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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Pasadena

Lunch spots

A midday break that feels like a real pause in your day rather than just a quick calorie refill.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Chang Yai Thai Noodle & Cafe image 1
Chang Yai Thai Noodle & Cafe image 2
Chang Yai Thai Noodle & Cafe image 3
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Elegant modern decor with warm lighting and traditional Thai art creates a cozy vibe. Lunch features a variety of dishes including tom yum soup and crispy wontons, perfect for a relaxed meal. Private booths add a unique touch to the welcoming atmosphere.

Lunch offers a variety of dishes with at least 10 options to choose from. The lunch deal includes tom yum soup, crispy fried wontons, and an entree, creating a chill atmosphere for a relaxed meal.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding and delicious."

"The coconut soup was rich, creamy, and full of bold flavor."

"This lunch spot's Pad Thai is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

The restaurant has a variety of vegan options available.

3

Expect a clean dining environment with attentive service.

02
Ernie's Cafe & Catering image 1
American restaurant

Cozy interior offers a homey atmosphere with quick service perfect for a lunch spot. Busy daytime vibe suits families enjoying comfort food and healthier choices. Prices stay reasonable, but it closes early in the afternoon.

A great little lunch diner with quick service fits well for a casual midday meal. Plates vary in quality, with some options standing out more than others.

People are saying

"This is a great lunch spot with delicious, fresh food."

"The service for our burgers was so friendly and prompt."

"I enjoyed the great onion rings."

Good to know

1

Ernie's Cafe & Catering closes at 2 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

The cafe offers a large menu with comfort food and healthier options.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially during lunch hours.

03
Chicken Salad Chick image 1
Chicken restaurant

Southern-style decor and gospel music create a cozy vibe. Quick, healthy lunches focus on chicken salad with homemade flavors. Clean, peaceful seating suits casual midday meals with friends or solo.

Offers quick and healthy lunch options with a focus on chicken salad. Meals come together fast and suit a casual midday meal. The spot works well for a pleasant, no-fuss lunch with friends or solo.

People are saying

"I thought the chicken salad here was the best I've ever had."

"This lunch spot has delicious, fresh food that's not too heavy."

"I thought the potato soup was the best I've had."

Good to know

1

The menu features a variety of chicken salad flavors and baked treats.

2

Prices for a meal average around $12, including a main scoop, side, and drink.

3

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness throughout.

04
Sรบp Vietnamese Pho & Grill image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant shines with elegant dining and quiet music for a warm vibe. Lunch specials like Chicken Larb bowl and summer rolls pair well with iced coffee. Thoughtful design and beautiful presentation make meals feel special.

Lunch offers a lunch special with various entrees, an appetizer, and a drink. Dishes like the Chicken Larb bowl and summer roll with peanut sauce come highly recommended, paired well with iced coffee.

People are saying

"I thought the pho here was awesome and really good."

"The spring rolls here are fried and amazing."

"The pho broth here is so flavorful and yummy."

Good to know

1

The lunch special includes an iced coffee, appetizer, and main entree for $16.

2

Expect a 20-30 minute wait during busy lunch hours.

3

Takeout packaging is high quality, ensuring food stays hot and fresh.

05
Kathy's Kitchen image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small Vietnamese restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with charming decorations and a grass wall with flowers. Early lunches serve quality meals that stand out in taste. Convenient drive-thru service adds ease to the warm, family-like setting.

Early lunches here offer a warm atmosphere suitable for all ages. Meals stand out for their quality and taste, making it a notable spot for midday dining.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and flavorful."

"It's got such a welcoming and cozy vibe."

"This lunch spot's grilled pork banh mi is amazing."

Good to know

1

The prices at Kathy's Kitchen are great, and the portions are generous.

2

The drive-thru at Kathy's Kitchen is very convenient.

3

The restaurant is very clean and transparent about their operation.

06
Yama Kitchen Pasadena image 1
Japanese restaurant

Galaxy-themed interior with a starry sky ceiling creates a calm, kid-friendly vibe. Lunch features all-you-can-eat sushi and perfectly fried wagyu at fair prices. Unique dining includes DIY grilling and robotic servers for a futuristic experience.

Lunch offers a fair price with many menu options including all-you-can-eat sushi rolls and perfectly fried wagyu. Every dish shows clear care and quality in preparation.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and everyone left happy."

"The Japanese Food here is amazing, and the service is super fast."

"The lunch special all-you-can-eat had a fantastic, broad selection."

Good to know

1

Lunch costs $23.95, with child pricing more than half off.

2

Expect zero wait time during lunch hours.

3

All-day happy hour offers great drink prices.

07
Joe's Italian Grill Spencer, Pasadena image 1

Small booths and a bright, clean space create a cozy yet elegant vibe for lunch. Lunch specials offer great value with eggplant parmigiana and generous portions. Music adds a lively, friendly atmosphere that stays quiet enough for conversation.

Lunch specials offer great value with good portions that cover both lunch and dinner. The eggplant parmigiana comes with a side of spaghetti and sauce, making for a delicious meal.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here, like the shrimp scampi, is delicious."

"This lunch spot has delicious, homemade-tasting food."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Lunch specials offer great value with generous portions.

3

Gluten-free pasta and pizza options are available.

08
El TosTaco Regio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot offers generous portions of top birria and street tacos in a cozy atmosphere with soft Spanish music. Perfect for lunch with a chill vibe despite rough exterior. Only three tiny tables keep it intimate and inviting.

Small size creates a chill atmosphere for lunch. Construction and rough exterior do not affect the casual vibe during midday visits.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here are juicy, flavorful, and amazing."

"These tortas are huge and amazing for date spots."

"This Lunch Spot's birria tacos are the best I've had in years."

Good to know

1

El TosTaco Regio has only four tables, so expect limited seating.

2

Parking is very limited with only a few spots available.

3

The menu is small but offers a variety of flavorful options.

09
Tex Pho image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Cozy shop offers flavorful pho broth and generous portions in a quaint atmosphere. Perfect for a quick lunch with no long waits. Affordable prices make it a local favorite for casual meals.

A hole-in-the-wall spot with no long waits during lunch. Suitable for a quick, casual lunch break or dinner.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here has layers of flavor, especially the broth."

"These pork egg rolls are the best I've ever had."

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

Good to know

1

Prices at Tex Pho are reasonable.

2

Credit cards are accepted without problems.

3

There is plenty of parking available.

10
Street Tacos El Chino {Red Bluff} image 1

Food truck serves freshly grilled tacos with a clean, well-lit area perfect for quick lunch breaks. Known for authentic Mexican flavors, especially birria and pastor tacos, it draws steady crowds despite busy parking. Efficient service suits group orders for lunch and dinner.

Lunch orders come out quickly, avoiding long waits during breaks. Frequent visits happen weekly, with meals often ordered for groups. The spot serves both lunch and dinner options efficiently.

People are saying

"The fajita tacos melt in your mouth and are seasoned to perfection."

"The salsa verde here is incredible and fire."

"This Lunch Spot's tacos are seasoned to perfection."

Good to know

1

Parking can be busy, so consider calling ahead for pickup.

2

They accept card payments for your convenience.

3

Everything is made fresh, which may result in longer wait times.

11
Andy's Hawg Wild BAR B-QUE image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Rustic barbecue spot offers sliced brisket and smoked link for lunch with classic sides like mac n cheese. Open kitchen and vintage country music create a cozy atmosphere. Western decor and memorabilia add a down-home vibe that locals love.

Lunch features sliced brisket and smoked link with sides like green beans and mac n cheese. Catering options serve groups up to 20, and online delivery is available for convenience.

People are saying

"The brisket and chicken here are so tender and juicy."

"I was impressed by how delicious the coleslaw was."

"The ribs and red beans are the best lunch spot in town."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges a 3.85% fee for credit card payments.

2

Parking is plentiful and available near the restaurant.

3

Prices for sandwiches start at $12 without sides or drinks.

12
China Fu Buffet image 1
Restaurant

Large, well-lit space blends hibachi grill and sushi with a varied buffet. Family-friendly, clean, and casual, it suits lunch meet-ups well. Unique seafood and shrimp dishes add a special touch to the midday meal.

Casual lunch meet-ups happen here with a buffet setup. Lunch service runs smoothly around 1 PM, offering a relaxed spot for midday meals.

People are saying

"The buffet's crab preparations were divine, and the sushi was surprisingly sophisticated."

"I thought this was the best lunch spot within a 15-minute drive."

"The wait staff here is so attentive with the desserts."

Good to know

1

The price ranges from $13 to $18 per person depending on the time.

2

Expect a total cost of around $33 for two adults with drinks before tip.

3

They offer a 20% discount for the month of February.

13
Mariscos El General image 1
Seafood restaurant

Enjoy authentic Mexican seafood with live mariachi music on a comfortable outdoor patio. Friendly service and worth it lunch specials make it perfect for family meals. Unique cocktails like micheladas add a special touch.

Lunch features worth it specials and a friendly, courteous service that makes the meal pleasant. The atmosphere supports a great family lunch experience.

People are saying

"The seafood here is really delicious and fresh."

"The Mexican food here is excellent, and the service is so friendly."

"The service at this lunch spot was great and attentive and friendly."

Good to know

1

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

2

Live music starts at 9:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

3

Rancheras begin at 1:00 pm on Sundays.

14
Sam Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant offers a cozy nook and soft ambient lighting for a calm vibe. Meals are quick, fitting well into a 30-minute lunch break. Quiet piano music adds to the laid back atmosphere for a relaxing dining experience.

Meals fit comfortably within a 30-minute lunch break. Visits confirm it works well for a quick, casual lunch spot.

People are saying

"The ramen here is amazing and tasted so fresh."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"This lunch spot's ramen is delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable, with most dishes under $15.

2

Cleanliness is a priority, with well-maintained dining areas and restrooms.

3

Lunch service is quick, ideal for a 30-minute break.

15
El Sol De Jalisco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant shines with live guitar music and a welcoming atmosphere. Lunch offers fresh Mexican dishes perfect for groups. Drive-thru and diverse menu add to its family-friendly charm.

Lunch features fresh Mexican dishes served in a casual setting. The spot welcomes groups, making it easy to enjoy meals with family or friends.

People are saying

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

"The kids meal here is really filling and delicious."

"The food at this Lunch Spot has very good flavor."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is available early in the morning.

2

The food takes about 20 minutes to be ready.

3

Prices for two people are typically under $20.

16
Hippo Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Simple, clean dining area with a chill, lively atmosphere and a good playlist makes it a great lunch spot. Burgers wrapped in old-style newspaper offer a homemade taste with specialty flavors like mushroom. Fast online ordering suits quick midday meals.

Ordering online offers fast service during lunch breaks. The spot suits quick visits for midday meals.

People are saying

"I loved these burgers; I can't wait to come back."

"The spicy chicken sandwich had a great spice."

"The burgers at this Lunch Spot are full of flavor and did not disappoint."

Good to know

1

The regular burgers are 1/2 pound.

2

The price listed on the wall is only for the burger; extra for fries and a drink.

3

Prices are fair for the amount of food received.

17
The Neighborhood Scoop image 1

Small diner shines with old school booths and a lively vibe. Lunch hits the spot with satisfying options and standout milkshakes. Outdoor patio is pet-friendly and fun with board games, making it a cool, memorable hangout.

Offers diner-quality lunch with satisfying options. Milkshakes stand out as a quality craving fix during lunch hours.

People are saying

"These burgers are so fresh and tasty."

"It's a cool little spot with a great retro, old-school vibe."

"You have to try the milkshakes here; they're thick and hit the spot."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $90 for a family of four for meals and desserts.

2

The portion sizes are large, making it a good value for families.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but check if mobile payments are available.

18
Pho Vi-Vi Pasadena image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese spot offers authentic pho with quick service perfect for business lunches. Portions are plentiful and prices fair. Atmosphere is lively and noisy, with a clean space but an awkward payment line.

Immediate attention and quick service stand out even when it gets crowded. Pho works well as a light lunch or pick-me-up, and the spot suits business lunches.

People are saying

"The shrimp here is cooked to perfection."

"This lunch spot's pho broth is so succulent and flavorful."

"The food here is so authentic and freshly prepared."

Good to know

1

Free Thai milk teas are offered on Tuesdays.

2

The meal comes with chips and a soda for $7.

3

Expect large portions of noodles, broth, and tofu.

19
Mamma Mia's Pizza & Pasta image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, cozy spot with a mom and pop vibe and a New York pizzeria atmosphere. Lunch features pasta sampler and hearty specials like lasagna and chicken parmesan. Staff know names, adding a family-owned feel to the laid-back, fun setting.

Lunch offers a pasta sampler and garlic bread for 8.99. Specials include lasagna, chicken parmesan, and fettuccine Alfredo with a salad or soup. The menu provides great value with large entrรฉes and sides.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, is delicious and full of flavor."

"It's a family-owned restaurant with a great atmosphere."

"This Lunch Spot has delicious food and great prices."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect a 40-minute wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Lunch menu offers great value with affordable pricing.

20
Casa Ole' image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with top-shelf margaritas and unique chili con carne buckets. Lunch menu suits quick visits and casual dates, offering a cozy, friendly atmosphere. Clean environment makes it great for family meals and catching up.

Lunch features a special menu with options that suit quick visits during the lunch window. It works well for casual dates or family meals, offering a relaxed spot to catch up.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the spinach enchiladas."

"It's so Kid Friendly; they made my daughter feel really special."

"I loved the lunch special; the food was so good."

Good to know

1

Casa Ole' offers a celebration for birthdays with special arrangements.

2

The menu selection has increased over the past couple of years.

3

Parking at Casa Ole' is often available as the lot is usually empty.

21
The Ranchito Taqueria & Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant shines with homemade corn tortillas and authentic breakfast in a lively, noisy setting. Lunch offers consistent quality with reliable dishes, making it great any time. Expect a busy local crowd and tight parking.

Offers consistent quality for lunch with reliable Mexican dishes. Serves well for breakfast and dinner too, making it a solid choice throughout the day.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be excellent, especially the fajitas."

"This lunch spot's authentic Mexican food is delicious and fantastic."

"The breakfast tacos here are the best in the area."

Good to know

1

Expect a 10-minute wait during Saturday morning brunch rush.

2

Parking is limited and can be inconvenient.

3

Food portions are large and reasonably priced.

22
Layne's Chicken Fingers- Pasadena image 1

Fast food spot with a warm atmosphere and perfectly cooked chicken shines for lunch with generous portions and friendly service. Cozy space and soft music make it great for families and casual meals.

Lunch offers generous portions and friendly service with staff ensuring all needs are met. The meals create a positive atmosphere that brightens the day.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and so good."

"This place is so kid friendly, my picky eater son loved it."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and not too greasy."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available during peak hours.

2

The food is more affordable compared to other similar places.

3

Layne's offers multiple sauces and spicy tenders.

23
Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot serves crispy chicken tenders with heavenly dipping sauce in a clean environment. Lunch hours bring a steady crowd enjoying delicious meals. Portions shrink as prices rise, and drive-thru lines get long during peak times.

Busy during lunch hours with a steady crowd. Food tastes delicious and suits all day meals including lunch and snacks.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really good and fresh."

"I loved the Texas toast; it was so delicious and buttery."

"This lunch spot has delicious, juicy chicken fingers."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunch and dinner hours.

2

Drive-thru gets busy at peak times, with waits of about 10 minutes.

3

Dine-in service may close earlier than the posted 1:00 AM.

24
Burger Tex image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Roomy space with old school diner vibes offers a build your own bar featuring self-serve melted cheese and fresh toppings. Homemade burgers are fresh and flavorful, perfect for a loud lunch spot with filling meals and fries.

A simple, delicious spot for lunch with filling burgers and fries. The atmosphere is loud, making it more suited for midday meals than evening visits.

People are saying

"I thought the burger was the best I had ever tasted."

"You have to try their onion rings; they're a must-try."

"It's a simple, delicious, filling lunch spot."

Good to know

1

The prices at Burger Tex are affordable, with combos around $11.

2

The restaurant is clean and easy to navigate.

3

Burger Tex offers a fresh topping bar for customization.

25
Kelly Pupuseria image 1
Central American restaurant

New Central American restaurant offers flavorful pupusas and soft chicken tamales with spicy green salsa. Welcoming atmosphere suits family-friendly dining and quiet lunch breaks. Reasonable prices attract small groups and coworkers for a solid lunch spot.

Frequent visits highlight this spot as a solid choice for pupusas at lunch. Coworkers often gather here, making it a regular lunch routine.

People are saying

"The chicken tamales are large with soft masa."

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

"I loved the food at this lunch spot; it was delicious."

Good to know

1

You can order breakfast dishes all day.

2

The restaurant is family-friendly.

3

The cleanliness is well maintained.

26
Jimmy Changas {Pasadena} image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

Outdoor patio features a giant playground and shaded seating, perfect for families. Lunch service is quick and accommodating, ideal for special occasions. Complimentary soft serve ice cream adds a casual, welcoming touch to the relaxed vibe.

Lunch here moves quickly, letting you enjoy your meal without feeling rushed. Staff show accommodating service, especially for special occasions, and the food consistently delivers a fantastic experience.

People are saying

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

"It's so Kid Friendly with a great outdoor playground."

"This lunch spot has amazing food, especially the queso."

Good to know

1

Jimmy Changas offers a first responder discount.

2

Expect fast service during peak hours.

3

Free ice cream is available for guests.

27
Chili's Grill & Bar image 1

Bright lights and multiple TVs create a lively yet low-key spot for casual lunch meetings. $10 lunch combos offer solid value while cramped booths suit big groups well. Atmosphere fits both casual meetups and relaxed solo visits.

$10 lunch combos offer solid value. The atmosphere fits well for casual lunch meetings or dates.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing."

"Our Lunch Spot server was so cheerful and attentive."

"Our waitress Lauren was so cheerful and attentive."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a $10 lunch combo that is popular among customers.

2

Free chips and salsa are provided when signing up for the rewards program.

3

Parking is available directly in front of the restaurant.

28
BreWingZ Restaurant and Bar image 1
Chicken wings restaurant

Dark interior and elaborate decor create a chill, family-friendly vibe with games on TV. Ice cold beer and fresh wings make it a great lunch spot for a quick break or late meal. Welcoming and relaxed atmosphere suits casual dining and sports watching.

Lunch features a great special with options to enjoy alongside a few drinks. The spot suits a late lunch or a quick break during the day.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"She informed us about the next games and upcoming tournaments."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was amazing and super fast."

Good to know

1

They have a 2-for-2 promotion on Wednesdays.

2

Thursdays offer $.99 10oz domestic drafts and 20 for $10 boneless wings.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during La Copa games.

29
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant image 1

Cozy Italian spot buzzes with lively energy when full. Lunch features gnocchi soup thatโ€™s tasty but not hot. Seating adapts well, making it a welcoming lunch spot despite noise during busy times.

Lunch specials include gnocchi soup that tastes good but is served not hot. The spot feels welcoming just before the lunch rush.

People are saying

"The food here is always hot and fresh."

"The dinner spots here have attentive servers who make you feel special."

"The service at this lunch spot is quick and friendly."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times on Sundays after church services.

2

Prices for two entrees and an appetizer can reach around $63.

3

The restaurant offers a kids menu for family dining.

30
Mambo Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant shines with a spacious interior and a lively, family-friendly vibe. Lunch specials are consistently good, making it a reliable spot. Enjoy the nice bar area and multiple TVs showing sports for a fun meal.

Lunch offers great specials with consistently good quality. Frequent visits show it works well as a reliable lunch spot.

People are saying

"The seafood here is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The bar seating service is amazing and the bartenders are polite."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is excellent; everyone is so friendly."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is very clean and well-kept.

2

Prices at Mambo Seafood are reasonable.

3

The space is suitable for children.

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