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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Union Square

Unique lunch spots

A midday break should feel like a departure from the routine. It is about finding a place that offers a distinct experience in the middle of the day.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Le Basque French Vegan Restaurant image 1
Le Basque French Vegan Restaurant image 2
Le Basque French Vegan Restaurant image 3
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Elegant dining space features an open glass ceiling and detailed decor, creating a calm and romantic atmosphere. Cocktails stand out with unique flavors and presentations, complementing a fully vegan menu. Seating can feel cramped, but the overall vibe suits intimate moments and special occasions.

Lunch offers a lovely and peaceful atmosphere that stands out on busy days. The experience feels mind-blowing with its calm and inviting vibe.

Cocktails with croissants and a menu of innovative French-Spanish vegan fusion create a truly unique food experience. The ambience and offerings stand out from typical restaurants.

People are saying

"The vegetarian food here is outstanding and incredibly flavorful."

"The food here is outrageously delicious and unique."

"This lunch spot's vegan cheese board is exquisite."

Good to know

1

Reservations are suggested for the upper level to ensure a comfortable experience.

2

The restaurant offers a unique vegan menu inspired by the Basque region.

3

Casual wear is acceptable, making it a relaxed dining option.

02
La Dong image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant showcases charming contemporary design with rattan lotus-shaped light fixtures and tranquil, authentic decor. Atmosphere feels classy and friendly with good acoustics and a welcoming vibe. Patrons enjoy exceptional pho and grilled turmeric branzino, complemented by a unique selection of Vietnamese gin and crafted cocktails.

Lunch offers a reasonably priced menu with clearly marked gluten-free options. Seating happens quickly, making it easy to enjoy a fantastic meal without long waits.

Dishes feature lemongrass and fresh herbs for a distinct flavor. Cocktails use Vietnamese ingredients and offer creative, unique twists like the grilled meatball lettuce cup with Cara Cara orange zest.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing."

"The Vietnamese dishes here are unique and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's pho is warming to the soul."

Good to know

1

Make sure to make a reservation before visiting.

2

La Dong charges almost $30 for its bรบn bรฒ Huแบฟ.

3

The restaurant could accommodate a big party of 20 people.

03
Mission Ceviche Union Square image 1

Peruvian restaurant with chic minimalist decor and nautical accents creates a laidback yet sophisticated atmosphere. Live DJ and vibrant bar energize the space, while authentic ceviche and expertly crafted cocktails define the culinary experience.

Lunch offers excellent food with a lunch special priced around $35 providing good value. Desserts like the chirimoya mousse with orange granita and berries finish the meal with a light, fresh touch.

Cuisine blends Peruvian fusion with meticulous preparation and presentation. Ceviche options are inventive and unique, with dishes like the trufadito offering a complex tuna tartare experience.

People are saying

"The ceviche here is outstanding and tastes so fresh."

"This lunch spot's ceviches are fresh and flavorful."

"The flavor combinations here are unique and wonderful."

Good to know

1

Reservations may be canceled without notice, so confirm before visiting.

2

Expect high prices for dishes, reflecting elevated Peruvian cuisine.

3

Mocktails advertised may not be available, so check beforehand.

04
Cafe Zaffri image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Elegant dining room under a peaked glass ceiling creates a bright, dramatic space with gorgeous seating. Atmosphere feels cozy and chic, blending lounge and cocktail areas with an inviting vibe. Frequented by groups and pairs, it offers a balanced mix of dining and drinks in a stylish setting.

Lunch features a burger with a Middle Eastern twist that stands out. Light bites come with fast service, making it a solid spot for a quick work lunch.

Menu offers approachable yet distinct dishes with something for everyone. Breads and spreads, fried eggplant, lamb wellington, and steak showcase unique flavors that stand out.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are amazing and unique."

"This lunch spot's food is uniquely flavorful and tasty."

"The food here is uniquely amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The food and drink menus are extensive without being overwhelming.

2

There are gluten-friendly options and substitutions available.

3

The menu is perfect for sharing, making it great for larger groups.

05
Laut image 1
Malaysian restaurant

Small space with old school Malaysian home decor creates a cozy and warm atmosphere filled with friendly chatter. Outdoor seating features heat lamps and offers a chill vibe despite close tables inside. Cocktails come with unique presentations, complementing flavorful, phenomenal Malaysian dishes.

Speedy service fits meals into a tight lunch hour. Lunch specials offer a budget-friendly way to try various dishes. Outdoor seating adds a pleasant atmosphere for midday meals.

Dishes pack a punch with unique Malaysian spices and just enough heat. The menu offers a different, new take on Asian cuisine beyond the usual Chinese, Korean, and Japanese options.

People are saying

"The duck curry and soft shell crab curry were rich and flavorful."

"This Lunch Spot's dishes are amazing, full of flavor."

"I loved the unique dishes and authentic Asian flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as people without them were leaving due to a long wait.

2

There is a 90 minute cap on the table due to high bookings.

3

The restaurant charges a $20 cancellation fee for each person if you cancel a reservation.

06
Kanyakumari image 1
South Indian restaurant

South Indian restaurant offers a cramped space with a mix of traditional decor and modern touches. Loud music fills the air, creating a vibrant but noisy atmosphere. Unique features include brassware highlights and an extensive dessert platter served on a seashell.

Lunch starts with chicken and beef starters and a cup of filter coffee. A serving of rasam awakens the senses early on.

Offers a unique selection of South Indian dishes unlike typical North Indian menus. Provides a flavorful journey through India's cuisines with food and service comparable to restaurants in India.

People are saying

"The food here is super flavorful and tastes so fresh."

"The unique flavors here are thoughtful, balanced, and regionally nuanced."

"This Lunch Spot's authentic South Indian cuisine is full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Brunch specials are popular and well-liked by customers.

3

Special dessert shows are available for birthdays upon request.

07
Tompkins Square Bagels | Union Square Bagel Shop image 1

Small bagel shop with crowded layout and fast-moving lines creates a lively, controlled chaos atmosphere. Eclectic decor and a hip vibe blend with a clean, professional environment. Standing tables and limited seating encourage quick visits amid a busy, welcoming crowd.

Lunch features NY bagel with lox and a breakfast sandwich with eggs and cheese. The Grive stands out among the lunch options.

Bagels come with a unique barley flavor and vegan recipe. Cream cheese spreads include espresso, pina colada, horseradish, and birthday cake for a creative mix. The El Chapo bagel offers a distinct taste combination.

People are saying

"I thought these bagels were some of the best I ever had."

"I loved their unique cream cheese flavors, especially the tofu options."

"The bagels here are amazing, packed with fillings and served warm."

Good to know

1

The wait time for a bagel is typically 30-45 minutes on sunny Sundays.

2

There is no seating available at the bagel shop.

3

It is better to order to-go at this bagel shop.

08
Lillie's Victorian Establishment image 1

Restaurant offers unique Victorian decor with seasonal themes like Halloween and Christmas that create a distinctive atmosphere. Music ranges from 60s and 70s hits to louder 2000s pop, affecting the vibe. Crowds fill the space, making it lively and busy.

Offers a Victorian atmosphere ideal for a relaxed lunch after shopping. Lunch feels like a highlight of the day, preferred over afternoon tea.

Victorian-era ambiance creates a unique dining experience with inviting, friendly, comfortable vibes. Cocktails stand out as super unique, visually appealing, and tasty.

People are saying

"The food here is solid, especially with the festive holiday vibes."

"It's got this captivating, old-world Victorian vibe, almost like stepping into Harry Potter."

"This lunch spot is gorgeously decorated for the holidays."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during holidays and special events.

2

Happy hour offers well-priced drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

The kitchen opens at 2pm, but afternoon tea is available from opening until 5pm.

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Union Square, New York

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