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Top picks in Northside

Unique lunch spots

Made for those who seek out unconventional lunch options that break the monotony of the workday.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Agnes and Sherman image 1
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Cozy modern diner with an open kitchen, natural light, and thoughtful details like coat hooks and multiple server stations. Atmosphere feels family-oriented and casual but can get very loud when full. Music and cocktails add to the lively vibe, making it a spot with top-tier energy.

Lunch includes a cheese burger fried rice that looks fun and tasty. Open on Wednesdays, it offers a great midday meal option.

Imaginative dishes blend Asian-American fusion with 1950s diner comfort food. The menu features unique items like fried kimchi with light kimchi mayo that stand out from typical offerings.

People are saying

"The deconstructed rangoon and rice cakes offer a great fusion of flavors."

"The dishes here are unique, blending Asian influences with American comfort food."

"This lunch spot's cheeseburger fried rice is perfect comfort food."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends due to high demand.

2

Family-style menu costs $65 per person with a mandatory 22% gratuity.

3

The restaurant is now open for lunch on Wednesdays.

02
Active Passion Coffee & Cafe image 1

Spacious cafe with two dog-friendly patios and a shaded deck offers a relaxed, bright, and warm atmosphere. The vibe suits both focused work and casual chats, with play areas for kids and plenty of outlets and Wi-Fi. Outdoor seating includes umbrellas and a backyard that feels peaceful and secluded despite easy access.

Chef Zoch serves a variety of menu options for lunch alongside breakfast and dinner. The spot works well for a quick coffee or a fantastic lunch before heading out or meetings.

Retro vibes create a distinct atmosphere. Food and specialty coffee drinks like the black sesame latte stand out for their unique flavors.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was amazing and delicious."

"The atmosphere here is unique, feeling both bright and warm."

"The brisket bahn mi is an amazing lunch spot."

Good to know

1

A small parking lot and street parking are available.

2

They roast their own coffee beans.

3

The cafe is dog friendly and has a large backyard.

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.

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.

Fried eggplant comes with a crispy texture and a stuffing of eggplant and pork seasoned with unique fish-flavored spices. The menu offers dishes with distinctive flavor combinations worth exploring.

People are saying

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

"The lunch special here has many delicious options."

"You have to try the eggplant pocket; it's unlike anything I've seen."

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
da Gama canteen image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

Modern Indian restaurant offers charming patio seating with lush greenery and views of a nearby park. Atmosphere stays cozy and inviting with a lively bar and moderate music volume that allows conversation. Outdoor area features fans and heaters for comfort in various weather conditions.

Lunch offers delicious meals with generous portions. Outdoor seating suits dry warm days, creating a pleasant midday break.

Portuguese-Indian fusion shapes the menu with a unique blend of flavors. Drinks include a distinctive selection of port wines that complement the unique tapas-style dishes.

People are saying

"I found the cocktails here to be delicious and satisfying."

"I loved the unique blend of Portuguese-Indian cuisine and flavorful dishes."

"This lunch spot fuses Indian and Portuguese cuisines beautifully."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure a table, especially during busy hours.

2

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM on weekdays with discounted small plates.

3

Parking can be challenging during peak times, so plan accordingly.

05
Gold Tooth Tony's image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small space with only a few two-top tables and a bar creates an intimate setting. Bright, welcoming atmosphere combines with good jazz music and an outdoor seating area. Vibe feels friendly and chill, reminiscent of an East Coast spot.

Offers pepperoni and sausage pizza suitable for takeout lunches. Serves well for work lunch occasions.

Detroit style pizza stands out with many unique pies offering flavors unlike typical options. Chef Anthony Calleo pushes boundaries with distinctive flavor and creative combinations.

People are saying

"I found the Detroit style pizza to be the highlight."

"The Detroit-style pizzas here are unique and flavorful."

"I thought this might be the best pizza in the entire city."

Good to know

1

Expect a 15-minute wait for made-to-order pizzas.

2

Prices are higher than average, with slices costing $5 each.

3

Parking is free in the shared lot of the strip mall.

06
Dandelion Cafe Heights image 1

Cafe offers cozy, welcoming vibe with bright, sunny indoor space and shaded outdoor patio surrounded by plants. Music stays chill and relaxing, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Seating is abundant but can feel close together during busy times.

Sandwiches serve as a common lunch choice here, with options available during early hours. The spot maintains a consistent appeal for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, though prices can be on the higher side.

Waffles use a vanilla-like cornbread batter that stands out. Chilaquiles combine scrambled eggs and sausage with a unique salsa flavor. Decorations create a cute, curated vibe.

People are saying

"The food here has a cozy, welcoming vibe."

"The chilaquiles here are unique with scrambled eggs and sausage."

"The Lunch Spot's food was terrific and tasty."

Good to know

1

They offer buy one get one for a penny mimosas in all flavors on Monday.

2

Specials are available from Tuesday to Thursday.

3

Parking is very limited, with only about five spots available.

07
Homestead Kitchen and Bar image 1
New American restaurant

Rustic yet modern design blends Mexican and American homey vibes with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Loud, energetic atmosphere features reggaeton music and a lively crowd, especially during brunch hours. Offers a full bar with notable drinks like Poncho Villa beer and Solรณrzano tequila.

Phenomenal customer service and attentive waitstaff make lunch here enjoyable. Friends often gather for brunch or lunch when looking for a casual spot.

Unique twists on classic dishes stand out, especially with the waffle and unique syrup. Solรณrzano tequila adds smoothness and distinctive notes that complement the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and full of flavor."

"The burgers and chicken at this lunch spot were amazing."

"I loved the unique twists on classic dishes."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Expect long wait times on weekends, especially around 11 AM to noon.

3

Reservations are not accepted, leading to potential wait times.

08
East River 9 image 1
Golf course

Golf course offers 9-hole challenge with short holes focused on short game practice. Outdoor spaces include pickleball courts and a driving range, complemented by indoor and outdoor seating with skyline views. Atmosphere stays laid back and relaxed, enhanced by live music and a lively bar and restaurant.

Buffet lunch offers a varied selection but leans toward average quality. Seating suits groups, making it a social spot for midday meals.

A unique 9-hole par-3 course stands out here, paired with a driving range that complements the setup. The facility offers a distinctive concept not common in other venues.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the beautiful downtown scenery."

"The lunch spot's pancakes and omelets were so good."

"It's a unique 9-hole par-3 course with a driving range."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every other week with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Live music is featured on select Friday nights, enhancing the atmosphere.

3

Outdoor and indoor dining options are available for all weather conditions.

09
Buttermilk Baby image 1
American restaurant

Colorful space with a 1950s to 1960s diner vibe and cozy, vibrant decor creates a welcoming atmosphere. Multiple photo-friendly backdrops and outdoor swings add playful charm. Music and family-friendly energy keep the mood lively and fun.

Lunch here offers a memorable experience with thoughtful arrangements and a welcoming atmosphere. It suits occasions like birthdays and business trips, providing a solid choice for midday meals.

A colorful atmosphere and unique decor create a cute and distinct vibe. Bathrooms and the shopping and dining areas also have a clean, unique look.

People are saying

"The food here is really fresh and delicious."

"This lunch spot is so vibrant and photogenic, it's great for photos."

"The atmosphere here is so unique and colorful."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, over 40 minutes on busy nights.

2

Pricing is high; a double cheeseburger costs $18.

3

Limited seating may lead to difficulty finding a place to sit.

10
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.

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

Menu offers fun and unique options beyond standard Tex Mex. Tostadas come with fermented cream, cotija, and salsa instead of chips. Unique coffees provide a change from regular coffee shops.

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.

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