Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
the CBD's best

Lunch and date spots

A lunch spot that feels special enough for a date instead of just a place to grab a sandwich.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Zaranda image 1
Zaranda image 2
Zaranda image 3
View all
Mexican restaurant

Space combines stylish interior with inviting patios and a lively u-shaped bar. Atmosphere blends luxury Baja feel with Boho chic vibes, creating a cool and elegant setting. Crowd includes groups and couples, with amenities like high chairs and private event spaces enhancing accessibility.

Lunch features delicious Octopus and suits both business meals and casual dining. The spot offers a wonderful holiday lunch atmosphere.

Celebrations and date nights fit well here with a menu featuring whole fish and unique dishes like Taco De Pato, a Peking Duck twist with date mole and duck skin chicharron. The spot blends Chinese influence with local flavors for a memorable dining experience.

People are saying

"The fresh seafood, especially the oysters, was my favorite."

"Carlos's cocktails are like works of art."

"The empanadas and Brussels sprouts here are phenomenal for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers after work.

2

Valet parking costs $12 and can be paid at your table.

3

Zaranda has two private event spaces available for booking.

02
La Taquiza Street Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Lively mariachi bands fill a spacious, modern dining area with authentic Mexican music and a family-friendly atmosphere. The setting combines open seating with clay pot serving, creating a vibrant yet comfortable environment. Noise levels can be high, adding to the energetic vibe.

Lunch offers a varied and delicious menu with options that satisfy a hearty appetite. Both breakfast and lunch items are available, making it easy to enjoy multiple meals in one visit.

Buffet offers a special date option that could be more affordable. Emotional reactions happen, like tears of joy. Food appeals to both adults and kids, making it a family-friendly spot.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot has delicious food with a homemade feel."

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the pastor."

Good to know

1

The brunch buffet is available on Sundays from 10 AM to 3 PM.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially around 11 AM.

3

Mariachi performances occur every Sunday from 11 AM to 3 PM.

03
MKT Bar image 1
New American restaurant

Casual seating with Formica tables and metal chairs creates a relaxed setting for groups. Live music featuring jazz, oldies, and brass bands energizes weekends, though volume can be loud. The vibe blends cozy, chill atmosphere with bursts of fun and busy energy.

Offers a solid spot for group lunches and casual gatherings. Lunches come with simple sides, though sometimes expected toppings like coleslaw and mustard may be missing.

Offers a cozy atmosphere suited for date nights and first dates. Features lamb waffle and Spanish red wine options that complement a relaxed evening.

People are saying

"The grocery store has an awesome bakery and a great salad bar."

"The sliders here are the biggest I've ever seen."

"The food and wine selection here is solid for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a nearby free garage for Phoenicia customers.

2

MKT Bar closes at 8 PM daily, except on Sundays when it closes at 6 PM.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties, as they can grow quickly.

04
Toro Toro image 1
Steak house

Open-concept dining space with floor-to-ceiling windows offers stunning city views and a classy yet chill vibe. Festive decor and live music create an elegant atmosphere complemented by well-crafted cocktails and a comfortable layout.

Wide and reasonably priced lunch menu offers variety. Welcoming energy from staff adds to the experience. Some dishes like Peruvian ceviche are not available at lunch.

Intimate dinners feature ribs and smoked old fashions. Celebrations include bourbon and a cozy atmosphere for couples.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal, especially the empanadas and desserts."

"The food here is amazing, especially the perfectly cooked steaks."

"The lunch spot's ambiance is stellar."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy events like restaurant week.

2

Valet parking is available but can be expensive; check for validation options.

3

An automatic tip is added to the bill, which may lead to double tipping.

05
Kulture image 1
Restaurant

Live band with R&B vibe sets a whole vibe atmosphere, balancing energy and sound perfectly. Spacious layout with round tables encourages conversation, complemented by a classy professional design and soothing city views. Cocktails and food, including exceptional fried chicken and best-ever biscuits, enhance the dining experience.

Limited menu offers very tasty options. It works well as a local lunch spot during busy times.

Friendly hospitality stands out with staff celebrating special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays. Attentive service includes helpful gestures such as assisting with parking directions.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful and soulful, truly finger-lickin' good."

"The service here is amazing, making it a great spot for dates."

"You have to try the shrimp and grits; they're life-changing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for live music events on weekends.

2

Parking is validated in the attached garage for up to two hours.

3

Expect large portion sizes that exceed typical restaurant servings.

06
China Garden Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Rosewood tables and hand-painted dividers create a dated 1980s decor with a family atmosphere that feels like visiting home. The space includes a full bar with a welcoming bartender and offers large group seating with lazy Susans. The environment is cozy but can feel stuffy due to lack of windows.

Lunch offers big portions and delicious specials. It suits those working nearby looking for a consistent meal option.

Exceptional food sets the tone for a date here, with highlights like egg rolls and combination foo yung that stand out. The menu offers satisfying options that make dining together enjoyable.

People are saying

"I found the egg rolls here to be amazing and fried perfectly."

"This lunch spot's portions are generous and the food is delicious."

"The food here is amazing; I gladly pay top dollar."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has its own parking lot, which is convenient for downtown visitors.

2

There is a good amount of street parking available nearby.

3

Sunday brunch is a popular time to visit, offering a unique experience.

07
Brasserie Du Parc image 1
French restaurant

Glass walls offer quiet people-watching with views of a green park outside. The space feels cozy and elegant with tasteful decor and a calm, pleasant atmosphere. Seating near the bar can be lively with foot traffic and music, while other areas remain peaceful.

Lunch offers flexible menu options with the ability to substitute dishes like mushroom ravioli for a small upcharge. Meals come out fabulous and fit well between meetings or casual weekends.

Dinner dates feature well prepared beef and duck dishes and attentive service that goes above and beyond to make occasions special. The atmosphere supports a wonderful dining experience for couples.

People are saying

"The French food here, especially the steak frites, is perfectly cooked."

"The food here is immaculate, especially the steak frites."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was fantastic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

2

Happy hour specials are available only in the bar area.

3

The restaurant participates in Houston Restaurant Week with a special menu.

08
Bayou & Bottle image 1

Upscale hotel bar with an elegant, cozy atmosphere and prominent bar area alongside intimate booths. Guests enjoy top-notch bourbon selection and creative cocktails in a stunningly beautiful setting. A Top Golf simulator adds a unique entertainment option beyond typical bar offerings.

Lunch here takes time, so plan for a long meal. The food offers a pleasant variety that suits a relaxed midday break.

Frequent visits highlight its appeal as a good date night spot. The Peach & Burrata salad stands out as a favored dish.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great cocktails and food here."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is always superb and friendly."

"The Date Spots here have amazing food, like the Lobster Quesadilla."

Good to know

1

Bayou & Bottle is located inside the Four Seasons Hotel.

2

The restaurant offers a Wednesday special that is the best deal available.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during Astros weekend.

09
The Palm - Downtown Houston image 1

Upscale steakhouse with Italian flair and old-school dining style offers private themed rooms and live piano and vocal performances. Ambiance ranges from quiet and cozy in private spaces to lively with music in main areas. Booth seating and a comfy bar create relaxed spots for dining or drinks.

Lunch features a 3-course menu with options like prime New York steak and sides such as hashbrowns. Specials and group lunches are common, with service sometimes noting item availability.

Special occasions get attention with memorable birthday dinners and thoughtful service. The menu includes dishes like wagyu lasagna that stand out for a date night.

People are saying

"The food and ambiance at these dinner spots are exceptional."

"The specialty drinks, especially the Mrs. Claus cocktail, were so good I ordered two."

"The lobster sandwich at this Lunch Spot was the spiciest I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available, which is helpful in downtown Houston.

2

The restaurant offers a July promotion of 50% off all wines over $100.

3

An 8 oz fillet costs $56, and a side of mushrooms is $16.

10
McCormick & Schmick's Seafood & Steaks image 1

Private booths with curtains offer quiet privacy in a gorgeous, upscale setting. A huge shaded patio invites larger groups for outdoor dining. The atmosphere ranges from comfortable and beautiful to occasionally loud with blaring music.

Strong focus on business lunches with an environment that supports good conversation without loud background noise. Service is consistently good, making it suitable for professional meals.

Seafood dishes create a romantic atmosphere for date nights. Thoughtful gestures like a sweet treat from the manager add a special touch. Reservations at prime dinner times help set the mood.

People are saying

"The seafood here is great, and the servers are genuinely one of the best."

"The Date Spots here have flawless lemon drop martinis and exceptional grilled oysters."

"The food at this lunch spot is consistently good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6:30 pm with great drink specials.

2

Taco Tuesday offers excellent deals on tacos during happy hour.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially during busy times.

11
The Nash image 1
New American restaurant

Space combines scored concrete floors with simple table setups, creating a quiet, calm ambience that suits private dining well. The atmosphere feels pleasant and peaceful, with a gorgeous interior that contrasts with a generally low activity level.

Strong choice for business lunches with a setting that suits work meetings and celebrations. Lunch options satisfy a variety of tastes and keep the meal enjoyable.

Perfect for date nights and happy hours, the venue offers a relaxed vibe for couples. It suits spontaneous visits and casual treats.

People are saying

"The food during Happy Hour is exceptionally good, like a magazine photo."

"The Lunch Spot food is solid and tasty."

"The food here is fantastic and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with $12 cocktails and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended for private dining for groups of 22-28 people.

3

Valentine's Day features a special set menu with appetizer, entree, and dessert.

12
Cellar7 image 1
American restaurant

Eclectic mid-century style restaurant with cozy vibe and bubbly decor offers both indoor and nice outdoor seating. Atmosphere is stylish and lively, though loud music can make conversation difficult. Frequented for tasty food and a great bar with well-crafted cocktails.

Lunch offers excellent food with well-sized portions suited for business meals. Service can be slow, especially for appetizers, and a persistent smell lingers during the meal.

Paella stands out with its rich flavors. Chicken dishes, including a Chicken Chipotle option, offer bold, savory tastes that complement the meal well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and of excellent quality."

"The salmon dishes here are delicious and cooked perfectly."

"I found the lunch food here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with special drink prices.

2

Cellar7 offers a variety of finger foods during happy hour.

3

Parking is free at the nearby 601 Travis St parking garage.

13
Rosalie Italian Soul image 1
Italian restaurant

Maximalist interior with bright pink walls and embroidered pillows creates an elegant, vibey atmosphere. Multiple seating areas offer different vibes, including a glass kitchen where cooks are visible. Attention to detail shows in decor, plating, and flavor profiles.

Lunch offers a three-course $30 special and sandwiches like the chicken parm. Meals run on the pricey side for casual dining.

Super cute ambiance sets a cozy tone for date nights. Service feels personal with attentive staff like Johnny Vasquez. Squash blossom appetizer adds a nice touch to the menu.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is amazing, thanks to Tannis's great recommendations."

"The staff here are so attentive and friendly for Date Spots."

"This Lunch Spot is pricey for the quality of food."

Good to know

1

Valet parking costs $8 if validated by the restaurant.

2

Valet parking at the Baldwin hotel costs $35, which is quite high.

3

The menu at Rosalie Italian Soul is limited compared to what is posted online.

Discover more

Central Business District, Houston

Area guide
Loading Map...