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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of NoMad

Cool lunch spots

A lunch spot that is genuinely cool without trying so hard that it becomes exhausting to visit.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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Updated June 2026
01
Temakase Hand Roll Bar - 28th St image 1
Temakase Hand Roll Bar - 28th St image 2
Temakase Hand Roll Bar - 28th St image 3
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Sushi restaurant with modern elegance and stylish interiors featuring all seating at the counter. Lighting varies from bright and flattering to blinding yellow-orange, affecting the atmosphere. Known for exceptional hand rolls and a vibe suitable for casual bites or nights out.

Lightning quick service and courteous staff make it easy to grab a quick lunch here. Food comes out fast, tastes good, and costs little, making it a solid choice for a fast meal.

Cool design shapes the space and sets a cool vibe throughout. The atmosphere pairs well with the delicious food served.

People are saying

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

"The Lunch Spot rolls were great and the fish was fresh."

"The hand rolls here are fantastic and out of this world."

Good to know

1

No reservations, only walk-ins; expect to be seated quickly on weekends.

2

The handroll bar has no line, making it convenient for customers.

3

Tips are already included in the price of your meal.

02
Olde City Cheesesteaks & Brew image 1

Sports bar with numerous TVs and NFL paraphernalia creates a lively, communal atmosphere for fans. Energy peaks during games, supported by a DJ playing fresh music at low volume. The setting offers an authentic Philly vibe with classic cheesesteaks and a solid beer selection.

Lunch specials include a cheesesteak, fries, and beer for $19 from Monday to Friday 11am to 4pm. Options like the habanero cheesesteak offer a spicy kick, and happy hour deals add a shot to the mix.

Polite and fast bartenders keep the vibe smooth. Ambience fits a cool sports bar perfectly.

People are saying

"The cheesesteak and beer lunch special is a great deal."

"This lunch spot's cheesesteaks are delicious and authentic."

"The cheesesteak here is excellent and ready fast."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a great lunch special for $19 that includes a cheesesteak, fries, and a beer from Monday to Friday between 11am and 4pm.

2

Happy hour prices at the bar are great, with plenty of specials available.

3

The sports bar is an official game viewing location for Penn State college football games.

03
KazuNori: The Original Hand Roll Bar image 1

Bar seating surrounds the space, creating an energetic atmosphere where sushi is hand rolled right in front of diners. Seating is tight and close, encouraging a fast-paced, efficient dining experience. The setup focuses on high-quality hand rolls served quickly, making it a unique spot for sushi lovers.

Quick service suits a lunch date or catching up with friends. Options fit a fast lunch or light afternoon snack.

Omakase style dining serves handrolls one by one, blending high-class and casual vibes. The texture and temperature mix crispy seaweed, warm rice, and cool fish for a unique taste.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh, flavorful Japanese food, especially the hand rolls."

"This lunch spot's hand rolls are fresh, warm, and delicious."

"These hand rolls are so cool and delicious."

Good to know

1

No tipping culture; gratuity is included in the bill.

2

Be prepared for a wait of 30 minutes to 1 hour.

3

Come before 5:30 PM to avoid long lines.

04
Skinny Louie image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small hamburger restaurant offers 1950s diner vibe with retro-future theme and open mirror screen showing burger preparation. Atmosphere stays laid-back but lively, featuring outdoor seating and fun music. Burgers stand out as best smashed burgers with balanced, crispy flavors.

Offers quick takeout options ideal for a lunch break. Fits well into a busy midday schedule with convenient service.

Energetic music and an old school playlist create a cool vibe. The spot features cool merchandise and hosts cool opening events.

People are saying

"I thought their burgers were the best I've ever had."

"The music playlist here is really cool."

"This Lunch Spot has amazing burgers, especially the double."

Good to know

1

Skinny Louie does not accept cash payments.

2

Skinny Louie is open late, making it a good option after a Broadway show.

3

Skinny Louie does not have a restroom available for customers.

05
Pura Vida Miami image 1
Coffee shop

Bright, airy space with modern decor and plentiful outdoor seating creates a vibrant, energetic atmosphere. Loud music and a chaotic vibe make conversation difficult, while a mix of people navigate the open, unreserved seating. Dog-friendly environment adds to the casual, lively feel.

Huge, delicious sandwiches make lunch filling and tasty. Friendly service helps with any needs, turning quick meals into memorable experiences.

Broadway terrace offers a cool outdoor vibe. Quick, healthy bites add to the laid-back atmosphere. Overall, the spot has a nice, cool ambiance.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a cool spot with great vibes and ambiance."

Good to know

1

The restaurant requires setting up an online account to order ahead.

2

This place cross contaminates everything, making it unsafe for people with severe allergies.

3

There are no clear pick-up directions for mobile orders.

06
Planta Queen image 1
Vegan restaurant

Upscale vegan restaurant with a chic interior and comfortable seating designed mainly for small groups. Loud music creates a lively but sometimes overwhelming atmosphere, while a basement bar offers a calmer vibe. Creative cocktails and innovative plant-based dishes define the experience.

Lunch offers a $28 special with a starter, main, and matcha cookie. Food and service stay consistently amazing even with larger groups.

Offers a trendy New York vibe with a focus on fancy vegan food. Appeals to those wanting a cool dining experience with dietary restrictions.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's food is flavorful and quickly served."

"The food here is delicious, especially the kimchi baos and crispy gyoza."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

2

On Wednesdays, all wine bottles are half price.

3

Maki Monday features all sushi rolls for $9 each, excluding specials.

07
The Smith image 1
American restaurant

Spacious American restaurant with close tables and a buzzy bar area creates a lively, loud atmosphere. Outdoor seating on a closed street adds an open feel. Sheet steel chairs contribute to the ambient noise, enhancing the energetic vibe.

Lunch offers good taste but leans toward the pricey side. The spot suits quick meals and handles large groups well, with a fast-moving bar during lunch hours.

Ambiance features heavy wood and black and white cafeteria-style tiles, creating an old school New York restaurant feel. Service matches the vibe with a cool and attentive style.

People are saying

"The brunch here is impressive, with generous portions and fresh, well-seasoned food."

"The staff here are fantastic and make it a great lunch spot."

"The vibe here is so cool and lively."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required after 5pm on weekdays to secure a table.

2

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 6pm with great drink prices.

3

Expect a 40-minute wait between 7 and 8 pm during peak hours.

08
Nomad Tea Parlour image 1
Chinese restaurant

Upscale Chinese restaurant with Hong Kong-inspired decor and a design resembling an Asian street market. Atmosphere is lively and noisy, with a spacious back room suited for larger groups but with poor acoustics and cold temperature. Bar offers unique tea-based cocktails with creative flavors and presentation.

Quick lunches happen here often, making it a spot for fast, casual meals. It suits small celebrations like a child's birthday with a relaxed vibe and simple service.

Unique cocktails made with different teas stand out. The space has a Hong Kong vibe with a cool setup and atmosphere.

People are saying

"The crab and pork dumplings are worth the hype."

"The food here is delicious, especially the dan dan noodles."

"The food here is tasty and well-seasoned, though a bit oily."

Good to know

1

Reservations can be conveniently made on Resy.

2

The restaurant has a lot of vegetarian and vegan options.

3

The menu has a great variety.

09
L'Adresse NoMad image 1
New American restaurant

Modern, elegant space with high ceilings and stylish decor creates a cozy yet upscale vibe. Loud atmosphere often filled with live music, making it lively but challenging for quiet conversation. Private rooms add intimacy for special occasions.

Lunch offers a great deal with a pleasant midday vibe. Location sits right next to shops, making it convenient for lunch and dinner.

A bald bartender with a cool mustache stands out behind the bar. The spot offers a private room and serves cool drinks and desserts that fit the vibe.

People are saying

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

"The service at this Lunch Spot was attentive and perfect."

"It's a cool place with a modern, sleek vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-7 PM with discounted drinks.

2

Live jazz performances are available on Tuesdays.

3

Reservations at L’Adresse can be made on OpenTable.

10
The Ivory Peacock image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with high ceilings and multiple bars inside creates a spacious, elegant atmosphere. Live jazz music and a speakeasy basement add to the sophisticated vibe. Well-crafted cocktails and a cozy layout make it suited for date nights and intimate conversations.

Lunch specials offer great value and come in satisfying portions that are not too heavy. The spot suits quick pop-in lunches with a pleasant vibe for midday meals.

Downstairs lounge Ploume has a clubby vibe and feels like a speakeasy. Upstairs bars include The Emerald, which features a rotating gin spotlight each week.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are fantastic and expertly crafted."

"The cocktails here are amazing, especially Marco's creations."

"The service at this lunch spot is always attentive and warm."

Good to know

1

Fridays are Latin music days at the bar.

2

Happy hour oysters are available for $0 during specific hours.

3

Reservations are required for groups of 7-8 people.

11
The Grey Dog—Flatiron image 1
American restaurant

Cozy space with a fireplace in the middle and dog-friendly amenities creates a welcoming vibe. Outdoor and indoor seating options include a covered terrace, while pride flags add a comfortable, inclusive touch. Atmosphere can feel crowded and hectic during busy times, but music remains consistently great.

Lunch offers a variety of choices including salads, bowls, vegetarian, and vegan options. The portions are good and plentiful, making it a solid spot for lunch with friends or quick meals.

The vibe feels cool and relaxed, with a cozy fireplace adding warmth. Staff contribute to the overall chill atmosphere.

People are saying

"I had an amazing breakfast here; the food was delicious."

"The lunch food here is fresh and flavorful."

"I found the vibe and atmosphere here to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available on Saturdays and Sundays from 4 to 7 PM and on weekdays from 3 to 7 PM.

2

The restaurant offers cocktails during happy hour on Sundays for half price.

3

Reservations are recommended on weekends to secure a table.

12
Everdene Bar image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop space offers city views and a pool area with a calm, elegant atmosphere. The vibe blends casual and bougie, attracting those seeking a relaxed yet upscale setting. Guests enjoy complimentary touches and a cozy, memorable environment.

Quieter atmosphere suits a relaxed lunch. Menu offers cheeseburger and a wide range of signature drinks and appetizers.

Great drinks and an awesome rooftop terrace create a cool atmosphere. Staff keep the vibe relaxed and the ambiance consistently cool.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing with delicious flavor combinations."

"I found the vibe and decor really cool and unique."

"The food at this lunch spot is amazing and so tasty."

Good to know

1

An automatic 20% tip is added to all bar tabs, regardless of party size.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere during events, which can get hectic with large crowds.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events to ensure a spot.

13
John Doe Craft Bar & Kitchen image 1

Modern bar with lively energy and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that shifts from peaceful afternoons to packed evenings. Music ranges from great to loud, with a DJ sometimes playing, and TVs often show sports matches. Outdoor seating offers a beautiful city view, enhancing the experience.

Lunch specials offer good value with food and beer suited for an afternoon meal. The lunch deal provides a reasonable price point for a casual stop.

The atmosphere feels very cool with beautiful decorations and a friendly staff that chats while you hang out.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, packed with bold, balanced flavors."

"It's a cool place with awesome vibes and friendly staff."

"Josh, the manager, showed excellent customer service at the Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

$1 oysters are available all day, every day.

2

Happy hour starts at noon and lasts until 8 PM.

3

$1.50 wings are available on Wednesdays.

14
Mamazul Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Vibrant atmosphere with colorful decor and live dancers creates an energetic, festive vibe. Music plays loudly, enhancing the lively mood. Large outdoor seating and an upscale indoor bar offer varied spaces for enjoyment.

Lunch offers delicious Mexican specialties and some Brazilian options. Service stays great for groups, and the spot stays uncrowded during lunch hour.

Lively atmosphere with fun music, cool decor, and a great vibe. The hostess adds a friendly touch, making it a cool spot to hang out with friends.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and really fresh."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is so nice and accommodating."

"The vibe here is cool with fun music and decor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges a 3% fee for credit/debit card payments.

2

Soda refills are not free.

3

Expect a large party fee even for small groups.

15
ilili NoMad image 1
Lebanese restaurant

Phoenician design resembling an ancient ship shapes a spacious, elegant setting with outdoor seating and a pleasant cocktail bar. Noisy atmosphere fills the space, lively and energetic, often crowded with large groups sharing dishes. Lebanese-inspired cocktails and exceptional food create a distinct dining experience.

Lunch offers an incredible menu with standout dishes like Lambchop and tenderloin. Large group lunches are well handled, feeding more people than expected.

Beautiful interior creates a cool vibe that feels great for just hanging out. Food, drinks, and service all add to the awesome atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, with authentic and satisfying flavors."

"This Lunch Spot's food is fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully balanced."

"The food here is delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for private events and should be made in advance.

2

The restaurant hosts a lively Pride Drag Brunch every Sunday.

3

New Year's Eve includes a four-course meal with music and dancers.

16
Scarpetta image 1
Italian restaurant

Beautiful, modern space with stunning indoor and outdoor seating creates an elegant atmosphere. Loud, lively music fills the air, making it a vibey spot best suited for special occasions. The outdoor heated patio and impressive wine list add distinctive touches to the experience.

Lunch offers delicious dishes from start to finish. It suits business meals well with a reliable and enjoyable menu.

Awesome decor and a cool party ambience combine with excellent food. The lobby offers a chill scene to hang out before dinner.

People are saying

"The staff here are so attentive and friendly with the pasta."

"This Lunch Spot's pastas are delicious and the bread basket is so tasty."

"The vibe and interior design here are really cool."

Good to know

1

Reservations are advisable, especially for weekend dining.

2

Scarpetta offers gluten and dairy-free pasta options.

3

The restaurant can host private events for up to 30 people.

17
COPPA image 1
Coffee shop

Mid-century furniture and vintage-industrial style create a warm industrial vibe with plenty of seating and a large bookcase. High-energy house music plays, with a collaborative Spotify playlist letting people add songs that fit the mood. Free high-speed Wi-Fi and outlets support a productive atmosphere ideal for work or study.

A quaint spot with an expansive coffee menu and full lunch offerings. Popular for lunch hours, often visited with coworkers.

The space has a cool atmosphere with a chill seating area that feels relaxed when it's not busy. The interior design adds to the overall cool vibe.

People are saying

"The coffee here is served by the friendliest staff."

"It's a quaint and atmospheric lunch spot with a cozy library nook."

"The atmosphere and interior space here are really cool."

Good to know

1

Coppa Nights are perfect for a date or girls night out.

2

The café has fast internet, suitable for work or video meetings.

3

They serve coffee in nice cups, not paper.

18
Zaytinya image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a gorgeous interior with pleasant decor and expansive windows. Atmosphere stays quiet and refined, with attentive staff enhancing the experience. A fun modern bar complements the setting, providing a casual spot for drinks and small plates.

Business lunches happen here often with a consistent great experience. Weekday lunch includes a special menu and weekend lunch works well too.

Space features a visually cool atmosphere and one of the coolest looking bars in town. Staff provides friendly, attentive service in a casual, cool setting.

People are saying

"The food here is creative and a fresh take on mezze."

"The food at this Lunch Spot had authentic Turkish and Mediterranean flavors."

"The space here is really cool, with a beautiful setting."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is packed during lunch hours, so make a reservation.

2

The lunch special seems like a great deal at 3 courses for $45.

3

The $80 tasting menu is available.

19
Kaiten Zushi Nomad | AYCE Conveyor Belt Sushi, AYCE Sushi, Japanese Restaurant in NYC image 1

Conveyor belts and robots deliver sushi and drinks directly to tables, creating a futuristic dining experience. Spacious, clean interiors combine with loud music and background beeps, producing a vibrant atmosphere. Families frequent the place, drawn by its interactive technology and casual vibe.

All-you-can-eat sushi lunch costs about $30 and offers a good selection with fast service. Special promotions can reduce the price further, making it a great value for groups.

Robots deliver drinks and sushi on a conveyor belt, creating a very innovative dining experience. Walls decorated with anime figures add to the cool vibe.

People are saying

"I loved the sushi delivered on the conveyor belt."

"The conveyor belt sushi system was a really cool, innovative idea."

"The lunch deal here is an amazing value for all-you-can-eat sushi."

Good to know

1

The restaurant stops accepting customers for the lunch buffet at 2 PM.

2

Lunch special is all you can eat for $30 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

3

Dinner special is all you can eat for $50.

20
Hill Country Barbecue Market image 1

Spacious restaurant with a Texan theme and a market-style counter for ordering meats. Loud atmosphere filled with live music, especially in the downstairs venue, creating an energetic vibe. Offers a wide selection of Texas-style cocktails and southern hospitality.

Lunch offers brisket sandwich and hot link options with a fair price around $32 excluding drinks. Meals come with a family-friendly atmosphere and satisfy typical New York expectations.

BBQ ambience creates a cool atmosphere. Service feels extremely nice and cool. Drinks help guests cool off.

People are saying

"The brisket and pulled pork here are amazing American food."

"The brisket sandwich at this Lunch Spot was tender and good."

"The brisket and ribs here are amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is from 2 PM to 7 PM with great drink specials.

2

The kitchen closes at 9:00 PM while a band is playing.

3

Reservations are recommended if arriving after 7 PM.

21
Oscar Wilde image 1
New American restaurant

Eclectic Victorian decor blends with Nomad style and Lewis Carroll themes, creating a massive yet intimate cocktail bar. Energetic music fuels dancing, while impressive holiday and Halloween decorations add whimsy. The atmosphere balances charm and vibrancy, drawing a crowd that enjoys style and character.

Seating offers cozy corners suitable for a quiet lunch. Weekday visits provide a pleasant midday meal experience with enough space for comfort but limited room for drinks.

Absolutely cool interior design sets the tone with a unique and amazing decor. The atmosphere stays incredibly cool, especially with themed displays like Halloween.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and flavorful."

"The decorations here are so cool and magical, especially for Halloween."

"The ambiance and decor here are amazing for a lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required, especially during holidays.

2

Fridays and Saturdays after 10:30 PM are the best times to visit.

3

The place is packed during happy hour.

22
THISBOWL image 1
Health food restaurant

Health food restaurant offers loud techno music and a clean, organized space with few seats. Lines move quickly despite occasional crowds, creating a fast casual vibe. Ingredients focus on premium quality with fresh vegetables and distinctive flavors.

Lunch offers delicious meals in a quiet setting with few people around. Nut safety is a clear priority, making it a trustworthy choice for those avoiding nuts.

The place has a cool vibe with a modern interior. The bowl features a unique umami nut crunch that adds a tangy twist.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's bowls are packed with fresh, high-quality ingredients."

"I found the salmon bowl to be delicious and really fresh."

"The music here is so groovy and great."

Good to know

1

The lines can be long, but they move quickly.

2

Expect large portion sizes for your meal.

3

The ingredients are high-quality, including fresh vegetables and premium olive oil.

23
230 Fifth Rooftop Bar image 1

Rooftop bar offers unmatched NYC skyline views with igloos and patio heaters for warmth. Atmosphere feels crowded and condensed, not ideal for socializing. Unique features include rooftop swings and a token system for food pickup.

Amazing view pairs with a good ambiance for lunch. Menus include drinks and refreshments alongside food options.

Cozy-meets-cool vibes hit you with twinkling fairy lights and a glowing red neon sign. The Empire State Building towers above, lit up against the night sky, making it a great spot for rooftop views.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the incredible rooftop view of the Empire State Building."

"The atmosphere and views here are really cool."

"The Lunch Spot views of the Empire State Building from the rooftop were amazing."

Good to know

1

Entry to the rooftop bar is free before 8 PM on Saturday nights.

2

Customers should book a table in advance to ensure seating.

3

The venue charges $15 per person for entry.

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