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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to SoHo

Unique lunch spots

A midday break at a place that feels like nothing else in the neighborhood is essential.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
YUBU SoHo image 1
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Korean restaurant

Small space with cute decor and clean, bright interior creates a calm, cozy atmosphere enhanced by chill K-indie and KPOP music. Frequented for quick, tasty Korean bites, it offers power sockets for convenience and a casual, relaxed vibe.

Clean and nice little spot suits a quick lunch break. Five-piece orders satisfy well for a lunch date or solo meal.

Concept blends Korean-inspired flavors with a style uncommon in Boston. Food offers a unique taste that stands out from typical menus.

People are saying

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

"The food here is tasty, well-priced, and uniquely Korean."

"This lunch spot has tasty food that's a great value."

02
Messy image 1
Restaurant

Small, cozy space offers a casual and inviting atmosphere with warm, friendly vibes. Seating includes limited indoor and outdoor options, creating an intimate setting. The place stands out for its fast-casual style combined with healthy, flavorful Mediterranean and Japanese-inspired dishes.

Offers a quick lunch counter with options like a chicken sandwich. Serves light and healthy to-go meals ideal for office lunches or a midday snack.

Fresh and delicious food stands out with a unique chicken sandwich and Messy fries that combine bold flavors like spicy feta and chicken kebab for a distinct taste experience.

People are saying

"The chicken pita sandwich is packed with flavorful ingredients."

"The chicken and steak here are unreal and juicy."

"The food here is so unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

Food is prepared in under 10 minutes, making it a quick option.

2

Portion sizes are small but prices are affordable, averaging around $11.

3

Happy hour deals are available, providing discounts on select items.

03
Sushi Lin SoHo image 1
Restaurant

Counter seating creates an intimate, cozy setting with a serene, simple ambiance. The space feels welcoming and elegant without being stuffy, offering a top-tier sushi experience with flavorful omakase twists.

Lunch offers a 9 course Omakase that stands out as a great deal. The menu updates regularly, keeping the lunch experience fresh and incredible.

Chefs add a unique twist to traditional omakase with each bite-sized sushi. The 17-course meal features distinct flavors and creative garnishes, ending with a sesame rice dessert that stands out.

People are saying

"The sushi here is art, with unique flavor combinations."

"The sushi here is unique, with creative twists and delicious garnishes."

"This Lunch Spot's sushi is super fresh and creative."

Good to know

1

The 12-course Omakase is available for Saturday brunch.

2

A meal can easily run $200 per person.

3

There is a fee to use a credit card, with a 3% surcharge.

04
Le Botaniste image 1
Vegan restaurant

Space combines botanical-apothecary theme with stylish accents creating a calm and fun atmosphere. Seating includes indoor and outdoor options with amenities like phone charging outlets. Music volume tends to be loud, balancing a unique vibe with casual and fancy elements.

Offers a quick, healthy lunch with flavorful vegetarian and gluten-free vegan options. The setting feels casual yet sophisticated, suitable for dine-in or takeout.

Food offers unique flavors and stays consistently fresh and flavorful. The setup and ambiance create a sophisticated and special dining experience.

People are saying

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

"This is my go-to lunch spot for nutritious vegan options."

"The food here has such unique, distinct flavors."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a 'free glass of wine with a bowl' deal during Happy Hour.

2

Customers need to order at the counter before seating themselves.

3

All menu items are vegan and gluten-free.

05
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.

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

Spinach noodles and thick tube noodles offer a unique texture and flavor. Octopus with burrata stands out with a distinctive mix of sauces. Pasta dishes bring flavorful twists to traditional recipes.

People are saying

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

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

"The pasta here is unique, flavorful, and delicious."

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.

06
Odd Sister image 1
American restaurant

Cozy and stylish interior with unique cocktails and a large covered backyard bar creates a calm, romantic atmosphere. Music stays phenomenal throughout, supporting intimate conversations and lively gatherings. Space fills up, so reservations help secure a spot in this iconic SoHo setting.

Weekday lunches feature a casual vibe with options for a late lunch and wine. The spot serves as a reliable choice for a midday break in a busy area.

Inventive cocktails stand out with the Odd Sister offering unique and delicious flavors. The menu features unique appetizers and food that add to the overall stunning experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and nicely presented."

"The cocktails are inventive, unique, and delicious."

"The Lunch Spot food here is delicious."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is advisable because the restaurant is busy.

2

Saturdays are busy but fun; expect a lively atmosphere.

3

Happy hour drinks have a great vibe and are popular.

07
Chubby Cattle BBQ | New York image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Space offers premium quality meat in a setting that feels chill yet fancy. It draws those seeking unlimited A5 wagyu and high-quality yakiniku without high cost. The atmosphere balances casual comfort with a sense of luxury.

Weekday lunches stay quiet with no crowd. Attentive service from hosts like Christine and Shawn makes the meal smooth and enjoyable.

Multiple plans offer different selections of high-quality dishes like Japanese Wagyu BBQ and unique sushi. Every dish is beautifully presented and delivers a unique dining experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and of good quality."

"Our server Shawn cooked our meats perfectly at this Lunch Spot."

"The service here is so nice and attentive and helpful."

Good to know

1

Unlimited A5 wagyu is available, making it a great value.

2

This spot offers high-quality beef at reasonable prices.

3

Chubby Cattle BBQ specializes in high-quality yakiniku dining.

08
Lucia Pizza Of SoHo image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small, cozy pizza shop offers poblano style slices with a warm, intimate interior and standing counters for quick bites. The atmosphere is hectic and crowded, with most people grabbing pizza to go. A great playlist plays in the background, adding to the lively vibe.

Open until 3 AM on weekends, this spot serves pizza slices ideal for quick lunches or late bites. Options like marinara and vodka pizzas make lunch choices simple and tasty.

Specialty pizzas stand out with unique flavors like the garlicky white slice and the distinctive spinach option. The drink selection also offers unique choices that complement the high-quality pizza by the slice.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was amazing and crispy."

"The pizza here is unique, with a flavorful, cheesy, and crunchy crust."

"This lunch spot's pizza crust is perfectly crispy with a touch of char."

Good to know

1

This place is strictly takeout with no seating available.

2

The pizza shop gets busy quickly, especially during late night and weekends.

3

Plan to grab and go as there is limited standing space.

09
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.

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.

Fresh udon noodles come with a light beef broth that avoids heavy flavors. Unique dishes include yaki nasu, a salad with endive, frisรฉe, and pumpkin, and noodles topped with intestines for a distinct twist.

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 noodles here are fresh and unique."

Good to know

1

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

2

Be prepared to wait an hour if you donโ€™t have a reservation.

3

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

10
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.

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

Flavors stand out with a unique twist in dishes like lasagna, calamari, and cod special appetizer. Presentation adds a distinctive touch, especially the table side tiramisu offering a non-traditional experience.

People are saying

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

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

"This place offers a truly authentic Italian experience."

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.

11
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.

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.

Burgers feature thin onions cooked with the meat for a distinct flavor. Options like the super onion burger and Oklahoma burger stand out with their unique tastes and presentation.

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 tasty and unique, with a nostalgic feeling."

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 Motzโ€™s restaurant.

3

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

12
Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer - SoHo image 1

Small basement restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere with a youthful crowd and great music. The space includes a cozy bar with many beers on tap and two TVs for entertainment. The underground setting adds a unique vibe that feels lively and welcoming.

Lunch features delicious food and kind, professional staff. The atmosphere supports a pleasant dining experience.

Staff use unique ingredients to accommodate allergies. Burgers feature distinctive flavors, especially the Wagyu. Milkshakes stand out as unusually creative and memorable.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers were seriously tasty and good quality."

"The burgers here are delicious and yummy."

"You have to try their unique shakes, they're giant and covered in candy."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation if you have a large party.

2

Customers need to order everything online.

3

The restaurant does not provide free glasses of water and only sells Saratoga bottles for 4 dollars each.

13
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.

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

Offers a unique level of French gastronomy with each visit delivering a memorable experience. Breakfast includes distinctive dishes like a tasty banana tart.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a unique Parisian brasserie vibe with warm wood and brass."

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.

14
Dominique Ansel Bakery image 1

Small bakery with tight indoor space and a crowded, lively atmosphere. Back garden offers quiet outdoor seating with flowers and Wi-Fi, providing a contrast to the busy interior. Known for innovative pastries and a warm, welcoming vibe.

Sandwiches and quiches stand out as lunch options alongside donuts. The spot suits breakfast, brunch, or lunch with a casual vibe.

Unique pastries like the cronut and the DKA stand out here. The croissant doughnut of the month offers a different twist with its filling.

People are saying

"The DKA, a caramelized croissant pastry, was incredible."

"The Cronut is a unique flaky pastry with a tart lemon filling."

"You have to try the cronuts; they're so delicious."

Good to know

1

Get to the bakery before 10am to avoid a long line.

2

Each month, a new flavor of the Cronutยฎ is unveiled, drawing eager crowds.

3

You can't find any cronuts after 1 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.

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.

Pistachio dip and crispy cauliflower stand out with their unique flavors. Chicken shawarma features a distinct seasoning that sets it apart from typical dishes.

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 dips are uniquely rich and savory, especially the pistachio hummus."

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
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.

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.

Atmosphere blends Roman vibes with a cool shop feel. Menu offers carefully curated and unique dishes like the summer salad.

People are saying

"The wine and food here are truly incredible."

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

"The food here is fantastic, especially the creamy burrata."

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.

17
Manuela image 1
Restaurant

Dining space resembles an art museum with an open kitchen and unique chandelier featuring colored orbs. Atmosphere feels welcoming and cheery, blending cuisine with culture and community. Cocktails and wine selections show creative balance and expert execution.

Lunch offers a beautiful space with incredible hospitality and well-prepared food. It suits both larger groups and nice lunch dates.

Beams of light shine through mushroom-like colored orbs in a chandelier that stands out. Dishes balance art-filled presentation with flavors that are unique yet approachable.

People are saying

"The cream biscuits were rich, buttery, and flaky."

"It's a visually stunning space filled with unique art and creative details."

"This lunch spot feels like a beautiful art museum."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not recommended for special events like birthdays or anniversaries.

2

Half of the menu is unavailable during the Noon Brunch reservation.

3

Multiple cocktails are unavailable on the drink menu.

18
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.

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

Escargot stands out as a signature dish here. A roaming magician performs unique tricks that entertain the whole table, making the dining experience truly captivating.

People are saying

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

"The live burlesque shows here are amazing and electrifying."

"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.

19
Lure Fishbar image 1
Restaurant

Interior resembles inside of a yacht with porthole-inspired windows and a semi-subterranean dining room. Atmosphere is lively and loud, requiring raised voices for conversation. Patrons enjoy fresh seafood and creative cocktails in a space that balances charm with a fun, ship-style vibe.

Offers sushi and oysters for a quick or late lunch with a complimentary deviled eggs starter. Suitable for business lunches or casual reunions with friends, with meals and drinks for two under $200.

The place offers a unique ambiance paired with high-quality food like the Asian snapper for two. It also provides excellent people watching, making for a distinct evening.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and perfectly cooked."

"The interior design is unique, like being inside a ship."

"This lunch spot has delicious, fresh oysters and sushi."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-off oysters until 7pm.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

Expect a minimum spend of $870 for a party of six.

20
Ladurรฉe Soho image 1

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.

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

Cherry blossom notes in the latte create a refreshing drink. The menu features unique dishes with amazing presentations and flavorful options. The atmosphere feels beautiful and welcoming.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious and unique in taste and presentation."

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

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.

21
Raoul's image 1
French restaurant

Small, elegant French restaurant with cramped seating and a high glass ceiling that adds ambient lighting. Atmosphere feels lively and loud, with live accordion music and classic soul tunes playing. Bar area offers top-notch cocktails and a limited, sought-after burger menu.

Early lunch reservations are possible. The four-course lunch offers variety. The lunch burger is a standout item with limited availability.

Levain pancake offers a distinct taste not found elsewhere. The burger stands out with its unique flavor profile. Desserts also bring a different twist to the table.

People are saying

"I thought the pepper steak was the best I'd ever eaten."

"I plan to return to try the burger at this lunch spot."

"The burger here is unique, with peppercorn in every bite."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary to have a good experience at this place.

2

Burgers are only served at the bar and not in the dining area.

3

They only serve 20 burgers a night, only at the bar.

22
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.

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.

Cocktail list offers classic and inventive drinks. Decor includes a jukebox and photobooth that stand out.

People are saying

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

"The atmosphere and decor here are truly unique."

"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.

23
Sadelle's New York image 1
Breakfast restaurant

High ceilings and close tables create a loud, crowded atmosphere with an authentic SoHo cafรฉ vibe. The space features beautiful decor with green accents and a lively crowd that brings Manhattan brunch energy. Fresh bagels and smoked salmon add to the bustling, energetic feel.

Lunch offers tasty French toast and blueberry pancakes that can nearly replace a meal. The spot suits a long lunch but tends to be loud and overpriced.

Three tiers of seating create a unique layout. The leo omelette offers a distinct flavor, and the menu features unique flavors overall.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh, crispy everything bagels here."

"This is a great lunch spot for friends."

"The flavors here are unique and amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended as the place gets packed quickly.

2

Expect a wait of about 30 minutes for food during busy hours.

3

Bottled water costs $10, even if not requested.

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