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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Journal Square's best

Authentic lunch spots

A midday break calls for a meal that feels honest and grounded in tradition.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Taste of Mazar Afghan food truck image 1
Taste of Mazar Afghan food truck image 2
Taste of Mazar Afghan food truck image 3
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Food truck offers authentic northern Afghan cuisine with juicy, well-seasoned meats grilled fresh on site. Atmosphere is comfortable with a pleasant setting, though waits can be long due to popularity. Prices are higher than typical food trucks but reflect the quality and portion size.

Northern Afghan dishes deliver authentic flavors with traditional spices and cooking methods. The food consistently reflects genuine Afghan cuisine known for its rich taste and quality.

Lunches here fit well into the workday with a yummy menu. Frequent visits show it works as a solid midday break spot.

People are saying

"The food trucks here serve flavorful, juicy, and well-seasoned meat."

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

"The chicken skewers with yogurt sauce make a delicious Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

They accept cash or credit.

2

You can text David directly for ordering or questions about opening hours.

3

They allow you to order ahead on text or online.

02
Yubi's 78 Restaurant image 1

Small, intimate BYOB restaurant with a warm, inviting atmosphere and cozy, elegant ambiance. Soft jazz music plays, creating a romantic, comfortable vibe ideal for close conversations and intimate gatherings. The space feels like a hidden gem with a charming, tidy setting near historic surroundings.

Italian dining offers authentic flavors with dishes full of taste. Desserts and espresso complement the menu, all at affordable prices.

Lunch features a $12 lunch special with delicious food and fantastic service.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The lunch here is fantastic, especially the special."

"The Italian dining here is authentic and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Yubi's 78 Restaurant is BYOB.

2

There is free street parking available.

3

The restaurant is walkable to the PATH station.

03
Salumeria Ercolano image 1

Huge, authentic Italian deli with roomy interior and plenty of space for parties. Atmosphere feels genuine with fresh mozzarella made in-house daily and phenomenal sandwiches crafted to order. Prices remain reasonable, supporting a hidden gem vibe in the area.

Food features authentic Italian flavors with recipes that seem passed down through family. The shop offers old-world atmosphere and sells Italian goodies like cookies and olive oil.

Affordable lunch buffet offers well-prepared hot dishes like classic chicken parmesan. Staff greet and welcome diners, creating a safe place to eat and unwind.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were phenomenal and very tasty."

"I loved the fresh mozzarella at this deli."

"I found the authentic Italian flavors and old-world recipes to be the real deal."

Good to know

1

Daily specials are offered at Salumeria Ercolano.

2

The lunch buffet is super affordable.

3

Sandwich prices are around $14.

04
Jersey Banh Mi image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant with a modern, clean interior and inviting, cozy vibe offers a laid-back dining atmosphere that feels like a family-run spot. The space includes ample charging ports and features fresh, contemporary design. Orders are made to order, emphasizing quality and care in preparation.

Flavors stay well-balanced and true to Vietnamese roots. Ingredients come super fresh, making dishes very tasty and authentic.

People are saying

"I found the banh mi here to be phenomenal and delicious."

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"This Vietnamese lunch spot is the best I've been to."

Good to know

1

Parking across the street is available.

2

Because itโ€™s made to order, be prepared to wait for your order.

3

They offer special one-off items weekly.

05
Pradyumna Cafe image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant offers authentic Karnataka cuisine with crispy Bangalore-style dosas and rich sambhar and chutneys. Atmosphere feels homely and casual, encouraging relaxation despite occasional noise and heat. Space lacks sound absorption and has a simple, functional design.

Food features authentic Karnataka style with many varieties of rasam and sambhar. Dishes are fresh, healthy, and tasty, representing true South Indian cuisine.

Lunch features banana leaf meals and uttara Karnataka dishes that deliver authentic and satisfying flavors.

People are saying

"It's like mom's cooking, truly authentic Karnataka food."

"This cafe's food tastes like it was cooked with love, truly home-style."

"This lunch spot's authentic South Indian food tastes like home."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a live dosa counter for an interactive dining experience.

2

Catering services are available for parties and events.

3

Masala dosa costs $20, which is considered high by some customers.

06
Golconda Chimney image 1
Indian restaurant

Space blends traditional charm with a modern touch, creating a cozy yet elegant dining atmosphere. Lighting and decor foster a peaceful, comfortable vibe that suits relaxed meals. Guests often enjoy authentic South Indian flavors in a setting that feels both fresh and homely.

Biryani stands out with its authentic Hyderabad style and balanced masala and spice. The menu features authentic Andhra and Telugu dishes that deliver genuine Indian flavors.

Lunch features thali specials with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Plates offer plentiful portions and flavorful, savory tastes at good value.

People are saying

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

"The food here tastes so fresh and authentic, like a warm hug from India."

"The lunch thali here is delicious and a great value."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not have dedicated parking, but street-side parking is available nearby.

2

Complimentary rice and water are provided with meals.

3

Expect potential issues with food quality and hygiene based on customer feedback.

07
Mezcal Kitchen JC image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with beautiful decoration featuring plants and traditional accents creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Lively music plays, sometimes loudly, adding energy to the space. Offers strong handcrafted cocktails and large portions of highly recommended Mexican dishes.

Tacos stay fresh and carry an authentic Mexican taste. Cooking methods have changed, affecting the overall authenticity compared to before.

Lunch specials include Mexican Chicken, Steak a la Mexicana, and Chicken Stew. The menu features a notable penril dish and offers weekday options that draw regular visits.

People are saying

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

"The lunch specials here are delicious, especially the Mexican Chicken."

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and always fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on Saturdays and Sundays from 5 PM to 9 PM.

2

They offer 2 for $10 margaritas during happy hour.

3

Taco Tuesday deals end at 6:30 PM.

08
Masala Cafe Chettinad image 1
Indian restaurant

Restaurant offers warm South Indian vibe with traditional Tamil decor and nostalgic Chennai references. Atmosphere feels inviting and homey, enhanced by carefully curated music and a space for small Tamil gatherings.

Food offers authentic South Indian flavors with a focus on Chettinadu style. Dishes like Tamil biriyani, gobi pepper fry, and clay pot rice showcase genuine regional tastes.

Lunch offers an authentic experience with dishes that stand out for their great flavor. The spot serves a varied menu that satisfies midday cravings effectively.

People are saying

"The biryani here is bursting with authentic South Indian flavor."

"You have to try the pomfret fish fry; it's super fresh."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is simply delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

On weekends, they prepare additional special dishes.

2

Vegetarian options are available and of good quality and taste.

3

Non-vegetarian lovers should try the non-veg dishes.

09
Swadist image 1
Indian restaurant

Small space offers a cozy, homely atmosphere with clean, calming ambiance and lofi Indian music. Guests bring their own drinks to enjoy alongside authentic Indian cuisine prepared fresh at a live counter. The setting feels quiet and friendly, blending tradition with modern touches.

Authentic Indian cuisine shines through with authentic flavors and dishes cooked with love. Every bite tastes genuinely traditional and satisfying.

Weekend lunch features a buffet with great value and excellent service. The spread offers a solid choice for a casual midday meal.

People are saying

"This buffet's food is fresh, flavorful, and authentic."

"The weekend lunch buffet has a great variety of choices."

"I loved the authentic Indian food here."

Good to know

1

The weekend lunch buffet offers about 20 dishes for $20 for adults.

2

Parking is limited due to street parking on Newark Avenue.

3

Swadist is a BYOB restaurant, allowing guests to bring their own drinks.

10
Bengali Sweets Corner (INDIAN RESTAURANT) image 1

Casual Indian restaurant with a quiet, soothing atmosphere and chill music creates a welcoming, elegant vibe. Frequented for authentic Bengali sweets and Gujarati Thali, it offers a native feel with a 90s cafe ambiance. The unlimited thali stands out as a unique feature among the menu options.

Authentic Indian dishes here taste fresh and home-like, especially the Gujarati cuisine. The Bengali sweets stand out as very authentic and delicious.

Lunch features affordable lunch boxes with rotis, vegetable curries, dal, and sweets. Sunday lunches offer unlimited food for $15, including Indian breakfast and lunch options.

People are saying

"The bottomless buffet tastes like homemade food and is a great value."

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

"This lunch spot has really good, fresh food that tastes like home."

Good to know

1

Sunday lunches offer unlimited food for just $15.

2

The self-serve buffet opens at 3:30 pm.

3

The buffet costs around $15 per person and is all-you-can-eat.

11
Ling Long Xuan ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ image 1

Bright and clean space with traditional Chinese decor and a large fish tank that adds calmness. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting, offering a casual dining experience with a lively vibe. Seating is spacious and usually available, making it comfortable for any occasion.

Food offers authentic pan-Chinese flavors with a focus on Szechuan dishes. Menu includes a wide variety of tasty, genuine options and allows for custom authentic dishes.

Lunch gets busy with a steady crowd, so seating can be limited to a corner in the back. Ordering ahead for takeout works well to avoid wait times during the lunch rush.

People are saying

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

"The soup dumplings are hot, juicy, and full of broth."

"This lunch spot's food is amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The prices are very affordable.

2

Order ahead for takeout as it gets busy during lunch.

3

Parking at Ling Long Xuan might be an issue.

12
Mithaas Jersey City image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant offers authentic Gujarati cuisine with a warm and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of favorite spots in India. Seating inside allows enjoying sweets presented in small bowls and trays. Noise levels rise during peak hours, creating a lively but casual vibe.

Food offers an authentic taste of Indian cuisine with dishes like Gujarati thali and Amritsari thali featuring the right spice levels. Indian street style vegetarian manchurian fried rice and paneer butter masala accompany fresh naan, while sweets reflect traditional recipes.

Lunch features tasty thali with good quantity. Offers combo specials for value, fitting quick meals or weekend lunches.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the chole bhature."

"I found the Indian food here to have authentic flavors and techniques."

"This lunch spot has a satisfying homemade taste."

Good to know

1

They have a promotion from Tuesday to Thursday offering 1+1 Chole bhature.

2

Takeout is only allowed 30 minutes before closing time.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred.

13
Rasoi image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant with a modern blue LED theme and spacious, clean dining area offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that balances upscale and cozy elements. The space suits family gatherings and parties of all sizes, maintaining a quiet and well-kept environment even during busy times.

Authentic Indian flavors stand out with incredible cuisine and a balanced ambiance that mixes modern clean with cozy elements.

Weekend lunch offers a buffet with a variety of dishes and good taste. The new section avoids overwhelming incense odors during meals.

People are saying

"I loved the buffet's delicious Indian curries and chicken dishes."

"I loved the weekend lunch buffet; it had a great variety of dishes."

"The Indian food here tastes incredibly authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Rasoi offers a buffet with good vegetarian options on weekends.

2

Parking is a big issue if you are driving there.

3

Expect an 18% mandatory tip added to your bill.

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