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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Garland

Lunchtime authentic spots

Made for those who prioritize a real, traditional midday meal over the convenience of a quick chain.

Based on 874 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mi Gordito image 1
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Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant inside a store offers a family atmosphere with lively, welcoming energy and great music. Space feels a bit cramped but remains very clean and nostalgic. The vibe suits casual meals and gatherings with freshly made food.

Food comes straight from Mexico City with authentic and handmade preparation. The spot feels like a true hole-in-the-wall with staff speaking Spanish and locals eating there, showing a genuine Mexican experience.

Lunch here suits groups and quick breaks with team-friendly seating and efficient service. Food options accommodate sharing and individual orders during a busy lunch hour.

People are saying

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

"These tacos are bursting with flavor and made with fresh tortillas."

"You'll need to bring your appetite for this Lunch Spot; it's delicious."

Good to know

1

The place is family-friendly and staff makes you feel like family.

2

Everything is handmade and 100% authentic.

3

The prices are very reasonable for the quality of food.

02
Holy Khao Lao Thai Cuisine image 1

Small, bright restaurant with a cozy vibe and home-like atmosphere. Space feels clean and modern after renovation, welcoming locals and those seeking authentic Lao and Thai dishes. Casual setting suits family dinners and relaxed gatherings.

Dishes showcase authentic, traditional flavors from Laos and Thailand with a spicy kick. Food tastes fresh and stays true to original recipes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, flavorful, and really good."

"The food here is so flavorful and authentic, just like my mother-in-law's."

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

Good to know

1

Expect busy dining hours due to high demand and frequent pick-up orders.

2

They charge extra for different spice levels, which may surprise some diners.

3

Portion sizes have decreased while prices have increased, affecting overall value.

03
Goc Hue image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small Vietnamese restaurant offers authentic central Vietnam cuisine in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with clean, charming decor. The space feels warm and peaceful, suitable for family dining and quiet meals.

Dishes like bún hến, nem lụi, and bánh bèo deliver authentic Hue flavors. Steamed rice cakes and beef noodle soup also taste true to traditional Vietnamese recipes.

Frequent visits show it serves well for lunch. The Banh Goc Hue Combo stands out as a solid choice for a late Friday meal.

People are saying

"The Bun Bo Hue here is flavorful and authentic."

"I loved the authentic Vietnamese food and flavors here."

"This lunch spot has savory, authentic broth and specialty dishes."

Good to know

1

Restroom facilities may be unreliable; one was reported broken during a visit.

2

The restaurant can get hot due to limited air conditioning.

3

Expect unique dishes not commonly found in other Vietnamese restaurants.

04
Luis Mexican Grill image 1

Small, cozy dining area offers a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with clean, casual surroundings and tasteful artwork. Music stays at a low volume, creating a relaxed vibe. Regulars enjoy authentic Mexican dishes with well-prepared fajitas and enchiladas.

Offers authentic Mexican flavors with dishes that reflect traditional recipes. Food comes at an affordable price and maintains a very good quality throughout.

Lunch specials run from 11 to 3 with a large variety to choose from. The specials offer solid options for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and flavorful."

"The enchiladas here are amazing, especially the verde ones."

"I loved the authentic Mexican flavors and cuisine."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday special offers great deals on tacos.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of lunch specials from 11am to 3pm.

3

Family-sized meals are available for sharing.

05
Rosi’s Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant combines cozy, welcoming atmosphere with authentic kitchen decor and Mexican music playing softly. Attached market includes bakery, tortilla shop, and butcher, adding to the lively, homey vibe. Space feels clean and inviting, suited for relaxed meals.

Mexican dishes feature authentic flavors that remind of home cooking. The bakery offers truly authentic bread and the tortilla chips are perfectly salty.

Lunch features a friendly atmosphere where staff accommodate special requests like speaking Spanish. The spot serves well for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, making it versatile for midday meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic Mexican."

"The food here is authentic, flavorful, and tastes like home."

"This lunch spot's food is fresh, flavorful, and made with care."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served all day at the cafe.

2

The cafe is very clean and well-maintained.

3

Prices are fair for the amount of food received.

06
Del Rancho Authentic Mexican Food image 1

Mexican restaurant offers live mariachi music and on-site made corn tortillas in a beautifully decorated space. Atmosphere feels comfortable and friendly with occasional music interruptions. Strong, flavorful margaritas complement a menu featuring soft fajitas and delicious tamales.

Food delivers a made-from-scratch taste with authentic Mexican flavor. Decor stays neat and tidy, matching the genuine vibe.

Lunch offers great specials with large portions, especially the chicken fajitas that feel like dinner size. Service moves fast, even for large groups.

People are saying

"You have to try the homemade corn tortillas; they're some of the best."

"The lunch specials here are generous and affordable."

"The Mexican food here tastes so authentic, like nothing I've had before."

Good to know

1

Happy hour prices are better than usual, but details can be confusing.

2

Parking is available across the street, but the lot is small.

3

The restaurant serves huge portions at great prices.

07
Tranky's Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Small, modern taco shop with a friendly atmosphere and family-owned vibe. Lunch-only spot offers authentic, highly rated tacos with a variety of spicy sauces. Outdoor seating with umbrellas provides a casual, comfortable setting.

Tacos here have authentic Mexican flavors with recipes that feel truly homemade. The food offers a genuine taste that stands out for lunch.

Offers authentic Mexican food with quick service. Features a small outdoor seating area with umbrellas, creating a nice spot for lunch.

People are saying

"This is a great lunch spot for top-notch street style tacos."

"The tortillas here are fresh and fried perfectly."

"It's like a taste of home, truly authentic Mexican food."

Good to know

1

Tranky's Tacos is only open for lunch, closing at 3:30 PM.

2

Expect a wait during lunch hours; arrive before 12 PM to avoid crowds.

3

The restaurant can be busy during peak times, especially at noon.

08
Vila Brazil - Garland image 1
Brazilian restaurant

Restaurant offers stunning lake views and an all-you-can-eat salad bar with a wide selection of sides and meats. Atmosphere is friendly and welcoming but can be loud, especially with live music playing. Outdoor seating allows guests to relax and enjoy nature after dining.

Offers authentic Brazilian food with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Stands out for its satisfying and genuine flavors compared to franchise spots.

Lunch offers a delicious and satisfying experience with fresh flavors. Meals come with a pleasant afternoon vibe that makes the break enjoyable.

People are saying

"The buffet's meats were seasoned perfectly and constantly coming around."

"I loved the authentic Brazilian food; the picanha and garlic steak were unforgettable."

"The Lunch Spot offers steaming skewers of tender, well-seasoned meats."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure accommodation.

2

Lunch specials are available, offering a more affordable dining option.

3

The restaurant can host events for up to 60 people.

09
286 Noodle House image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant offers an authentic Asian atmosphere with a peaceful, family-friendly vibe and spacious, clean interior. Gentle French instrumental music plays softly in the background, enhancing the welcoming and cozy ambiance.

Pho here has authentic quality and tastes just like in Vietnam. Dishes like ca kho to, canh chua ca, and tom riem mang offer genuine Vietnamese flavors.

Wonderful service stands out even during busy weekend lunches. The spot suits a family lunch or a lunch date with friends.

People are saying

"The Pho soup here has a deep-flavored broth and chewy noodles."

"The pho broth is light, clean, and truly authentic."

"The Lunch Spot broth was so flavorful and well balanced."

Good to know

1

Call ahead for reservations during peak hours to avoid long waits.

2

Make reservations or pre-order before going on weekends.

3

Prices range from $10 to $20 per person.

10
La Piñita image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with authentic flavors and handmade tortillas creates a family-friendly atmosphere filled with tropical decorations and lively music. The space feels clean and inviting, offering a pleasant vibe that reflects traditional Mexican culture. Small portions come with attention to detail, making it a unique spot for genuine Mexican cuisine.

Dishes feature vibrant and authentic flavors with hand-crafted tortillas and hefty portions. Rojo chilaquiles taste authentic and flavorful, reflecting true Mexican cuisine.

Lunch features handmade tortillas with tacos filled with egg and chorizo or egg and potato. The spot serves both breakfast and lunch options.

People are saying

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

"The Mexican food here is delicious and authentic."

"This Lunch Spot's tacos are rich and tasty."

Good to know

1

They have handmade tortillas available.

2

Expect to pay around $30 per person on average.

3

La Piñita offers ice cream, fruit, and paletas (Mexican popsicles).

11
La Bella Italian Grill image 1
Italian restaurant

Small space offers a calm, casual atmosphere with a family vibe and relaxing quiet where conversations carry easily. Prices are great and portions generous, making it a consistent choice for value. The setting feels simple and unpretentious, focusing on comfort over decor.

Food delivers real Italian flavor with sauces like alfredo tasting homemade, not store-bought. Every dish carries an authentic taste that feels genuine and satisfying.

Lunch specials offer affordable prices and huge portions, often enough for two meals. Service is quick and helpful, making it easy to fit a meal into a short work lunch hour.

People are saying

"The fettuccine Alfredo pasta here is so creamy and perfectly seasoned."

"I found the pizza here to be great and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's food is absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

The price for two people is around $45, which is considered reasonable.

2

Lunch specials are available and are affordable.

3

You can order to go if you'd like to eat at home.

12
Taqueria Garcia's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean space with spacious outdoor patio and drive-thru convenience offers a wide menu featuring affordable tacos and varied Mexican dishes. Atmosphere stays quiet and welcoming, attracting a diverse crowd throughout the day.

Food offers genuinely authentic Mexican flavor with a delicious taste. New ownership brings a clear focus on authentic Mexican cuisine.

Offers a wide range of options including tacos al pastor, tostadas, and full meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Variety covers snacks and desserts as well.

People are saying

"The trompo tacos have so much flavor."

"This lunch spot has authentic Mexican food and friendly service."

"I found the food to have an authentic Mexican flavor."

Good to know

1

Trompo tacos are $1 on Tuesdays, making it a great deal.

2

They offer a special of 10 tacos for $14.50 plus tax.

3

You must order a full plate; individual items are not available.

13
Besa's Italian Restaurant & Pizza image 1

Open kitchen and basic diner setup create a cozy, family-owned atmosphere with a warm, authentic Italian vibe. Soccer games play on TV, adding to the casual, lively energy. BYOB policy and homemade dishes like pizza and pasta highlight its authentic Italian character.

Family-owned atmosphere with authentic Italian owners creates a genuine vibe. Homemade Italian food like salmon piccata offers true Italian flavors at a great price.

Lunch features a variety of specials and many options on the menu. Prices stay reasonable and the food works well for leftovers the next day.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pizza, is fresh and perfect."

"I found the authentic Italian food here to be fresh and flavorful."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own wine.

2

Prices are reasonable, making it a great value for authentic Italian food.

3

The menu features a mix of traditional Italian favorites and modern dishes.

14
Taqueria & Tamaleria Nuevo León image 1

Open kitchen reveals handmade corn tortillas and fresh ingredients, creating a bright and spacious setting. Loud live solo guitar music adds energy, blending with Latin background tunes. Atmosphere feels casual and lively, with a focus on authentic Mexican flavors.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with a fresh and genuine taste. Dishes stand apart from typical Tex-Mex, delivering real South American cuisine that feels both delicious and traditional.

Lunch here offers a family-friendly atmosphere with food that satisfies a variety of tastes. Meals come together for a good lunch experience that many find enjoyable and worth returning to.

People are saying

"I thought the food was great and delicious."

"I found the food to be authentic Mexican cuisine, packed with flavor."

"The food at this lunch spot is fresh, homemade, and delicious."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, trompo tacos cost 99 cents each.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere on Taco Tuesdays.

3

Taco Tuesdays can get crowded, especially during dinner hours.

15
Ernesto's Mexican Restaurant image 1

Old school Tex-Mex style fills the space with authentic decorations and an open, relaxed atmosphere. Families gather here, creating a friendly, home-cooked meal vibe that feels welcoming and comfortable. Top shelf margaritas complement consistently tasty dishes in a casual, family-run setting.

Family-run spot serves authentic Mexican enchiladas without Tex Mex twists. Decorations and dishes keep the vibe truly authentic and consistent.

Lunch offers hearty food and great deals with specials. Frequent visits show it serves as a reliable spot for casual meals during breaks or gatherings.

People are saying

"I thought the enchiladas here were always so good."

"The menudo at this Lunch Spot is amazing and reminds me of home."

"I found the authentic Mexican food here to be truly great."

Good to know

1

Prices are a bargain compared to the quality of food.

2

The portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

The restaurant is family-owned and offers authentic dishes made fresh daily.

16
Chilangos Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Red neon lights and an open kitchen create a vibrant setting with authentic Mexican decor. Loud music fills the space, contributing to a lively atmosphere that can challenge conversation. Patrons gather around counters to watch tacos being made and choose toppings, while enjoying signature margaritas and micheladas.

Tacos here taste authentic, just like those from Mexico City and San Antonio. The food stays true to Mexican street style while offering elevated quality that feels approachable.

Fast service keeps lunch moving even at peak times. The spot works well for both team lunches and casual meals, with a menu suited for lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and reminded me of childhood."

"I found the al pastor tacos here to be so authentic and delicious."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot is so friendly and amazing."

Good to know

1

The price for a single taco is $3.50.

2

Chilangos Tacos is open late.

3

Expect a long wait during peak hours.

17
Desperados Mexican Restaurant Dos image 1

Mexican restaurant offers a quiet atmosphere with unique interior decoration featuring plaster walls that mimic old Mexican buildings. A full sit-down bar greets guests, known for top shelf margaritas and a comfortable dining area with a nice patio. The vibe is relaxed, though seating near large groups can be lively.

Food offers wonderful authentic Mexican and TexMex dishes with consistently good quality. Service and atmosphere also feel authentically Mexican.

Lunch offers great value with specials like the Mexican stew for $9.99 and a half portion option. The spot handles large groups well and draws a steady lunch crowd.

People are saying

"You've got to try the Mexican food and amazing margaritas here."

"This lunch spot's fish tacos are served with cabbage and cilantro."

"The food here is wonderfully authentic Mexican."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs throughout the week with great drink specials.

2

Margarita Wednesday features $4 margaritas and free chips and queso.

3

Weekend brunch is available with special offerings.

18
Crab City image 1
Restaurant

Large restaurant with live music and a small stage for karaoke and dancing creates a lively atmosphere. Ambiance shifts from quiet and romantic during lunch with jazz to loud and energetic in the evening. Decor is beautiful inside, supporting a welcoming environment for families and groups.

Pho stands out with authentic Southern Vietnam flavors. Vietnamese dishes deliver very good and authentic tastes throughout.

Lunch offers a relaxing vibe with jazz music playing. It suits casual meals with friends or family and special occasions like Valentine's Lunch.

People are saying

"The pho here is fantastic, especially the amazing broth."

"I found the pho here to be amazing and authentic."

"This lunch spot has amazing pho with a generous portion and oxtail."

Good to know

1

Karaoke is available every night except Mondays.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere during karaoke nights.

3

The restaurant is clean and well-maintained.

19
Lua Kitchen image 1
Asian restaurant

Spacious, modernly decorated Asian restaurant with a clean, cozy atmosphere and warm, inviting vibe. The environment feels airy and comfortable, welcoming families and casual diners alike. Music adds a subtle touch to the overall relaxed energy.

Food features authentic northern shrimp paste and fish with dill that capture true Vietnamese flavors. The menu blends modern style with traditional tastes for a genuine experience.

Lunch offers a delicious menu with a lively atmosphere. Expect a 15-20 minute wait during busy times like Saturday.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here tastes fresh, well-balanced, and comforting."

"The food here is so authentic and full of flavor, just like home cooking."

"I had a delicious lunch here."

Good to know

1

Prices range from $14 to $22 for main dishes.

2

Expect quick service; food comes out faster than at many other places.

3

The portion sizes are perfect for the price.

20
Tandoori Flame image 1
Indian restaurant

Interior combines modern chandeliers, color-changing lamps, and rustic paintings creating a vibrant yet calm atmosphere. Music and soft lighting set a pleasant, inviting vibe that complements attentive service. Guests often enjoy authentic Punjabi flavors with standout dishes like butter chicken and naan.

Food offers authentic Punjabi and North Indian flavors with fresh ingredients. Dishes reflect traditional North Indian and Bengali cuisine that stays true to its roots.

Generous portions and a lunch special with great value stand out here. The food tastes delicious and suits both family meals and casual lunches.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and well seasoned."

"The food here is so authentic and packed with flavor."

"This lunch spot's food is packed with flavor and perfectly balanced spices."

Good to know

1

Expect high spice levels; mild or medium is recommended for normal palates.

2

The lunch special offers a generous portion at a great price.

3

Prices range from $15 to $18 per dish, with small portion sizes.

21
Garden Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Large dining room with traditional dim sum carts creates an authentic Cantonese experience. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming but can be noisy with families. Tables with Lazy Susan encourage sharing and casual meals.

Cantonese dim sum and southern Chinese dishes offer authentic flavors. The dim sum cart coming to your table adds to the genuine dining experience.

Lunch offers great value with decent prices and generous portions. Dim sum is available on Sundays with a relaxed crowd.

People are saying

"I think the dim sum here is the best I've ever had."

"I found the dim sum here to be authentic and delicious."

"I thought the dim sum at this Lunch Spot was great."

Good to know

1

They do not accept credit cards.

2

Garden Restaurant is BYOB, with a $20 fee.

3

Parking is convenient with many lots available.

22
India Garden image 1
Indian restaurant

Spacious setting offers a calm and peaceful ambiance with beautiful, trendy interiors and handpicked music that enhances relaxation. The atmosphere suits both family dinners and casual outings, creating a welcoming and comfortable environment.

Offers a wonderful blend of authentic flavors with dishes like South Indian crab curry prepared by Chef Vinesh. Food delivers warm hospitality and a cozy atmosphere alongside authentic Indian recipes.

Lunch features a buffet with a variety of Indian dishes. The Sunday lunch buffet offers a chance to sample multiple flavors. The food is consistently delicious during buffet hours.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and cooked to perfection."

"The buffet had a great variety of dishes, including Indian favorites."

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

Good to know

1

The weekend buffet is available only on Sundays.

2

The Sunday buffet costs $20 per person.

3

India Garden offers a variety of vegetarian meals.

23
Năm Hứa image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant offers a cozy, casual atmosphere with a homey vibe and can get loud during busy times. The space feels tired and beaten up but remains welcoming and clean. It attracts a crowd with its authentic cuisine and a popular vegetarian buffet that follows traditional temple guidelines.

Offers many authentic Vietnamese dishes served family style with traditional flavors. Provides a strong sense of authenticity in its cuisine throughout the menu.

Vegan and vegetarian buffet options stand out at lunch. The buffet offers a variety of dishes that impress with their flavors and freshness.

People are saying

"This Vietnamese food is packed with flavor, especially the pho."

"I found the vegetarian buffet extremely delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's flavors were insanely delicious and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

The buffet service starts at 10:30 am daily.

2

The vegetarian buffet costs $15 per person.

3

Prices for regular dishes start at 16 VND per person.

24
Dos Banderas image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

Tex-Mex restaurant with modern, upscale decor and an open, fresh layout. Atmosphere ranges from lively and busy with live guitar music to too loud for conversation. Full bar offers top shelf margaritas made with fresh lime juice.

Food, service, and music all show authentic Mexican roots. Some dishes like cheese enchiladas lean more toward Tex Mex style, while others keep a traditional flavor.

Lunch specials offer great value with mix-and-match options at reduced prices. The spot stays quiet and accommodating, seating large groups even when busy.

People are saying

"The food here is tender, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned."

"The service at this lunch spot is reliably quick and attentive."

"The food here is so authentic and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

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

2

Taco Tuesdays feature live music and special menu items.

3

Brunch is served on weekends with a variety of options.

25
Del Rancho Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with loud music that often drowns out conversation, creating a lively atmosphere. Frequent live mariachi performances add to the energy, especially on weekends. The setting feels like a tavern or canteen, attracting those who enjoy music alongside margaritas and micheladas.

Offers authentic Mexican food alongside Tex Mex dishes with a solid reputation for genuine flavors. Serves a variety of traditional options that capture the essence of Mexican cuisine.

Lunch features great specials and $4 margaritas. TVs show Mexican talk shows instead of sports. Fajita nachos are available to share.

People are saying

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

"I loved the authentic Mexican food and Tex Mex dishes."

"This lunch spot has delicious food, especially the chicken fajitas."

Good to know

1

Mariachi night occurs every Friday, starting at 7pm.

2

Lunch specials offer great value, typically under $10.

3

Parking is generally easy, but can get crowded during peak hours.

26
Norma's Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with old school feel and cozy atmosphere offers a relaxed neighborhood vibe and scratch-made tortillas. Seating is close together with basic decor, and the dining area tends to be cold. Salsa stands out as a highlight among the food offerings.

Family-run operation delivers authentic Mexican food with a down to earth style. The dining experience feels friendly and genuine.

Lunch specials include fajitas for 10.99 available from 11am to 3pm and sour cream chicken enchiladas. These options offer solid value and satisfying flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"This lunch spot's Tex-Mex food and taste are very good."

"I found the food here to be down to earth and authentic."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is available from 11am to 3pm.

2

Lunch prices range from $10 to $20.

3

Call-in orders can be ready for pickup in 15 minutes.

27
Phuong Nam Restaurant image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant offers authentic flavors with a focus on Bun Bo Hue known for its spicy, deep broth and inclusion of pork blood cubes. Atmosphere stays peaceful and welcoming during lunch hours. Generous portions come at good pricing, attracting those who appreciate traditional dishes.

Bun Bo Hue stands out with its authentic flavor and traditional preparation. Some dishes like bun mam may vary in authenticity, but the soup's taste remains true to Vietnamese roots.

A peaceful lunch spot with a calm atmosphere. Service can vary, as one server showed a poor attitude during lunch.

People are saying

"I loved their Bun Bo Hue; it had a spicy, deep-flavored broth."

"This lunch spot's noodles are cooked just right."

"I found the Vietnamese food here to be authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers generous portions at good prices.

2

Expect authentic Vietnamese flavors in every dish.

3

Bun bo hue is a signature dish worth trying.

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