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Top picks in Cincinnati

Lunch spots

You need a lunch spot that respects your time and gets you back to your day without a fuss.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Red Squirrel image 1
Red Squirrel image 2
Red Squirrel image 3
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American restaurant

Diner-style spot shines with enormous sandwiches perfect for lunch. Prices stay fabulous and carryout is strong. Laid-back vibe and friendly regulars make it a great grab-and-go choice.

Enormous sandwiches with great lunch meat stand out here. Prices stay fabulous and the spot works well for grab and go lunch.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has enormous, delicious sandwiches stacked high."

"I suggested the double decker BLT because I loved bacon."

"I thought the salads here were pretty good."

Good to know

1

Red Squirrel closes at 1:30 PM on weekdays, not 2:00 PM as advertised.

2

Expect to be asked to leave by 1:45 PM as they display a closed sign.

3

Prices for sandwiches are around $8.75.

02
Saigon Subs and Rolls image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small Vietnamese spot serves authentic pho and varied banh mi at great prices. Casual vibe with quick service makes it ideal for wholesome lunches downtown. Seating is limited but perfect for a fast, satisfying meal.

Offers quick wholesome lunch with fair portions and good service during busy times. Reliable spot for a satisfying midday meal at a great price.

People are saying

"I found the banh mi to be cheap and full of flavor."

"This lunch spot's pho is amazing and well-priced."

"I thought the spring rolls tasted really fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 2pm, limiting lunch options for late arrivals.

2

Banh mi sandwiches are priced higher than average for a half portion.

3

Boba tea costs $6 with multiple flavor combinations available.

03
Bourbon's Craft Kitchen & Bar image 1

Bar and grill shines with luxe decor and street-level views. Lunch serves perfect portions with tasty dishes and a bourbon espresso martini. Outdoor seating offers a relaxed space for city views and cigars.

Lunch offers perfect portions with delicious food. The bourbon espresso martini stands out as a notable drink choice.

People are saying

"I was skeptical about the truffle burger, but it was one of the best."

"The desserts here are decadent; some people even licked the bowl."

"You have to try the bourbon espresso martini at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, especially weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Automatic gratuity is added for large tables, so be aware when dining with a group.

04
Harry & Shan Asian Cuisine image 1

Asian restaurant offers a quiet atmosphere and authentic Chinese dishes. Lunch specials provide great value with sweet & sour chicken and crab rangoon. Location near a busy bar may affect entrance access.

Lunch specials offer great value with generous portions and a delicious sweet & sour chicken option. Crab rangoon pairs well, making it a solid choice for a satisfying midday meal.

People are saying

"The orange chicken here is amazing, with perfect white meat."

"The food at this Late Night Spot is fresh and delicious."

"The lunch special here is a delicious deal."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers lunch specials at a great price.

2

Harry & Shan Asian Cuisine is open late on weekends.

3

The portion sizes are generous and can easily be shared.

05
Wyoming Meat Market image 1

Part bar and part deli with a lively, casual vibe. Known for artisan bread and high-quality meats, it serves quick, popular deli sandwiches perfect for lunch. Fridays feature grill outs adding tasty variety to the menu.

Quick service handles lunch orders smoothly even when busy. Deli sandwiches and lunch meat stand out as popular choices, with grill outs on Fridays adding variety.

People are saying

"You have to try the deli sandwiches for lunch; they're the best."

"The sandwich was made with focaccia bread, ham, cheese, and apricot jelly."

"I tried the Japanese A5 Wagyu ribeye steak; it had amazing marbling and flavor."

Good to know

1

Outdoor grill outs and local music are featured on Fridays.

2

A bar inside serves dinner on Fridays with various options.

3

Catering options are available for events and gatherings.

06
The Frank: Neighborhood Deli and Grill image 1

Restored century-old building hosts a cozy, light dining room with small-town deli vibes. Grill-focused lunch draws a steady crowd, especially on Fridays. Artistic touches create an inviting spot beyond fast food for a solid midday meal.

Lunch offers neighborhood deli style meals with a grill focus. Fridays often bring a steady crowd looking for a solid midday meal.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has tasty food, especially the crispy fries."

"I found the burgers juicy, flavorful, and satisfying."

"You have to try the jerk chicken chili; it's a tasty treat."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy on South Street.

2

The restaurant is only open for lunch at the moment.

3

Expect the chicken chili to sell out fast, so arrive early.

07
Bobby's Fish & Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Chicken inside a gas station offers huge juicy tenders and lemon pepper wings with a super clean kitchen. Lunch specials include a double cheeseburger and five wings for great value. Casual spot with no dine-in and about a 15-minute wait.

Lunch specials offer a double cheeseburger, five whole wings, and fries for around $8. The meals come fresh, hot, and provide a strong value deal.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was the best I ever had."

"I loved the double cheeseburger with jalapenos."

"The lunch here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

The entire menu is 100% Halal, catering to Halal dietary requirements.

2

Lunch specials are available for $8.99, offering good value.

3

There is no dine-in option available; takeout only.

08
Anderson Township Pub image 1

Small bar with quiet patio offers a family-friendly vibe and cold draft beer. Multiple TVs show games while a jukebox or live music adds charm. Perfect for a quick lunch with juicy hamburgers and relaxed seating.

Offers a quick bite and a drink for lunch with options to sit on a quiet front patio.

People are saying

"The wings here are fantastic, especially the crispy, hot ones."

"The burgers here are delicious, especially the smash burger with great sauce."

"I loved sitting on the patio for the live music."

Good to know

1

The pub offers a special 'Elly Burger' during Burger Week.

2

Expect a reasonable wait time from order to eating.

3

The prices at the pub are affordable and reasonable.

09
Frankie’s Sips & Savories image 1

Long, narrow space offers intimate seating and a charming outdoor alley for a cozy vibe. Lunch features a $25 menu with standout dishes like the Frankie's Combo. Warm atmosphere and lively bar make it perfect for a midday break.

Lunch service includes a $25 lunch menu with quality modern Mediterranean food. The Frankie's Combo stands out as a delicious option among great lunch specials.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully done."

"The stuffed pita sandwiches were flavor bombs."

"The pita sandwiches here are flavor bombs, especially the falafel."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

2

Salsa lessons are offered later in the evening after dining hours.

3

Lunch hours have recently been added to the restaurant's schedule.

10
Rokaru Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen spot blends sleek decor with an open kitchen that entertains while you eat. Soft Japanese pop sets a fun atmosphere perfect for a relaxing lunch break. Seating suits solo diners and groups, making it a casual yet modern lunch choice.

Offers a relaxing lunch break with a calm atmosphere. Suitable for both solo visits and groups, making it a friendly spot for midday meals.

People are saying

"I consider this the best ramen I have ever eaten."

"I found the milk tea to be delicious."

"The ramen here is exceptional, with great flavor."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable, with two large bowls of ramen costing about $15.00 each.

2

The facility is clean and well-maintained.

3

There is enough parking in the strip mall.

11
Red Fox Grill image 1
Sandwich shop

Old-school sandwich shop shines with double-decker sandwiches and fresh, crisp bacon. Friendly, nostalgic vibe and cash-only policy keep it classic. Open late, it’s a reliable lunch spot in the downtown business district.

A reliable spot for double-deckers, sandwiches, and burgers draws a steady lunch crowd. It stays open long after other shops close, making it a consistent choice in the downtown business district.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly crispy."

"I thought the sandwich here was the best in town."

"I found it to be a great lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Red Fox Grill is cash only, so bring cash for your meal.

2

The prices are very affordable, with most meals under $10.

3

Expect long wait times during the busy lunch hour on Fridays.

12
Ali's Bar and Grill image 1

Cozy bar and grill offers scratch-made burgers and standout wings for lunch. Fun family vibe with games like darts and TVs showing college basketball create a chill spot for casual dining and drinks.

Casual spot with neighborhood bar vibes suits lunch well. Offers cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere for a late lunch or drinks.

People are saying

"The bar food here is amazing, especially the wings and burgers."

"The owners and staff are so friendly, they remember your name."

"I loved my lunch and drinks at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

The bar is open until 2:30 AM, making it a late-night option.

2

Prices for drinks and entrees are under $25, making it budget-friendly.

3

They grind their own meat for hamburgers, ensuring freshness.

13
Sweets & Meats BBQ Restaurant - Avondale image 1

Barbecue spot near the Zoo offers scratch-made brisket in a clean, spacious setting. Quick lunch meals fit busy schedules. The family-friendly atmosphere makes it a warm, inviting place to relax and enjoy hearty BBQ.

Lunch features BBQ options with brisket available in batches. The spot serves quick meals and is convenient near the Zoo.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and full of flavor."

"The American food here is amazing; I thought every dish was delicious."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is amazing and fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 7 PM and turns off their grills before 6 PM.

2

Catering services are available for events like weddings.

3

Expect large portions that justify the pricing.

14
Govindas Kitchen image 1

Warm, inviting space serves authentic Satvik vegetarian food with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Lunch features a daily changing menu including jackfruit biryani and shahi tukda. Meals are clean, delicious, and highly affordable.

Lunch offers a satvik vegetarian menu with different items daily. The lunch combo includes jackfruit biryani, boondi raita, mirchi bajji, and shahi tukda, all clean and delicious.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and bursting with flavor."

"I found the vegetarian food here to be delicious and perfectly spiced."

"This lunch spot serves authentic, delicious, home-style vegetarian food."

Good to know

1

The lunch menu features different items every day.

2

Govindas Kitchen offers both dine-in and take-out options.

3

The prices are very reasonable for the quality and amount of food.

15
Tikka Xpress Northside image 1
Indian restaurant

Enjoy quick, flavorful dishes in a clean, pleasant space with large windows and art. Lunch specials offer great value with filling portions around $9.99. Open-air dining in the courtyard adds a refreshing touch to your meal.

Lunch specials offer great value with yummy quality food at a price around $9.99. Portions are filling and satisfy hunger well.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is so flavorful and fresh."

"You have to try the kebabs; they're the best takeaway I've had in years."

"The lunch special here is a great deal for yummy food."

Good to know

1

The lunch special offers great value at only $9.99.

2

Portions are generous and prices are very reasonable.

3

Parking is manageable on Saturday afternoons.

16
Taco Jared 12 image 1
Restaurant

Trailer in gas station lot serves authentic Mexican food with large portions at fair prices. Outdoor seating under tarp offers a casual, relaxed vibe perfect for lunch meetups. Payment is cash or Venmo, mostly carryout orders.

Frequent visits show this spot serves as a reliable lunch destination. It suits casual meetups, like Friday noon meals with friends.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were really good."

"I thought the authentic Mexican food was great."

"This Lunch Spot's chorizo burritos are large and hit the spot."

Good to know

1

Taco Jared 12 does not accept cards, only Venmo or cash.

2

The owner says to park anywhere that doesn't block others.

3

Most customers prefer carryout over dining in.

17
Los Patrones Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant shines with Quetzalcoatl embroidery and a modern bar popular among young people. Lunch specials like ranchos enchiladas offer solid flavors. Strong, spicy margaritas and fresh tableside guacamole make it a lively spot.

Lunch features ranchos enchiladas and a quesadilla fajita with chicken. Meals come as lunch specials with solid Mexican flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always great."

"I've never had a bad experience with their burrito."

"I had a really good lunch here; the food was excellent."

Good to know

1

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

2

Chips and salsa are available for $6.

3

Parking is easy and the restaurant is clean.

18
Taqueria Mana Del Cielo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Street taco spot serves authentic Mexican flavors with quick, affordable meals. Lunch includes ready-made options perfect for on-the-go or next-day eating. Cash-only setup adds to its casual, neighborhood vibe loved by locals.

Lunch options include ready-made meals for convenience. Meals can be taken for next-day consumption.

People are saying

"The tacos here are authentic and absolutely the best I've ever had."

"I got a chicken burrito for lunch and it was the best I'd had in years."

"The tacos here are so fresh and authentic, just like in California."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accepts only cash or CashApp as payment.

2

Each taco costs $3.

3

The burrito costs $10.

19
Flavors n Spices Indian Restaurant and Bar image 1

Modern Indian restaurant blends cozy candlelight with an upscale vibe. Service is fast and prompt, perfect for quick lunches or carryout. Quiet, chill atmosphere reflects deep Indian culture with a touch of fine dining.

Fast, prompt service makes lunch here efficient. Food arrives on time, suitable for a quick business meal or carryout during busy hours.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be truly delicious."

"I found the most authentic Indian food in Cincinnati here."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is so flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options.

2

Expect a service charge for tables with more than five people.

3

The restaurant uses a spice level from 1 to 10 for dishes.

20
Holzman Meats image 1
Butcher shop

Family-run butcher shop shines with unique cuts like oxtail and rare bones. Hot lunches include burgers and chicken fingers, perfect for daily meals. Knowledgeable staff ensure a wholesome menu and wide selection of meats and deli items.

Offers hot lunches like burgers and chicken fingers plus made-to-go sandwiches. Serves a wholesome menu that fits daily lunch routines well.

People are saying

"Their pot pies are delicious and made in house."

"The service here is so kind and patient, I'll be back."

"You have to try the Red Baron burger; it's the best."

Good to know

1

During BurgerWeek, they offer a special Red Barron burger with fries or onion rings.

2

Prices at Holzman Meats are generally high, with sandwiches around $10.

3

Cash is recommended for payment as some vendors may not accept cards.

21
Mi Cabaña Mexican Bar & Grill image 1

Walls show a rain forest vibe with Mexican-themed seats and a gorgeous bar countertop. Lunch draws a steady crowd for a filling burrito that lasts long. Multiple flat screens show soccer games, keeping energy upbeat and electric.

Lunch draws a steady crowd with many people streaming in. The burrito serves as a filling meal that often lasts into the next day. Seating at the bar offers a casual spot for a late lunch.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and very fresh."

"The service at these date spots is so friendly and attentive."

"The Lunch Spot margaritas are pretty with a nice punch and great flavor."

Good to know

1

The menu offers a wide variety of Mexican dishes and drinks.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

3

Expect a busy lunch crowd, especially on weekends.

22
Redden Fine Meats & Seafood image 1

Small butcher shop shines with premium meats and unique cuts. Sandwiches make a great lunch on the pleasant patio. Prices are higher but match the quality and selection.

Sandwiches stand out as a great lunch option here. The patio offers a pleasant spot to enjoy meals, making it a frequent choice for lunch visits.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, especially the huge, delicious scallops."

"The steak here is amazing, and the service is so friendly."

"I found the seafood deli at this Lunch Spot to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Redden Fine Meats & Seafood offers a variety of high-quality meats and seafood.

2

Gift cards are available, making it easy to support local businesses.

3

The store carries locally produced groceries and specialty items.

23
Free Parking: Bar | Board Games | Bites image 1

Bar offers large library of board games and ample table space for groups. Lunch is casual and fun, perfect for families or friends. Noise is high due to concrete floors, but free parking and helpful staff add convenience.

Lunch here pairs well with games, creating a casual and fun atmosphere. The spot welcomes groups, making it easy to enjoy a meal with family or friends.

People are saying

"The food here is top-notch quality and totally yummy."

"They have a huge selection of board games."

"I loved the wide selection of games with my lunch."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and easy to find behind the building or on the street.

2

The kitchen stays open late, offering food and drink options until closing.

3

No admission or game fees are required to enter and play.

24
MR HUMMUS image 1
Restaurant

Small space with intimate seating offers a chill vibe but can feel quiet. Lunch features generous portions of authentic Mediterranean dishes with halal meat. Prices stay very cheap, making it a great spot for both lunch and dinner.

Generous portions and very cheap prices define the lunch menu here. It serves delicious Greek dishes suitable for both lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"The hummus here is silky smooth and incredibly authentic."

"The Greek food here is so loaded, you'll need a fork."

"The falafel wrap here is a fantastic lunch spot, super fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is HALAL.

2

The gyro costs only $10.

3

If you spend more than $30, you get a free large side of hummus.

25
Hibachi Express Japanese Grill image 1

Offers generous portions and varied options like hibachi chicken and teriyaki dishes. Well furnished with cute decor for a pleasant vibe. Handles large groups smoothly, making it great for group lunches.

Handles large groups smoothly and works well for group lunches. Serves as a reliable go-to spot for midday meals.

People are saying

"The teriyaki chicken and beef were mouthwatering and flavorful."

"The fried rice portions were so generous, it felt like two dinners in one."

"This Lunch Spot handled my big group like champs."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity of food.

2

Portions are generous, often enough for two meals.

3

Catering is available with a 30-minute preparation notice.

26
Tequila Modern Mexican image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small dining area with modern floral decor offers an intimate lunch spot with delicious entrees perfect for a quick stop. Lively energy and traditional Mexican music create a vibrant atmosphere. Known for flavorful steak fajitas and a huge tequila selection.

Lunch offers delicious entrees with solid flavor. Meals suit a quick stop before other activities.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was amazing."

"The steak fajitas were tender and flavorful."

"The service at this lunch spot was great and super attentive."

Good to know

1

There is a free parking deck behind the place that you enter off of Chapel Street.

2

The margaritas are $9 on Tuesdays at Tequila Modern Mexican.

3

Expect longer wait times on Saturdays for dinner service.

27
Thai Village - Cincinnati OH image 1

Modern, trendy space offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with a quiet, clean environment. Lunch features Khan Tok Box specials and mild Pad Thai with chicken, paired with appetizers like gyoza. Cozy, beautifully decorated setting enhances the Thai fusion experience.

Lunch includes Khan Tok Box specials and Pad Thai with chicken at a mild spice level. Lunch boxes often come with appetizers like gyoza.

People are saying

"I thought the Pad Thai was some of the best I had."

"The vegetarian food here is amazing, especially the cheese Rangoons."

"The Pad Thai lunch special is perfectly spicy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Free parking is available in the lot by Deeper Roots Coffee.

3

The restaurant offers vegetarian options on the menu.

28
Everything Bagels on Wooster image 1

Fresh bagels with varied cream cheeses make a tasty grab-and-go choice. Drive-thru adds quick service for lunch, keeping food quality consistent. Limited seating means it's best for fast visits before bagels sell out by noon.

Drive-thru service offers quick and convenient options for breakfast and lunch. Food quality stays consistent, making it a reliable spot for a midday meal.

People are saying

"I found the bagel sandwiches to be delicious and satisfying."

"I loved their coffee; it was solid and delicious."

"I loved their wraps and bagels; they were super yummy."

Good to know

1

They run out of bagels every day at noon, so arrive early.

2

An employee mentioned they replenish stock throughout the day.

3

Prices are competitive and reasonable for the quality offered.

29
1 More Bite image 1
Restaurant

Warm space with live jazz sets a friendly tone. Lunch specials at $10 offer solid value with tasty options like Soup and Salad. Enjoy Tuscan salmon or smash burgers while taking in a gorgeous view.

Lunch specials cost $10 and include options like Soup and Salad and a baked potato with chicken. These specials offer solid value and variety for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The food here is made with so much love."

"The Italian food here, especially the salmon Alfredo, is so rich and flavorful."

"The staff at this lunch spot are so friendly and kind."

Good to know

1

The off-street parking lot is spacious, clean, and just a few doors away.

2

Lunch specials cost $10, offering good value.

3

The portions are huge, enough to feed at least two people.

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Cincinnati, Ohio

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