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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Alief

Lunch and date spots

A midday meal is the perfect excuse to step away and spend some time together.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Shabu² image 1
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Shabu-shabu restaurant

Small tables set up for hot pot create an intimate dining space with a cozy atmosphere and warm energy. The place fills with lively chatter, making it suitable for date nights or family dinners. The environment balances friendliness with a bustling vibe, offering a unique hot pot experience.

Lunch features a deluxe special that focuses on quality over quantity. Early service starts on Sundays, offering a light or filling meal option.

Cozy atmosphere creates a great setting for date night or family dinners. The ambiance stays on point, making it easy to relax and enjoy the evening.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the fresh meat and broths."

"This Lunch Spot has top-notch meats and flavorful broths."

"It's a great, cozy atmosphere for date night."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties due to limited seating.

2

Expect a dining time limit of 1 hour and 30 minutes.

3

Prices can reach $65 per person for a casual hot pot experience.

02
Taste of Korea BBQ (Formerly: Burnin' Shell) image 1

Ocean-themed interior creates an immersive, submarine-like setting with cozy lighting and exotic decor. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, with attentive staff who cook meat tableside, enhancing the unique dining experience. Excellent ventilation keeps the space fresh and smoke-free despite indoor grilling.

Lunch offers Korean Ceviche cold noodle soup and attentive service. It suits casual meals with friends or family craving Korean flavors.

Modern, clean environment with great energy suits date nights well. Food quality stays consistent, with options like the crew tower set and sundubu jjigae with brisket enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"I found the Korean BBQ here to be really authentic."

"The banchan at this Lunch Spot is amazing, with over 20 delicious varieties."

"The Korean BBQ here is top-tier, with perfectly marinated meats."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

2

Expect a limited menu on certain days due to ingredient availability.

3

The grill is available for self-cooking at each table.

03
Tuệ Tâm (Vietnamese Vegan Restaurant) image 1

Small space filled with luxurious plants and calm zen waterfall music creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The vibe is tranquil and homey, enhanced by a Buddhist altar and the aroma of fresh herbs. WiFi is available, supporting a relaxed dining experience.

Lunch offers vegan dishes with fresh flavors. Meals come with delightful taste that appeals to various guests.

Offers a delightful vegan lunch that suits couples looking for a relaxed meal. The atmosphere supports a pleasant dining experience for two.

People are saying

"The vegetarian tofu here is fresh, crispy, and extremely tasty."

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

"This place has delicious vegan food, perfect for date spots."

Good to know

1

Most of the menu items are vegan, except for the egg noodles.

2

Parking at the restaurant is free for customers.

3

Prices at the restaurant are reasonable compared to other vegan spots.

04
Hoàng Gia Quán image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Bright, clean space with a warm, inviting atmosphere and a family vibe. Quiet during weekday lunches with few diners, creating a pleasant, homey feel. Offers complimentary desserts and snacks that add to the welcoming experience.

Quiet atmosphere during weekday lunch with a few customers. Offers a relaxed setting for a casual meal with friends.

People are saying

"The authentic Vietnamese dishes here are delicious and homemade."

"The food here is so flavorful, you'll love it."

"The Lunch Spot food is yummy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Free dessert is offered with every meal.

2

No MSG is added to any dishes, catering to health-conscious diners.

3

Diners can choose between thick or thin broth for their banh canh.

05
Guillory's Bar-B-Que image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Cozy barbecue restaurant with backyard-style smoked meats and a welcoming, at-home atmosphere. Space inside is large and clean, with Cajun music playing softly in the background. The vibe is friendly and relaxed, reflecting a family-owned business that values hospitality.

Frequent stop for to go orders and casual lunches. Popular for office meals and quick bites during business trips or visits with friends.

Spicy boudin stands out as a flavorful choice, praised as the best by one companion. The BBQ offers a satisfying meal that appeals to couples looking for a hearty, shared dining experience.

People are saying

"This American food's brisket is so moist and delicious."

"The brisket and boudin here are tender and flavorful."

"This Lunch Spot's brisket is the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Guillory's Bar-B-Que offers a 2 plates for $30 deal that includes three meats.

2

Prices for sides like potato salad and sausage are over $16.

3

Expect no barbecue sauce available at this BBQ restaurant.

06
Garosu Korean BBQ & Sushi image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Korean barbecue restaurant offers a spacious layout with modern decor and built-in grill vents that improve conversation. Atmosphere ranges from welcoming and lively to private rooms with bright lighting and no music. Music volume can be loud, and group reservations are common.

Lunch offers affordable deals with delicious Korean BBQ and sushi options. The menu provides a satisfying and tasty midday meal.

Full house on weekend nights with quick seating adds to the lively atmosphere. Service stands out as excellent, making it a solid choice for date nights or family meals.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be yummy and well-prepared."

"Our server Davis was so nice and took a super good picture of us."

"Thanh was a super nice server who checked up on us."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted buffet prices on weekdays from 4-6pm.

2

Buy-one-get-one-50%-off on alcohol is available on weekdays.

3

Expect longer wait times on weekends due to high demand.

07
Pelicana image 1
Chicken restaurant

Spacious restaurant with natural lighting and authentic decor creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The vibe is warm and welcoming, suitable for chatting with friends or family. Known for crispy Korean fried chicken, it offers a satisfying dining experience with a relaxed energy.

Service stays great during lunch, making it easy to get a quick bite. Lunch salad comes with sauce drizzled on top instead of being pre-tossed.

Korean fried chicken stands out as a shared dish for couples. Service can be a bit clumsy, like when water spills unexpectedly. Overall, it offers a casual vibe suitable for dates.

People are saying

"I thought the Korean fried chicken here was the best I ever had."

"You have to try the crispy chicken with the signature sauce for lunch."

"The food here is so flavorful and comforting, it's like a taste of Seoul."

Good to know

1

Pelicana offers a special deal of 9 wings for $9.99 on Tuesdays.

2

Different specials are available every Monday through Wednesday.

3

Pelicana is open until midnight, making it a late-night option.

08
Savoy Restaurant image 1
Pakistani restaurant

Spacious venue with culturally authentic decor creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Music plays softly, and a private room for families adds thoughtful privacy. Dishes often arrive with flame-heated presentation, enhancing the dining experience.

Lunch offers a variety of combos and daily specials with fresh, delicious food. Friendly staff provide professional and courteous service that enhances the dining experience.

Addictive biryani stands out alongside halwa puri, beef bun kabob, and chai that create a satisfying meal. The spot works well for couples looking to enjoy flavorful dishes in a relaxed setting.

People are saying

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

"The food here is packed with authentic Pakistani flavor."

"The food here is outstanding, making it a great spot for dates."

Good to know

1

The Mother's Day buffet is well organized and popular among guests.

2

Savoy offers catering services for events with a dedicated event manager.

3

The banquet hall is available for private events and celebrations.

09
Shabu Zone image 1
Buffet restaurant

Buffet restaurant with individual hot pots and a huge seafood bar creates a lively, fun atmosphere. Spacious, modern interior features K-pop videos on large screens and a sauce station offering endless customization. Seating can be tight but accommodates groups comfortably.

Lunch offers all-you-can-eat hotpot at a very affordable price, around $75 including tip. The lunch specials provide great value and suit family meals well.

This spot offers a cozy atmosphere ideal for couples. It features a shared dining experience that encourages connection and conversation.

People are saying

"The food here is great, with lots of variety."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is amazing and attentive."

"The Date Spots here have a huge selection of fresh ingredients and sauces."

Good to know

1

Dinner costs $35.99 per person, while lunch is $23.99.

2

Happy hour offers discounted pricing on select items.

3

Expect a wait during peak dinner hours, especially on weekends.

10
Hot Pot City image 1
Hot pot restaurant

Buffet-style hot pot restaurant with tabletop burners at spacious booths seating up to six. Atmosphere stays clean and quiet, suitable for date nights and casual outings. Made-to-order skewers and wings, along with a wide variety of seafood and vegetables, distinguish the dining experience.

Lunch offers fresh and plentiful food with a good selection of thinly cut meat. Staff provide personal touches like playing a song for special occasions, all at a set price of $19.99 per person.

Atmosphere suits both date nights and casual outings. Many options make it family friendly and fun for a cute little date.

People are saying

"The buffet has an impressive selection of seafood and vegetables."

"The bottomless options here have so many choices and are really fresh."

"It's a great spot for a date night or a family dinner."

Good to know

1

Hot Pot City offers an all-you-can-eat hot pot for $19.95.

2

Happy hour deals are available, providing discounts on select items.

3

The restaurant is only open at night on weekends during summer hours.

11
La Fogata Restaurant image 1
Colombian restaurant

Modern Colombian restaurant offers a cozy, relaxed atmosphere with happy music and plenty of seating. Space feels clean and spacious, featuring big TVs and a casual Latin American vibe. It draws those seeking authentic Colombian flavors in a welcoming setting.

Lunch here features consistent satisfaction and a tradition of bringing colleagues. Service stands out with courteous, attentive staff who enhance the meal experience.

Excellent spot for a date with shared plates like Badeja Paisa and appetizers such as maduros con queso and empanadas. Lunch menu items, including fajita de pollo with fried plantains, rice, and beans, are available any day after lunch hours for a small extra cost.

People are saying

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

"I found the empanadas here to be the best, fresh, hot, and meaty."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during peak hours.

2

Expect a busy lunch crowd from 12:00 to 1:30 PM on weekdays.

3

Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly during dinner hours.

12
Phở Sapa image 1
Pho restaurant

Spacious, bright interior fills with the rich aroma of pho, creating a warm, lively atmosphere. Tables often host Vietnamese elders, adding an authentic, communal vibe. Known for fresh noodles and flavorful broth, it stands out as a modernized pho spot with a clean, stylish design.

Attentive and speedy staff handle the lunch rush well. The place stays packed after lunch hour, showing steady popularity.

Great spot for date night with pho that even non-fans enjoy. Servers accommodate special requests like extra thit tái blanched on the side for an additional charge.

People are saying

"The pho here has a rich, clear, and perfectly seasoned broth."

"I found my new favorite spot for pho, the broth was flavorful to the last spoonful."

"The Lunch Spot broth is flavorful and not too salty."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult to find during lunch hours, requiring parking further away.

2

The menu offers unique options like beef bones with tendon and bone marrow.

3

The restaurant is on the pricier side for Vietnamese food.

13
Mì By Night image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Quaint cafe-style space with old Saigon decor and traditional ao dai uniforms creates a homey, nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of rural Vietnam. The vibe feels like a family-run place with warmth and genuine care. It fills up during peak times but maintains a relaxed energy.

Late lunch offers mi xa xiu with no wait on weekends. Food arrives fresh and flavorful, making it a solid lunch spot choice.

Warm greetings set a welcoming tone for a date night here. The menu features soup noodles like PHO Ga Kho and charsiu options that suit a casual meal together.

People are saying

"The food here is authentically Vietnamese and reminds me of home."

"The Lunch Spot dishes are so flavorful and delicious."

"The noodles here are amazing for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

The restaurant opens from 4pm to 1am on weekdays and from 11am to 1am on weekends.

2

Mì By Night is closed on Wednesdays.

3

The location can be packed during peak times, so plan accordingly.

14
Com Nieu Houston (Clay Pot Kitchen) image 1

Small, cozy Vietnamese restaurant with family-style dining and authentic clay pot dishes. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, evoking a sense of being in Vietnam. Tables sit close together, creating an intimate but sometimes cramped space.

Lively atmosphere fills the space even when just two people are there. It feels intimate yet energetic, making it a solid spot for a quiet date with a touch of buzz.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the catfish, is tender and flavorful."

"This lunch spot serves authentic Vietnamese comfort food."

"This place has the classic Vietnamese food I ate when my mother was alive."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of 30-60 minutes during busy dinner hours on weekends.

2

Parking is available, but exiting can be difficult during rush hour.

3

Iced tea costs $2 with no refills, so plan accordingly.

15
Ocean Palace image 1
Chinese restaurant

Large, newly renovated space offers spacious seating with private rooms and a blooming lotus pond outside. Atmosphere stays pleasant and clean, balancing traditional dim sum carts with modern elegance. Crowds gather for authentic dim sum, making it lively yet comfortable for groups and events.

Lunch offers a $30 special with a couple of entrees and soup. Wait times vary from none to about 10 minutes even on busy days. Dim sum stands out as a popular lunch choice.

Dim sum shines with varied dishes and a duck specialty that draws couples. The setting suits special occasions like wedding banquets.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be fresh, flavorful, and served hot."

"The Lunch Spot dishes were delicious and amazing."

"The dim sum here is authentic and very yummy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect long wait times during lunch and dinner on weekends.

3

Parking can be difficult to find on weekends.

16
Crawfish & Noodles image 1
Cajun restaurant

Spacious Cajun restaurant with elegant decor and a lively, upbeat vibe fueled by 80s music and positive energy. Atmosphere blends modern and upscale styles creating a warm, welcoming environment for groups or solo diners. Focus centers on flavorful seafood boils, especially Viet Cajun style crawfish.

Lunch offers a Viet Cajun seafood boil at $10 per pound during the special. Service stays friendly and quick even in busy hours.

Strong focus on crawfish boil creates a lively and satisfying meal experience. Food consistently pleases couples looking for a flavorful and engaging date spot.

People are saying

"I thought the crawfish here were perfectly seasoned and full of flavor."

"The food here is amazing, always fresh and perfectly seasoned."

"The crawfish at this Lunch Spot is seasoned perfectly and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 30-60 minutes during busy weekends.

2

Parking is available but can be limited; arrive early.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller orders.

17
Bún Mắm Cần Thơ image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Simple, spacious dining area with minimal decorations and a recent remodel creates a clean, cool environment. Atmosphere shifts between relaxing and lively, offering a mom-and-pop style vibe that feels familiar and unpretentious. Free samples and generous portions add to the welcoming experience.

Lunch offers fresh bun cha and a beef and shrimp dish that stands out. Meals feel light and satisfying for a midday break.

Pairs can enjoy Bun Cha Hanoi and Com Thit Nuong, both well-liked dishes. Some may find the pho less satisfying, but the menu offers variety for sharing.

People are saying

"I found the Vietnamese food authentic and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's Bun Cha Ha Noi is a flavorful must-try."

"The food here is flavorful and tasty, perfect for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers free dessert and drinks with meals.

2

Expect to pay an extra $0.50 for a takeout box.

3

The menu name differs from the sign outside, indicating a possible name change.

18
Bon KBBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Large dining area with modern casual Korean decor and K-Pop music creates a lively atmosphere. Seating includes tight booths and large tables suited for groups, while a selfie section adds a playful touch. Service features include a sauce station and a button to summon staff quickly for more meat.

Lunch offers Korean short ribs on the menu, a rarity for Korean BBQ spots. The price stays around $20 per person for an all-you-can-eat deal including multiple servings of meats and vegetables.

Dinner nights here focus on BBQ chicken and egg rolls, with options for sharing meals. Drinks are available, with some priced around $10 each, adding to the relaxed vibe for couples.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and offers amazing variety."

"This lunch spot is a steal at $20 for all-you-can-eat."

"The food here is so delicious, especially the cheese corn."

Good to know

1

The buffet offers unlimited sides and ice cream at the end.

2

Expect a variety of proteins, sides, and non-Korean BBQ dishes.

3

Buffet style allows self-service without waiting for orders.

19
Hyderabadi Chai &Grill image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with clean, bright seating and a friendly vibe. A TV shows cricket, adding to the relaxed environment. The place stays open late, attracting those looking for a chill spot to hang out with friends.

Reasonably priced lunch specials run until 5pm. Service stays warm and welcoming throughout the day.

Chicken Schezwan lollipop stands out as a favorite dish. The menu includes boneless chicken palak and butter chicken, offering flavorful options for couples.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, with generous portions and great flavor."

"The chicken tikka masala and biryani are amazing Date Spots."

"This Lunch Spot's food is delicious and very fresh."

Good to know

1

Hyderabadi Chai &Grill is a Halal restaurant.

2

They open at 8 AM and close at 2 AM.

3

Parking can be challenging due to a nearby hookah bar.

20
BỤI QUÁN image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant with Hue-inspired decorations and a cozy, authentic atmosphere. Space feels small but well-decorated, creating a welcoming vibe despite some noise from the mall setting. Known for flavorful Bun Bo Hue, it draws a crowd and often feels lively and busy.

People are saying

"I found the Bun Bo Hue here to be very flavorful and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's Bún Bò Huế comes with a surprising crab cake."

"I heard this place has amazing Bún Bò Huế, especially with the crab cake."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-45 minute wait during peak hours without reservations.

2

The restaurant offers $0.99 sugar cane juice with every bowl of Bun Bo Huế.

3

Some advertised dishes may not be available; check the menu upon arrival.

21
Mambo Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers a spectacular view and a cozy atmosphere with loud music that energizes the space. The bar features delicious micheladas and cocktails, creating a lively spot for relaxation. Outdoor seating shows wear but the overall vibe remains inviting.

Lunch arrives at a perfect time and suits both casual and group settings. Frequent visits show it works well for a late lunch or a quick meal with a work buddy.

Immaculate vibe creates a strong atmosphere for couples. Attentive service adds to the experience, though some find the food lacks flavor on dates.

People are saying

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

"The rice at this Lunch Spot is so delicious, I keep coming back."

"The service here is so attentive, it's perfect for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunch hours; plan accordingly.

2

Parking can be difficult; arrive early to find a spot.

3

Reservations are not accepted, so be prepared for potential waits.

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Alief, Houston

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