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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Cincinnati

Unique lunch spots

A lunch spot that offers something genuinely different instead of the same tired options you see everywhere else.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Bourbon's Craft Kitchen & Bar image 1
Bourbon's Craft Kitchen & Bar image 2
Bourbon's Craft Kitchen & Bar image 3
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Bar and grill with luxe, cozy decor and street-level views creates a visually engaging atmosphere. Music varies from pleasant background tunes to loud DJ sets that can overwhelm conversation. Outdoor seating offers a small, relaxed space for enjoying city views and cigars.

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

Gorgeous bar with unique decor sets the scene. Drinks feature a distinct spice profile, and food comes with amazing sauces that stand out.

People are saying

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

"The creative dishes here are truly unique and packed with flavor."

"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.

02
Shango’s Urban Taqueria image 1

Restaurant offers a chill but lively vibe with a welcoming atmosphere suited for friends and families. Energy stays consistently great, creating a contagious and cool environment. Seating arrangement places some tables far from the service stand, slightly affecting the dining flow.

Lunch here offers a solid option with urban taqueria flavors. It serves well for casual midday meals and works for group outings.

Tacos blend Afro-Caribbean and Black American soul food flavors in a way that stands out. The menu offers a unique spin on traditional recipes throughout.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always fresh."

"I found the tacos here to be the best and most unique I had ever tasted."

"This Lunch Spot is too good to share."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers discounts on tacos and is a popular event.

2

Parking is available nearby, but it can fill up quickly during events.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for smaller purchases.

03
San Jeanetta's Table - Kenwood image 1

Restaurant offers huge chicken sandwiches and soul food flavors with amazing mac and cheese and best grits in Cincinnati. Atmosphere feels family-oriented and cool, encouraging guests to linger and socialize. Wall art featuring Jacksonville adds a unique local touch.

Lunch features Cheesy Angie loaded fries that stand out for their flavor. The spot offers a scrumptious and satisfying midday meal option.

Flavors stand out as very tasty and unique across the menu. The Meech bowl offers a distinctive taste unlike anything else.

People are saying

"You've gotta try the American Food here; the chicken sandwiches are huge."

"The flavors here are unique and incredibly memorable."

"This Lunch Spot's mac and cheese is creamy and perfectly al dente."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers $1 wings on special wing nights.

2

Sandwiches cost $15 and can easily feed two people.

3

Portion sizes are generous, making meals a good value.

04
Corner Dumpling House image 1
Wok restaurant

Open kitchen with handmade dumplings visible through a glass wall creates an engaging focal point. Polished yet inviting atmosphere features thematic decor and a stunning water feature that sets a serene tone. Comfortable booths and efficient use of space support a cozy dining experience with authentic Chinese cuisine.

Lunch offers a beautiful and unique setting with a wonderful atmosphere. The spot earns strong praise for its great ratings and suits casual or special occasions.

Unique dumplings stand out with distinct flavors. The cucumber appetizer offers a fresh, different taste. The menu features several unique options beyond typical dishes.

People are saying

"You have to try the soup dumplings; they're unreal."

"The lunch here is delicious."

"The dumplings here are unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

The wait to be seated is usually under 10 minutes, even when busy.

2

Expect longer wait times during weekends, especially at peak hours.

3

Arrive right when they open to avoid long waits.

05
Mi Cozumel Kenwood Mall image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with colorful, vibrant decor and a lively, club-like atmosphere. Music plays loudly, creating an entertaining and festive vibe. Features include table-side guacamole and sparkler-topped margaritas, adding to the energetic experience.

Lunch here offers a cheaper lunch menu tucked at the back of the main menu. Service is friendly and efficient, making it a solid spot for casual meals with friends or family during shopping trips.

Drinks stand out with very unique flavors and a huge variety of choices. The menu offers many unique offerings that set it apart.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's food tasted good and fresh."

"The drinks here are so unique and colorful."

"The staff made my birthday celebration feel so special and memorable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

2

The restaurant allows guests to stay until 11 PM, despite closing at 10 PM.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6 PM on weekdays.

06
Red Leprechaun image 1

Irish pub with authentic decor including a wood bar shipped from Ireland and rescued items. Atmosphere feels vibrant and chill, enhanced by live acoustic music and red lighting under the bar. Regulars enjoy engaging performers who take requests, creating a welcoming and fun environment.

Great atmosphere sets the tone for lunch here. Service is excellent, with helpful advice on the lunch menu.

The atmosphere feels imported from Ireland with a beautiful and inviting vibe. Food and drinks offer a unique twist with house-made chips standing out as a creative highlight.

People are saying

"The pub has delicious food and the best Guinness pour."

"The food here is unique and creative."

"The fish and chips here are fantastic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour on Thursdays offers discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

On 'Toasty Tuesday,' enjoy free grilled cheeses with any beer purchase.

3

Bingo night occurs every Tuesday, providing a fun social atmosphere.

07
West Shine Family Restaurant image 1
American restaurant

Small dining room offers a cozy family-friendly atmosphere with a mom-and-pop feel and unique diner decor. Noise levels can be high, but the vibe stays pleasant and inviting. Popular for home-style breakfast and flavorful drinks like Bloody Marys.

Offers a solid choice for breakfast and lunch with consistent availability. Serves as a reliable spot when working nearby.

The menu features several unique diner options that stand out. The bloody Mary offers a distinctive and flavorful twist compared to typical versions.

People are saying

"The breakfast food and service here were amazing."

"This Lunch Spot's food is amazing and tasted great."

"The diner options here are so unique and interesting."

Good to know

1

There was a 3% discount if I paid in cash.

2

Expect a slight wait to be seated during peak hours.

3

Prices are reasonable, with a minimum of $20 per person.

08
Joseph-Beth Booksellers image 1

Beautiful bookstore with themed sections and cozy seating creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Bistro cafe and live jazz music add a relaxed, lively vibe. Children's area and unique gift displays make it feel like more than just a bookstore.

A bistro cafe offers a lovely meeting place for lunch and browsing books. The attached cafe serves delicious breakfast and lunch options.

Vibrant colors and natural fibers highlight the artisan jewelry and international feel of the unique gifts. The layout stands out with an incredible selection of books and items not found in typical stores.

People are saying

"This bookstore is a special, comforting place."

"I found unique gifts and books I hadn't seen elsewhere."

"It's a lovely lunch spot for meeting up or dining alone."

Good to know

1

They host author signings and discussions regularly throughout the month.

2

Storytime sessions for kids occur nearly every day in the children's section.

3

The bookstore features a cafe that serves coffee and snacks.

09
Kiki on Ludlow image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers clean, open space with bright lighting and concrete floors that create a cold atmosphere. Noise levels are high, making conversation difficult, and seating arrangements can feel cramped or awkward. Staff energy sometimes feels distant, affecting the overall vibe.

Lunch offers poke bowls and ramen with quick service and manageable portions. The menu is small but focused on satisfying lunch options.

Offers a unique take on Japanese cuisine with dishes like the karakagi. Cocktails stand out with unusual flavor combinations like the Kyoto cocktail.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and high quality."

"The cocktails here are delicious and unique."

"I had a delicious lunch portion of kimchi ramen."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get busy.

2

Street parking is available, and the restaurant validates parking for the nearby lot.

3

Kiki offers excellent gluten-free options on the menu.

10
YUMMY BOWL image 1
Asian restaurant

Hibachi grill sits at the center of a modern, clean space with unique decor. Atmosphere ranges from quiet afternoons to noisy, child-filled busy times. Guests customize bowls with fresh meats and vegetables, enjoying a build-your-own concept and Mongolian grill-style experience.

Sushi lunch comes with miso soup and offers a quick, decent ambiance. The spot works well for both lunch and dinner near office areas.

Dining experience offers a mix of unique flavor combinations that appeal to many tastes. The decor stands out with its distinct style.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and a great value."

"This lunch spot has great combos and good value."

"You can build your own unique bowl with delicious flavor combinations."

Good to know

1

YUMMY BOWL charges a flat $15 for dining in, but takeout is priced by weight.

2

Expect confusion during busy dinner hours due to a complicated ordering process.

3

The raw food bar is clean, but ensure food is cooked thoroughly to prevent illness.

11
Swensons Drive-In image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Drive-up only setup with old-school drive-in design creates a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of yesteryear. The environment is fast paced yet clean and quiet, offering a unique Midwestern vibe. A doggie menu adds a distinctive touch for pet owners.

Quick service suits busy days with options like a fish sandwich and onion rings. The spot fits well for a fast lunch on the go.

Offers a lot of variety with unique menu items like slushies and milkshakes. Burgers have a distinctive flavor not commonly found elsewhere.

People are saying

"The food's beef had an unexpected, candy-like sweetness."

"The burgers here have a unique flavor you won't find anywhere else."

"This lunch spot's double cheeseburger is amazing and old-fashioned."

Good to know

1

Swensons Drive-In is open until 1 am for late-night cravings.

2

Expect longer wait times as food is made to order.

3

The potato teezers are currently out of stock until mid-November.

12
Duck Beijing House 京苑 image 1

Small, cozy space with white tablecloths and traditional North Chinese decor creates an intimate atmosphere. Bright, airy dining area with Chinese round tables and rotating lazy Susans offers a casual yet elegant vibe. Dim sum service with pushcarts adds a lively, authentic touch on weekends.

Lunch offers a satisfying experience with fresh flavors and a welcoming atmosphere. The menu provides solid options that encourage repeat visits.

Fresh, unique dim sum options stand out alongside traditional dishes like duck and fresh fish. The pork shumai offers a hefty portion with distinct, delicious flavoring.

People are saying

"The Peking Duck here is amazing and absolutely the best."

"This lunch spot's Peking duck is authentic and amazing."

"The Peking Duck here is the best, perfect for sharing."

Good to know

1

On weekends from 10 AM to 3 PM, they have carts rolling around with dim sum.

2

The price for a half set of Peking Duck is $39, enough for three people.

3

They are open on Christmas.

13
Mi Cozumel image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a vibrant party atmosphere with dancing robots and costumed characters adding to the energy. Extensive margarita selection and tableside guacamole create a lively dining experience. Outdoor patio provides shaded seating for a relaxed vibe.

Steak fajitas come in a lunch portion that tastes very good. The spot suits business networking lunches well.

Extensive menu offers unique margaritas with creative presentations like dry smoke and pirocthenia. Food delivers a bomb of unique flavors, especially the pizza birria, all set in a distinctive atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is great."

"The lunch spot food is seasoned so well and so fresh."

"I found the food to be totally unique and creative."

Good to know

1

Birthday celebrations are lively, with staff engaging guests and performing music.

2

Expect multiple birthday celebrations happening simultaneously, creating a festive atmosphere.

3

An 18% gratuity is automatically added for parties of four or more.

14
Rusk Kitchen + Bar image 1

Space includes intimate upstairs and downstairs areas plus a rooftop patio with fire pits and a bar. Atmosphere blends live solo guitar music with sports on TV and good background tunes. Crowd enjoys relaxed dining and drinks, often lingering into evening hours.

Fast service and attentive staff make lunch here smooth and pleasant. Friendly help adds to a welcoming lunch experience.

Freshly made appetizers stand out with unique flavors not typical elsewhere. The menu offers a broad range including vegetarian options and features treats like the red velvet donut cheesecake. Cocktails also bring a distinct twist.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious, especially the Cajun chicken pasta."

"The service at this lunch spot is friendly and attentive."

"The staff's friendly and attentive service is truly unique."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4pm to 6pm on weekdays with drink specials.

2

Gumbo is served on Tuesdays, a must-try for fans of the dish.

3

The venue is cashless; only credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

15
6 'N The Mornin' image 1
Breakfast restaurant

High ceilings and an old bank setting create a unique atmosphere with a visible vault adding character. Music features 90s R&B and top-tier tunes, contributing to a lively and noisy environment. The crowd enjoys comfortable seating and a welcoming, high-class vibe throughout the space.

Crowds appear during lunch, so plan for a busy atmosphere. Plenty of lunch and breakfast options offer good variety. Allocate about 2 to 3 hours to enjoy the meal without rush.

Unique dishes blend Cajun and southern styles with classic flavors. The space features high ceilings and an atmosphere shaped by its history as an old bank.

People are saying

"I found the brunch food to be delicious, especially the Cajun potatoes."

"I loved the unique Cajun twist on classic southern dishes."

"The food at this lunch spot is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for brunch, especially on busy weekends.

2

Happy hour specials are available daily from 4-6pm with discounted drinks.

3

Brunch is served on Sundays with a variety of options.

16
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant image 1

Large space resembles a museum or maze with unique artwork and half-naked pictures on every wall. Atmosphere feels fun and chaotic with low lighting, narrow halls, and cramped seating. Groups enjoy special rooms with features like lazy Susans and themed decor.

Lunch here features Italian dishes served in a group-friendly setting. Service is attentive, with servers like Nick enhancing the friendly atmosphere during meals.

A very unique atmosphere stands out with fun decor and lots of unique artwork. The vibe suits families and offers a distinct dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, and the staff remembered us."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was fantastic and attentive."

"The atmosphere and decor here are really unique."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for large parties or special occasions.

2

Expect to pay dinner prices during lunchtime on Saturdays.

3

Portion sizes are family-style, so come hungry or plan to share.

17
Bubbakoo's Burritos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers niche flavors and a quiet atmosphere with fantastic music. Portions vary, with some dishes like the hibachi burrito and burrito fries standing out. Pricing includes many extras, making the menu seem confusing and inflexible.

Lunch here offers generous portions with enough for leftovers. Avoid pick-up during the lunch rush to save time.

Menu features many unique creations alongside a build your own option. Foods stand out for their distinctiveness and variety.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and fresh."

"I highly recommend trying their burrito; I'll definitely be back."

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

Good to know

1

Expect high prices, with some items costing extra.

2

The menu includes many unique creations and a build-your-own option.

3

Cleanliness is a strong point, with well-maintained dining areas.

18
Pennyflower American Bistro & Bar image 1

Space combines tasteful design, beautiful furniture, and wonderful mosaic floors with private semi-circular booths and a communal table. Atmosphere feels chill and funky, suitable for dates or casual lunches, though music can be loud at times. Lighting includes individual LED table lights bright enough to read menus comfortably.

Atmosphere suits a company lunch, girlfriend get together, or lunch date. Elevated carbonara croquettes serve as a light lunch option. Meals feel fabulous and satisfying.

Chef Jacob uses a unique style to transform simple, traditional dishes. The Amish Chicken stands out with a flavor that's hard to describe.

People are saying

"The S'mores dessert is nostalgic and creative."

"This lunch spot's menu reflects the chef's incredible culinary journey."

"The Amish Chicken here is so unique, it's hard to describe."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dinner service.

2

The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week.

3

Lunch is not served on Saturdays and Sundays.

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Cincinnati, Ohio

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