Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Nolita

Lunch spots

Made for those who treat their midday meal as a serious commitment to finding the most honest, unpretentious cooking in the city.

Based on 592 Opinions
+589
User
User
User
Updated
01
Niukee Shumai image 1
Niukee Shumai image 2
Niukee Shumai image 3
View all

Small, modern Chinese restaurant with a cozy vibe and minimalist design. Tables sit close together, creating an intimate atmosphere with comfortable seating. Known for authentic, high-quality shumai that stand out in the city.

Shumai here offers authentic Chinese flavors with a fresh and original touch. The lamb shumai captures inner Mongolian taste closely, making it a solid choice for genuine dishes.

Lunch specials offer a variety of options like beef shumai, shredded chicken salad, and bone broth soup. Meals come at a very affordable price and serve as a great deal between 12:00pm and 4:00pm.

People are saying

"I found the shumai here to be delicious and authentic."

"The lunch special here is really filling and a great price."

"The shumai tastes truly authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not have a restroom; use the cafe next door with a passcode.

2

The lunch special is $13 for 12 shumai and one appetizer from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

3

The price for a soup, appetizer, and 6 shumai is $12.95.

02
Despaña image 1
Despaña image 2
Despaña image 3
View all

Cozy space combines Spanish grocery market with a small tapas bar featuring authentic Iberian atmosphere and rock en español music. The vibe is relaxing and elegant, ideal for casual catch-ups. Quality Spanish products and wines complement the experience.

Authentic Spanish dishes like patatas rojo and fried cheese balls with meat and cheese inside stand out. The place offers hard to find items and authentic drinks such as vermouth on the rocks and tinto de verano.

Fantastic sandwiches and a light lunch menu make this spot ideal for midday meals. The lovely ambience invites lingering beyond a quick bite.

People are saying

"The food here is so authentic, it reminds me of my childhood."

"I loved stopping here for lunch and specialty imported items."

"I usually stop by for a quick, light lunch."

Good to know

1

Dinner service runs from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Every last Saturday of the month features a promotion for tostas and pinchos.

3

Customers need to order at the register after being seated.

03
5ive Spice Tacos & Banh Mi image 1
5ive Spice Tacos & Banh Mi image 2
5ive Spice Tacos & Banh Mi image 3
View all

Vietnamese restaurant offers a vibrant chill vibe with both indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels authentic and welcoming, often quiet on weeknights. Unique feature includes a hidden bathroom behind a bookshelf, adding a fun surprise to the clean, cute space.

Broth and dishes like pho and banh mi deliver authentic flavors with a modern twist. Mango salad and 5ive Spice special pho stand out for their tasty and genuine profiles.

Welcoming staff create a relaxed vibe during lunch hours. Outdoor seating suits quick meals, making it a solid choice for a quick lunch or a relaxed and yummy midday break.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has amazing pho and crispy chicken banh mi."

"The pho and banh mi here are so authentic and delightful."

"It's a great place for a quick, relaxed lunch."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect a wait of 30-45 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred.

04
La Pecora Bianca SoHo image 1
La Pecora Bianca SoHo image 2
La Pecora Bianca SoHo image 3
View all

Corner location with seamless indoor and outdoor seating creates an airy, chic atmosphere. Large sidewalk patio with heated terrace offers comfortable al fresco dining. Wide open dining room with garage door style windows enhances the spacious, relaxed vibe.

It serves authentic Italian food that is consistently fresh and flavorful. Italians dining there add to the genuine atmosphere and the dishes hit all the right spots at reasonable prices.

Offers a quick lunch service with delicious pasta dishes like Garganelli with wild mushrooms. The spot is family friendly and provides a beautiful setting for a midday meal.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's pasta dishes, like the Campanelle with shrimp, are delicious."

"The food tastes truly authentic and delicious."

"The food here is authentic, fresh, and flavorful Italian."

Good to know

1

The brunch-only menu ends at 1:45 PM on Saturdays.

2

It is a good idea to make reservations because the place is always full.

3

You need to have a reservation for dinner or try your luck at the bar.

05
Balzem image 1
Balzem image 2
Balzem image 3
View all

Tiny Mediterranean restaurant offers romantic decor and live DJ music that fills the space loudly. Seating includes a community table and a cute outdoor patio, creating a vibey and intimate atmosphere. The place feels busy and cozy, best suited for couples rather than groups.

Food offers flavorful, fresh, and authentic tastes. Authentic baklava comes highly recommended.

Lunch offers a great atmosphere and very good food served until 4am. Staff are helpful, and weekdays are quiet for a relaxed meal.

People are saying

"The authentic Mediterranean food here is amazing and flavorful."

"The food at this lunch spot was really delicious."

"Lunch here is always tasty and healthy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Bottomless mimosas are available on weekends for $30 per person.

3

A complimentary drink and flatbread are offered during the anniversary celebration.

06
Café Habana image 1
Café Habana image 2
Café Habana image 3
View all

Small space with cramped indoor seating contrasts with comfortable outdoor dining that offers more room. Latin music fills the air, creating a fun, eclectic atmosphere that feels lively and chaotic. The design blends vintage American diner style with Caribbean and Spanish influences.

Authentic Cuban food shines here with a Caribbean aesthetic that feels genuine. The worn interior adds to the Latin American vibe, making it a casual spot for real Latin flavors.

Cubano sandwiches and Media noche stand out as solid lunch choices. Outdoor seating offers a relaxed vibe for casual midday meals.

People are saying

"You have to try the Cuban sandwich at this lunch spot; it's the best."

"It's an authentic Cuban gem with delicious food."

"I love grabbing a casual lunch here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7 PM with 50% off all cocktails.

2

Reservations are not required, but be prepared to wait for a table.

3

A 20% tip is automatically added for parties of 2 or more.

07
Marcellino image 1
Marcellino image 2
Marcellino image 3
View all

Giant wood-fired pizza oven behind the bar anchors a space with cozy Italian decor and beautiful outdoor patio views. Fantastic music sets a lively yet pleasant mood, making it ideal for conversation and relaxed dining.

Italian dishes feature fresh ingredients and home-made meals with a delicious, authentic taste. The atmosphere supports a genuine Italian dining experience.

Lunch offers pizza and pasta with a $25 lunch special that provides good value. The setting includes Italian music and al fresco dining with cozy hospitality.

People are saying

"I found the food to be truly authentic Italian."

"I love how authentic the food and vibe feel here."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was fabulous and friendly."

Good to know

1

The restaurant was busy during the San Cerano festival.

2

The total cost for 2 people was $250.

3

The restaurant automatically charges 18% gratuity even for a party of 2.

08
Tacombi image 1
Tacombi image 2
Tacombi image 3
View all

Garage-style space with high ceilings and open layout creates a street market feel. Atmosphere is lively and authentic, evoking a Mexican vibe with a chilled, spacious setting. Plenty of outdoor seating and casual dining make it kid-friendly.

Mexican food here has a real authentic taste that feels like being on the streets of Mexico. The atmosphere is vibrant and genuine, creating a truly authentic dining experience.

Quick meals suit this spot well, with the cod taco standing out as a light finisher for lunch. It works for both early lunches and casual midday breaks.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be mega authentic and incredibly flavorful."

"This lunch spot's tacos and esquites are delicious."

"I love the authentic Mexican vibe here."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays feature special deals on tacos.

2

Drink specials are available throughout the week.

3

Expect a 20-30 minute wait for takeout orders, even on slow days.

09
Emporio image 1
Emporio image 2
Emporio image 3
View all

Italian restaurant offers cozy decor with a backyard seating area featuring natural light from a glass panel roof. Atmosphere is chic and lively, often filled with great music that enhances the vibrant energy. Space accommodates larger groups comfortably, making it suitable for social gatherings.

Dishes showcase authentic Italian flavors with fresh, mostly organic ingredients. The menu includes a delightful and unusual selection prepared with great attention to detail.

Lunch features pizzas, octopus appetizer, and focaccia alongside salads. Seating is prompt with a cozy, classic atmosphere.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has amazing pasta and pizza, just like in Italy."

"The authentic Italian food here is amazing and packed with flavor."

"I enjoy coming here for lunch any day."

Good to know

1

A reservation is definitely needed for dinner.

2

Without a reservation, it is very difficult to get a place on the weekend.

3

Finding parking can be difficult sometimes in New York.

10
Rubirosa image 1
Rubirosa image 2
Rubirosa image 3
View all

Narrow space with a NYC vibe and tight seating creates an intimate but sometimes cramped atmosphere. Calm music and great air conditioning balance the energy, making it comfortable despite the crowd. Frequent door traffic can cause temperature shifts, adding to the dynamic environment.

Thin crust pizza stands out with its authentic Italian flavor. Pasta dishes carry classic, homely flavor profiles that reflect genuine Italian cooking. The overall vibe feels warm and authentic.

Lunch offers large portions of pasta and pizza with top service even during busy times. The spot works well for groups and delivers a great experience consistently.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Italian pizza here to be incredible."

"The pizza here is outstanding, especially the thin crust."

"I enjoyed the relaxed lunch vibe and easy seating."

Good to know

1

Reservations should be made 1 or 2 days in advance.

2

The usual wait is 45-60 minutes, not 90+ minutes.

3

You need to be punctual as they mean it when they say you have ten minutes to get there after the text.

11
Genkiya Mart image 1
Genkiya Mart image 2
Genkiya Mart image 3
View all

Brightly lit and well organized, the space offers neat displays and a clean layout. Small tables with microwaves invite quick meals, while a wide selection of Japanese groceries and snacks caters to diverse tastes. Evening discounts create a lively shopping atmosphere after 8pm.

High density of goods fills the shelves with authentic Japanese snacks. Food offerings stay authentic and flavorful throughout.

Affordable lunch options include sushi and onigiri made fresh in-store. Prices stay reasonable, but some items like onigiri have caused food poisoning.

People are saying

"I enjoy the wide range of Japanese snacks and meals here."

"I found the lunch options here to be great and affordable."

"I found the Japanese snacks here to be so authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Sushi, bentos, and onigiri are 50% off after 8pm daily.

2

They offer a 50% sale on hot food after 8 PM.

3

There is a strict credit card minimum of $10.

12
Thai Diner image 1
Thai Diner image 2
Thai Diner image 3
View all

American diner setting blends with Thai-style decor featuring plants and art, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a cozy, multi-season space that welcomes dogs and service animals. Crowd tends to be cool and lively, with dim lighting and a mix of indoor and outdoor areas.

Food captures authentic Thai flavors with dishes like Masaman curry that taste fresh and genuine. Drinks such as Thai Tea and snacks like Disco Fries add to the unique, authentic experience.

Lunch offers a wonderful experience with consistently lovely meals. Early lunch visits highlight a perfect balance of flavors and quality.

People are saying

"The egg sandwich and fried rice at this Lunch Spot were excellent."

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

"The food has authentic Thai flavors with a modern twist."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of 1.5 hours during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for breakfast to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant serves brunch items daily before 5pm.

13
Zutto Japanese Ramen Sushi Bar image 1
Zutto Japanese Ramen Sushi Bar image 2
Zutto Japanese Ramen Sushi Bar image 3
View all

Exposed brick and ramen-themed decor create a funky, clean interior with a hidden seating area that fills with phenomenal aromas. Loud music and TVs showing food preparation add to a sports bar vibe while a full bar and outdoor terrace offer diverse seating options. The atmosphere suits both solo diners and families, blending casual energy with unique design.

Ramen and sushi here have a heavier taste and feel more authentic compared to nearby spots. The atmosphere stays cool and genuine, matching the quick and tasty food.

Lunch offers a great quality-to-cost ratio with wonderful prices. The menu suits a quick break and balances quality and value well.

People are saying

"The lunch spot specials are a great deal, often including soup."

"I found the ramen here to be authentic and delicious."

"I love their lunch specials and kid-friendly vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 12 PM to 6 PM with a $30 open bar.

2

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

3

The restaurant offers a special promo of $8.99 meals and $1 cocktails.

14
19 Cleveland image 1
19 Cleveland image 2
19 Cleveland image 3
View all

Mediterranean restaurant offers a tight, crowded space with loud music and high energy that grows rowdier later. Outdoor heated terrace and a secret downstairs speakeasy add unique layers to the experience.

Dishes highlight authentic Israeli flavors with fresh, top-notch ingredients. Menu offers creative and authentic Middle Eastern options, though some find certain items like falafel less genuine.

Perfect cocktails and appetizers complement the lunch menu. The spot feels welcoming for solo diners and offers a homey atmosphere during midday meals.

People are saying

"The service at this lunch spot was phenomenal and energetic."

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

"The lunch food and cocktails hit the spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating capacity.

2

Expect a mandatory 20% gratuity added to your bill.

3

The restaurant does not accommodate dietary restrictions well.

15
Mikaku Sushi image 1
Mikaku Sushi image 2
Mikaku Sushi image 3
View all

Small, cozy sushi restaurant with a quiet and welcoming atmosphere. The space feels intimate and clean, offering authentic sushi with fresh fish and affordable prices. It stands out for its chill vibe and absence of long lines common at other sushi spots.

Small seating for about 20 people creates an intimate setting. Food offers authentic Japanese flavors but does not reach the highest level of authenticity.

Offers a 2 roll lunch special with a side salad and miso soup. Lunch deals include five hand rolls for 40 dollars, making it one of the cheapest lunch meals in the area with quick service.

People are saying

"The lunch special with soup, salad, and rolls is a great deal."

"The sushi tastes truly authentic and delicious."

"I love this spot for lunch sushi."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

2

Mikaku automatically adds an 18% tip to your bill.

3

There is no restroom available for customers.

16
Pietro Nolita image 1
Pietro Nolita image 2
Pietro Nolita image 3
View all

Cocktail bar with pink decor creates a charming atmosphere filled with good music and photo opportunities. The vibe suits lively gatherings, especially for groups seeking a visually striking setting. Drinks feature well-balanced cocktails including standout lavender and spicy margaritas.

Pasta dishes are 100% homemade and match the quality of authentic Italian cuisine from Rome. The food consistently delivers authentic Italian flavors with a variety of tasty options.

Lunch offers flavorful dishes in a trendy setting popular with tweens and teens. It suits casual meals and works well on rainy days.

People are saying

"The pasta here is delicious and authentic Italian."

"The food tastes truly authentic and homemade."

"I love grabbing cute drinks and sharing lunch here."

Good to know

1

You need to reserve on Resy to get a spot since seating is limited.

2

It is highly suggested to get reservations due to the small size of the restaurant.

3

If your whole party isn't there on time, your indoor dining is cancelled.

17
Emilio's Ballato image 1
Emilio's Ballato image 2
Emilio's Ballato image 3
View all

Small dining space with family-style Italian seating creates a lively, old school atmosphere filled with celebrity photographs and a sense of history. The environment is loud and energetic, especially in the front room, encouraging conversation and laughter. A hidden back room adds a private, exclusive feel reminiscent of classic Italian dining spots.

An old school feel fills the space with authentic southern Italian flavor in every dish. The menu features finest ingredients crafted into classic New York City Italian cuisine.

Lunch offers a cool atmosphere with generally no wait, unlike dinner. The owner greets guests warmly and encourages choosing any comfortable table.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Italian and genuinely excellent."

"I love how authentic the Italian food tastes here."

"This lunch spot felt like a magical journey to Italy."

Good to know

1

Get there before 5 to avoid a long wait.

2

Tuesdays feature a recurring theme event.

3

They only accept walk-ins and don’t seat you unless the entire party is present.

18
Lombardi's image 1
Lombardi's image 2
Lombardi's image 3
View all

Small pizzeria with old-world Italian decor and a bustling yet warm atmosphere. Coal-fired ovens create a crispy, unique crust on pizzas, contributing to a historic dining experience. Seating is limited, often requiring outdoor arrangements with heaters and plexiglass for crowd management.

Authentic New York-style pizza shines here with a historic vibe that keeps the original Italian flavors intact. The atmosphere feels genuine, reflecting a true slice of Italian pizza tradition.

Lunch includes options like double pepperoni pizza and salad. Quick lunches to go are available, and sometimes they offer surprises like cherry cheesecake.

People are saying

"It's a classic New York spot with an authentic old-school pizza vibe."

"This lunch spot's pizza has a fantastic char and generous portions."

"I enjoyed the lunch pizza despite the wait."

Good to know

1

Lombardi's is a cash-only establishment.

2

Be prepared to wait unless you come for lunch.

3

Peak hours are typically Friday and Saturday evenings between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM.

19
Prince Street Pizza image 1
Prince Street Pizza image 2
Prince Street Pizza image 3
View all

Small, crowded pizza spot with no indoor seating and limited outdoor tables creates a bustling, vibrant atmosphere. Loud, energetic vibe matches the city's pace, with 90s dance hits adding to the mood. Separate counters for slices and whole pies streamline quick orders amid the cozy, hectic setting.

Pizza features a sweet sauce and captures authentic New York style with a taste close to Italian pizza.

Busy during peak lunch hours, especially Saturdays. Popular for breakfast and lunch among coworkers. Convenient for quick meals on job sites.

People are saying

"This authentic New York pizza is sensational and a must-experience."

"The pizza tastes like authentic New York style."

"This Lunch Spot's pizza is out of this world delicious."

Good to know

1

Prince Street Pizza only accepts cash payments.

2

There is no seating available; it's primarily a takeaway place.

3

The pizza costs $8 per slice.

Discover more

Nolita, New York

Area guide