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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Tacoma

Lunch spots

A midday meal is the only thing that keeps the momentum going.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Chili Thai Downtown Tacoma image 1
Chili Thai Downtown Tacoma image 2
Chili Thai Downtown Tacoma image 3
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Cozy interior with smooth jazz and real flowers sets a warm mood. Lunch is delicious and affordable, perfect for a downtown sit-in. Small touches like origami floral arrangements add unique charm to the classy space.

Lunch offers delicious food at super reasonable prices. Options are for sit-in only, making it a great little spot downtown.

People are saying

"I found the Pad Thai here to be super."

"This Lunch Spot's food is hot, fresh, and tasty."

"They had so many good vegetarian options."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a lunch menu that is $4-5 less than the regular menu.

2

Parking can be challenging during busy nights but is easier on Mondays.

3

They offer happy hour food and drink specials.

02
Mega * Deli & Cafe image 1

Cozy cafe offers well-stacked sandwiches with fresh ingredients daily. Comfortable seating creates a clean, inviting atmosphere perfect for lunch. Regulars enjoy a reliable spot for midday meals and coffee at fair prices.

Offers a reliable spot for lunch and coffee with consistently satisfying food. Serves as a familiar place for regular midday meals over time.

People are saying

"I loved the coffee here; it tasted so fresh."

"I found the cafe to be absolutely amazing and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot always uses fresh ingredients for stellar sandwiches."

Good to know

1

The deli is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

2

Most menu items are under $15, offering good value.

3

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

03
Sundance Cafe image 1

Deli shines with a nostalgic atmosphere and fresh sourdough sandwiches that make lunch feel special. Friendly vibe and reasonable prices draw locals for a cozy break. Updated menu items like Caprese Melt add a tasty twist to classic lunch options.

Offers great prices for lunch with options that make the meal feel worth the extra money. Serves as a solid spot for a lunch break with satisfying food.

People are saying

"The lunch here is affordable and consistently good."

"The coffee here is outstanding, smooth, and rich."

"The staff here are the kindest people I've ever met."

Good to know

1

There is no restroom available for customers.

2

Wifi is not available at this location.

3

Prices for sandwiches are reasonable, but some items may be considered expensive.

04
Third Space Cafe image 1

Small cafe blends comfy work vibe with a yummy lunch menu in a warm, creative space. Wi-Fi and outlets support productivity amid a community-centered atmosphere. Spot can get loud but stays clean and inviting for midday meals and work sessions.

Lunch offers a yummy menu with satisfying options. The spot serves a pleasant midday meal atmosphere.

People are saying

"These biscuits are flaky, buttery, and made with care."

"The salted maple latte was divine, and the orange-flavored latte was a hit."

"This lunch spot has delicious, flavorful, and tasty food."

Good to know

1

The cafe is not open on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially on weekday mornings.

3

They do not charge extra for alternative milks, which is great for lactose intolerant customers.

05
Berliner Beerhall image 1
German restaurant

Large space with communal tables and an industrial loft style offers a lively yet cozy vibe. Early Saturday lunches bring prompt service and a smooth experience. Enjoy German beers on tap and fireplace seating for a unique touch.

Early Saturday lunches offer a welcoming atmosphere with prompt service. The experience feels smooth and enjoyable for a midday meal.

People are saying

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

"I loved the awesome beer selection here."

"The food and beer at this Lunch Spot are excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with half-liter pilsners for $6.50.

2

Trivia night occurs every Wednesday evening, starting at 8 PM.

3

Parking is limited, so consider using public transit.

06
Simply Panini image 1

Cafe serves affordable sandwiches and quick breakfast with consistent quality. Popular for Cali chicken press and jalapeรฑo grilled cheese. Perfect for a fast lunch near college with coffee and tea options.

Offers quick lunch options like the Cali chicken press sandwich and jalapeรฑo grilled cheese. Serves coffee and tea alongside simple, satisfying meals for a fast lunch.

People are saying

"I thought the breakfast sandwiches here were amazing and a great value."

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

"This lunch spot's sandwiches are delicious and cheesy."

Good to know

1

The Cali chicken press sandwich costs around $12 to $14, making it affordable.

2

Simply Panini offers a variety of coffee, tea, brunch, and lunch options.

3

The checkout process provides a cost breakdown before payment, ensuring clarity.

07
Indita Mia image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy marina views while dining indoors or in the dog-friendly outdoor seating with heaters. Lunch features tacos de barbacoa and a wagyu beef sandwich, served with attentive care. Vibrant, lively music adds to the family-friendly atmosphere.

Tacos de barbacoa and a wagyu beef lunch sandwich stand out as flavorful lunch options. A single tamale offers a light meal that doesn't cause sleepiness. Service stays attentive even during busy lunch hours.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the birria tacos."

"I loved their great cocktails."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was outstanding and attentive."

Good to know

1

Indita Mia offers unique Mexican fare, including ceviche, guacamole, and margaritas.

2

Happy hour features great prices on drinks and appetizers.

3

Parking at the new Indita Mia location can be difficult.

08
The Valley image 1

Dive bar buzzes with live metal shows and a covered patio for beer lovers. Lunch specials shine alongside amazing vegan food and classic dishes like club sandwich. Perfect for quick lunch or lively after-work drinks in a loud, crowded atmosphere.

Lunch offers a pleasant surprise with frequent lunch specials. The spot suits regular visits, serving well for both lunch and after-work drinks.

People are saying

"The food at this dive bar is top-notch and perfectly cooked."

"I found the clam chowder here to be the best I've ever had."

"The food here is phenomenal and really good."

Good to know

1

Open mic nights happen every Wednesday at 8pm with no cover charge.

2

Karaoke takes place every Thursday starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

3

Fish and chip Fridays offer a special dish that is highly recommended.

09
Fish House Cafe image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood spot shines with affordable prices perfect for lunch and a sidewalk chessboard that sparks community fun. Loud music and vibrant outdoor vendors create an energetic atmosphere. Walls filled with community artwork add a soulful, home-like feel.

Affordable prices make it a solid choice for lunch. The spot offers a reliable, consistent menu that suits regular visits over weeks. Affordable prices and consistent menu stand out for midday meals.

People are saying

"The food, especially the po'boy, is loaded with shrimp."

"The fish here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The fish and shrimp at this lunch spot are well-seasoned."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 4:30 PM and is closed on Sundays.

2

There is no indoor seating at Fish House Cafe.

3

Cash is preferred; credit cards may not be accepted.

10
Thai Pepper image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, cozy space with authentic Thai atmosphere fits both quiet dates and lively crowds. Lunch specials like Bangkok Fried Chicken offer great value. Friendly staff enhance the welcoming vibe, making it a solid choice for midday meals.

Lunch specials offer excellent value with dishes like the Bangkok Fried Chicken Lunch Special standing out. This spot serves consistently good deals that make it a reliable choice for midday meals.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The vegetarian options here are plentiful and incredibly flavorful."

"This is my new favorite lunch spot in Tacoma."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a bit of a struggle, so arrive early.

2

The prices at Thai Pepper are very affordable.

3

The portions are huge and often provide leftovers for two meals.

11
The Palace Kebab image 1
Persian restaurant

Indoor food court buzzes with quirky PNW vibes and fresh flowers on tables. Strong kebab aroma fills the air, offering great portions perfect for sharing. Warm, inviting atmosphere suits quick, tasty lunches on busy weekdays.

Strong kebab aroma draws attention right away. Portions come in great sizes, with plates easy to share. The kebab wrap offers a quick, tasty lunch option on busy weekdays.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and super authentic."

"You should come hungry; the Mediterranean food portions are huge!"

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers vegetarian options and meats that are halal.

2

The restaurant is located inside the Freight House Station.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere due to its popularity.

12
Luv-a-Latte Espresso image 1

Bright pink decor and heritage artwork create a cozy, welcoming vibe with strong feminine energy. Friendly staff and sweet music make it a local hub for work or relaxation. Offers a nice lunch, perfect for a pick-me-up or casual first date.

Offers a nice lunch with a cozy vibe. Works well for a pick-me-up or a casual first date.

People are saying

"This cafe is super cute and refreshingly pink."

"The coffee and sandwiches here are delicious and affordable."

"This has become my new go-to lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Drea hosts events at the cafe, including The Manifest That Shit class.

2

They offer new drink specials weekly and monthly.

3

Expect to wait if there is a line, as the shop is small.

13
Ebony and Ivory Coffee image 1

Spacious coffee shop with high ceilings and an old bank vault creates an upscale vibe. Perfect for business meetings with coffee and wine served at lunch. Quiet, inviting atmosphere offers comfy seating and free WiFi for work or relaxation.

Elegant space serves coffee and wine for lunch. Suitable for business meetings during morning, lunch, and happy hour.

People are saying

"This coffee spot is a great space to study and work."

"This cafe is so classy and beautiful, I loved the ambience."

"It's a great downtown space for a meeting during lunch."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available nearby and easy to find.

2

Expect a pre-made breakfast sandwich to cost around $8.50.

3

The bathrooms are clean and require a passcode for access.

14
Happy Teriyaki #4 image 1
Sushi restaurant

Cozy sushi spot shines with generous lunch specials and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for couples or small groups. Food tastes great and offers solid value during lunch breaks. Plenty of parking adds to the convenience.

Lunch specials and bento boxes come at a good price with generous portions. Food tastes very good and offers solid value during lunch breaks.

People are saying

"I thought the Japanese food here was delicious and plentiful."

"The lunch specials here are a great price and proportioned well."

"I thought this was the best sushi restaurant ever."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available behind the building.

2

The dinner bento offers a great deal for the price.

3

Portion sizes are large, often enough to share between two people.

15
Rock The Dock Pub & Grill image 1

Outdoor seating by the river offers a dog-friendly patio and live music for a lively vibe. Lunch feels relaxed with waterfront views and boat docking. Inside, the bar fills fast during games, buzzing with energy and views of Mount Rainier.

Waterfront seating offers a relaxed vibe for lunch. Many bring dogs or dock boats nearby to enjoy the outdoor atmosphere and quiet pace on weekdays.

People are saying

"The views from the deck were amazing."

"The outdoor seating is so dog-friendly, they even have a dog menu."

"The crab dip at this Lunch Spot is amazing and has real crab."

Good to know

1

Open mic night happens every Thursday, starting at 7pm.

2

Meat Bingo is a fun weekly event, typically held on Wednesdays.

3

Parking is only allowed in yellow-lined spaces; otherwise, you may get a ticket.

16
Zen Ramen & Sushi Burrito - Downtown Tacoma image 1

Private booths with Naruto art create a cozy, intimate vibe perfect for lunch with friends. Lack of wifi means no working here. K-pop soundtrack adds energy to the fun, whimsical Korean art setting.

Cozy atmosphere suits lunch with friends well. Lack of wifi limits working during lunch.

People are saying

"I loved the sushi burritos; they were big and tasty."

"It's a cozy spot with a welcoming ambiance."

"This lunch spot has creative flavor combinations and delicious food."

Good to know

1

Parking is scarce near the downtown location; consider public transport.

2

The downtown Tacoma location has limited seating, especially during lunch.

3

Takeout is popular due to limited seating options.

17
Doyle's Public House image 1

Old building with weathered wood decor sets a true pub vibe. Big screens show Premier League matches, creating a lively, loud energy. Dog-friendly space with an outdoor area suits group lunches and staff meetings well.

Authentic Irish pub offers a solid spot for lunch with a lively atmosphere. It suits group lunches and staff meetings well, with screens showing soccer matches to keep things engaging.

People are saying

"It's a great spot to watch soccer games with other fans."

"This Local Spot has a warm, friendly pub atmosphere like a grandfather's library."

"The food at this lunch spot is amazing and flavourful."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Thursday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Dinner could be crowded during trivia and soccer evenings, so plan ahead.

3

Food is served until about 12:45 AM, sometimes until 1 AM.

18
The Forum image 1
Bar & grill

Bar and grill boasts a historic decor and a beautiful bar with lively vibes that shift from calm to loud. Outdoor patio is dog-friendly and perfect for downtown views. Lunch features takeout burgers and happy hour options, while cocktails shine with unique infusions and craft beers.

Offers a solid spot for lunch or happy hour with options like takeout burgers. Welcoming for quick stops or casual meals with others.

People are saying

"The food here is tasty and came out hot."

"The pulled pork sandwich and French onion bisque were incredible dinner spots."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is really good."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult, especially on busy nights like game nights.

2

Expect to pay around $89 for two drinks and a quesadilla.

3

The venue hosts game nights and music bingo events regularly.

19
Mexico Magico Restaurant & Cantina image 1

Mexican restaurant offers authentic Mexican feel with a dark, quiet atmosphere and comfortable booths. Lunch service is smooth, handled by a single woman even on slow weekdays. Enjoy well-made margaritas and flavorful dishes in a chill vibe perfect for conversation.

A single woman handles the late lunch crowd and bar by herself with ease. Lunch service stays consistent even when the restaurant is pretty empty on weekdays.

People are saying

"You have to try the street tacos; they're amazing."

"The salsa verde and roja were both great tasting."

"The staff here is super friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations for large parties are difficult to secure last minute.

2

The restaurant charges for chips and salsa after the first refill.

3

Seniors receive a 30% discount from 3 pm to closing.

20
Go Philly Cheesesteaks & Wings image 1
Cheesesteak restaurant

Outdoor-only eatery shines with authentic Philly cheesesteaks and standout hush puppies. Lunch specials offer great value and quick service despite some wait times. Casual vibe with umbrella'd tables makes it a welcoming spot for midday meals.

Lunch offers a great value with just enough food in the lunch special. Wait times during lunch are worth it for classic American comfort food served quickly.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the crispy, well-seasoned wings."

"The Philly Cheesesteak was flavorful, juicy, and had good quality meat."

"The Philly cheesesteaks at this Lunch Spot are so flavorful and juicy."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to find a spot.

2

The eatery is outdoor-only with no indoor seating available.

3

Expect longer wait times around noon; consider ordering ahead.

21
McMenamins Elks Temple image 1

Eclectic decor and psychedelic atmosphere create a lively vibe with five bars, including a secret speakeasy. Outdoor patio near Spanish Steps offers a relaxed lunch spot with tapas and live music. Rooms blend unique design with comfort and spotless cleanliness.

Outdoor patio at the Spanish Steps offers a relaxed spot for lunch. The pub serves lunch alongside tapas and dinner, with live music events in the nearby Spanish Ballroom.

People are saying

"The staff at the bar were so caring and helpful."

"It's cool how many unique bars and secret rooms there are to explore."

"This Lunch Spot is amazing with lots of interesting things to look at."

Good to know

1

The Spanish Ballroom hosts live music events and tapas dining.

2

Concerts at Elks Temple often sell out, so arrive early.

3

Reservations are recommended for dining, especially during events.

22
Pho Thanks Brother image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese spot near the art museum offers flavorful pho and fresh spring rolls perfect for lunch. Clean, simple decor with bare walls creates a quiet, pleasant vibe. Arrive early to enjoy generous portions without crowds.

Close to the art museum, it serves pho and spring rolls that fit well for lunch. Arriving before the lunch rush helps avoid crowds.

People are saying

"I found the pho to be clean, fast, and delicious."

"This lunch spot has delicious pho and fresh spring rolls."

"I found the grilled pork Banh Mi to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect to wait during peak hours.

2

The restaurant uses Square for payments, but does not provide paper receipts.

3

Portion sizes are generous, making it a good value for the price.

23
Alfred's Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Space blends 50's diner charm with a lively sports bar vibe. It serves breakfast for lunch with a mouthwatering menu. Atmosphere shifts from cozy to loud, welcoming a family-friendly crowd for socializing.

Menu includes breakfast for lunch options alongside lunch and dinner. Offers a mouthwatering selection that suits a midday meal.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and has a home cooking style."

"I loved my breakfast; the portions were so generous!"

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

Good to know

1

Parking at Alfred's Cafe is often unpredictable and can be a gamble.

2

Expect to wait during busy hours, especially on weekends.

3

Breakfast prices are reasonable, with tacos costing $10.95.

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