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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Northside's best

Authentic lunch spots

A midday break feels much more restorative when the food is made with real, honest ingredients.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Herand's Kitchen image 1
Herand's Kitchen image 2
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Mediterranean restaurant

Old post office building hosts a modern, spotless interior with an open kitchen visible through glass. Atmosphere feels cozy yet elegant, with sleek black and white decor and relaxing aquarium videos. Space suits quiet dinners and casual gatherings with a welcoming vibe.

Food features authentic Persian and Mediterranean flavors with dishes like beef koobideh, mast musir, hummus, and rice standing out for their freshness and high quality.

Strong focus on friendly hospitality creates a welcoming lunch atmosphere. Consistent choice for Friday lunches with reliable, pleasant experiences.

People are saying

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

"I will be thinking about the hummus for a while."

"The owner cooked everything with such care, making it feel like home."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the restaurant's lot and on the street.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

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

02
El Tlacoyo Bigoton (Food Truck) image 1

Food truck offers authentic Mexican street food with colorful decorations inspired by Mexico City. Atmosphere stays friendly and lively despite nearby construction. Outdoor seating includes picnic tables, enhancing casual dining experience.

Tacos and other dishes reflect Mexico City style with authentic Mexican street food flavors. Food stays fresh and true to traditional recipes from DF Mรฉxico.

Quick service suits a lunch break well. Options cover lunch, dinner, and snacks for flexible midday meals.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really tasty and flavorful."

"I found the most authentic Mexican street tacos here."

"This lunch spot has flavorful, fresh food and wonderful service."

Good to know

1

They are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

2

There was a little bit of a wait.

3

The prices were very reasonable.

03
Spices 39 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Two-floor Chinese restaurant combines a cozy bar downstairs with an upstairs dining area that feels like a modern dojo. Atmosphere stays warm and inviting, with stylish decor and a quiet, charming vibe. Guests often enjoy authentic hot dishes and a welcoming, clean environment.

Chinese dishes feature authentic flavors with crispy white meat in the orange chicken. Soup dumplings and other items deliver fresh, well-done tastes that reflect traditional recipes.

Lunch specials include Sesame Chicken, fried rice, and an egg roll. Multiple options come with the lunch special, making it easy to grab a quick meal.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is delicious with fresh ingredients and bold flavors."

"The lunch special here has many delicious options."

"I found the Chinese food here to be authentic and not mall food."

Good to know

1

Spices 39 offers half-price drinks after 8 PM, making it more appealing.

2

The restaurant is currently BYOB and has no corking fee.

3

Parking is an important consideration; the restaurant has a safe and convenient backyard parking lot.

04
Thai Tapas (Thai Japanese Sushi Bar) image 1

Asian restaurant blends authentic Thai flavors with creative sushi in a modern, clean setting featuring an outdoor patio. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, cozy yet lively, suitable for groups and intimate gatherings. Cocktails like lychee martinis and Thai tea drinks add to the vibrant experience.

Dishes feature authentic Thai flavors with a creative sushi twist. Every item tastes homemade and robust, capturing true traditional tastes.

Lunch offers delicious dishes with perfectly balanced flavors and fresh sushi. Seating is quick, and the patio provides a nice spot to enjoy the meal.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing."

"This lunch spot's flavors are perfectly balanced and incredibly fresh."

"The flavors here are so authentic, they remind me of home."

Good to know

1

Thai Tapas stays open until 11pm, making it convenient for late-night snacks.

2

Happy hour beer is $6, and the martini is discounted to $12.

3

The restaurant offers vegetarian options, including tofu, alongside chicken and shrimp.

05
Puebla's Mexican Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space filled with authentic Mexican decor and colorful plates creates a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Music plays consistently, enhancing the inviting vibe that feels like a slice of Mexico. Both indoor and outdoor seating accommodate guests who often linger to enjoy the ambiance.

Authentic Mexican flavors shine through every dish with traditional recipes and fresh ingredients. The decor and art create a genuine Mexican atmosphere that complements the food perfectly.

Hardworking family runs the kitchen, delivering authentic Mexican flavors for breakfast and lunch. The spot serves as a reliable choice for a solid midday meal with a menu worth exploring further.

People are saying

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

"I loved the authentic Mexican breakfast, especially the chilaquiles."

"This is a great lunch spot for authentic Mexican food."

Good to know

1

It can get crowded between 10 AM and 1 PM, so expect wait times during those hours.

2

Parking is very limited, and finding a spot can be difficult.

3

They might have parking available in the back, but it's not guaranteed.

06
Alamo Tamales image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cafeteria-style setup with spacious seating and decor rooted in folklore and tradition creates a warm, welcoming vibe. Lively yet comfortable atmosphere fills the space with sweet and savory aromas and good music. A full bar and free salsa bar add to the casual, energetic environment.

Authentic Mexican food shines here with Texas-style tamales and classic comfort dishes. Pan dulce adds a sweet touch to the menu.

Lively but not too loud atmosphere suits lunch with friends or family well. It balances energy and comfort for midday meals.

People are saying

"These tamales are so fresh, flavorful, and perfectly prepared."

"The tamales here are so fresh and flavorful."

"The tamales here are soft and flavorful."

Good to know

1

You can only order tamales in packs of 6 or 12.

2

Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes offered.

3

The restaurant has plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors.

07
Tacos Cecina image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with a warm, inviting atmosphere and a bar-like vibe. Features an amazing salsa bar offering a wide variety of salsas alongside chips. Music is authentic but not stereotypical, creating a pleasant, chill environment that can get lively at times.

Food delivers authentic Mexican flavor with dishes that taste like Mexico. The vibe includes authentic music and a bar-like atmosphere.

Soft corn tacos stand out during lunch here. The spot offers a wide variety of delicious Mexican dishes, making it a regular choice for midday meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"This is a great lunch spot with flavorful, authentic Mexican food."

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

Good to know

1

The prices at Tacos Cecina are very reasonable.

2

They made accommodations for my gluten-free diet.

3

The restaurant and bathrooms are clean.

08
La Chingada Tacos & Tequila image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with Mexico City-inspired decor and colorful murals creates a chill Mexican vibe. Music stays at a reasonable volume, allowing easy conversation. Cocktails come from a compact bar offering margaritas and micheladas.

Mexican dishes here offer an authentic Mexico City taste with carne de cerdo con verdolagas featured on the menu. Portions come big for the price and the food stays true to traditional flavors.

Lunch specials include pastor tacos with fries and other tacos. Portions are generous enough for leftovers. Options come ready to eat or to take home.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was authentic and great."

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

"This lunch spot has authentic and delicious Mexican plates."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm.

3

Expect generous portion sizes; meals are quite filling.

09
La Rosa Blanca image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers an authentic, hole-in-the-wall vibe with handmade tortillas and fresh ground coffee beans. Atmosphere feels like a slice of Mexico with delicious breakfast tacos and traditional dishes like menudo and pozole. Tables show wear, adding to the family-run, cozy feel.

Breakfast tacos and gorditas deliver authentic Mexican taste with fresh flavors. Small and focused, the menu stays true to traditional recipes and offers a deliciously authentic experience.

Lunch offers a reliable spot during breaks with quick service and takeout options. The menu suits midday meals well.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious breakfast tacos here."

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

"This Lunch Spot's food was super tasty and great."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street near the restaurant.

2

Breakfast tacos are reasonably priced and a popular choice.

3

The restaurant offers DoorDash delivery for convenience.

10
Teotihuacan image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with spacious back patio and cramped indoor seating creates a mix of open and tight spaces. Atmosphere is loud and energetic, with TVs showing sports and occasional festive touches like charro hats for birthdays. Known for strong margaritas and authentic Mexican dishes including standout carnitas and mole.

Fresh, authentic Mexican food fills generous portions here. The ambience matches the real, non-touristy vibe and the prices stay affordable for a genuine Tex-Mex experience.

Lunch offers fast service even during busy times and features specials like Chicken Fajita Poblano. The spot suits a casual Tex-Mex meal with a friendly vibe and reliable quality.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic and flavorful."

"I found the Mexican food here to be really authentic."

"This Lunch Spot's food is always amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 11am to 10pm Monday through Wednesday.

2

Happy hour features $4 house margaritas from Monday to Wednesday.

3

All-day happy hour is available on Mondays.

11
J.R.'s Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with a simple, efficient setting and a welcoming bilingual atmosphere. The space feels cramped but manages a big Texas effort in delivering authentic flavors. Freshly made tacos and homemade tortillas stand out as key features.

Mexican flavors come through with authentic taste and harina tortillas that reflect traditional preparation. The overall experience stays true to classic Mexican cuisine.

Chicken tacos offer a quick, satisfying lunch option with a side of horchata. Expect a busy atmosphere during lunch hours, making it a popular spot for a fast bite.

People are saying

"These breakfast tacos are the best I've ever tasted."

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

"I thought the Mexican taste was authentic."

Good to know

1

Free street parking is available when the small lot is full.

2

The taqueria closes early in the afternoon, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Everything is made fresh to order, ensuring quality and taste.

12
El Rey Meat Market image 1
Butcher shop

Butcher shop combines massive meat selection with an authentic Mexican taqueria inside. Atmosphere stays calm yet bustling, filled with happy people enjoying handmade tortillas and flavorful tacos. Early opening and trust-based ordering add to a friendly, efficient vibe.

Cozy supermarket packed with authentic Mexican food and products. Offers top-quality meats and homemade fresh tortillas with exceptional service.

Lady's lunch stands out as a recommended option. The spot offers a solid choice for breakfast and lunch, though service issues can slow down the experience.

People are saying

"I thought the pastor tacos here were the best I ever had."

"The owner personally helped with my order and gifted tortilla chips."

"The service at this lunch spot is super nice and attentive."

Good to know

1

El Rey Market opens early at 5:30 AM, ready for customers.

2

Birria is available on weekends, a popular menu item.

3

The parking lot can get full, especially on weekends.

13
Trattoria Sofia image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers beautiful interior and terrace with a live guitar player enhancing the atmosphere. The space feels crowded and loud, especially during busy times, which can affect conversation. Outdoor patio provides a pleasant, temperature-controlled dining option.

Italian dishes here offer authentic flavors that closely match those found in Italy. The cuisine delivers a surprising depth and stays true to traditional recipes.

Smaller portions on the lunch menu make meals like chicken parmigiana just right for midday. The spot works well for both lunch and brunch with a relaxed vibe.

People are saying

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

"The food at this Lunch Spot is fantastic and authentic Italian."

"I found the most authentic Italian food here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers reasonable prices for drinks and appetizers after work.

2

Valet parking costs $6, and they accept credit cards.

3

During restaurant week, a 3-course special is available.

14
La Cocina de TJ image 1
Mexican restaurant

Modern Mexican restaurant with a renovated interior and open bar offers a lively atmosphere filled with energetic music and singing. Seating is modern but somewhat uncomfortable, and parking is often limited. Birria tacos stand out as a signature dish highly praised by many.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with traditional tortillas and genuine salsa that recalls Mexico. Birria stands out as a delicious, authentic dish.

Food comes out quickly during lunch, making it a solid spot to grab a quick lunch. The dishes are delicious, and it stays open all day for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

People are saying

"The food here felt like my grandma was cooking for me."

"The birria here is authentic and the meat is so tender."

"The birria here is the best, with tender, rich, and satisfying meat."

Good to know

1

Parking is challenging due to a very small lot, but street parking is available.

2

The place is popular, so seating fills up quickly but turns over fast.

3

They offer brunch all day.

15
Chef Hunan Bo image 1
Hunan restaurant

Small town Chinese restaurant with simple decor and a quiet, laid back vibe. It draws a neighborhood crowd mainly for affordable, authentic American Chinese takeout. The space feels no frills and suited more for quick meals than dining in.

Authentic American Chinese flavors stand out here, with dishes like the Malaysian Beef reflecting meals found in Beijing. The food consistently delivers a genuine taste true to traditional recipes.

Lunch hours bring a noticeable crowd, while other times stay laid back and quiet. Staff confirm lunch menu items remain at lunch price throughout the meal.

People are saying

"The fried rice here is pretty standard and good."

"These egg rolls are so cheap and the portions are great."

"This lunch spot is so affordable, it gets really busy."

Good to know

1

Most of their business is to-go orders, making it ideal for takeout.

2

Prices are very affordable, often under $10 per person.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere due to the low prices and good food.

16
Fiesta En Guadalajara image 1
Mexican restaurant

Sprawling Mexican restaurant with Spanish-style decor and an outdoor patio featuring a large fountain offers both lively and quiet seating areas. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful dining to a party vibe with DJ music and Mariachi performances near the bar. Patrons can enjoy authentic Mexican ambiance with options to relax or dance.

Food offers authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex flavors with well-seasoned dishes. The style and ambience reflect a genuine Mexican atmosphere.

Lunch specials offer very good value and include options like grilled chicken fajitas and combo fajitas. Service during lunch is incredible, even for larger groups.

People are saying

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

"The lunch specials here offer really good value."

"I found the food to be great and super authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, but it can be difficult during holidays.

2

Lunch specials are offered every day after 4:00 PM.

3

Steak night happens every Wednesday with special pricing.

17
Laredo Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a casual setting and fast-casual format offers a relaxed and welcoming vibe with Tejano music playing. Artwork reflects the business's character, creating a familiar atmosphere. The straightforward menu supports a no-frills experience focused on authentic tacos and homemade tortillas.

Vibrant, authentic flavors define the Mexican food here. Tacos stand out as a hidden gem with satisfying and genuine taste.

Assembly line service delivers breakfast and lunch tacos quickly. The spot offers a simple menu focused on these meals.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, packed with flavor and perfectly seasoned."

"This lunch spot has amazing, authentic tacos that are cheap and flavorful."

"The authentic Mexican food here is packed with flavor and made with care."

Good to know

1

Laredo Taqueria does not have a physical menu, making ordering difficult.

2

Arrive early to get the best choice items before they sell out.

3

Expect long lines during peak hours, but the line usually moves quickly.

18
Los Chilaquiles Mexican Grill image 1

Mexican restaurant with authentic hacienda decor and live mariachi music creates a warm, vibrant atmosphere. Outdoor patio adds to the inviting space where traditional sounds and farm animal noises blend subtly. The setting feels both elegant and comfortable, reflecting deep Mexican cultural roots.

Flavors reflect authentic Central Mexican cuisine with dishes like the birria taco and Rebay taco showcasing quality ingredients and tastes reminiscent of Jalisco. Food stays refreshing and tasty with reasonable prices.

Quirky menu offers chilaquiles and egg dishes for lunch with vegetarian options. Horchata pairs well with the meals.

People are saying

"The food took hours to arrive, and we were starving."

"The food here is so authentic, with flavors reminiscent of Jalisco."

"The Lunch Spot staff was so attentive and friendly."

Good to know

1

Live mariachi music starts at 11:00 am on Sundays.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

Expect wait times of up to 2 hours during peak hours.

19
La Hacienda image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican hacienda style fills the space with vibrant decor and colorful papel picado overhead. Live mariachi and guitar music create a festive atmosphere that feels like a lively celebration. The setting offers a hidden gem vibe with authentic cultural touches throughout.

Authentic Mexican food shines with flavorful dishes served in big portions. The atmosphere features colorful papel picado and walls with genuine Mexican touches.

Quick service delivers hot meals for lunch. Suitable for small groups, family meals, or date nights with attentive care.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's food is always fresh and flavorful."

"I thought the food was authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

There was a private lot for off-street parking.

2

If you have a big party, call in advance to reserve seating.

3

The price point is affordable compared to other places.

20
Alma image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy Mexican restaurant with large patio seating and a full bar featuring top-rated margaritas. Atmosphere is busy but relaxed, with indoor space feeling small and sometimes cramped. Outdoor area offers a more comfortable vibe with good music.

Food offers authentic flavor with a focus on healthy Mexican dishes that are clean and not greasy. Some find it delicious and authentic, while others feel it falls short of traditional expectations.

Lunch offers good portions with some leftovers common. Prices hover around 16 dollars, which feels reasonable but not exactly cheap for lunch. The menu includes fajitas and other solid options.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic, clean, and healthy."

"I loved the delicious food at this lunch spot."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and can be challenging due to construction.

2

They offer off-site parking with a shuttle service to the restaurant.

3

Expect longer wait times for food, potentially up to an hour.

21
Cooking Girl image 1
Sichuan restaurant

Sichuan restaurant offers a calm and comfortable vibe with a quiet, friendly atmosphere that supports easy conversation. The space blends traditional NY Chinese style with Vietnamese influence and features handmade dumplings and distinct flavors that stand out from typical casual Asian spots.

Dishes deliver numbingly authentic Sichuan spice and a homestyle feel. Mapo Tofu, green beans, eggplant, and salt & pepper fish showcase authentic flavors alongside well-made American Chinese options.

Quiet and reserved atmosphere suits intimate lunches well. Space allows for relaxed conversation and a comfortable pace during meals.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's food is amazing and authentic."

"I tasted authentic spice and homestyle flavor in every bite."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited in front of the restaurant during peak hours.

2

A free parking lot is available nearby for customers.

3

Expect a 20-minute wait for takeout orders, but it may vary.

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