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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to the UES

Lunch takeout

Made for those who need a reliable lunch spot that respects their time with efficient takeout options.

Based on 493 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tamam by Soom Soom image 1
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Falafel restaurant

Small indoor space with limited seating and a cozy outdoor area featuring bar stools and heat lamps. Atmosphere mixes lively Latino music with attempts at a Middle Eastern vibe, creating a unique but sometimes conflicting energy. Outdoor seating invites people-watching and casual dining.

Lunch offers authentic Middle Eastern vegan dishes with a focus on pita and bowls. Timing matters since arriving on time ensures the best experience.

Food works well for takeout and pairs nicely with nearby outdoor spots. Pickup is the preferred method, making it a solid choice for grabbing meals on the go.

People are saying

"I found the falafel pita to be excellent and perfectly crisp."

"I loved the falafel platter; it's the best lunch spot."

"The takeout food here is well prepared and satisfying."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 8 PM.

2

The prices are high, with a simple bowl of hummus and falafel costing $20.

3

Everything on the menu is vegan.

02
Spice Thai image 1
Thai restaurant

Small space with cozy rustic vibe and lovely fresco creates a comfortable, mellow atmosphere. Outdoor seating adds variety while friendly staff support a pleasant dining experience. Quiet setting suits those seeking a relaxed meal with authentic Thai flavors.

Lunch specials offer great value with prices under $18 including tip. Set offerings provide a variety that satisfies well for midday meals.

Orders come together in less than 10 minutes, making it a quick option for pickup. The spot is known for reliable takeout and consistent Thai flavors.

People are saying

"The lunch specials here are a great value for the amount of food."

"The Tom Yum soup is delightfully tangy and spicy."

"The noodle and soup takeout here is amazing and tangy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

Lunch specials allow you to eat for under $18 with tip.

3

Expect quick lunch takeout, usually ready in less than 10 minutes.

03
Noz Market image 1
Sushi restaurant

Standing-only sushi bar features minimalist Japanese-inspired design and a modern, intimate atmosphere. The space includes a unique hand roll bar with about 4-5 standing seats and a few tables tucked behind drapes. The vibe is casual yet focused, with a fast pace and authentic Japanese touches.

Lunch features an omakase with about nine courses priced at $85 plus tax and service. The meal offers high-quality dishes with affordable pricing and no compromises.

Chirashi and kaisen-don stand out as great takeout options here. A standing hand roll bar supports quick orders, but the takeout maki combo feels underwhelming for the price.

People are saying

"The Omakase here is a mesmerizing performance of fresh, well-cut fish."

"The fish here is super fresh and expertly cut."

"I found the takeout chirashi and kaisen-don to be great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2-5 PM Monday to Friday with $10 hand rolls.

2

A 20% service charge is automatically added to every bill.

3

The restaurant randomly closes without notice, so check ahead.

04
Thai At Lex image 1
Thai restaurant

Small space holds about 16 people with intimate seating and cozy atmosphere. Outdoor area offers well-decorated, aesthetic dining with a Southeast Asian vibe from fruit and vegetable decor. Noise levels vary, sometimes becoming loud depending on crowd.

Affordable lunch options include starters, salads, noodles, fried rice, and curry priced around 15 USD. Service stays quick and friendly even during busy lunch hours, making it a solid choice for a quick bite.

Busy with locals, this spot focuses on takeout and often only offers takeout food near closing time. Orders can be placed early for pickup later.

People are saying

"I found the Thai food here to be excellent and super tasty."

"The takeout food here is good and the prices are reasonable."

"The drunken noodles at this Lunch Spot were amazing."

Good to know

1

Limited seating is available, so call ahead or order take out.

2

The lunch special is $14 and includes soup, appetizer, and any entree dish.

3

Prices are very reasonable for Manhattan and the Upper East Side.

05
Ollieโ€™s To Go: Upper East Side image 1

Chinese takeout spot offers a clean, cozy atmosphere with self-serve hot tea and water. Menu features large, flavorful dim sum and affordable lunch specials. The vibe stays calm and welcoming, making it a straightforward choice for quick meals.

Lunch specials include meat, vegetables, and a side for about 12 USD. The spot serves solid Chinese American dishes and offers consistent value during lunch hours.

Offers fast, convenient Chinese takeout with a lot of cheap options. Seating exists but the focus stays on quick, easy pickup for New York-style takeout.

People are saying

"I found the pork dumplings juicy and flavorful."

"I found this place to be a great, fast, and convenient Chinese takeout spot."

"This lunch spot has delicious, fresh food that isn't greasy."

Good to know

1

There is a 4% surcharge called 'processing fee' if you pay by credit card.

2

Paying cash at Ollie's provides a better price.

3

The delivery took an hour and a half from 12 blocks away.

06
Wonder Upper East Side image 1

Space offers plenty of seating with clean, eco-friendly design and real-time order displays. Atmosphere feels cozy and fresh with nice background music and a seamless ordering process. Crowd includes groups of teenagers who can be loud, but overall vibe remains positive.

Offers both grab-and-go and sit-down options for lunch. Salad choices are available, and payment can include promos. Refunds may take an extra 5-7 minutes to process during busy times.

Pickup times run very fast with a real-time order display by the pickup area. The spot offers easy pickup with everything under one roof and focuses mostly on takeout orders.

People are saying

"I was happily surprised by the quality of the food from delivery."

"The American food, especially the brisket and mac and cheese, is amazing."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is amazing and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

You can order from multiple restaurants at Wonder in one transaction.

2

The app is user-friendly for ordering from different places.

3

Delivery is consistently on time for all orders.

07
Brooklyn Dumpling Shop image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Automat-style dumpling restaurant with self-checkout lockers and autonomous delivery system creates a high-tech, casual vibe. Games and music requests add to the fun, welcoming atmosphere suitable for all ages. Seating includes stools and the space features cool murals and modern decor.

Lunch offers a great deal with specials that draw regular visits. Service stays consistently good, making it a reliable spot for a midday meal.

Pickup runs quick and easy with food made to order. The automat pickup system adds a fun, nostalgic touch for those familiar with old New York diners.

People are saying

"The dumplings here are bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked."

"This is my favorite local spot for lunch."

"The owner personally delivered my takeout and introduced himself."

Good to know

1

Customers must pay by credit card or on their phone; cash is not accepted.

2

Expect a long wait time, especially during peak hours.

3

The kitchen closes 20 minutes before the official closing time.

08
Dave's Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Chicken restaurant offers stylish, clean design with a casual, welcoming vibe and friendly staff. The atmosphere features good music that enhances the experience. It serves highly spicy, flavorful chicken that stands out for quality and heat.

Long waits happen around lunch time, so ordering way in advance helps. Staff explain the menu clearly and assist with picking options.

Pickup involves a disorganized and slow process. Waiting times can exceed half an hour for on-site takeout orders.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and excellent."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was so friendly and helpful."

"I loved their cauliflower tenders for takeout."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is halal.

2

Prices are a bit expensive, and combos must include fries.

3

You can choose your spice level, but going spicier may compromise taste.

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Upper East Side, New York

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