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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Midtown East

Lunch spots

Made for those who treat their midday break as a non-negotiable ritual in the middle of a busy workday.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Lunch Box image 1
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Lunch restaurant

Outdoor seating by a 5-meter-high waterfall creates a peaceful lunch spot. Friendly staff serve amazing burgers at low prices. The loud water sounds make it a quiet oasis but phone calls are tough.

A quick outdoor lunch spot with friendly staff offers amazing burgers at reasonable prices. The menu features fresh, high-quality items and some of the lowest prices in the area.

People are saying

"I ate the best burger I've ever had at this Lunch Spot."

"You can sit outside in a peaceful courtyard with a waterfall."

"I found The Lunch Box to be an amazing hidden gem."

Good to know

1

The prices at this restaurant are well below average, with fries costing only $3.50.

2

The wait time for a wrap is over 45 minutes during lunch rush at 1 PM.

3

There is no interior seating.

02
Yumpling Midtown image 1

Spacious layout and modern decor create a lively, welcoming atmosphere perfect for lunch. Fast service pairs well with crispy fried chicken sandwiches and flavorful dumplings. Regulars love the authentic Taiwanese food and quick, tasty meals.

Lunch options focus on fast service with real flavor. The menu features items like a fried chicken burger that draw regular visits.

People are saying

"These dumplings are so juicy and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's fried chicken is juicy, flavorful, and crispy."

"It's a casual spot with flavorful, comforting food like dumplings."

Good to know

1

The wait time can be a little long during peak hours.

2

Yumpling Midtown has limited seating available.

3

The chicken sandwich costs $11.25.

03
Dos Toros - Burritos, Bowls, and Tacos image 1

Newly renovated space offers quick service with orders ready in under 10 minutes, perfect for a fast lunch near Grand Central. Friendly staff keep the atmosphere chill and refreshing despite busy crowds. Clean design and good music add to the welcoming vibe.

Quick service stands out with orders ready in less than 10 minutes even during the lunch rush. The spot stays clean and lines move fast, making it a solid choice for a fast lunch near Grand Central.

People are saying

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

"This is my favorite lunch spot because the food is always great."

"I thought the burrito here was exceptionally delicious."

Good to know

1

Lines move quickly, especially during lunch hours.

2

Expect your online order to be ready in under 10 minutes.

3

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness.

04
Charoen Krung Thai image 1
Thai restaurant

Elegant decor and a cozy ambiance create a warm spot for lunch with Lunch Specials like pad thai and spring rolls. Unique cocktails such as lychee martinis complement authentic Thai flavors. Upstairs party space adds a lively weekend vibe, making it great for both meals and fun.

Lunch features a Lunch Special with good portions and a solid deal. Options include pad thai, spring rolls, and salad, making it a reliable spot for midday meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The cocktails here are beautifully presented and taste amazing."

"I loved their lunch special; it was a great deal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Sunday to Thursday from 4-7 PM with specials under $10.

2

Lunch specials include a meal for low $20s with salad and dumplings.

3

Reservations are recommended to avoid long waits, especially for lunch.

05
Palladino’s Steak & Seafood image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Elegant dining space offers stunning views over Grand Central Station and a beautiful bar. Lunch features a corned beef sandwich with friendly, efficient service. Atmosphere blends sophistication and warmth, perfect for casual or business meals.

Lunch features a corned beef and pastrami sandwich that stands out. Service is friendly and efficient, making it suitable for both casual and business meals.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and full of flavor."

"The steak here is amazing, with attentive and knowledgeable service."

"The food at this lunch spot was delicious and came out fast."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand shortly after opening.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours on weekends.

3

The restaurant accepts credit cards and mobile payments only.

06
Tensai image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with cozy atmosphere offers quick, satisfying meals perfect for lunch. Light, savory broths and chewy udon noodles create an authentic dining experience. Bar seats by the window provide a peaceful spot for people watching.

Cozy spot offers quick lunch options with a nice atmosphere. Meals satisfy without delay, making it a reliable choice for midday dining.

People are saying

"The udon here is perfectly chewy and full of flavor."

"It's a cozy, small spot with a warm atmosphere."

"The udon at this Lunch Spot is bouncy with a flavorful broth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

The menu features dishes priced between $10-20.

3

Seating is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

07
Tartinery Café - Bar | Olympic Tower image 1

Magnificent views of St. Patrick's Cathedral create a breathtaking backdrop. Peaceful, quiet energy suits work or relaxation with casual seating. Lunch combos offer a well priced meal with soup and petite tartine, while occasional live music adds a lively touch without noise.

Lunch combos include a soup and petite tartine for $15.5, offering a well priced and perfectly sized meal. The ambiance stays pleasant and peaceful with live music during lunch hours.

People are saying

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

"It's surprisingly quiet, a nice oasis in the busy town."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot is so kind and attentive."

Good to know

1

The restaurant gets busy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

2

The kitchen closes at 4:30 PM, despite the all-day menu.

3

Lunch deal includes a soup and small tartine for $15.5.

08
The Chick Shop image 1
Falafel restaurant

Basement spot serves fresh falafel and creamy hummus with fast service. Casual setting inside an atrium offers plenty of seating. Perfect for quick, satisfying lunches with many vegetarian options and easy to grab to-go.

Offers fast service and delicious food ideal for a quick lunch. Convenient for to-go orders and located near other lunch spots.

People are saying

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

"The food at this Lunch Spot is fresh and delicious."

"I found The Chick Shop to be a little hidden gem with good food."

Good to know

1

To find the restaurant, enter from 50th, go downstairs, and head to the back right corner.

2

The restaurant is located in the lower level of the building.

3

The Chick Shop offers classic Israeli flavors and many vegetarian options.

09
Rocco Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Elegant steakhouse boasts classic decor with leather booths and dark wood. Lunch features a US50 prix fixe menu on weekdays, offering great value. Spacious layout includes a private room perfect for groups, blending casual and refined vibes.

Lunch offers a prix fixe menu with a US50 lunch set available Monday to Friday at noon. The lunch specials provide solid value and variety.

People are saying

"The steak here is perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful."

"The American Food, especially the steak and seafood, is unforgettable."

"The ribeye steak at this Lunch Spot is outstanding and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially on busy nights like Valentine's Day.

2

Expect long wait times, potentially over an hour, during peak dining hours.

3

Rocco's is on the pricier side, reflecting the quality of food and service.

10
Hōseki image 1
Restaurant

Seven-seat sushi bar offers an intimate, quiet vibe with chef's craftsmanship and fresh fish flown daily. Quick lunch features Michelin-quality sushi and generous portions at a good price. Hip, calm atmosphere suits both casual and refined dining.

Offers a quick lunch with Michelin-quality sushi and an imaginative omakase prepared by the chef. Located conveniently for a one-stop lunch, it serves generous portions at a good price.

People are saying

"Chef Morgan's omakase lunch was outstanding and imaginative."

"This sushi spot is a quiet, intimate speakeasy downstairs."

"It's a lovely, intimate place with a calm, comfortable energy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

2

The restaurant is located in the basement of Saks Fifth Avenue.

3

Expect a set menu with no à la carte options.

11
OBAO Midtown Thai & Vietnamese restaurant image 1

Spacious Thai spot shines with outdoor seating and a full bar offering large drinks. Lunch is a steal with a weekday set menu and free appetizer. Enjoy lively vibes with pretty decor and great music.

Lunch here features a reasonable price with a lunch set menu available on weekdays until 4 pm, including a free appetizer. The spot suits workday meals with a reliable, tasty selection.

People are saying

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

"The drunken noodles here are amazing and packed with flavor."

"This lunch spot's food is packed with flavor and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour features $3 Sapporo beers from 11 AM to 6 PM.

2

The restaurant offers a lunch special with a free appetizer on weekdays from 11:30 AM to 4 PM.

3

There is a $20 all-you-can-drink beer special available.

12
Kati Shop image 1
Thai restaurant

Tiny space with modern industrial vibes and ample sunlight offers a cozy, quiet spot. Fast, efficient service suits busy office workers grabbing healthy Panang curry for lunch. Nut-free, gluten-free Thai curries bring authentic flavors with options from mild to very spicy.

Fast operation and highly efficient service make it a solid choice for office lunch. Offers tasty Thai takeout, including a healthy, protein-rich Panang curry and good lunch specials.

People are saying

"I found the healthy Thai food here to be delicious and protein-rich."

"The service here is great and really helpful."

"This lunch spot has great food and curry sauce."

Good to know

1

Kati Shop is a dedicated gluten-free facility.

2

Everything on the menu is gluten-free.

3

Be prepared to wait in line during lunch hours.

13
La Piazza New York image 1
Italian restaurant

Murano chandeliers and a mask wall create an elegant, cozy setting with live jazz music adding charm. Pre fixe lunch menu offers great value with magnificent main courses and homemade desserts. Energy feels friendly and inviting, perfect for casual or special meals.

Offers a pre fixe lunch menu with great value and solid options. Lunch includes excellent starters, magnificent main courses, and homemade desserts, finishing with coffee and gelato.

People are saying

"The food here tastes like authentic Italian roots."

"The Italian food here is served with such friendly and attentive service."

"This lunch spot has amazing pasta dishes, especially the ravioli."

Good to know

1

Live jazz performances happen every Thursday evening, creating a lively atmosphere.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

3

The $10 Aperol Spritz is available during happy hour on Sundays.

14
Liberty Bagels Grand Central image 1

Bright space with giant bagel mosaic and Statue of Liberty mural sets a cool vibe. Offers solid chicken cutlet sandwich and Bronx bomber for lunch. Ample standing counters make it great for quick, casual meals.

Variety of breakfast and lunch options stands out here. Sandwiches like the chicken cutlet and Bronx bomber make solid lunch choices on bagels.

People are saying

"These bagels are fresh, delicious, and hit the spot."

"This is the best Lunch Spot for bagels in Manhattan."

"I found the coffee here to be good."

Good to know

1

There is barely any wait time during off-peak hours.

2

Seating can be difficult during peak hours.

3

They offer a wide variety of bagel flavors and cream cheese options.

15
Murphys Irish Pub image 1

Irish pub buzzes with live music and big TVs for sports fans. Cozy walls show black-and-white prints and signed books. Lunch menu offers solid options in a casual spot with space for private parties upstairs.

A nice lunch menu offers solid options for midday meals. The pub provides a casual spot to enjoy lunch with friends.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are really friendly and make it a great time."

"It's a great neighborhood haunt with a fantastic local crowd."

"This lunch spot has terrific food, like the best sliders."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features $9 beers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

The venue is close to the subway station for easy access.

3

Prices for shots are higher than average for the area.

16
Teranga Midtown image 1
West African restaurant

Open air food hall buzzes with lively atmosphere and a popular bar area. West African bowls pack bold flavors like jollof rice and suya meat. Perfect for quick, flavorful meals and filling lunch bowls during work breaks.

Lunch features filling bowls that stand out for their unique flavors. The spot suits quick breaks and works well for coworker lunches.

People are saying

"The West African food here is fantastic and flavorful."

"The ancient vegan bowl was packed with flavor and spice."

"You'll feel so full after this lunch spot's generous portions."

Good to know

1

Teranga opens Monday through Saturday every week.

2

The restaurant offers fantastic vegan options.

3

The pricing at Teranga is relatively affordable compared to other restaurants in the Midtown area.

17
Carrot Express image 1
Restaurant

Spacious, stylish interior with bright lighting and immaculate cleanliness creates a calm, cozy vibe. Ample seating supports a relaxed lunch experience. Known for healthy, delicious options that handle a busy weekday rush well.

Offers healthy and delicious options with a focus on lunch. Handles a busy weekday lunch rush with high demand. Frequented regularly for midday meals.

People are saying

"The healthy foods here are fresh, delicious, and flavorful."

"I ate every last crumb of the carrot cake."

"This lunch spot has fresh, healthy, and delicious food."

Good to know

1

Customers should order ahead online to avoid long wait times.

2

You get 10 bucks off if you order from the app.

3

The restaurant does not offer table service.

18
Blue Park Kitchen image 1
New American restaurant

Bright, cozy spot offers gluten-free options and vegan meals for health-conscious diners. Quick pick-up and compostable containers make it ideal for fast, satisfying lunches with quality choices like turkey meatballs and ricotta bowls.

Offers a higher standard of food than typical lunch bowls with options like turkey meatballs and ricotta bowls. Uses compostable to-go containers and suits quick, satisfying meals for work lunches.

People are saying

"This is a great lunch spot for quick, healthy food."

"You have to try the turkey meatballs with zesty lemon ricotta."

"I thought the salmon here was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The breakfast deal includes two burritos and coffee for $15.

2

The restaurant uses compostable to-go containers for sustainability.

3

Blue Park offers good gluten-free and vegan options.

19
Tartinery Café - Bar | Grand Central image 1

Open café with full bar offers quick lunch combos like soup and sandwich specials. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and pleasant to bustling with travelers. Service stays congenial and attentive, making it great for personal or business meals.

Lunch offers quick combos with a soup and sandwich special and a good drink selection. Service stays congenial and attentive during personal or business meals.

People are saying

"The food here is simple, good, and original."

"The happy hour staff, especially Carlos and Chris, were so kind and helpful."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7 PM with $5 beers.

2

The happy hour offers 2 for 1 tarts.

3

The location is perfect for happy hour before catching the train.

20
Pesce lulu Seafood Kitchen NYC image 1

Seafood kitchen shines with fresh seafood sandwiches and pasta in a lively food hall. Indoor greenery and high ceilings create an airy atmosphere perfect for quick, tasty lunches. Chill music keeps the vibe casual and inviting for any time dining.

Offers reasonably priced lunch specials featuring fresh seafood sandwiches and pasta dishes. Serves as a solid option for a quick, tasty lunch or casual dinner after work.

People are saying

"The fish tacos here are some of the best I've ever had."

"I found this to be a great lunch spot."

"The fisherman's soup is so flavorful and hit the spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features fish tacos and prosecco with four menu options.

2

The restaurant is located in the Hugh Food Hall in the Citicorp building.

3

The fish tacos and fries cost about $10 and change.

21
Spice Mantra image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with modern Indian music setting a relaxed mood. Lunch specials provide affordable value with dishes like fish curry and yogurt dessert. Large tables suit both intimate dinners and groups, encouraging easy conversation.

Lunch specials offer incredible value with a variety of dishes like fish curry, rice, pastry, and yogurt dessert. Prices range from $12 to $20, making meals both affordable and filling.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the salmon tikka."

"The Indian food, especially the butter chicken, was phenomenal."

"This Lunch Spot's Indian food is superb and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The lunch special costs around $12 for two dishes, rice, and bread.

2

Weekday lunch offers a good deal for budget-conscious diners.

3

Reservations are hard to come by in the upcoming months.

22
Chopt Creative Salad Co. image 1

Fast, customizable salads with fresh ingredients make this spot ideal for quick meals. Clean, efficient space suits a health-conscious crowd seeking quick lunch pickups. Limited seating encourages grab-and-go visits during busy hours.

A very fast salad joint with a focus on quick lunch pickups. It handles large crowds well and serves as a reliable spot for a quick lunch break.

People are saying

"I found the salads here to be amazing and so fresh."

"This lunch spot's staff is always friendly and fast."

"I found the healthy foods here to be fast and customizable."

Good to know

1

You should order ahead during noon if you are in a rush.

2

The line moves quickly at the salad joint.

3

There is very limited seating.

23
Fasano Restaurant New York image 1

Elegant dining space blends modern decor with an old-New York vibe, perfect for intimate evenings or larger gatherings. Live jazz adds warmth and sophistication. Quiet enough for lunch meetings, with private dining upstairs and tasty fixed lunch menus.

Quiet enough for conversations during lunch meetings, with options for private dining upstairs. Offers a swanky atmosphere and delicious fixed lunch menus suitable for business or casual meals.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was outstanding and full of flavor."

"The service here is so classy, attentive without being overbearing."

"The food here is fantastic; you'll love this lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are confirmed 24 hours in advance, which is unusual for most venues.

2

The kitchen closes at 10 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect prices around $100 per person for entrees and desserts, excluding drinks.

24
Kips Bay Gourmet Market Deli image 1

New deli boasts a clean interior and 24-hour service, perfect for quick meals. Offers a vast variety of drinks and snacks with reasonable prices and frequent deals. Casual, inviting atmosphere suits both breakfast and lunch on the go.

Daily lunch option with consistent availability. Offers quick meals suitable for breakfast and lunch on the go.

People are saying

"I found the deli food delicious and the prices really reasonable."

"I loved the buffet's huge selection of delicious food."

"The Lunch Spot staff were amazing and helpful."

Good to know

1

The deli has a big selection of all kinds of food and drinks.

2

The place is clean and well-maintained.

3

They offer organic snacks and drinks.

25
Shima Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot offers fresh sushi in a relaxing atmosphere with fun music. Lunch specials include a 3 roll combo and salmon teriyaki bento around $15. Prices stay reasonable for quality and portion size.

Lunch features a 3 roll special and a bento box option with salmon teriyaki. Pricing for the lunch special is around $15 and maintains consistent quality.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is super fresh and well-crafted."

"The lunch spot bento box is a great deal for the price."

"These soup dumplings are the best I will ever try."

Good to know

1

There is a $15 lunch special available.

2

The bento box special offers a good amount of food for the price.

3

The restaurant is not crowded even after 6:00 PM on a workday.

26
fresh&co image 1
Restaurant

Spacious spot with quick service and a friendly atmosphere. Offers healthy lunch bowls and tasty breakfast options. Loud music adds an energetic tone perfect for a fast, nutritious meal.

Quick service and healthy lunch bowls stand out here. Plenty of options for salads and breakfast make it a solid spot for a fast, nutritious meal.

People are saying

"This is my favorite lunch spot for fresh, healthy food."

"I usually ordered the Mexican Pepita Caesar salad."

"I loved the amazing chicken shawarma bowl."

Good to know

1

The total cost for 2 eggs, bacon, cheese on a bagel, and a medium coffee is $9.50.

2

They offer signature salads and bowls, plus create-your-own options.

3

Fresh & Co offers a variety of options for breakfast and lunch.

27
Animo! image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican cafe blends authentic flavors with a lively atmosphere fueled by Latin American music. Lunch menu offers varied options perfect for a midday break. Seating choices support a fast-paced yet welcoming vibe ideal for casual dining.

Offers a great menu for lunch with options that suit various tastes. Serves meals that work well for a midday break or casual dining.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The food and drinks at these dinner spots are amazing."

"This lunch spot's food tasted homemade and was delicious."

Good to know

1

Animo! operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.

2

They offer a tortilla making class later this month.

3

You need to order at the counter.

28
Lucky Cat image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Izakaya-style spot with authentic Japanese decor and retro anime visuals creates a cozy vibe. Lunch features a chicken katsu curry set and a $3 draft beer deal. Enjoy anime-inspired cocktails and lively energy with a DJ and classic anime movies.

Lunch offers a set menu with salad, appetizer, beverage, and a main dish that fills you up. The chicken katsu curry set stands out, and there is a $3 draft beer deal during lunch.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and authentic Japanese."

"It's a cozy spot with a great atmosphere and eclectic decorations."

"I found the lunch spot tasty and quick."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a meal, especially for large groups.

2

Happy hour offers $4 Sapporo and runs daily from 12pm to 6pm.

3

Free parking at the meter is available after 7 PM.

29
Muna image 1
Indian restaurant

Spacious dining area with beautiful decor and great art creates a warm, welcoming vibe. Lunch features an all you can eat buffet with quick, friendly service. Upstairs offers a romantic vibe while a private hall suits larger groups.

Lunch offers all you can eat buffet options with two entries plus rice or naan for around $16 to $20. Service is quick and friendly, making it a solid choice for a midday meal.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and full of flavor."

"I found the samosas incredibly satisfying and homely."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is very flavorful and tasty."

Good to know

1

Muna offers an all-day prix fixe menu for $28.95.

2

The special includes an entrée, main, and dessert for approximately $28.

3

Muna does not serve alcohol.

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