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Lunch and sandwich spots in New Brunswick

You are looking for a lunch that is straightforward and well-made. You want a sandwich that is worth leaving your desk for.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Thyme Machine - NJ image 1
Thyme Machine - NJ image 2
Thyme Machine - NJ image 3
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Lebanese restaurant

Small Lebanese restaurant offers cozy indoor seating with a heated outdoor area featuring barstools and picnic tables. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, reflecting authentic Middle Eastern hospitality. Space combines modern design with a snug, inviting layout.

Offers beef shawarma and chicken taouk wraps ideal for a quick lunch. Suitable for takeout during a lunch break.

Generous sandwiches feature Chicken Taouk, Beef Shawarma, and Kafta with authentic Lebanese flavors. Options include vegetarian falafel and Saj Manouches, all noted for their delicious taste and authenticity.

People are saying

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

"I kept going back for the beef shawarma sandwich."

"This lunch spot's shawarma wraps are flavorful and fresh."

Good to know

1

Thyme Machine is primarily a takeout-only establishment.

2

Expect high-quality ingredients in all dishes.

3

The restaurant has limited seating with only three seats available.

02
Semicolon Cafe image 1

Spacious cafe with warm wooden accents and hanging plants creates a cozy modern vibe. Calm atmosphere features relaxing jazz music and plenty of seating for work or socializing. Private partitions offer quiet retreats amid a bright, plant-surrounded space.

Fresh, tasty, and satisfying food and drinks make it a solid choice for a quick lunch. The menu suits those needing a quick bite during a busy day or break.

Bulgogi breakfast sandwich stands out with precise heat control and rich flavor. Other notable options include the SOS sandwich with egg and mayonnaise, and the chicken sandwich paired well with a lady matcha drink.

People are saying

"These sandwiches are flavorful, filling, and perfectly seasoned."

"This tiramisu latte coffee tastes like dessert in a cup."

"The bulgogi sandwich at this Lunch Spot is so beautiful, I almost didn't want to eat it."

Good to know

1

The cafe recently stopped accepting cash payments; only credit and mobile payments are accepted.

2

Parking is limited nearby, so consider public transport or rideshare.

3

The kitchen opens at 11am on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

03
Khyber Coffee & Tea House image 1

Small cafe blends classic coffee house style with South Asian flavor and Middle Eastern influence. Warm, cozy atmosphere fills the space with aroma of food and lively Bollywood music. Seating is limited and wifi stays reliable even when busy.

Lunch offerings include incredible pastries and hearty dishes cooked to perfection and beautifully presented. The café has a fun, buzzing vibe with lots of interesting hot and cold beverage choices.

Breakfast sandwiches come on flaky croissants with egg and cheese. Grilled chicken sandwiches offer a juicy, spiced patty with a warm, crunchy bite. Pastrami sandwiches also appear as a savory option.

People are saying

"I loved their rich and flavorful chai."

"I thought the chicken sandwich was amazing for a coffee shop."

"You have to try their chai; it's a must-have."

Good to know

1

Finding a place to park can be challenging.

2

The cafe is usually busy, but seating is often available quickly.

3

Chai costs over $6 for a large, so budget accordingly.

04
King's Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant image 1

Bright space with modern decor featuring cinema artwork and LED lighting creates an energetic, welcoming vibe. Friendly atmosphere pairs well with good music and comfortable seating. Regulars enjoy a lively spot that balances classic pizzeria style with fresh, inviting energy.

Lunch offers a filling slice selection with fairly priced specials. Options change often, making it easy to try something new every day.

Chicken Vodka Parm stands out with its rich flavor and is highly recommended. Eggplant parmesan sub and cold subs offer homemade bread and solid quality, though meatballs in sandwiches can fall out due to uneven distribution and lack of sauce.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best in town."

"I thought the food at this lunch spot was delicious and fresh."

"I thought their pizza was the best in town."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $5 per slice.

2

Credit cards are accepted, but check for any minimum order requirements.

3

There was plenty of free parking.

05
Kenny’s Cafe image 1

Cafe offers healthy snacks and fresh deli sandwiches in a clean, relaxed setting. It attracts people looking for nutritious options like smoothies, açaí bowls, and low-calorie meals. The atmosphere stays friendly and comfortable, suitable for casual meals or quick bites.

Lots of options fit for a work lunch or post-gym meal. The fruit cup features a unique twist with raspberries stuffed with blueberries.

Fresh smoothies accompany chicken salad, chicken sandwich, and turkey wrap options. Sandwiches come made fresh and offer a variety of flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is served by the kindest, most welcoming staff."

"I thought the smoothies were delicious and fresh."

"The staff here is so friendly, it makes the sandwich experience amazing."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a variety of healthy soups daily.

2

Expect prices to be higher due to the downtown location and quality ingredients.

3

The menu includes wheat wraps, low-calorie meals, salads, and protein snacks.

06
MADE* Wiches & Wings image 1

Small, hole-in-the-wall sandwich shop with a takeout-only setup and a single counter for standing. Atmosphere feels cozy and vibey with loud R&B music creating an energetic, no-frills vibe. Known for flavorful cheesesteaks and sliders, it draws people looking for quick, tasty meals without seating.

Buffalo cheesesteak stands out as a delicious lunch option with a lightweight portion that still fills you up. Lunch for two with sandwiches and fries costs around $50.

Offers cheesesteak sandwiches with excellent steak and fresh bread. The spicy sandwich delivers a strong kick, and portions can be upgraded from half to full size.

People are saying

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

"This cheesesteak sandwich is loaded with perfectly seasoned steak and melty cheese."

"This Lunch Spot's cheesesteak is solid and delicious."

Good to know

1

MADE* Wiches & Wings is a takeout-only location with no seating area.

2

You need to order 45 minutes in advance during the evening.

3

They charge $1 per sauce, which is more expensive than airport vendors.

07
SOL-KALANIT'S Restaurant & Coffe image 1

Tiny cafe with about six tables creates a cozy atmosphere that feels like a homey hole in the wall. Quiet and comfortable, it offers huge portions and power outlets by tables for convenience. The space can get warm and sometimes noisy, but maintains a casual, welcoming vibe.

Offers solid diner style breakfast and lunch dishes. Serves well for a family lunch after 1:30.

Breakfast sandwiches come with fresh ingredients and pair well with orange juice. They offer a solid start to the day with simple, satisfying flavors.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot has huge portions and a cozy atmosphere."

"I had an excellent breakfast sandwich here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

Expect a wait during peak breakfast hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant offers halal meat options for diners.

08
Legal Grounds Café image 1

Classic corner deli and coffee shop with a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and lively banter behind the counter. Offers affordable prices and a mix of New Jersey diner style with Middle Eastern/Mediterranean options. Regulars come for quick bites and standout items like the Fried Whiting sandwich and fresh pita.

Lunch options include Middle Eastern dishes, cheese steaks, and burgers. The Fatouch salad stands out as a popular choice.

Fish sandwiches stand out here, especially the Fried Whiting sandwich which rivals others in the area. Breakfast sandwiches also feature prominently, paired well with fresh salads like Fatouch.

People are saying

"The cafe staff here are super friendly and sweet."

"This lunch spot has amazing Middle Eastern and Greek dishes."

"I thought their Fried Whiting sandwich was the best in the city."

Good to know

1

The café offers affordable prices, with items like wraps costing around $8.50.

2

It's a great spot for a quick bite during jury duty breaks.

3

Expect a variety of standard breakfast and lunch options, plus Mediterranean dishes.

09
Chai Chenak Restaurant image 1
Pakistani restaurant

Vibrant interior showcases traditional Pakistani decor with colorful walls, art, and cultural elements. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting with a peaceful vibe enhanced by music and thoughtful design. Space includes two rooms offering ample seating and areas for photography.

Chicken rolls and club sandwiches stand out as solid lunch options. They work well for eating there or taking home for later.

Offers a variety of sandwiches including chicken tikka club sandwich, Dal Kebab sandwich, and Bihari Roll. Sandwiches come with sides like curly fries and are good for take-home lunches.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful and delicious."

"This lunch spot's flavorful food, like the chicken tikka wrap, is a gem."

"Their karhai’s are excellent and enough for 3-4 people."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on holidays due to high demand.

2

Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant is HALAL certified.

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New Brunswick, New Jersey

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