fried pork."

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

Good to know

1

Lunch orders should be placed before 3:00 PM for timely service.

2

The restaurant offers affordable lunch specials on weekdays, excluding holidays.

3

Parking is available in two lots in front and one in the back, but it can be limited.

09
McGoverns Tavern image 1

Lively Irish pub with classic college bar vibe and authentic decor dating back to the 1930s. Atmosphere feels friendly and welcoming, filled with locals and college students, with great music and sports on TV. Seating options are plentiful, creating a comfortable spot for drinks and casual gatherings.

Lunch draws a steady crowd with weekday specials and a quick fill-up crowd. Arriving early helps secure a spot during busy lunch hours.

Prices stay cheap with plentiful food portions. Drinks and burgers come at a low cost, making it a solid spot for budget-friendly eats and drinks.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was good and arrived timely."

"Our server Kevin was friendly and attentive at this Lunch Spot."

"I found the drinks here to be cheap."

Good to know

1

Happy hour drinks specials run from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Parking is available around the tavern, but can be difficult to find.

3

The tavern gets crowded during peak hours, especially on weekends.

10
Fluffies Hot Chicken - Hackensack image 1

Chicken restaurant offers loud music and a chaotic atmosphere with a cramped seating area suited for groups of friends. The space feels busy and energetic, often making conversation difficult. The interior shows minimal decoration and a casual, unpolished vibe.

Kiosk ordering stays easy even during busy lunch hours. It serves as a community staple and a go-to for a quick meal.

Hot chicken comes in large servings at cheap prices. Food costs stay very affordable despite current economic conditions.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and perfectly cooked."

"This Lunch Spot's hot chicken is crispy, juicy, and perfectly spiced."

"I thought the prices were pretty cheap and the serving was large."

Good to know

1

Fluffies Hot Chicken is Halal certified.

2

Expect long wait times on Friday nights; consider ordering ahead.

3

The takeout process is quick and easy.

11
Cafe on rumba image 1
Restaurant

Modern decor and open floor plan create a spacious, clean environment with plenty of light. Atmosphere feels relaxed and welcoming, suitable for hanging out or working, though not ideal for romantic dinners. Family-friendly features include a kid-friendly van for photos and play.

Food costs stay really cheap while maintaining great quality and service.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"This Lunch Spot's food is delicious and fresh."

"I found the food to be really cheap and great."

Good to know

1

Parking on the weekend is easy and convenient.

2

Expect long wait times during lunchtime as it gets very busy.

3

The cafe offers plenty of kid-friendly options on the menu.

12
Tony's Baltimore Grill image 1

Old-school bar and grill with original jukebox booths and 70's throwback decor creates an authentic, relaxed atmosphere. Open 24/7 with on-site parking, it draws locals and families who appreciate its legendary bar and nostalgic vibe.

Quick and easy spot serves tasty lunch with a fair price. Good for grabbing lunch and a beer without hassle.

Food comes at a pretty cheap price with a decent selection of beers. Sitting at the bar offers cheap alcoholic beverages and affordable meals in AC.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be really delicious."

"The pizza at this Lunch Spot is so good, I came back the next day for more."

"The clams casino pizza is amazing and cheap."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with great food and drink specials.

2

Food is served 24/7, making it a convenient option for late-night cravings.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere in the evenings; arrive early to secure a table.

13
White Manna image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small diner with red vinyl booths and black-and-white checkered floors creates a 1960s time capsule atmosphere. Limited seating around a U-shaped counter puts guests close to nonstop grill action. The vibe is old school charm with a steady flow of locals enjoying classic sliders.

Old-fashioned lunch counter setup creates a retro vibe. Three staff manage the busy lunch rush efficiently.

Prices stay crazy cheap, with a double cheeseburger around $3.60 and a cheeseburger at $2.50. Burgers come small but pack flavorful and delicious taste at a low cost.

People are saying

"These sliders are edible nostalgia from a tiny retro diner."

"This lunch spot has simple but satisfying sliders and rolls."

"The burgers here are cheap and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect long wait times during peak hours.

2

Ordering online for pickup is recommended to avoid long waits.

3

The establishment has limited seating, so be prepared to wait for a table.

14
Wateishoku Kaneda image 1
Japanese restaurant

Dining space includes big windows with a great view outside, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of Japan. The vibe is casual and clean, similar to a food court but with a more authentic feel. The place attracts those seeking versatile Japanese cuisine with quick service and reasonable prices.

Quick turnaround during peak lunch makes it easy to grab a meal. The cheese tonkatsu set offers a light but satisfying option. Food suits a fast lunch even when the food court is crowded.

Meals come out cheap and affordable here. The tonkatsu bowl is a good example of the low prices.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and of exceptional value."

"This lunch spot's pork katsu is crispy and delicious."

"I've never had beef udon this good, it's exceptionally beefy."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait during peak hours, but meals are prepared quickly.

2

Extra rice costs $2.50, which some may find unreasonable.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of Japanese dishes, including Katsu Curry.

15
Hiram's image 1
Hot dog restaurant

Small indoor space with tight seating and outdoor picnic tables creates a casual, local vibe. Atmosphere stays consistent with nostalgic decor and old-school charm, featuring cold birch beer on tap and a crowd of local men chatting at the bar. Cash-only policy adds to the traditional feel.

Lunch fills up fast with a crowded atmosphere and limited seating, often requiring eating in your car. Meals come with beer under $10, making it a budget-friendly option.

Pricing stays cheap across the menu, including food and beers. It works well for a quick, affordable bite.

People are saying

"I thought the onion rings and hot dogs were the best I ever had."

"I'd eat another plain hot dog again after drinking beers."

"It gets really crowded at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Hiram's accepts only cash payments and has no ATM on the premises.

2

Expect long lines during lunchtime; arrive by 11:30 for quicker service.

3

Hiram's has been in business since 1932, making it a local legend.

16
Kam Fung image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant offers a chill atmosphere with comforting vibes and a focus on high-quality dishes like General Tso's chicken and wonton soup. The place serves generous portions and maintains a fast, hot delivery for takeout. It attracts diners looking for affordable lunch specials and a relaxed dining experience.

Lunch specials cost around 8 dollars and offer affordable takeout options. Some visits show the lunch special removed, leading to extra charges.

Prices stay cheap while the food remains filling and delicious.

People are saying

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

"I loved the affordable lunch specials here."

"The food here is cheap, filling, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $10.50 for each dinner dish.

2

Sodas are charged separately at $2 each, despite some meals including them.

3

The restaurant offers takeout options for those who prefer dining at home.

17
Halal Platter King image 1
Halal restaurant

Halal restaurant offers a clean and welcoming atmosphere with a casual vibe suitable for quick meals or relaxed dinners. Seating is decently spaced, providing comfort without crowding. The environment feels cozy and friendly, creating a pleasant dining experience.

Large portions make it easy to get two meals from one order. The shrimp platter stands out as a tasty lunch choice. Frequent visits show it works well as a reliable lunch spot.

Food comes at cheap prices here, making it a solid choice for a filling dish without spending much. The chicken stands out as both tasty and affordable.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"This lunch spot's platters are delicious, especially the chicken and lamb."

"The food here is amazing and fairly cheap."

Good to know

1

They are open late with fast service.

2

Expect higher prices for rice platter combos, around $10 or more.

3

Pita is not included in the platter; order separately.

18
Mitsuwa Marketplace - New Jersey image 1
Japanese grocery store

Japanese grocery store combines authentic cultural atmosphere with a vibrant food court offering unique dishes and snacks. Visitors find wide sake selection and specialty products unavailable elsewhere. Location near water provides a scenic city skyline view and a walking path along the river.

Several restaurants and a grocery store offer a variety of food options for lunch. Bento boxes, ramen, and soba stand out as high quality Japanese dishes convenient for quick meals during work breaks.

Many food options come at very cheap prices. The dollar store offers a large selection of good quality items at low cost.

People are saying

"This Japanese grocery store has a huge assortment of authentic food and goods."

"I found so many Japanese snacks and lunch items here."

"I found so many good food options and cheap items here."

Good to know

1

Parking is often full, especially on weekends, so plan ahead.

2

Hot foods are discounted after 7pm, but options are limited.

3

They host Japanese food festivals throughout the year, with summer being popular.

19
어구이, 생선구이 전문점, OH-GUI image 1

Fish grills on the spot for fresh takeout with crispy skin and tender meat. The place offers affordable prices and large portions, focusing on quality and sustainability. It operates as a takeout-only spot popular for high-quality grilled fish and seafood stew.

Lunch sets come with rice, side dishes, and soup, making a hearty meal. Prices stay reasonable, and delivery is available for sets of 4-5.

Prices stay super cheap, with ribs at just $18. The low cost leads to multiple repeat orders despite concerns about service and taste quality.

People are saying

"The grilled fish here is so fresh and delicious."

"The seafood stew felt a bit lacking in ingredients."

"I got lunch here and the grilled fish was really good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is takeout-only, making it convenient for quick meals.

2

Lunch sets include 4-5 rice, side dishes, and soup, available for delivery.

3

Prices are not listed, and customers are informed of costs upon ordering.

20
White Rose Hamburgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small diner with 1950s vintage decor and bright red stools creates a retro Americana vibe. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with friendly staff and a lively, nostalgic ambiance. Open 24/7, it offers a classic burger joint experience with a compact layout that highlights grill sounds and smells.

Always open, it suits both early lunch and late night munchies. Burgers serve as a solid quick bite for lunch or after a night out.

Old-fashioned 1960s style burger joint offers cheap burgers that taste just like they smell. Prices feel confusingly cheap for 2024, making it a solid spot for a simple, late night bite.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and great for the price."

"I thought the burgers were cheap and delicious."

"I thought the burgers were the best."

Good to know

1

White Rose Hamburgers is open 24/7, making it a convenient option for late-night cravings.

2

Prices are generally affordable, with good value for burgers.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but it's good to bring cash for smaller purchases.

21
Ahri's Kitchen image 1
Korean restaurant

Cozy and casual Korean restaurant with charming interior and great outdoor seating offers a comforting atmosphere with dim lights and relaxing music. The vibe blends local charm with an East Village feel, creating an intimate and low-key setting. Portions are generous, and the place stands out as a hidden gem in the neighborhood.

Offers quick, cheap lunch specials with options like chicken bibimbap and veggie waffles. Meals come in satisfying portions and provide good value for a midday meal.

Prices stay very cheap while maintaining good quality of service. Meals come out quick and delicious without costing much.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is amazing and delicious."

"I had a delicious and cheap lunch here."

"The chicken bibimbap and veggie waffle at this Lunch Spot were fantastic."

Good to know

1

Ahri's Kitchen allows BYOB, and a liquor store is right across the street.

2

The portions at Ahri's Kitchen are generous and provide good value for money.

3

Prices at Ahri's Kitchen are affordable compared to other dining options.

22
Pub 199 image 1

Large space with animal head decor and a welcoming bar area featuring dozens of televisions sets a distinctive tone. Comfortable atmosphere suits families, with a spacious outdoor patio bar-restaurant adding to the appeal. Live music plays near the foyer, creating a lively but sometimes loud environment.

Quick lunches feature little necks and lobster tails. Options suit both a fast bite and a relaxed social meal.

Fish sandwich stands out as very cheap and huge. Some cuts like the porterhouse steak come at a low price. Overall, prices vary but some items are notably cheap.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh and delicious, especially the clams."

"The outdoor seating area is gorgeous and amazing."

"The lunch spot food was delicious and prepared to perfection."

Good to know

1

Pub 199 only accepts cash payments, so bring enough cash for your visit.

2

There are no lobsters available during the week at Pub 199.

3

Expect to spend at least $50 to $60 per person for a meal.

23
Flaming Grill & Buffet image 1
Buffet restaurant

Buffet restaurant offers a spacious layout with Vegas-style setup and a Hibachi Bar featuring fresh cook-to-order dishes. Atmosphere ranges from loud and crowded to family-friendly and nostalgic, with seating for large groups and a view that adds to the experience.

Lunch offers economical prices, with meals around $12.99 plus tax and tip. Seating accommodates hour-long family meals, making it a solid spot for midday dining.

Offers very cheap meals with generous portions, especially noticeable during Saturday lunchtime. The Flaming Grill & Buffet provides a lot of food at low prices.

People are saying

"I found the buffet to be excellent and always full."

"I found the food to be cheap and generous."

"This lunch spot is so cheap, especially on weekdays."

Good to know

1

The buffet offers a wide selection of food options, including sushi and hibachi.

2

Prices are reasonable, with all-you-can-eat for $19.

3

Expect long lines for the hibachi grill during peak hours.

24
IKEA image 1
Furniture store

Spacious showroom features creative room displays and an inviting, colorful environment. A café and food court offer places to relax, while a kids' play area adds family-friendly energy. The layout encourages exploration without feeling overwhelming.

Lunch features a Swedish meatballs dish that stands out. The Bistro offers a nice meal option after shopping, making it a solid spot for a midday break.

Prices stay consistently cheap across food and merchandise. The food court offers no frills meals that keep costs low while merchandise remains well-styled and affordable.

People are saying

"This furniture store has stylish, practical, and affordable options for every room."

"I found the furniture and food to be cheap and well-styled."

"The Swedish meatballs are the main attraction at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Kids eat free on Wednesdays.

2

Tuesday is a meal treat day for members.

3

There is a lot of free parking available.

25
NY Gyro King Newark image 1
Gyro restaurant

Spacious setup with simple furnishings creates a comfortable dining area despite poor ventilation. Generous portions of flavorful halal dishes, especially gyros and platters, offer affordable, hearty meals. The place stands out for cheap prices, large portions, and authentic halal food.

Lunch here offers substantial portions that can satisfy a full meal. It serves as a spot where people come to eat with friends during their break.

Prices stay cheap, making meals affordable. The diced meat looks uncouth and cheap.

People are saying

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

"I found the halal food here to be absolutely spectacular."

"This lunch spot has generous portions and reasonable prices."

Good to know

1

The halal food is priced great, making it affordable.

2

The portion sizes are generous, providing good value for money.

3

Ubereats delivery is available within range for convenience.

26
Flaming Grill & Supreme Buffet image 1

Buffet restaurant offers a busy, crowded atmosphere with tight seating and dim lighting. A hibachi station stands out as a key feature, drawing attention amid a wide variety of food choices. The environment feels typical for a Chinese buffet but includes some distinctive coldness inside.

The lunch buffet offers a wide variety of dishes at a very reasonable price around $12.99. Food quality stays excellent, making it a solid choice during less busy lunch hours.

Offers cheap prices for takeout and buffet options. Food is tasty but quality reflects the low cost.

People are saying

"I found the buffet food to be good and the prices affordable."

"The lunch buffet is a great value for the money."

"I found it to be a place for inexpensive Chinese food."

Good to know

1

Health and safety violations are reported, raising serious concerns about cleanliness.

2

Expect a variety of dishes, but quality may be low.

3

Lunch pricing is $18 per person, which some find expensive for the value.

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