Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Central Harlem

Lunch spots

You need a midday break that is substantial enough to carry you through the rest of your day.

Based on 825 Opinions
+822
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Taqueria Allende image 1
Taqueria Allende image 2
Taqueria Allende image 3
View all
Mexican restaurant

Small space with minimalist decor offers a quiet, authentic vibe perfect for relaxed dining. Quick service and fresh flavors make it ideal for a casual lunch. Dogs in the semi-outdoor area add to the laid-back atmosphere.

Lunch here features quick service and fresh flavors. The spot suits a casual midday meal with straightforward options.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be so tasty and delicious."

"I found the Mexican food, specifically the chilaquiles, to be amazing."

"The tacos here are super tasty."

Good to know

1

$16 for two tacos is the average price, reflecting the quality of ingredients.

2

The breakfast burrito costs $18, which may seem high for the offerings.

3

The torta is priced at $16, higher than similar options in the area.

02
NBHD Brulee image 1
Coffee shop

Spacious coffee shop with Cajun French aesthetic offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options. Cozy covered outdoor seating and plenty of outlets create a warm, relaxed vibe perfect for work or socializing. Good music adds to the artistic atmosphere and sense of community.

Offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options with coffee and drinks available. Serves as a nice spot to enjoy meals with colleagues or friends.

People are saying

"This is my favorite coffee shop in Harlem."

"The American food, especially the shrimp po boy, was delicious."

"This lunch spot has amazing food that's made with love."

Good to know

1

The establishment offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options, and drinks.

2

You can dine in, sit outside, or take food to go.

3

The coffee shop is located at the heart of Harlem.

03
Jerk House Caribbean Restaurant image 1

Takeout-only spot shines with authentic Caribbean energy and lively R&B tunes. Lunch buffet offers authentic flavors at a fair price. Friendly vibe makes it a solid choice for a quick, tasty Jamaican meal.

Offers a Jamaican lunch buffet with authentic flavors at a fair price. Serves as a solid choice for a caribbean cuisine lunch.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so authentic, it reminds me of being back in Jamaica."

"This Lunch Spot's food tastes great and smells even better than expected."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of authentic Caribbean dishes.

2

Prices for lunch are reasonable and affordable.

3

The establishment is extremely clean and well-maintained.

04
Island Crave image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Small space with family vibes and authentic Jamaican flavors creates a cozy lunch spot. Kitchen feels tight, making lunch slow-paced. Standout dishes like oxtails and jerk chicken shine despite the busy atmosphere.

Lunch periods here can stretch without finishing the meal. The spot offers a slow-paced lunch experience that might affect timing.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's fried chicken and dumplings are delicious."

"The oxtail here is succulent and perfectly spiced."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during lunch hours, so plan accordingly.

2

Portion sizes may feel small for the price, so consider sharing.

3

Know what you want before ordering to speed up the process.

05
Pastitalia image 1
Pasta shop

Cozy pasta shop offers homemade pasta and a quiet backyard patio perfect for lunch. Italian-style bar adds charm while fresh sauces and desserts complete meals. Seating options include sun, shade, and air conditioning for a relaxed vibe.

Quiet backyard seating brings a calm vibe to lunch. Homemade pasta and fresh sauces make meals flavorful and satisfying. Coffee and dessert finish the experience nicely.

People are saying

"I found the handmade pasta here to be fresh and delicious."

"I'd come back just for the coffee; it's that good."

"This Lunch Spot's homemade pasta and sauces are fantastic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is self-serve, requiring customers to buy food at the counter.

2

The price for 2 vegetarian pastas is $50.

3

The restaurant closes at 6:30 PM, so plan to arrive before then.

06
Mustard Indian Eatery image 1
Indian restaurant

Bright, clean space with a cozy atmosphere invites relaxed meals. Lunch offers enjoyable options in a casual setting. Unpretentious decor and a peaceful vibe make dining comfortable and fresh.

Lunch offers a pleasant atmosphere with options for both lunch and dinner. No specific lunch specials are available, but the meals are enjoyable.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is so flavorful and tastes like home."

"The Butter Chicken here is perfectly soft, juicy, and flavorful."

"This lunch spot's food is fresh, tasty, and well-balanced."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers several vegan options, including a popular daal saag dish.

2

Expect reasonable prices for the quality of food served.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak dining hours to avoid long wait times.

07
A1 Asian Fusion image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Small dining space creates an intimate vibe perfect for quiet meals. Lunch specials include 3 sushi rolls under $17 and a $10 meal with General Tso Chicken. Soft music adds to the calm atmosphere making it a cozy spot for lunch.

Lunch specials offer 3 sushi rolls for under $17 and a $10 lunch special with options like red curry and General Tso Chicken. Prices stay reasonable with meals often including miso soup.

People are saying

"The lunch special is a great deal with lots of options."

"I found their Thai iced tea super flavorful and amazing."

"The takeout here is fresh, filling, and tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a $10 lunch special that is popular.

2

Cash delivery ordering is available on their website.

3

There is a card minimum of $12; no Apple Pay accepted.

08
Teriyaki One Japanese Grill (Teriyaki & Sushi) image 1

Spacious restaurant offers a quick meal option with a pleasant atmosphere and friendly vibe. Music plays softly, making it a welcoming spot for casual dining despite longer wait times at the cashier during lunch.

Offers a quick meal option during lunch hours but experiences longer wait times at the cashier. Staffing could improve to handle the lunch rush more efficiently.

People are saying

"I found the food to be amazing, hot, and fresh."

"I loved that the healthy options were so affordable."

"This Lunch Spot has top-notch, fresh, and flavorful food."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers meal deals that are budget-friendly.

2

Prices are generally lower than nearby options.

3

Customer service is noted to be friendly and attentive.

09
Harlemite Peruvian Cuisine image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Enjoy Peruvian cuisine in a relaxed setting with outdoor seating on a charming patio and garden. Red tables and pink vases add a cozy touch. Perfect for a quiet lunch spot away from noise.

Offers Peruvian cuisine with solid options for both lunch and dinner. Serves as a reliable spot to enjoy a local dining experience during midday.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and the flavors are amazing."

"The whole fried fish here is amazing, especially with that coconut garlic sauce."

"This Lunch Spot's food is delicious and always amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant serves authentic Peruvian cuisine with vegetarian options available upon request.

2

Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes offered.

3

Happy hour specials are available, offering great deals on drinks.

10
Cucina Italian tavern image 1

Italian tavern features a brick fireplace and Hip Hop soundtrack for a unique vibe. Lunch specials offer affordable prices and one of the best salads around. Bar and patio create a relaxed, social atmosphere perfect for neighbors and visitors alike.

Lunch offers a good deal with affordable prices and flavorful dishes. The lunch special includes one of the best salads around.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative, balanced, and well-crafted."

"I had the best Chicken Parmigiana I've ever tasted."

"This lunch spot has amazing, fresh Italian food."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is available with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

They have a bottomless brunch option for a fixed price.

3

Martini Monday features special pricing on martinis all night.

11
Lido Harlem Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Spacious Italian restaurant offers affordable lunch specials like fresh Caesar salad with grilled chicken. Stylish design and acoustic panels keep noise low, creating a calm, friendly atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes a quiet shed, perfect for relaxed dining.

Affordable lunch specials around $14 offer quality food like fresh Caesar salad with grilled chicken and mussels. The spot suits business lunches and casual gatherings with friends, serving lunch, brunch, and dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is beautifully prepared and full of flavor."

"The staff made our dinner feel special and ran everything like clockwork."

"This lunch spot has delicious food and great service."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to secure a table, especially during busy times.

2

The restaurant offers bottomless mimosas during brunch for $20 each for 90 minutes.

3

Happy hour food choices are limited and only available at the bar.

12
FIELDTRIP image 1
New American restaurant

Spacious, clean space offers quick lunches with a vegan-friendly menu. Creative dishes bring unique flavors in eco-conscious packaging. Staff create a strong community feel for a relaxed, quality meal.

Quick lunches come with a treat-like feel here. Options include vegan meals and reliable takeout choices enjoyed regularly.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the rice bowls, is seasoned with unique flavor."

"My salmon bowl was perfectly cooked with all the fixings."

"The braised beef bowl at this Lunch Spot is very flavorful and filling."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges a 15.5% tipping fee that is not disclosed to customers.

2

You should order take out before 5 PM for the best experience.

3

Orders are typically ready within minutes.

13
Greedy Pot image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Small Southern spot serves authentic soul food like oxtails and jerk chicken with rice and peas. Cozy, homey vibe with pumping music adds lively energy. Perfect for a warm lunch or post-workout meal with hearty sides like macaroni and cheese.

Lunch includes jerk chicken with rice and peas, fried fish, and sides like macaroni and cheese and candied yams. The spot suits a post-workout meal or a warm lunch on a cold day.

People are saying

"The oxtail here is fall-off-the-bone tender and perfectly seasoned."

"This Lunch Spot has huge, delicious portions of homemade food."

"I wished I bought two ginger lemonades; they were so refreshing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 7 PM.

2

You must call before coming to the restaurant.

3

Expect to wait at least 15-20 minutes for made-to-order chicken wings and fish.

14
Claire's Kitchen Cafe image 1

Vintage decor and eclectic style create a cozy vibe perfect for coworking. Mushroom bourekas make a tasty lunch choice while French songs add international energy. The space blends productive focus with a relaxed atmosphere.

Offers a solid spot for lunch or coffee with a relaxed vibe for working. Mushroom bourekas stand out as a tasty lunch option.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be incredibly tasty and fresh."

"I found it to be my go-to local coffee shop."

"This lunch spot has delicious sandwiches with fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

The cafe is very close to Central Park.

2

Prices are reasonable for the neighborhood.

3

The restaurant offers a great brunch.

15
Kingston Bakery Harlem image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Caribbean bakery offers a lunch special that's tasty and affordable. Warm, welcoming vibe with gospel and reggae music fills the space. Cozy feel enhanced by artwork and fireplace makes takeout feel like home.

Offers a lunch special that is both delicious and a great deal. Serves plenty of other tasty options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

People are saying

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

"The Oxtail here is amazingly tender and rich."

"This lunch spot has delicious patties and a variety of meals."

Good to know

1

This place is only for takeout; there is no space for dine-in.

2

The establishment is closed at 6:29 PM.

3

The menu states 'WEEKDAY Lunch Special', but Friday at 12PM is considered a weekend.

16
CopperLeaf Bakery image 1

Spacious bakery with ultra-fresh pastries offers a full lunch menu in a cozy, laid-back setting. Classy decor and quiet instrumental music create a calm vibe perfect for work or relaxation. Evening bar adds a nice touch to the experience.

Cute cafe offers a full lunch and breakfast menu with a bar in the evening. Lunch here feels lovely and satisfying.

People are saying

"The coffee here is great and made with care."

"The pastries here are heavenly and made with quality ingredients."

"This lunch spot is a great addition to the neighborhood."

Good to know

1

CopperLeaf Bakery offers a full breakfast and lunch menu.

2

The bakery has a bar that operates in the evening.

3

It is family-friendly and suitable for kids.

17
Il Caffe Latte image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant blends industrial style with cozy charm, featuring exposed brick and art. Perfect for a leisurely lunch, it offers both lunch and dinner menus. Enjoy a relaxed vibe on the pleasant terrace or indoors surrounded by plants.

Offers a leisurely lunch experience with a menu that invites trying both lunch and dinner options. Serves as a reliable go-to spot for midday meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The lattes here are rich, smooth, and perfectly crafted."

"This Lunch Spot's atmosphere is so cute and comfortable."

Good to know

1

The establishment does not allow customers to work on laptops.

2

There is no wifi available for customers.

3

20% tips are integrated into the bill.

18
Presto Fresh Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot offers grilled chicken special and lunch burrito with big portions. Modern, eclectic decor meets a lush green patio for a calm vibe. Affordable prices and healthy, flavorful Mexican dishes make it perfect for lunch or casual meals.

Lunch includes a grilled chicken special and a lunch burrito with great sized portions. Options also feature a taco bowl and smoothies.

People are saying

"I found the healthy foods here to be fresh, fast, and very good."

"The tacos and burritos here are so fresh and delicious."

"This lunch spot's tacos and burritos are fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

You should order ahead of time to avoid delays.

2

Customers cannot pay with a card when picking up food; cash only.

3

If paying by card, use the kiosk to complete your order.

19
Cantina Taqueria & Tequila Bar image 1

Mexican restaurant shines with authentic margaritas and well-regarded tacos. Quick lunch specials like the chicken burrito offer great taste and value. Lively music creates an energetic atmosphere perfect for dining inside or out.

Offers a quick lunch with tasty options like the chicken burrito lunch special. The menu balances good taste and price for a satisfying midday meal.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the happy hour tacos and drinks with my group."

"I thought the chicken nachos were the best I ever had."

"I loved the budget-friendly lunch specials here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour tacos are a must-try event.

2

The restaurant has a 90-minute time limit for tables during happy hour.

3

The happy hour offers cheap margaritas and nachos.

20
Jacob Soul Food Restaurant image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space offers live soul and jazz music with a vibrant atmosphere. Quick, affordable buffet lunch runs $10-$15, perfect for a midday meal. Outdoor seating and a pay-by-weight take-out bar add casual charm.

Quick service and reasonable pricing make it easy to grab lunch here. A buffet lunch offers solid options between $10 and $15, with a small band adding energy on Sundays around midday.

People are saying

"The soul food here is amazing, with great variety."

"The live music here made the place lively and fun."

"This lunch spot has a great variety of soul food options."

Good to know

1

You serve yourself like a buffet and pay by weight at the checkout.

2

The buffet offers the best quality/price in Manhattan, around $15 per person by weight.

3

Five people can eat very generously for less than $80.

21
Red Rooster Harlem image 1

Live jazz fills the air in a space with colorful African American decor and a covered terrace. Helgaโ€™s meatball shines at lunch, paired with live concerts that boost the lively vibe. Bar area feels cramped but adds to the intimate feel.

Lunch features Helgaโ€™s meatball as a standout dish. Live concerts often accompany meals, adding a unique vibe to the lunch experience.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the fried chicken, is crispy and delicious."

"The live music here is great, especially the jazz."

"This lunch spot has excellent food, like amazing pasta."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation well in advance, especially for Sunday brunch.

2

Gospel brunch is held every Sunday and features live music.

3

Happy hour runs from noon to 10 p.m. with discounted appetizers and cocktails.

22
Lalibela Ethiopian Restaurant image 1
Ethiopian restaurant

Enjoy intimate space with tasteful Ethiopian decor and a relaxed vibe enhanced by soft music. Lunch features a tasty special that fills you up, perfect for families and kids. Bar seating and outdoor options add to the welcoming atmosphere.

Lunch offers a tasty lunch special that is reasonably portioned and very filling. The spot has a family restaurant vibe suitable for kids and provides seating at the bar when quiet.

People are saying

"The vegan platter was delicious and satisfying."

"The lamb dish and doro wot were so flavorful and delicious."

"This lunch spot has excellent food."

Good to know

1

Customers are advised not to share meals; each person needs to order a dish.

2

The restaurant charges an extra $7 for sharing food.

3

There is a $7 fee for every person not eating.

23
Pa Pa Thai Cuisine ( Formerly Pad Thai ) Harlem image 1

Cozy spot with intimate seating and wooden tables offers a calm vibe with slow jazz and 60s tunes. Weekday lunch specials include an entrรฉe and soup, making it a great deal. Clean, spa-like feel adds to the welcoming atmosphere.

Lunch specials include an entrรฉe and soup. The specials offer a great deal on weekdays like Monday.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Thai food flavors to be delicious."

"The meals were affordable and rich in flavor."

"The Pad Thai here is good and presented nicely."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a 25% off discount on Grubhub for takeout.

2

The restaurant is takeout only, but they also deliver.

3

Expect to pay around $40 for a meal for two.

24
Azara Kitchen LLC image 1
West African restaurant

Space blends modern style with full African design for an elegant, cozy vibe. Warm lighting and fresh flowers create a welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for family outings or a quick afternoon snack with spotless cleanliness throughout.

Offers a great lunch setting suitable for family outings or a first date. Serves well for a quick afternoon snack too.

People are saying

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

"I found the authentic West African food here to be sensational."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours.

3

Live music nights occur every Friday, starting at 8pm.

25
Safari image 1
East African restaurant

Somali culture shines with authentic decor and traditional music creating a cozy vibe. Floor seating with cushions offers a unique comfort that feels like home. Perfect for weekday lunch breaks, it suits both lunch and dinner times.

Weekday lunch breaks often include a visit here. The spot suits both lunch and dinner times.

People are saying

"This Somali food is the best I've had in years."

"The floor seating here is so cozy and adds to the special atmosphere."

"The goat here is so tender it melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a generous restaurant week deal.

2

Dinner for two with drinks is approximately $70.

3

The menu includes multiple vegetarian options.

26
Silvana image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Middle Eastern spot shines with live jazz music and a 1970s Bohemian vibe. Lunch serves fantastic food at great prices but expect waits over 20 minutes. Warm, inviting space blends Israeli culture with a chill, easy-going energy.

Lunch offers fantastic food at a great price with a dope vibe even on weekday afternoons. Food can take over 20 minutes to arrive despite low crowd levels.

People are saying

"The food here is great, especially the crispy cauliflower."

"The live music downstairs is a total vibe."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was sensational."

Good to know

1

A live comedy show requires a $20 cover charge per person.

2

After 12am on weekends, the venue becomes a dance party with no seats.

3

Live Blues performances happen every Monday night in the basement.

27
The Handpulled Noodle | Central Harlem image 1

Small space with hand-pulled noodles offers a cozy, lively spot perfect for quick meals. Wall-facing stools create an inviting atmosphere ideal for lunch on the go. Easy ordering and authentic flavors make it a satisfying choice for both lunch and dinner.

Noodles serve as a quick lunch bite with easy ordering for takeout. This spot stands out as an authentic lunch and dinner choice and is a frequent pick for meals on the go.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The cumin soup here has a really high-quality broth."

"This Lunch Spot's food is so tasty, especially the curry noodles."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges $70 for noodles and soup.

2

There is no bathroom available in the restaurant.

3

New York State law requires that ready-to-eat food be prepared and served without bare hands.

28
Harlem Shake image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Smash burger joint shines with authentic atmosphere and old New York decor. Lunch features a great special perfect for a midday break. Live music on the patio adds a friendly vibe that complements the highly praised burgers.

Lunch offers a great special that stands out. The spot suits a break after a walk or music, making it a solid choice for midday meals.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be sublime, truly the best."

"I found the red velvet milkshake to be incredible."

"This lunch spot has really good burgers, especially the Harlem Classic."

Good to know

1

Live jazz performances occur every Sunday at 3pm on the terrace.

2

The Mr/Miss Harlem Shake competition is held annually.

3

There is no table service; customers order at the counter.

29
Sylvia's Restaurant image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food shines with chicken and black eyed peas for lunch. Classic Harlem vibe pulses with live gospel and jazz music. Walls lined with photos add a museum-like feel that makes every visit special.

Lunch features chicken, potato salad, and black eyed peas that satisfy well. The spot offers a great lunch experience with solid, hearty dishes.

People are saying

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

"The complimentary cornbread was warm, soft, and perfect."

"The fried chicken at this Lunch Spot is delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential to avoid a long wait, especially on weekends.

2

The gospel brunch starts at 1 p.m. on Sundays with live music.

3

Expect a wait time of up to 2.5 hours during peak hours.

30
The Edge Harlem image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Small space with exposed brick and Harlem decor feels cozy and warm. Lunch shines with a Lamb Burger and solid American options. Live R&B and Reggae music adds a soulful, relaxed vibe to the bustling setting.

Lunch features a Lamb Burger that became a regular menu item. Offers typical American brunch and lunch options with solid choices for midday meals.

People are saying

"The brunch here has delicious and exciting options."

"It's a cozy, warm, and inviting atmosphere here."

"This lunch spot's lamb burger is juicy, well-seasoned, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets packed quickly.

2

Live music occurs on Wednesday evenings, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Parking can be challenging, so consider alternative transportation options.

Discover more

Central Harlem, New York

Area guide
Loading Map...