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Top picks in Union City

Lunch spots

A lunch spot should be consistent enough that you know exactly what you are getting every time you walk in.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Kanoa Cafe image 1
Kanoa Cafe image 2
Kanoa Cafe image 3
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Ecuadorian restaurant

Spacious and clean Ecuadorian restaurant offers a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with clear lighting and spectacular music. The vibe feels like home, perfect for couples and those seeking authentic cuisine. Known for excellent Ecuadorian dishes and affordable prices, it stands out as a gem in the community.

Food here stands out for its authenticity and delicious flavors. The dishes capture the true taste of Ecuadorian cuisine with tasty, well-prepared meals.

Lunch specials run Tuesday to Friday with a $13 deal that includes soup, main dish, and drink. Offers good value and affordable prices for weekday lunches.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic Ecuadorian style."

"The seafood rice here is creamy, wet, and packed with seafood."

"This Lunch Spot's food is delicious and reminds me of Ecuador."

Good to know

1

Kanoa Cafe offers lunch from Tuesday to Friday.

2

They have a $13 lunch deal that includes a soup, main dish, and drink.

3

Parking is difficult; there is no dedicated parking available.

02
MARACAIBO image 1
Restaurant

Elegant space with Venezuelan-inspired decor and warm lighting creates an immersive atmosphere. Loud, live music energizes the room, making conversation challenging but adding to the vibrant vibe. Valet parking and a chic bar area with craft cocktails enhance the overall experience.

Authentic Venezuelan food shines with creative dishes and excellent seasoning. The food pairs well with great service and a welcoming atmosphere.

Lunch features unbeatable prices and a variety of good new dishes. Soups come out hot as they should, and the atmosphere stays superb throughout the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the cachapa."

"The cocktails here are friendly and attentive."

"The lunch specials here are amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has live music on Friday and Saturday nights.

2

Reservations are recommended for special events and busy weekends.

3

Private events can be hosted in the upstairs area.

03
Pabade Bakery NJ image 1

Small bakery with open kitchen and outdoor seating on a quiet street creates a cozy, relaxed vibe. Fresh pastries fill the air with a Parisian bakery feel. Regulars enjoy affordable, high-quality croissants and sandwiches in a friendly, neighborhood setting.

Food centers on delicious baked goods and rich coffee. Nutella features as a standout ingredient, adding a sweet touch to offerings.

Breakfast and lunch sandwiches come out fast and suit busy days well. Coffee pairs nicely with the quick, satisfying meals.

People are saying

"The almond croissants are incredible and have amazing texture."

"The pastries and cakes here are delicious, especially the dulce de leche cruffin."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot are genuinely the friendliest I've met."

Good to know

1

Pabade Bakery NJ closes early, so visit early for breakfast.

2

Seating is limited, so plan for takeout if necessary.

3

Prices are reasonable, with sandwiches starting at $8.

04
MORENO image 1
Ecuadorian restaurant

Elegant space combines modern and traditional decor with live Ecuadorian saxophone music, creating a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Tables sit close together, making the setting feel intimate but sometimes cramped. The vibe reflects authentic Ecuadorian culture through both ambiance and music.

Food matches authentic Ecuadorian flavors exactly. Menu offers a variety of traditional dishes that reflect true Ecuadorian cuisine.

Lunch offers tasty specials and a variety of appetizers, breakfasts, and entrees. The spot suits family meals well with consistently fantastic flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The live music here was amazing, especially the saxophone."

"This lunch spot's bollo and humitas are delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, over an hour for a table during peak hours.

2

Live music is featured on Saturdays, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid long waits.

05
Amore Pizzeria & Restaurant image 1

Dining space combines old school feel with a cozy, friendly atmosphere that feels like home. Cleanliness and organization stand out, supported by family-owned warmth under new management. The place offers good pricing and a welcoming vibe for casual meals.

Food features a thin crust well done pizza that matches requests precisely. Every visit delivers amazing and exceptional dishes.

Offers quick lunch options like the Amore burger and Cheesesteak pizza slice. Serves as a reliable spot for weekly lunch visits.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was amazing and flavorful."

"The pizza here is amazing, with a crispy and soft crust."

"The subs and pizza at this Lunch Spot were very good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is now under new management, which has improved the service.

2

They charge $15 for a large pizza, with menu prices being fair.

3

The place is very clean and air-conditioned for a comfortable dining experience.

06
The Mictlan image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with vibrant decor and a diner vibe creates an intimate, warm atmosphere. Music adds to the authentic Mexican experience. Margaritas stand out as a highlight alongside well-regarded birria tacos and creative dishes.

Food here is consistently fresh, flavorful, and beautifully prepared. Mexican dishes stand out for their quality and taste.

Lunch offers a delicious meal with a quiet atmosphere just after noon.

People are saying

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

"I thought the birria taco was amazing Mexican food."

"The birria torta is a great surprise, like a panini with excellent dipping sauce."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers many vegetarian options alongside traditional meat dishes.

2

The most expensive plate costs $16.99, making it affordable for most diners.

3

Expect inconsistent taco sizes; some are small while others are standard.

07
Garden Cafe and Bistro image 1

Cozy space with beautiful modern decor and a neon sign love seat creates a warm, inviting vibe. Upbeat music plays, though volume can make conversation challenging. Known for excellent pastries and fresh baked bread, it suits relaxed breakfasts and brunches.

An assortment of foods from different countries offers a diverse menu with consistently delicious and amazing quality dishes.

Warm, cozy atmosphere suits relaxed lunches or business meetings. Offers a wide variety of excellent sandwiches, lunch deals, and a beautiful dessert selection.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The breakfast here is fantastic, with fresh ingredients and generous portions."

"This lunch spot has fresh, flavorful food made with quality ingredients."

Good to know

1

The cafรฉ has a 3% extra charge for credit card payments.

2

An auto gratuity of 18.75% is added to the bill without prior notice.

3

Expect longer wait times during busy hours, even with few tables occupied.

08
Mi Islita Kitchen image 1
Puerto Rican restaurant

Small, quaint setting evokes Puerto Rican soul with beautiful decor and a homey atmosphere. Sounds of Coqui enhance the authentic vibe, making it feel like stepping into a grandmother's kitchen. The place offers exceptional Puerto Rican hospitality in a clean, inviting space.

Authentic Puerto Rican food shines with fresh, delicious flavors and reliable quality. The menu offers a solid range of pan-Caribbean dishes with excellent taste and service.

Lunch offers affordable prices and a chance to try the chef's steak, as the owner often shares food during meals.

People are saying

"This Puerto Rican food tastes like home and Abuela's cooking."

"The seafood here is an explosion of flavor."

"The food at this lunch spot is amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant serves a mix of Cuban, Puerto Rican, and Dominican cuisine.

2

The prices are very fair for the quality they offer.

3

The portions are massive and the prices are extremely fair.

09
Las delicias del Ecuador image 1
Ecuadorian restaurant

Small, cozy space offers authentic Ecuadorian cuisine with a family-oriented atmosphere and clean environment. The place features delicious traditional breads and a variety of dishes served in a comfortable setting without air conditioning during warmer days.

Authentic Ecuadorian flavor shines through in every dish, prepared with care just like at home. The food is consistently delicious and satisfying in a small, cozy setting with great service.

Lunches taste homemade and come with options like the Bybel Bolรณn, which is very tasty. Frequent visits show the spot serves consistent and satisfying midday meals.

People are saying

"The bread here is delicious and very, very good."

"The lunches here tasted homemade and delicious."

"The food here tastes amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a 15% gratuity added to your bill automatically.

2

There is no bar, and outside alcohol is not permitted.

3

Prices for specials can vary; confirm before ordering.

10
Sweets & Cafe Bakery image 1

Coffee shop blends traditional Latin American and modern Williamsburg styles with calming bossa nova music and sunlit cozy spaces. Atmosphere stays quiet and friendly, welcoming for conversations or solo time. Decor feels homey and meticulously clean, creating a comfortable lounge vibe.

Food comes out hot and freshly reheated, with a varied menu that includes delicious desserts and strong coffee. The dishes consistently taste good and pair well with the drinks.

Offers a spot for casual lunch with friends or solo. Serves breakfast, lunch, and quick snacks but service can be inconsistent.

People are saying

"The pastries here are fresh and delicious."

"The food and pastries here are delicious and fresh."

"I had to come back for a refund because managers weren't present."

Good to know

1

Only street parking is available.

2

Prices are very reasonable for both food and drinks.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during peak hours.

11
Trattoria Napoli image 1
Italian restaurant

Small space with warm lighting and soft music creates a cozy, family-friendly vibe. Atmosphere blends rustic charm and modern comfort, making it inviting and calm. Outdoor seating adds reasonable comfort to the experience.

Italian dishes offer authentic flavors with generous portions. The pizza stands out as amazing and well-crafted.

Lunch features calamari and chicken parm with consistent quality. Meals suit a range of ages, including elderly diners.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pizza and pasta, is delicious."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"This lunch spot's pizza has a fantastic, airy, crisp dough."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

2

After 10 PM, only takeaway service is available.

3

Parking in the area can be challenging.

12
Las Buenas Nuevas image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant offers cozy atmosphere with beautiful decorations and reasonably priced meals. The space feels clean but dated and serves a mix of freshly cooked traditional dishes alongside some less consistent items.

Delicious Peruvian food comes with huge portions that feel freshly cooked and generous. The dishes offer great taste and value, making it feel like dining in Peru.

Lunch offers great daily specials with large portions. Meals include ceviche or soup, a rice and beans plate with steak, chicken, or pork, plus a drink for around $10 to $11.

People are saying

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

"The lunch special here is an incredible value for the money."

"There's a huge parking lot, usually with an open space."

Good to know

1

There is a huge parking lot for this restaurant and its neighboring sites.

2

Parking in the lot usually has open spaces.

3

Street parking requires a resident sticker during certain times.

13
Coffee & Deli Time image 1

No-frills deli with a laid-back atmosphere and family-friendly vibe. Locals gather here often, chatting with staff in a welcoming, mom-and-pop setting. Tables provide a quiet, comfortable space for enjoying affordable meals.

Food arrives quickly with excellent quality and a variety that reflects Puerto Rican home cooking. Service is welcoming and helpful with food and drink choices.

Food orders happen quickly after menus arrive for both breakfast and lunch. Lunch comes with a cafeteria-style service offering a variety of options that look tasty and ready for a quick meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The breakfast staff here is super friendly and welcoming."

"The staff at this lunch spot were super friendly."

Good to know

1

Prices for coffee start at $3.50, making it affordable.

2

The deli offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options.

3

Parking is limited due to increased local population.

14
Carro Cafe New Jersey image 1

Luxurious interior design features exotic cars and stunning decor, creating a cozy yet nightclub-like atmosphere. Live music with an amazing band energizes the space, making it lively and welcoming. Valet parking adds convenience to the elegant setting.

Food stays available late, even just before midnight. Dishes come out finger-licking good with no leftovers. Service matches the food with five-star hospitality and the atmosphere includes talented performers.

Lively atmosphere suits lunch well with great food and a vibrant vibe. Live music enhances the experience more during evening hours.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious."

"This place is beautiful and elegant, with a truly spectacular decor."

"Our server Allison was super sweet and attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, offering discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Expect live music around 10 PM during weekend events.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events to ensure seating.

15
La Esquina Ambatena image 1
Ecuadorian restaurant

Small space offers calm atmosphere with live music and outdoor tables. Ecuadorian flavors stand out, especially Bolรณn and ceviche mixto. Quiet setting suits family gatherings and relaxed meals.

Food offers authentic Ecuadorian flavors with huge portions that feel like eating in Ecuador. Dishes stay true to traditional recipes and deliver excellent quality consistently.

Lunches come out consistently good and solid here. Some orders arrive cold, but the overall quality stays reliable.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and delicious, just like home."

"I enjoyed the great soup here."

"I found the food here to be great."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to find a spot.

2

Prices are generally affordable for Ecuadorian cuisine.

3

Street parking is available nearby, but can be challenging.

16
El Artesano Restaurant image 1
Cuban restaurant

Cozy space filled with framed Cuban baseball jerseys and carved stone plates creates a warm, authentic vibe. Bright, upbeat atmosphere buzzes with Latin energy and close tables encourage a lively, communal feel. Friendly faces and a welcoming mood make it feel like a home away from home.

Authentic Cuban food stands out with traditional flavors and well-presented dishes. Prices stay reasonable while delivering consistently delicious meals.

Affordable prices make lunch easy, with full meals around $20 including tip. Options include different lunch dishes suitable for quick meals or family dining.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and reasonably priced."

"I thought the churros here were the best I've ever had."

"This lunch spot's Cuban cuisine and fresh bread are amazing."

Good to know

1

Street parking is limited and can be hard to find.

2

The restaurant charges an extra $5 for paying by card.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak hours due to limited staff.

17
Anticucheria Parrilladas Dany image 1

Small space fills quickly, creating a crowded and lively atmosphere without overwhelming noise. Authentic Peruvian decor and music add cultural charm. Large portions and affordable lunch specials attract groups despite tight seating.

Peruvian food stands out with delicious soups and generous portions. The dishes are consistently well priced and maintain a high quality.

Lunch offers affordable specials around $11, including dishes like seafood chaufa and chicken milanesa with soup. Some lunches focus heavily on rice, and prices have increased recently by $3.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and well-priced."

"I found the best ceviche I've ever had in NJ."

"The lunch specials here are excellent and affordable."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are affordable, with large seafood chaufa and beef stock soup for $11.

2

A mandatory 15% service charge is added for groups larger than two.

3

Street parking can be difficult on busy days.

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