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Lunch spots in Chinatown

A midday meal that feels like a deliberate break rather than a frantic refueling stop.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Yakiniku Toraji An image 1
Yakiniku Toraji An image 2
Yakiniku Toraji An image 3
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Japanese restaurant

Japanese BBQ shines with high-quality Wagyu and tender beef in a calm atmosphere with soft jazz. Lunch features special sets like Yakiniku and beef rice bowls, served with attentive care. Spacious, cozy décor suits both romantic and group dining.

Lunch offers special sets like the Yakiniku Set with three types of beef and a beef rice bowl with BBQ. The atmosphere stays quiet, allowing for attentive service during lunch hours.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and tasty."

"The Japanese BBQ here has top-tier meat quality."

"The beef tongue here is perfectly sliced, tender, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

You can bring in alcohol since they have not yet obtained a liquor license.

2

The $98 tasting menu is a solid choice for a special meal.

3

Lunch sets are highly recommended for a good meal at a reasonable price.

02
Spring Cafe image 1
Vegan restaurant

Small space with cozy vibe and modern design offers hearty vegan lunch options like burgers and bento boxes. Generous portions come at an affordable price. Noise from the blender can disrupt the calm atmosphere.

Offers a variety of hearty vegan options like burgers, noodles, and Chinese lunch bento boxes. Portions are generous and lunch specials come at an affordable price.

People are saying

"The vegan chicken and braised tofu skin noodle soup was amazing."

"These bao buns are unbelievably delicious and have great texture."

"You have to try the bao buns at this Lunch Spot; the ginger chicken is amazing."

Good to know

1

Everything on the menu is vegan, so there’s no need to probe into ingredients.

2

The restaurant is located right next to the Canal Street subway station.

3

Seating is limited, making takeout a better option during busy hours.

03
Taiwan Bear House image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Small space with three indoor tables offers a calm, cozy vibe perfect for quick meals. Authentic Taiwanese bento boxes, especially popcorn chicken, make for inexpensive lunch options. Casual setting suits those craving comfort food in a simple spot.

Offers authentic Taiwanese bento and lunch box dishes that are deliciously inexpensive. Bento boxes, including popcorn chicken, serve as quick and solid lunch options suitable for takeout.

People are saying

"The Taiwanese food here tastes incredibly authentic and comforting."

"The fried chicken is so juicy, tender, and crispy."

"This lunch spot serves the most authentic Taiwanese food I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited, making it better suited for take out than dine in.

2

The price for the 'lu ro fan' is $10.

3

The bento boxes are priced very reasonably.

04
Sen Saigon image 1
Vegan restaurant

Bright, colorful decor and real plants create a cozy vibe. Family-owned warmth shines through with authentic vegan Vietnamese flavors. Weekday lunch offers perfectly spiced sandwiches and satisfying soup, ideal for a quick, tasty meal.

Special weekday lunch features delicious soup and a perfectly spiced sandwich. It suits workday meals well with solid flavors and satisfying portions.

People are saying

"The vegan fish sauce here is on point."

"The vegan pork belly Banh Mi has a beautiful, meaty texture."

"The vegan banh mi here is so good, especially the pork belly."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a fully vegan menu.

2

Seating is very limited at the restaurant.

3

There is no bathroom available in the restaurant.

05
Carol's Bun image 1
Chinese restaurant

Narrow space with two small tables offers a simple, no-frills vibe. Hearty lunch combos serve fresh, hot Cantonese meals fast and affordably. Regulars love the excellent value and homemade style dishes for quick takeout.

Hearty lunch combos offer diverse flavors at a low price around $8. Lunch boxes come fresh and hot, making it a great spot for midday meals.

People are saying

"This takeout is authentic Cantonese and a great value."

"I got tomato and eggs over rice with my combo."

"I got a hearty lunch combo for under $10."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers takeout only with no seating available.

2

The lunch special costs $8.50 and includes rice and 3 dishes.

3

You can choose 3 items over rice for $7.50.

06
Bayard Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot with fresh sushi and reasonable prices offers a cozy setting with just three tables. Lunch specials include bento sushi and tempura, providing good value and quick bites. Street-side window view adds a unique touch to the basic atmosphere.

Lunch specials include soup or salad and offer good value. Sets feature bento sushi, sashimi, tempura, and fried pork gyoza for a quick bite.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The tempura California roll was very nice."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited, so plan to arrive early during peak hours.

2

Lunch specials include soup or salad and are a great deal.

3

The prices for sushi rolls are very cheap, making it budget-friendly.

07
Chang Lai image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small space with intimate layout offers a cozy, family-like vibe. Friendly young couple cooks in front, adding authentic energy. Affordable lunch with under $5 coffee suits quick meals on cold weekdays.

Extremely affordable lunch and drinks make this spot stand out, with coffee priced well under $5. A small portion fills up enough for lunch, and the food suits quick meals on cold, damp weekdays.

People are saying

"The curry fish balls are so good, a must-try!"

"The food here is super cheap and delicious."

"The curry fish balls and rice noodles are exceptional."

Good to know

1

There is a free drink with purchase until 8/1.

2

There is a drinks promotion of buy 2 drinks, get 1 free.

3

The A2 fish balls and rice rolls are available for purchase at 6 PM.

08
Zara Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Corner pizza store serves handmade artisanal pizza with fresh ingredients and classic NYC crisp. It suits quick lunches and casual dinners with friends, offering a modern cozy atmosphere and lively music. Prices stay fair for both fast bites and late-night meals.

Quick lunches often turn into longer meals with multiple slices or even buying a whole pizza to go. The spot works well for both fast bites and casual dinners with friends.

People are saying

"I thought Zara Pizza served the best pizza ever."

"I always came here for good pizza after a late night."

"The Philly Cheesesteak slice at this Lunch Spot is packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Zara Pizza allows customization of pizzas, which is perfect for picky eaters.

2

The price is $5 for two slices and a soda or water.

3

The one topping pie costs about $13.

09
E Noodle Chinatown image 1
Chinese noodle restaurant

Small space offers a calm vibe with instrumental music and a cozy back seating area. Known for authentic claypot rice and Hong Kong style dishes, it suits quick lunches and easy takeout. Crowd stays local and atmosphere is quiet and homey.

Good for a quick lunch or takeout with no wait around 11:30 AM. Serves small lunch meals suitable for families and casual dining.

People are saying

"This soup tastes like home, just like back in Hong Kong."

"I found the seafood dumplings and porridge to be delicious."

"I found roasted ducks at this Lunch Spot with true taste and proper seasoning."

Good to know

1

E Noodle is perfect for a quick lunch or takeout without long waiting.

2

There is a 3.5% service fee for card payments.

3

Complimentary tea is always offered.

10
Yi Ji Shi Mo image 1
Chinese noodle restaurant

Tiny spot buzzes with a street food party vibe and hand-made steamed rice rolls. Lunch serves a good size meal for $6 but expect a 20-30 minute wait. Locals and tourists mix in a raw, chaotic setting with minimal seating.

Lunch offers a good size meal for just $6 with freshly made rice rolls. Expect a wait of about 20-30 minutes during busy lunch hours.

People are saying

"The seafood rice rolls are silky, tender, and delicious."

"You can add their great chili crisp sauce yourself."

"The rice rolls here are delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash.

2

You should phone in and make the order for pickup to avoid the wait.

3

There is no seating available; it's take out only.

11
The Pie Guy Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza spot shines with New York style slices and unique toppings like buffalo chicken. Friendly, calm vibe with plenty of seating suits both solo diners and groups. Offers great value lunch options that satisfy midday hunger without breaking the bank.

Lunch offers great value with tasty options that come at a low cost. Frequent visits show it serves as a reliable spot for a midday meal.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be pretty dang good."

"The slices are good, cheap, and quality."

"This Lunch Spot pizza was out of this world."

Good to know

1

The price for 2 slices of cheese and a drink is $5.99.

2

The margarita pie takes about 15 minutes to prepare for takeout.

3

Customers can grab a slice, fold it, and walk and eat, New York style.

12
El Sazón R.D. image 1
Dominican restaurant

Small, cozy spot with authentic music and a lively atmosphere where people dance merengue. Lunch specials offer large portions with rice and beans, plus a drink for great value. Seating is limited, creating an intimate space that feels like an old-school kitchen.

Lunch specials offer large portions with a choice of meat and sides like rice and beans. Meals come with water or soda included and deliver authentic Dominican flavors at a great value around $13.

People are saying

"The Dominican Smash Burger with fried cheese is exceptional and flavorful."

"I found the food here to be affordable, with meals around $12."

"You have to try the Dominican Smash Burger; it's a winner."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has just a few seats, so takeout might be necessary.

2

The restaurant closes at 8 PM on Sundays.

3

The burger costs $20 with a drink.

13
Seng Seafood Restaurant image 1
Asian restaurant

Large venue buzzes with dim sum carts and shared tables, creating a lively, authentic vibe. Lunch features Hong Kong style dim sum served hot and fresh, best on weekdays for faster service. Decor stays true to the 80s, perfect for groups in the banquet room upstairs.

Lunch offers Hong Kong style dim sum with hot, freshly prepared dishes. Service can be slow on weekends, but weekdays provide a quicker experience.

People are saying

"The Dim Sum service was great and we were seated quickly."

"The food here was amazing and tasted so good."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Expect a small wait for the weekend brunch hours.

2

Be prepared to park in a lot just about 1 1/2 blocks away.

3

Arriving little after 11 AM is a good time to avoid long lines.

14
Chipilo image 1
Sandwich shop

Italian sandwiches shine with fresh bread and quality ingredients in a cozy atmosphere. Perfect for a quick meal, ordering ahead ensures lunch is ready on arrival. Enjoy a bangin playlist while dining in a low-key setting.

Ordering ahead gets lunch ready on arrival. The house special offers a perfect size for a quick meal. This spot serves a fast and tasty lunch ideal for a quick bite.

People are saying

"These sandwiches are so fresh and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's sandwiches are delicious, especially the meatball sub."

"The bread here is so fresh and makes the sandwiches delicious."

Good to know

1

The sandwich spot accepts both card and cash payments.

2

The price of the chicken sandwich is almost $15.

3

The restaurant offers half sandwiches, allowing customers to try two different ones.

15
Tofu Tofu image 1
Korean restaurant

Cozy space with authentic Korean decor offers a quiet escape perfect for family dinners or date nights. Lunch features filling portions like tofu stew with noodles, all under $30. Great value and a welcoming, traditional vibe make it a top spot.

Lunch offers filling portions with options like tofu stew topped with noodles. Prices stay under $30 and lunch deals provide great value for the city.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is so good, especially the fried chicken."

"This soup is rich, soul-warming, and felt like a hug."

"This lunch spot is the place to be for delicious Korean food."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not necessary as the wait is never longer than 5 minutes.

2

There is a long queue after 6:30 PM.

3

They stop service by 9 PM.

16
Bodhi Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant image 1

Vegetarian restaurant serves authentic dim sum in a cozy, nostalgic setting with free hot tea. Lunch specials at $9 to $10 include Sichuan hot pot and come with rice and soup. Close seating creates a welcoming vibe for groups and solo diners alike.

Lunch specials cost around $9 to $10 and include a choice of white or brown rice and a soup. Options like the eggplant, tofu skin, and Sichuan hot pot specials offer rich textures and flavors with satisfying gravy to mop up.

People are saying

"The vegetarian dim sum here is amazing and well-priced."

"The food here is delicious, with huge portions for a great price."

"The vegan ma po tofu is a satisfying Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

The lunch deal is available from Monday to Friday.

2

All dim sum options are vegetarian/vegan.

3

There are no reservations for parties of 2, just walk in.

17
NB Wing Wong image 1
Chinese restaurant

Hole in the wall Chinese spot with free hot tea and best chili sauce. Menu covers breakfast to dinner with soup dumplings and roast duck under $10. Lunch offers fulfilling Cantonese dishes perfect for takeout and satisfying meals.

Offers a solid selection of Cantonese breakfast and lunch dishes. Takeout lunches come highly fulfilling and satisfying.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the sweet and sour pork chop, is perfectly crispy and tender."

"The pickled cabbage soup tasted so authentic."

"This lunch spot's Cantonese BBQ meats are the best."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not accept credit cards; only cash is accepted.

2

NB Wing Wong offers tasty meals for under $10 before tax and tip.

3

Dine in and take out options are available.

18
Uncle Lou 快樂人 image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Spacious dining area with Asian decor sets a lively, modern Chinatown vibe. Lunch specials start around $10 and deliver consistent quality. Lazy Susan tables make sharing easy, enhancing the communal feel despite the loud atmosphere.

Lunch offers include specials starting around $10 with meals that taste good. Multiple visits confirm consistent quality during lunch hours.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is excellent, especially the Peking duck and dim sum."

"The dinner spots here serve authentic, delicious Cantonese food."

"This Lunch Spot's sweet and sour fish filet is perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Prepare for a long wait during dinner time.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

3

Cash payments warrant a 9% discount.

19
Gai Kitchen image 1
Thai restaurant

Small Thai spot in a bright food court offers affordable lunch specials with quick service. Lively atmosphere buzzes with diverse crowds, making it a vibrant dining experience. Seating is casual and encourages relaxed meals without rush.

Affordable lunch specials cost around $6 and include Thai style roasted chicken with rice and cucumber slices. Quick ordering and efficient service make it a solid choice for a fast lunch.

People are saying

"The authentic Thai sauces here are a perfect pairing with the juicy chicken."

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

"This lunch spot's chicken and ginger rice is so flavorful."

Good to know

1

You can get a hearty bowl of delicious Hainanese chicken rice starting at $6.5.

2

A large portion at Gai Kitchen is only $10 and it comes with free soup.

3

Paying cash at the desk is the best way to avoid tax and mandatory tip.

20
La Diáspora Bar & Restaurant image 1

Spacious dining room with colorful artwork sets a chill vibe for lunch specials and solid drinks. Music stays spot-on, enhancing the relaxed feel. Sugarcane mojitos and frozen margaritas pair well with highly rated tacos in a cozy, comfortable space.

Lunch features fantastic specials paired with solid drinks. The space feels comfortable and cozy, making it easy to enjoy a meal without too much noise or action.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is so polite and friendly."

"The Ropa Vieja at this Lunch Spot is delicious and satisfying."

"The atmosphere here is so vibrant and fun."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Lottery night happens every Thursday with fun prizes.

3

Free salsa dancing lessons are offered on Sundays at 3pm.

21
Pasteur Grill & Noodles image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant shines with a cozy atmosphere and quiet dining room. Lunch features a grilled beef vermicelli bowl perfect for a late meal. Outdoor seating adds charm on nice days, making it a warm, stylish spot.

Lunch offers include a vermicelli bowl with grilled beef. The spot tends to be very empty during Saturday lunch, even when busy elsewhere. It serves well for a late lunch or early dinner.

People are saying

"The pho broth here is exceptional and so delicious."

"I loved their fresh and crispy spring rolls."

"This lunch spot's pho broth is exceptional and generous with ingredients."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is small and gets very busy, especially during peak hours.

2

There is a 3% surcharge if you pay by credit card.

3

The portions served are smaller than expected based on the menu pictures.

22
Hop Lee image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small space with an old-school vibe and authentic Cantonese food shines with roast duck and fried lobster. Lunch specials offer great value between $7.50 and $9, including rice and soup. Servers in snappy red jackets add a formal touch to the quiet atmosphere.

Lunch specials cost between $7.50 and $9, including main meal, rice, and soup. Options come from a diverse lunch menu and offer good value during weekdays.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fantastic, especially the pepper corn calamari."

"The Cantonese lobster here is outrageously good and perfectly cooked."

"This Lunch Spot's Chinese food is delicious; I ate every bite."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash, so bring cash for your visit.

2

Lunch menu is available from 11am to 5pm with smaller plates.

3

The lunch deal costs $7.5 and includes a main meal, rice, and soup.

23
Bánh Mì Cô Út image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small Vietnamese shop offers crusty fresh bread sandwiches perfect for lunch. Cozy, family-run vibe with limited seating on a wooden bench outside. Cash only spot also shines with pastries and coffee, making it a great quick midday choice.

Offers decently priced sandwiches suitable for lunch without dining in. Pastries and coffee also stand out, making it a solid choice for a quick midday meal.

People are saying

"I finally found a legit Banh Mi spot with that authentic Vietnamese flavor."

"This lunch spot has delicious banh mi with fresh, flavorful ingredients."

"I loved the pandan honeycomb cake, it was a 10/10."

Good to know

1

This restaurant is cash only; bring cash to pay for your food.

2

It is takeout only with no dine-in option available.

3

You need to order ahead for the vegetarian bánh bột lọc.

24
Super Taste image 1
Chinese restaurant

Tiny space with six small tables feels cramped and noisy with yelling in Chinese. Quick lunch options serve high quality food in plastic bowls for about $6. Portions are filling and lines are common, showing its popularity.

Offers quick lunch options with high quality food at a reasonable price around $6. Portions are filling and popular enough to cause long lines.

People are saying

"I thought the fried dumplings were the best I've had."

"I found the food to be delicious and affordable."

"This lunch spot offers cheap, delicious noodles and dumplings."

Good to know

1

Bring cash for dumplings as they don't come with sauce.

2

There are no restrooms available in the restaurant.

3

Good luck finding a seat; sharing tables is common.

25
West Rice Roll King 西关肠粉王 image 1

Tiny space with limited seating creates a busy vibe perfect for quick stops. Plates cost about $5, making it a budget-friendly lunch choice. Fresh rice rolls made at the counter add a fast, tasty option for grab-and-go meals.

Plates cost around $5, making it a reasonable option for a quick lunch. The spot suits grabbing something fast for lunch or dinner.

People are saying

"The seafood rice rolls here are so fresh and delicious."

"I loved the curry fish balls; they were super delicious."

"I loved the fluffy rice rolls at this Lunch Spot; they were delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash only; bring cash for your visit.

2

Seating is extremely limited, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect to wait at least 20-30 minutes after ordering.

26
Mostrador NYC image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop setting with modern decor and natural light creates a bright, inviting lunch spot. Enjoy fresh salads and the Mostrador plate for a satisfying meal. Cocktails offer unique flavors, while dulce de leche flan makes a sweet finish.

Lunch offers a diverse and satisfying selection with fresh salads and the Mostrador plate as a staple. The dulce de leche flan serves as a sweet finish to the meal.

People are saying

"The brunch empanadas were juicy and perfectly spiced."

"The service here makes dinner feel so welcoming and warm."

"This lunch spot's pastries and medialunas tasted so authentic."

Good to know

1

Make reservations first as it gets busy quick.

2

The menu changes every day.

3

The dishes are tapas type, so take into account the size.

27
Taiwan Pork Chop House image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Outdoor seating with plastic red chairs offers a nostalgic Asian vibe while lunch features authentic porkchop rice with pickled vegetables. Indoor space feels cramped but authentic with faded walls, creating a chill, lively atmosphere perfect for affordable meals.

Lunch offers porkchop rice that tastes like authentic Taiwanese lunch boxes, including familiar pickled vegetables. A small terrace provides a casual spot to enjoy affordable takeout meals.

People are saying

"I loved the rich and comforting flavor of their soup."

"I found the food to be delicious and cheap."

"This lunch spot's salt pepper chicken is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

This restaurant is cash only, so be sure to have cash on you.

2

You can get a huge portion for around $8.

3

The total cost for the pork chop over rice and a tea egg is $9.

28
Cafe Hong Kong image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Classic Cantonese spot buzzes with authentic atmosphere and draws mostly seniors. Lunch specials like Crispy Chicken with Garlic Sauce cost about 40% less than nearby places. Family-style meals spin on a turntable, with private rooms downstairs for groups.

Lunch specials cost around $11 to $12 and include dishes like Crispy Chicken with Garlic Sauce, Steamed Carp Fish, and Eggplant with Garlic Sauce. A turntable supports family-style dining, and prices run about 40% cheaper than similar Chinese food nearby.

People are saying

"The lunch specials here are a great deal."

"The steamed fish here is so fresh and delicious."

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

Good to know

1

This is a CASH ONLY restaurant, so please bring enough cash.

2

The lunch special costs only 10.99, offering great value.

3

The portions are very generous, ensuring a filling meal.

29
Norimen image 1
Korean restaurant

Modern Korean spot shines with a warm atmosphere and stylish design. Lunch specials include a standout tteok-galbi bento made with high quality ingredients. Unique cocktails add to the super chill vibe for a relaxed, special experience.

Lunch specials feature delicious Korean bentos made with high quality ingredients. The lunch sets include a standout tteok-galbi with rice cake inside.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and really fresh."

"I found the decor and atmosphere to be very modern and pleasing."

"The donkatsu at this Lunch Spot is perfectly crispy and juicy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes between lunch and dinner, reopening at 4 PM.

2

Parking in Chinatown is limited; consider using a nearby garage.

3

Reservations are not required, and walk-ins are welcome during dinner hours.

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Chinatown, New York

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