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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of SoHo

Authentic lunch spots

You want a midday meal that respects the tradition of the dish rather than a tourist-friendly imitation.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Creperie offers an authentic French vibe with cozy, bright interiors and elegant decor featuring roses on the window. The atmosphere stays relaxing and welcoming, enhanced by French music and a gentle pace. It attracts those seeking a true taste of Brittany and a calm spot to enjoy fresh, high-quality crepes.

Authentic French crepes and gallettes made with buckwheat flour and plenty of cheese create a crisp, delicious bite. The place offers a strong French vibe that captures the taste of France well.

Casual lunches feature savory crepes like bacon egg and cheese. Drinks include strawberry lemonade that pairs well with a relaxed, Parisian-style meal.

People are saying

"These French crepes are the best I've ever tasted."

"I found authentic Parisian crepes, simply fantastic."

"This lunch spot is a must-try for crepe lovers."

Good to know

1

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

2

The restaurant provides a birthday discount for guests celebrating their special day.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted for convenience.

02
Yakiniku Futago Soho image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Private rooms with garden views and intimate booths create a cozy, high-class atmosphere reminiscent of a Japanese izakaya. Elegant interior design features tranquil gardens and fountains, offering a serene and authentic dining environment. The space feels warm and welcoming, with a strong sense of privacy and calm.

Offers authentic Japanese culinary art with high quality ingredients. Food delivers a fine-dining experience true to Japanese tradition.

Lunch offers great value with options like the gyudon and lunch tasting sets. Lunch sets come beautifully presented and taste delicious.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and made for a memorable dining experience."

"The meat quality at this Lunch Spot is very high and tender."

"I found the food to be excellent and authentic, tasting like Japan."

Good to know

1

Tasting is best but will take time (up to 3 hours).

2

The restaurant charges $72 for bringing in a cake for 6 people.

3

The tasting course with the sake pairing costs just under $500 per person.

03
Piccola Cucina Estiatorio image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with cozy, cramped seating and detailed interior decor resembling a trattoria. Atmosphere includes live music and dancing, creating a lively and energetic vibe. Known for authentic, highly praised pasta dishes and a well-curated wine selection.

Cozy atmosphere pairs with authentic Italian cuisine that feels like home. Staff and setting keep the experience genuine and inviting.

Lunch offers incredible value with specials around $10 on weekdays. Service stays friendly and attentive, making for a leisurely meal with friends.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta and cannoli, is the best I've ever had."

"I felt transported to Italy with the authentic pasta."

"This lunch spot's pasta was an incredible experience."

Good to know

1

Make sure to make reservations in advance to avoid long wait times.

2

Happy hour offers half off the menu items.

3

The restaurant celebrates birthdays with songs and cannoli.

04
Old Fashion Café image 1
Italian restaurant

Basement setting with retro-vintage furnishings creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that feels like visiting a home. Small tables and a few bar seats shape an intimate space with excellent music enhancing the vibe. Italian ownership adds an authentic touch, making it a refined escape in a trendy area.

Unassuming spot serves 100% authentic Italian food with delicious pasta and an Italian atmosphere created by all Italian employees.

Affordable prices and a friendly vibe make it a solid choice for lunch. The spot feels quaint and intimate, good for quick meals or meeting friends.

People are saying

"I loved the spicy and bubble drinks; they were boozy enough."

"The tiramisu at this Lunch Spot is light, creamy, and delicious."

"I loved the authentic Italian food and atmosphere here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; walk-ins are welcome.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Parking is generally easy to find in the area.

05
San Carlo Osteria Piemonte image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers authentic Piedmont cuisine in a small, elegant space with soft lighting and live piano music. Atmosphere feels intimate and relaxed, evoking a Northern Italian city setting. Wine selection and cocktails like Negroni and Espresso Martini complement the experience.

Food here offers authentic Italian cuisine from Piemonte with fresh, carefully prepared dishes. The atmosphere feels relaxed and genuine, similar to dining in Italy.

Lunch offers a $26 special with an appetizer and pasta that combines value and taste. The setting suits a nice lunch and works well for both casual and restaurant week meals.

People are saying

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

"I experienced authentic northern Italian pastas and flavors here."

"This lunch spot serves authentic northern Italian pasta."

Good to know

1

They celebrate birthdays with special music and a dessert lit by a sparkler.

2

Jazz music is played on Sundays at the restaurant.

3

The restaurant does not accept walk-ins; reservations are required.

06
Sullivan Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers limited indoor seating with additional shaded outdoor spots. Atmosphere stays simple and friendly, often quiet outside. Known for fresh ingredients and handmade taco shells, it draws many for excellent fish and birria tacos and crispy mushroom quesadillas.

Authentic Mexican street food shines here with traditional flavors and classic taqueria dishes. The menu stays true to genuine Mexican recipes and cooking styles.

Ideal for a quick midday break, this spot offers a light lunch with many choosing to take their food to go. It suits those looking for a good takeout lunch while out shopping.

People are saying

"The fish taco was the best part of the Mexican food here."

"The food here is so authentic, tasting just like Mexico."

"This lunch spot is great for takeout with limited seating."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special deals on tacos every week.

2

The restaurant has limited indoor seating for 8 people and outdoor seating.

3

Expect a busy lunch hour with many customers opting for takeout.

07
Blue Ribbon Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small space with minimalistic Japanese decor and a fabulous sushi bar creates a calm, inviting atmosphere. Quiet setting avoids overwhelming crowds and noise, offering a pleasant, intimate dining experience. Semi-private wooden table area adds a unique touch for groups.

Sushi here is consistently fresh and captures the true essence of Japanese cuisine. Every dish serves up an authentic experience that stays true to traditional flavors and preparation.

Great service and helpful recommendations stand out during lunch. Offers a special menu with deals, fitting for a quick meal or casual gathering.

People are saying

"The sushi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot has amazing, fresh sushi and rolls."

"I found the sushi to be fresh and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required a few days in advance due to high demand.

2

The restaurant is not wheelchair accessible; it has steps leading down.

3

Expect to pay around $150 per person for a full dining experience.

08
Raku image 1
Udon noodle restaurant

Small space with minimalist wooden design creates a warm and cozy atmosphere despite crowded, narrow seating. Noise reverberates off walls, adding to a lively, bustling vibe. Outdoor seating offers an alternative to the tight indoor arrangement.

Udon here stands out for its authentic taste and fresh noodles. The soup balance is perfect, making the dishes feel true to traditional flavors.

Lunch offers quick udon portions and a spicy beef short rib reminiscent of Taiwanese beef noodle soup. Wait times vary from no queue to 45 minutes during rush hours.

People are saying

"The udon noodles here are so chewy and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot has the most delicious udon I've ever had."

"The udon here is authentic, with chewy, bouncy noodles."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is CASH ONLY, so bring cash for your meal.

2

Be prepared to wait an hour if you don’t have a reservation.

3

Reservations should be made in advance online to avoid waiting in the cold.

09
Pi Bakerie image 1
Greek restaurant

Bright, cozy space with natural light and indoor-outdoor seating creates a comfortable, casual atmosphere. The vibe blends Hellenic culinary heritage with a European, quaint design, offering a warm and inviting environment. Music and an array of imported drinks add to the relaxed, friendly energy.

Massive portions of authentic Greek food come at reasonable prices. The bakery serves authentic Mediterranean flavors, especially in their Greek desserts.

Fresh, homemade lunch options make this spot a solid choice. Meals are healthy and consistently available, offering a quick, reliable lunch solution.

People are saying

"This bakery's Greek pies and baklava are incredible."

"The coffee here is outstanding, truly one of the best."

"This lunch spot has fresh, homemade options that are simply delicious."

Good to know

1

A 3-course lunch is available for $31.95, including an octopus appetizer.

2

You can get food to go if you prefer not to dine in.

3

The bakery offers a selection of sweet and savory pies.

10
Hamburger America image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Vintage burger diner with retro-modern design and old school American vibe fills a small space packed with eager diners. Formica counters and sizzling flattops create a nostalgic atmosphere where the burger assembly line is visible from the counter. Outdoor seating and a bar add variety to the lively, crowded setting.

Burgers focus on authentic simplicity with just two menu options. The food offers a rich history and quality taste that feels genuine and satisfying.

Lunch comes with a chance to sit at the lunch counter when it's less busy. The spot is known for quick meals like those from Hamburger America, convenient for nearby workers.

People are saying

"The American Food here is simple, delicious, and perfectly satisfying."

"This Lunch Spot's burgers are undeniably delicious and flavorful."

"The burgers here are an authentic taste of perfection."

Good to know

1

You order food and pay upfront, which makes the process easy and efficient.

2

Be warned that lines can be long on certain days at George Motz’s restaurant.

3

Opening time is the best time to visit to avoid crowds.

11
Lupe's East L.A. Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with mismatched tables and a neon pink sign creates a casual, lively vibe. Outdoor seating includes a wooden rain shelter and welcomes dogs, offering a pleasant view. Strong, tasty margaritas and a full bar complement the warm, inviting atmosphere where people gather to talk and relax.

Southern California style Mexican food stands out with authentic tortillas and rich flan. The menu reflects traditional flavors that feel true to Mexico.

Casual and friendly atmosphere suits lunch with friends or toddlers. Staff like Salvador provide kind service, and the Pork burrito stands out for an enjoyable meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"I found the most authentic Mexican food here, especially the refried beans."

"The vegan tamales at this lunch spot are so filling and good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

The restaurant offers late night eats on weekends until 2am.

3

They host special events like bingo night every Wednesday at 7pm.

12
Piccola Cucina Osteria Siciliana image 1

Small, cozy space offers a romantic, lively atmosphere with a distinctly authentic Italian vibe. Guests experience table-side tiramisu preparation and enjoy intimate outdoor seating despite tight indoor arrangements. The energy feels dynamic and truly transports diners to Sicily.

Pasta comes out perfectly al dente with rich, authentic flavor. Lasagna highlights fresh ingredients and classic Italian taste, creating a truly authentic experience.

Lunch offers a great special around $16–17 letting you pick almost anything on the menu. The deals encourage trying many dishes over time.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is so authentic, it feels like a corner of true Italy."

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

"This lunch spot's pasta dishes are served family style in hot pans."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

There is a 2 hour time limit on your dinner.

3

Indoor seating is limited, so arrive early or reserve.

13
Fanelli Café image 1
Traditional American restaurant

Historic bar and café with old-school wooden counter and pressed roof designs creates a nostalgic, artistic vibe. Outdoor seating with heated booths offers a cozy spot for conversation and people watching. Walls lined with vintage boxer photos add to the timeless, laid-back atmosphere.

Vintage charm creates an authentic atmosphere that feels like part of the city. Coffee serves as authentic Soho coffee and the bar offers a genuine American vibe with friendly staff.

Outdoor soup kiosk offers a warm lunch option during cooler months. The café stays bustling and serves quality food ideal for quick stops between shopping and museum visits.

People are saying

"It's an old school, busy bar with an institutional atmosphere."

"This lunch spot has really good food, like a delicious burger."

"I loved the authentic, vintage charm and cozy vibes here."

Good to know

1

The bar gets too packed during happy hour.

2

The restaurant does not have gluten-free options on the menu.

3

The restaurant is open late, serving food at 12:45 AM on Saturday night.

14
Maison Close Restaurant image 1
French restaurant

French restaurant offers modern yet elegant decor with dim lighting that creates an upscale atmosphere. Loud, lively energy builds by evening with classy dance music and live entertainment including magicians and burlesque dancers. The vibe suits date nights and social gatherings in a vibrant setting.

Authentic French cuisine shines through with high-quality dishes and a menu full of classic options. The atmosphere supports this with French spoken widely among servers and guests.

Offers a pleasant lunch experience with consistent quality. Serves well for brunch, lunch, or dinner with a reliable atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always comes out hot."

"I loved the authentic French food and the French spoken all around."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was wonderful and delightful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure a table, especially on weekends.

2

The best time to arrive is around 10 PM to catch the main show.

3

Expect the show to start later than the scheduled time; it may begin around 4 PM.

15
Shuka image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with vibrant atmosphere and exotic decor featuring a greenhouse-style back room with fairy lights. Offers both indoor and outdoor seating, including a spacious outdoor area with artwork and string lights. Music is lively, often Afro beats, creating an energetic vibe that can be loud.

Warm, quality pita bread pairs with authentic hummus for a solid start. Creative, authentic Mediterranean flavors fill the menu and the atmosphere feels thoughtful and genuine.

Lunch offers a casual and airy vibe with rugs on the floor and an open-air layout. The Inman ranch sirloin steak kebab stands out as a highlight. This spot works well for solo meals.

People are saying

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be cooked to perfection."

"This lunch spot's hummus and falafel are so tasty and fresh."

"The food here tastes so authentic, it transports you."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.

2

The price of the lamb kebab is $31.03.

3

Brunch is available on Saturdays and is a popular time to visit.

16
Balthazar image 1
French restaurant

Stunning interior design evokes a Parisian feel with tiny, closely spaced tables that create a noisy, crowded atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant alternative, and solo diners receive a complimentary glass of champagne. The bar serves excellent cocktails and wine selections.

Lively environment and authentic bistrot flair create a genuine Parisian dining experience. The bakery and service add to the authentic French charm throughout.

Offers fantastic lunch options with consistently good food. Serves well for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a strong reputation for quality.

People are saying

"The French bistro staples here are comforting and perfectly executed."

"The lunch dishes here are so tasty and good."

"It feels like an authentic Parisian brasserie, timeless and vibrant."

Good to know

1

Getting a reservation is advisable because the diner gets crowded.

2

Single diners receive a free glass of champagne.

3

There is a $60 no-show fee for reservations.

17
Mareluna image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with intimate seating and beautiful decor creates a romantic, congenial atmosphere. Tables sit close together, making the space feel cozy but sometimes confined. Loud music and lively patrons add energy, though conversation can be challenging.

Offers authentic Italian cuisine with dishes that reflect traditional flavors and preparation. Serves food that feels genuinely Italian and true to its roots.

Offers a light lunch option with a pleasant atmosphere. Serves meals suitable for a casual midday break.

People are saying

"The pasta here is fresh and delicious, especially the Pomodoro Fresco."

"I loved the authentic Italian food, especially the fresh, homemade pasta."

"This Lunch Spot's duck ragu is amazing."

Good to know

1

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

2

Mareluna offers a $30 Two-Course brunch during NY Restaurant Week.

3

The Duck Ragu is only available during dinner service.

18
Sushi Ikumi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Intimate sushi bar with a cozy, authentic atmosphere and a small, simple counter where the chef prepares dishes. The vibe is relaxed and unpretentious, welcoming casual or formal attire. Offers an excellent sake selection that pairs well with the meal.

Sushi Omakase here offers an authentic experience with culinary surprises. The place blends modern touches with traditional flavors.

Lunch offers great value for money with a menu that suits casual midday dining. Some visits note high prices around $150 per person and occasional food-related illness concerns.

People are saying

"The omakase here is one of the best I've had in the city."

"This Lunch Spot's sushi rice is perfectly al dente with great umami."

"I experienced authentic omakase with a chef showcasing incredible talent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the omakase experience, especially during peak times.

2

The total cost for two diners is approximately $425.

3

Lunch menu offers great value for money compared to dinner.

19
Rice Kitchen image 1
Korean restaurant

Small indoor space with no seating leads to a covered outdoor patio featuring a wooden roof and street views. Atmosphere feels cozy and charming with a lively neighborhood vibe. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant spot for quick meals.

Food shows authentic Korean flavors that are subtle and healthy. Some dishes like yubu do not meet traditional expectations.

Quick lunches come with bulgogi rice bowls and vegan mushroom kimbap that offer fresh, flavorful options. Takeout suits busy days, providing healthy and inexpensive meals that satisfy consistently.

People are saying

"The Korean food, especially the bulgogi kimbap, is amazing."

"The bulgogi kimbap makes for a delicious lunch spot."

"I loved the authentic, subtle, and healthy Korean flavors here."

Good to know

1

Rice Kitchen is exclusively for takeout with no inside seating available.

2

You can order online ahead of time for easy pickup.

3

Expect to wait at least 30 minutes for in-person orders.

20
Roscioli NYC image 1
Roman restaurant

Cellar dining space with a rustic wine cellar vibe creates a lively, hip atmosphere that feels like an authentic Italian family gathering. Cramped seating and steep stairs lead to a subterranean enoteca where excellent wine pairings complement the experience.

Offers an authentic Roman dining experience with dishes like Italian Polenta and a tasting menu full of comforting flavors. Espresso and tiramisu finish the meal true to Rome.

Lunch features a $55 pre-fixe menu that offers a filling meal. Seating at the bar is available with minimal wait on weekdays, and the staff handles issues like ruined appetizers by not charging for them.

People are saying

"The wine and food here are truly incredible."

"The carbonara is authentic, rich, and creamy."

"The pasta carbonara at this Lunch Spot is perfectly Roman and creamy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required and can be made through Resy.

2

The tasting menu costs $170 per person and includes multiple courses.

3

Dinner seatings are at 6:00 PM and 8:30 PM daily.

21
Il Corallo Trattoria image 1
Italian restaurant

Small dining space feels cramped with tables close together, creating an intimate setting. Outdoor heated seating offers a relaxing atmosphere with street views and great music enhancing the experience. The vibe is family-oriented and low key, suitable for casual meals and quiet dates.

Pasta comes beautifully crafted with authentic flavors and the sauce stands out as remarkable. The food offers very good quality Italian cuisine with chill vibes and reasonable prices.

Lunch specials cost around $13.50 to $13.95 and include a choice of soup or salad. The menu offers dishes like Pizza Rustica and Tortellini Parmigiano with good portion sizes and affordable prices.

People are saying

"The pasta here is so fresh and delicious."

"The pasta at this lunch spot is amazing and made fresh."

"The pasta here is so authentic, it transports you straight to Italy."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is $14 daily until 4pm.

2

Lunch at the restaurant is a great deal at $13.95 for two courses.

3

Most pasta dishes are under $30, and appetizers with meat or seafood are under $15.

22
Ladurée Soho image 1
Pastry shop

Elegant pastry shop offers beautiful decor with a gorgeous garden patio featuring flowering trees and heaters for comfort. Atmosphere feels chic and grandiose, blending indoor dining rooms with a hidden terrace. Known for perfect macarons and a refined tea and cocktail service.

Food follows traditional French techniques with careful attention to flavor profiles. Desserts feature fillings bursting with rich, authentic flavors like floral rose, pistachio, and salted caramel.

Lunch happens in a gorgeous garden with gracious servers attending. Dishes like salmon club and lobster pasta come with drinks that match the quality.

People are saying

"It's like stepping into a Parisian dream with these gorgeous macarons."

"The macarons here are absolutely delicious, especially the dairy-free ones."

"The authentic macarons have delicate, crisp shells with chewy centers."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended at least two weeks in advance for brunch.

2

Expect long wait times during weekend afternoons without a reservation.

3

Afternoon tea costs $65 for two finger sandwiches, macarons, and champagne.

23
12 Chairs Cafe image 1
Israeli restaurant

Middle Eastern restaurant offers packed indoor and outdoor seating with Israeli music and tambourines creating a lively atmosphere. Space feels claustrophobic and noisy due to many tables squeezed tightly together. The setting includes a shed-style outdoor area that is cramped and exposed to cold weather.

Israeli dishes come with authentic flavors that taste fresh and bright. The hummus and falafel stand out with genuine Israeli taste, making the menu feel very true to Mediterranean roots.

Lunch features a lively and loud atmosphere where tables are reserved and seating is quick even on busy weekends. The setting suits chatting loudly with friends while enjoying the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and simply beautiful."

"This lunch spot's food is amazing, especially the flavorful babaganoush."

"I found the hummus and falafel to have an authentic Israeli flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially for brunch.

2

The restaurant often reaches capacity, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

3

Outdoor seating is available, but it's important to specify your preference when reserving.

24
Soho Diner image 1
American restaurant

Interior channels classic American diner style with cinematic design and pink decor. Atmosphere blends vibrant energy with a mix of friendly and pretentious patrons. Outdoor space includes a charming courtyard and free jukebox playing classic rock tunes.

Dishes deliver an authentic American diner experience with classic flavors. The atmosphere feels like a genuine diner from years ago, capturing that nostalgic vibe.

Lunch here offers excellent service even when the restaurant is fairly empty. Expect a large meal served without much crowd around 1:30 PM on weekdays.

People are saying

"The diner food here is delicious and well prepared."

"It's an authentic diner atmosphere with a modern twist."

"The service at this lunch spot was great and friendly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

The diner only accepts cash payments; no credit cards.

3

Happy hour specials are available, but some drinks may not qualify.

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