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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Elizabeth

Authentic lunch spots

A midday meal that honors traditional recipes makes a quick break feel like a genuine experience.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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Updated April 2026
01
KAI Restaurant & Bar image 1
KAI Restaurant & Bar image 2
KAI Restaurant & Bar image 3
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Elegant setting balances sophistication and comfort with traditional decor and live music featuring saxophone and Flamenco dancers. Atmosphere feels welcoming and cozy, though seating can be tight. High-end Peruvian cuisine pairs with notable cocktails like the Pica KAI margarita and pisco sour.

Dishes showcase authentic Peruvian flavors with each bite bursting with traditional taste. Presentation is impeccable, highlighting the essence of Peru's cuisine clearly.

Offers a classy lunch setting suitable for romantic dates and special occasions like Mother's Day. Provides a different kind of lunch experience compared to typical spots.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, full of flavor and made with care."

"I enjoyed the delicious and perfectly balanced cocktails."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Live flamingo dancing occurs on select Friday nights, adding a unique experience.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like the New Year's Eve celebration.

02
Colombian Coffee Shop image 1

Small, cozy space fills with Colombian music and aromas, creating a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Crowds gather around bar-style seating, making the place lively despite its size. Known for authentic Colombian tamales and lechona, it offers a genuine taste of Colombia.

Tamales, lechona, and empanadas feature authentic Colombian flavor that feels homemade and full of taste. The menu includes authentic Colombian coffee and dishes that transport you back to Colombia.

Offers a variety of empanadas, baked goods, and breakfasts suitable for lunch. Menu leans more toward breakfast and light lunch options rather than full typical lunches.

People are saying

"I thought the tamales here were the best I'd ever tasted."

"The authentic Colombian flavors here taste just like home."

"This lunch spot is full of authentic Colombian flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and can be challenging due to street congestion.

2

Credit card payments incur an additional $9 fee, so cash is recommended.

3

The shop is small, making takeout a better option for larger groups.

03
Jerkies image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Small space with modern Caribbean decor blends Jamaican, Haitian, and other island influences. Warm, cozy atmosphere features worship and gospel music that enhances the welcoming vibe. Guests enjoy authentic Jamaican flavors with well-balanced spices and tender dishes.

Food delivers authentic Caribbean flavors with strong Jamaican and Haitian influences. Dishes like jerk chicken pasta carry a well-seasoned, genuine taste true to the region.

Lunch specials include jerk chicken with extra oxtail gravy at prices that offer great value. Service during lunch is consistently great and the meals feel worth more than the cost.

People are saying

"The food here is absolutely amazing and delicious."

"I found the food to be authentic Jamaican cuisine, well-seasoned and reminding me of home."

"The lunch special here is an unbeatable deal."

Good to know

1

The lunch special at Jerkies is a popular choice among customers.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak lunch hours.

3

Online delivery service is available, but it may take over an hour.

04
La Roca Restaurant image 1
Ecuadorian restaurant

Elegant interior with rock decoration and unique wall messages creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Live music adds a relaxing, friendly vibe that feels like home. The place is modern and clean, enhancing the overall comfortable experience.

Food offers authentic Ecuadorian flavor with fresh and flavorful ingredients. Dishes consistently deliver a delicious and genuine taste true to Ecuadorian cuisine.

Lunch offers a delicious and tasty experience with a chicken broth that feels like a roadside shack meal near the beach.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so flavorful and tastes homemade."

"The food at this lunch spot was delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours.

3

Credit cards and cash are accepted for payment.

05
Brisas Elmora - Bakery & Restaurant image 1

Colorful exterior and authentic Colombian decor create a welcoming, cozy atmosphere that feels like stepping into Colombia. Live music every weekend adds lively entertainment, with musicians often serenading celebrations. Large enclosed patio invites sharing moments with family and friends.

Colombian dishes come with authentic ingredients and rich flavors. The setting includes Colombian paintings and music, creating a genuine atmosphere.

Lunch offers delicious fish and beans with amazing specials and prices. It serves as a reliable regular go-to spot for midday meals.

People are saying

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

"The food here is authentic Colombian and packed with flavor."

"The lunch here is delicious and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the back of the restaurant.

2

Karaoke nights happen every Thursday evening.

3

Brisas Elmora is popular for birthday celebrations.

06
Las Ollitas Colombianas image 1
Colombian restaurant

Colombian restaurant with elegant, authentic decor creates a cozy, lively atmosphere enhanced by traditional music that evokes a sense of being in Colombia. The space feels family-friendly and welcoming, with a charming ambiance that invites relaxation and enjoyment.

Elegant decorations set the tone for authentic Colombian flavors. Rich, homemade caldo and well-prepared dishes deliver a genuine taste experience.

Lunch offers rich flavors and satisfying portions. Meals often come with family-style options for sharing.

People are saying

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

"I found the food to be very authentic, like a homemade meal."

"The lunch here is really rich."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, making it convenient for visitors.

2

They charge an extra $5 for card payments.

3

A 19% tip is automatically added to the bill.

07
El Nacho’s Cantina Mexican Restaurant and Bar image 1

Vibrant Mexican restaurant with colorful decor and a spacious outdoor patio. Atmosphere blends lively music from a skilled DJ with a family-friendly kids club offering games and activities. Cocktails and flavorful tacos complement the energetic yet welcoming vibe.

Food features authentic flavors and impeccable presentation. The atmosphere feels vibrant and welcoming with genuine Mexican cuisine.

Lunch features a fantastic special with options that satisfy without complaints. Happy hours and boozy lunches add variety to the midday experience.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and flavorful."

"I found the food delicious with authentic flavors and impeccable presentation."

"The lunch special here is fantastic and the food is so tasty."

Good to know

1

Mommy & Me brunch is interactive and enjoyable for families.

2

$3 Taco Tuesdays offer great value for budget-friendly dining.

3

Happy hour specials provide discounts on drinks and appetizers.

08
Ñaños Restaurant & Grill Elizabeth image 1

Spacious restaurant with authentic Ecuadorian food and a large bar serving signature cocktails. Atmosphere features loud live music that creates a lively, festive vibe. Screens show Ecuadorian national team matches, and a VIP area offers a more luxurious setting.

Real authentic Ecuadorian food shines through in every dish. The Bolón and barbecue carry rich, genuine flavors, while the broth offers a perfectly balanced taste with fresh, tender fish and generous portions.

Lunch offers delicious à la carte dishes with reasonable prices but small portions. Separate menus for breakfast and lunch or dinner exist.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"I loved the authentic Ecuadorian flavor; it tasted like tradition."

"I found the lunches here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is only available until 1:00pm, including on weekends.

2

Reservations aren't allowed at Ñaños Restaurant & Grill Elizabeth.

3

Despite advertising as BYOB, I was informed upon arrival that it wasn't allowed.

09
Rancho Mateo Colombian Steakhouse image 1

Spacious, well-decorated Colombian restaurant offers live music and huge TVs for game watching. Atmosphere feels welcoming and family-oriented, with energy that recalls authentic Colombian gatherings. Valet parking adds convenience to the experience.

Authentic Colombian food shines here with hearty, well-cooked dishes that stay true to traditional flavors. Presentation is simple but the taste is consistently delicious and genuine.

Grilled salmon, shrimp, rice with beans, and sweet plantains make up a typical lunch offering. The spot suits both lunch and dinner occasions with a solid menu.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and expertly prepared."

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

"The food at this lunch spot was delicious and a delight."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has moved to a new location at 248 Morris Ave in Elizabeth.

2

Happy Hour is available from 12 to 5pm daily.

3

Valet parking is offered, making it easier to find a spot.

10
Parador Rojo Restaurant image 1
Colombian restaurant

Spacious Colombian restaurant with live music and a vibrant decor creates a family-friendly atmosphere. Outdoor seating and a second floor add to the open, organized layout. Specialty cocktails and hearty dishes like tripe and steaks define the dining experience.

Authentic Colombian dishes come with heated eggs and a warm atmosphere that feels genuine. High standards for authenticity are met consistently.

Lunch offers delicious dishes that make the meal enjoyable. The spot suits pairs looking for a pleasant midday break.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious."

"The live music here is great and adds to the experience."

"I found the lunch here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of over an hour for regular food during peak hours.

2

Mandatory gratuity of 18% is added to all bills without prior notice.

3

Live music starts at 8pm on Fridays, creating a lively atmosphere.

11
Noches de Colombia image 1
Colombian restaurant

Colombian restaurant offers an inviting outdoor seating area and an upper level for live music performances. Atmosphere feels vibrant and celebratory with excellent live music enhancing the experience. The setting combines a cozy vibe with a formal auditorium feel for informal meals.

Vivid ambiance and flavorful frijoles create an authentic Colombian food experience. Cooked meats add to the authentic flavors served here.

Casual spot serving delicious food for lunch and dinner. Offers takeout lunches and works well for a relaxed Sunday meal.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent and the staff is friendly."

"The food here is delicious, especially the pork and sausage."

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Wednesday night, starting at 8pm.

2

Live music is featured on Friday nights until 10pm.

3

Expect an 18% gratuity added to your bill for large parties.

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