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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Franklin

Authentic lunch spots

A midday break deserves a meal that feels like it came from a home kitchen.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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Updated May 2026
01
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Greek restaurant

Small Greek restaurant with family-run charm and checkered tablecloths creates a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Space feels clean and comfortable despite being crowded and compact. Staff show genuine kindness, making the vibe casual and inviting.

Food features authentic Greek flavors with a homemade touch and family hospitality. Meals come consistently high-quality and made with love.

Lunch features a gyro and fries lunch special with consistent hospitality from the owners. Frequent visits highlight it as a favorite lunch spot.

People are saying

"I found the Greek food here to be the most delicious I ever had."

"I found the Greek food here to be so fresh and authentic."

"The Lunch Spot's gyro meat is so tender and juicy."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait for a table during peak lunch hours.

2

The restaurant offers large portions at affordable prices.

3

Cleanliness is a priority; the place is reported to be spotless.

02
Beijing Hot Pot image 1
Hot pot restaurant

Hot pot restaurant with modern interior design and high open ceilings creates a spacious, cozy atmosphere. Guests enjoy build-your-own sauce bar and tables equipped with hot plates for interactive cooking. The vibe is lively and friendly, with authentic Sichuan flavors and fresh ingredients.

Broths, vegetables, and meats reflect Sichuan style hot pot with fresh ingredients. The menu includes authentic dishes like sambal shrimp, Hainanese chicken, and beef rendang, offering genuine Chinese, Thai, and Malaysian flavors.

Lunch features a hot pot experience with food that satisfies. Spiciness fades quickly thanks to the after-lunch mint given with the cheque.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is delicious, especially the hot pot."

"I found the authentic Chinese food here to be delicious."

"You should try the spicy hot pot at this Lunch Spot; it packs a punch."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

The restaurant offers both ready-made dishes and DIY hot pot options.

3

Expect a $50 charge for vegetables to accompany the hot pot.

03
Los Primos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Dining area inside a supermarket offers a cozy, small space with at most eight tables and Latin music playing. The atmosphere feels authentic and casual, attracting those seeking genuine Mexican flavors and fresh baked goods. Soccer games on TV add to the lively, familiar vibe.

Authentic Mexican food shines here with authentic tacos and a legit Mexican grocery feel. The place offers a cultural experience true to traditional taquerias.

Lunch offers barbacoa and carnitas tacos along with individual tacos, burritos, or meal-style options. Locals choose this spot for quick lunches or takeout to enjoy at home.

People are saying

"The street tacos here have great flavor and generous portions."

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and delicious."

"You'll find the most delicious carnitas and barbacoa tacos here."

Good to know

1

The restaurant gets busy at lunchtime, so expect wait times.

2

Los Primos offers 100% authentic Mexican food with generous portions.

3

It's best for takeout during peak hours due to limited seating.

04
Gyros King 6 Franklin image 1
Greek restaurant

Greek restaurant offers a clean, bright space with comfortable booths and outside high tops. Atmosphere feels friendly and welcoming with a relaxed vibe. Known for authentic gyros and fresh Mediterranean flavors.

Food features authentic Middle Eastern and Greek flavors with fresh ingredients. Gyros stand out as true to traditional style, offering a flavorful Mediterranean experience.

Lunch offers a quick, light and healthy option with a gyro and rice combo standing out. The spot suits those looking for a fast, satisfying meal during the day.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"I found the food to be authentic and flavorful."

"I found the gyros at this Lunch Spot to be delicious and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

The prices for everything are affordable.

2

Portion sizes are generous for the price.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

05
McCreary's Irish Pub & Eatery image 1

Small pub with about 12 tables packed closely together creates a lively, authentic Irish atmosphere. Live Irish music plays on weekend nights, adding to the energetic vibe. Outdoor patio offers space for dog-friendly seating.

Authentic Irish dishes fill the menu with a true European vibe in the furnishings and food. The pub captures an Ireland-like atmosphere that feels genuine and consistent.

Lunch offers reasonably-priced meals with generous portions. Fish & Chips stands out as a solid choice for a midday meal.

People are saying

"It's a great little Irish pub with a true atmosphere."

"I loved the authentic Irish food and vibe here."

"This lunch spot's fish and chips were delicious."

Good to know

1

Live music happens on Friday and Saturday nights.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with 2 for 1 beers and discounted appetizers.

3

Trivia night takes place every Tuesday evening.

06
Ichiddo ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant offers a calm and friendly atmosphere with a casual vibe and well-made menu. The space feels distinct from its strip mall setting, creating a nice date spot ambiance. Large portions and reasonable prices complement the overall experience.

Food features authentic Japanese flavors with high quality ingredients. Ramen dishes deliver a delicious and genuine taste.

Lunch here offers inexpensive options with a quick service pace. The spot stays calm during lunch hours, making it easy to meet up and enjoy a meal without crowds.

People are saying

"I considered the ramen here the best I've ever had."

"I considered this my favorite spot for lunch."

"I found the food here to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

You could order a basic ramen and broth for 6 dollars.

2

The menu offers a fantastic variety of ramen options and tasty small tapas plates.

3

The prices are reasonable for the portion sizes.

07
Salvo’s Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

New York-style pizza shapes a family-run restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere and authentic Italian music. A patio and friendly service add to the welcoming, local pizza shop vibe. The space feels warm and inviting, making it a solid spot for families and casual dining.

Authentic New York pizza and local Italian cuisine define the menu. Italian music plays, adding to the genuine atmosphere.

Lunch features steaming hot lasagna and freshly made pizza. Specials change but keep the menu interesting.

People are saying

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

"The lunch specials and pizza here are great."

"I loved their authentic New York pizza."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it's best to visit during off-peak hours.

2

The restaurant allows customers to bring their own wine for dinner.

3

Expect a casual dining atmosphere with limited seating available.

08
Greek Cafe Grill image 1
Greek restaurant

Simple setup with a quiet, relaxing atmosphere and no background noise creates a peaceful dining experience. Presence of a bookshelf with cultural books and a lovely patio deck adds unique charm. The vibe feels like an escape to Greece, offering a chill and enjoyable place to eat.

Dishes serve authentic Greek flavors with fresh ingredients. The menu offers genuine Mediterranean cuisine that tastes traditional and satisfying.

Lunch options include a gyro wrap lunch special and large authentic Greek lunch plates. Portions are filling and affordable, with specials priced around 10.99.

People are saying

"I thought the gyro sandwich and baklava were incredible."

"The Mediterranean food here, especially the hummus and falafel, is the best I've ever tasted."

"This lunch spot's gyro meat is delicious, nice and crispy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

2

Expect tight parking; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Credit card payments incur an additional fee.

09
Cafe India image 1
Indian restaurant

Small, intimate venue with authentic Indian music and traditional decor creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. Space feels a bit tight but inviting, suited for casual dining and special occasions. Imported Indian beer complements flavorful dishes like butter chicken and chili chicken.

Food delivers authentic South Indian flavors with dishes like Chicken 65 and Chicken Tikka Masala that taste true to their origins. Service supports the experience with attentive care and reasonable prices.

Busy during lunch hours, this spot serves Chicken Biryani, Naan, and Curry. Lunch and dessert come out tasty and delicious.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and very authentic."

"Shiva's custom cakes are stunning masterpieces for any occasion."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was great and friendly."

Good to know

1

Cafe India offers special biryanis and dishes on weekends not available during the week.

2

Catering services are available for events like weddings and Sangeets.

3

Drinks are self-serve, but this isn't clearly communicated to guests.

10
Bamboo House 珍宝楼 (New Management) image 1

Newly renovated interior offers a cozy, neat atmosphere with Lo-fi music setting a peaceful vibe. Small dining area feels intimate but can get hot and crowded. Specially designed to-go containers support great takeout experience.

Chinese dishes feature authentic Sichuan flavors with balanced seasoning that is not oily or salty. The chef’s special menu highlights traditional recipes delivering genuine taste.

Lunch offers generous portions with many options in the specials. The lunch combo provides a strong value, and dishes like General Tso chicken and fried rice stand out for taste.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"This Lunch Spot's food is hot, tasty, and delicious."

"I found the Chinese food here to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Payment must be made upfront before being seated.

2

The food combo is priced at $17.50, with sodas costing $3.50 each.

3

Lunch combos are considered the best deal in town.

11
Steam Boys image 1
Chinese restaurant

Cozy space with a calming atmosphere and clean, cute design invites relaxed dining. Crowd enjoys authentic Chinese comfort food, especially soup dumplings and bao buns. Offers affordable prices and options for both take-out and dine-in.

Veggie dumplings feature an authentic wrapper and filling. The menu offers authentic Chinese food with genuine flavors.

Offers beef noodle soup with medium spice and bao that work well for lunch. Serves as a reliable spot for family meals during the day.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's beef noodle soup has a flavorful broth and plenty of beef."

"The food here is amazing."

Good to know

1

All-you-can-eat dumplings are available for $20 on Tuesdays.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

3

The restaurant offers both take-out and dine-in options.

12
Don Pepe's Mexican Grill image 1

Traditional Mexican interior theme combines with eclectic decor and a large dining area to create a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere. Table-side guacamole preparation adds an interactive touch, while multiple TVs in the bar area contribute to a lively vibe. Music plays loudly, making conversation challenging at times.

Food features authentic Mexican flavor with fresh, high-quality ingredients. It matches the quality found in many places across California without the high price.

Lunch offers excellent flavorful food like guacamole, chili relleno combo, and grilled chicken fajita taco salad. The menu is incredibly cheap and includes a lunch buffet option.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious and full of authentic flavor."

"I thought the fajitas here were amazing."

"I found the most delicious, fresh, authentic Mexican food here."

Good to know

1

Bingo night happens every Wednesday at 7pm.

2

Enjoy 2-for-1 margaritas during the week.

3

The lunch buffet is available from 11:00 to 3:00 for $20.

13
Perenn - Franklin image 1

Riverside patio offers a European-style café vibe with beautiful decor and shaded outdoor seating. Atmosphere blends southern hospitality with a lively, sometimes hectic energy. Small indoor space feels tight, while outdoor areas provide a more relaxed experience.

Offers authentic French bistro cuisine with a wide variety of breakfast options. The setting feels beautiful and charming, reflecting genuine bakery traditions.

Lunch offers delicious, fresh-made dishes that provide good value. Food stays consistently outstanding across meals, making it a solid choice for midday dining.

People are saying

"The pastries and coffee are wonderful with outdoor seating."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and fresh-made."

"It's an authentic French bistro with Parisian nostalgia."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dining in due to high demand.

2

Parking can be challenging; consider using the QR code for two hours of free parking.

3

Breakfast on weekends can be chaotic, expect longer wait times.

14
Chai Samosa image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian street food spot with authentic South Indian snacks and a buzzing evening atmosphere. Dining area feels lively and crowded, filled with happy people enjoying fresh chai and snacks. Renovated space offers a friendly vibe reminiscent of Indian street scenes.

South Indian food and snacks come out very authentic and made to order. The breakfast buffet offers authentic Andhra style dishes and other great tasting Indian cuisine.

Lunch offers Indian street food with options like Gongura rice and chicken pulao. Portions and prices suit midday meals, but lunch specials vary in quality.

People are saying

"The Indian food, especially the chaat and samosas, is fabulous."

"I found the Indian cuisine to be authentic and made to order."

"I loved their lunch bowls and breakfast options."

Good to know

1

Breakfast buffet is served on weekends from 9:00 am to 11:00 am.

2

A 5% discount is available for cash payments.

3

Expect limited menu items as some may be out of stock.

15
Sunset Sushi & Thai image 1
Thai restaurant

Small restaurant with a cozy and laid-back atmosphere suits casual dinners with family or friends. Sushi station adds a dynamic element as food is prepared fresh. The place draws a busy crowd and feels pleasant and welcoming with a local vibe.

Authentic Japanese food is easy to find here. Thai food varies, with some dishes not matching traditional flavors.

Lunch offers quick service even when busy and features dishes like ginger with chicken. Prices stay extremely reasonable, making it a solid spot for midday meals.

People are saying

"I've had the best Japanese food I've ever experienced here."

"This lunch spot's food is super fresh and delicious."

"I found the Japanese food here to be amazing and authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is usually busy, indicating a good reputation.

2

There was not enough seating, so plan accordingly.

3

Carryout is a great option if you prefer to eat at home.

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