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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Food in South End

You are hungry and you need a place that serves a solid meal without any unnecessary fuss.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Thyme Well Spent Cafe image 1
Thyme Well Spent Cafe image 2
Thyme Well Spent Cafe image 3
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Small, quaint space with Roman cafe decor creates a cozy vibe like a grandmother's kitchen. Food delivers amazing flavor with consistent quality and friendly service. Woman-owned gem offers a warm atmosphere perfect for relaxing and enjoying comforting dishes.

Food offers amazing flavor in every bite with consistently excellent quality and no issues like hair found. Service complements the delicious dishes well, creating a satisfying dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I found the gumbo to be amazing and full of flavor."

"It's so cozy and stylish without trying too hard."

Good to know

1

Great parking is available nearby for easy access.

2

Arrive early around 3 pm to avoid missing popular items like deviled eggs.

3

The menu caters to various dietary needs, ensuring options for everyone.

02
Buddy's Chicken & Waffles image 1

Large spot with a hip hop vibe and loud Soul R&B music sets an energetic mood. Southern inspired dishes deliver amazing flavors, especially the chicken and waffles. Giant Connect Four keeps kids busy while lemon drop martinis add a notable twist.

Southern inspired food stands out with truly delicious and amazing flavors. The dishes consistently impress with rich taste and quality.

People are saying

"I had the best waffles I’ve ever had here."

"The chicken tenders are huge, crispy, and perfectly seasoned."

"The food here is fresh and tastes great."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 8 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

They do not take cash; only card payments are accepted.

3

Parking is available on-site, making it convenient for visitors.

03
Locus cafe image 1

Bright, modern cafe offers amazing flavors and beautiful presentation at reasonable prices. Cozy ambiance with comfortable seating and board games creates a welcoming community space perfect for relaxing or socializing.

Food features amazing flavors and beautiful presentation. Dishes come at reasonable prices and deliver consistently delicious taste.

People are saying

"The banana pudding matcha at this cafe is amazing."

"The atmosphere here is so warm and cozy."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

They are open until 10pm, offering late-night waffles, crepes, and pancakes.

2

The parking is horrible, with very limited spaces right off Pacific Ave.

3

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

04
Cafe La Vie image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small, cozy spot feels like visiting family with a lively, friendly vibe. Known for authentic Bánh mì and flavorful broth, it serves home-style Vietnamese dishes that are consistently delicious and comforting.

Food offers authentic Vietnamese flavors with a mix of home style and street style dishes. Meals are consistently delicious and comforting.

People are saying

"I found the grilled pork banh mi to be excellent."

"The coffee here is amazingly delicious and flavorful."

"The Vietnamese food here is delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Cafe La Vie offers a large selection on the menu, featuring both home style and street style Vietnamese cuisine.

2

Street parking is usually easy to find around Cafe La Vie.

3

The prices at Cafe La Vie are very affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

05
La Cà 38th image 1
Restaurant

Cozy spot with a heated outdoor patio and smooth jazz sets a relaxing mood. Fresh, flavorful Vietnamese dishes shine with herbs and chicken that heal the soul. Tight indoor space buzzes with casual diners enjoying local beers on tap and sports on multiple TVs.

Food here is fresh, flavorful, and made with care, especially noticeable in the herbs and chicken. Vietnamese dishes offer a soul healing quality with great taste and consistent quality.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food service was so kind and thoughtful."

"The Beef Pho here has a great depth of broth."

"The food here is excellent, and the server made great recommendations."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has its own parking lot for easy access.

2

Expect limited seating, especially during peak hours.

3

They offer booster seats and high chairs for families.

06
Thọ Tường BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small space feels like a Vietnamese neighborhood home with a loud and crowded atmosphere full of families and friends. Food is fresh and delicious with a simple menu offering quality dishes at reasonable prices. Bar seating adds space but dining area stays tight and bustling.

Food here is consistently fresh and delicious with a simple menu offering quality dishes at reasonable prices. Every meal delivers a satisfying and flavorful experience.

People are saying

"The roasted pork and duck here are amazing, with perfectly crispy skin."

"The roasted pork noodle soup broth was rich and flavorful."

"The roast pork food here has the best crispy skin."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 3pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

The space for dine-in is quite limited, so arrive early.

3

Expect long wait times during busy hours, especially on weekends.

07
Mama's Teriyaki image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese spot serves generous portions of flavorful teriyaki and Mongolian beef. Casual vibe with quick pickup and clean space. Staff knows orders well, keeping food fresh and tasty every time.

Food stays consistently delicious and fresh with good portions. Staff remembers orders and adjusts food to preferences.

People are saying

"The teriyaki here is so good, it's worth the trip."

"I thought the gyoza here were great."

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

The food is usually ready to be picked up within 10-20 minutes.

2

Expect a wait time of about 10 minutes during busy hours.

3

Prices are reasonable, with large portions for the cost.

08
Lunar's Pho image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Cozy spot with a calm atmosphere and bright interior invites families and couples alike. Authentic Vietnamese dishes blend with an Americanized touch for fresh, savory flavors. Organized space adds to the romantic vibe while staying welcoming.

Food features authentic Vietnamese flavors with an Americanized touch that suits newcomers to Asian cuisine. Dishes are consistently savory and fresh, delivering a delicious experience.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here has the best broth I've ever tasted."

"These Egg Rolls are so flavorful and delicious."

"The food here is savory and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be slim, but there is additional space available out back.

2

Happy hour with cocktails may affect parking availability.

3

Prices are fairly reasonable for the quality of food offered.

09
️Let it snow ️ image 1
Dessert shop

Enjoy Hawaiian shaved ice and fresh fruit flavors in a cozy, welcoming space. Desserts delight both kids and adults with amazing flavors. Friendly atmosphere suits families and offers accessibility features for all.

Food here delivers amazing flavors and delicious desserts that stand out. The menu can be confusing, but the sweet treats are favorites for kids and adults alike.

People are saying

"You have to try their snow desserts; they melt in your mouth."

"The Thai Tea shaved ice has an amazing, playful texture."

"I thought the food here was super great."

Good to know

1

Prices for Hawaiian shaved ice range from $6.50 to $9.00 based on choices.

2

Sides cost between $0.75 and $1.25, with ice cream scoops at $2.50.

3

The shop is family-friendly with large portions suitable for sharing.

10
Burritos California image 1

Bright, cheery dining room with bold colours creates a happy vibe. Food is always hot and fresh with generous portions. Open 24 hours, it offers a clean, inviting space and lively moments like cooks singing.

Food arrives hot and fresh every time with well-portioned servings. Quality and care show in every dish, offering a wide variety at good prices.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really good and bursting with flavor."

"You won't believe how huge these burritos are!"

"It's a great late night spot, open 24 hours."

Good to know

1

Burritos California is open 24 hours, making it convenient for late-night cravings.

2

The portion sizes are large, often enough for two meals.

3

Home delivery is available through Uber Eats for added convenience.

11
Vien Dong Restaurant image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Cozy cafe offers authentic pho and great Thai dishes in a family-oriented vibe. Tables are packed tight, making the space feel hurried and cramped. Prices stay affordable, keeping the food both tasty and budget-friendly.

Authentic Vietnamese food stands out with consistently delicious flavors. The menu also features great Thai dishes alongside the Vietnamese offerings.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, fresh, and absolutely delicious."

"I had the best pho, its broth was rich and flavorful."

"I thought the egg rolls here were the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Prices at Vien Dong Restaurant are very fair and competitive.

2

Portions served are generous, providing good value for the money.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly, making it suitable for all ages.

12
Little Jerry's image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Seinfeld-themed diner offers a cozy, quirky atmosphere with walls full of memorabilia. Breakfast dishes shine with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Compact seating creates a communal vibe while Seinfeld plays nonstop, adding fun energy.

Food offers fresh ingredients and bold flavors not common in the area. Breakfast dishes stand out as delicious and well-prepared with consistent quality.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great and made with love."

"This diner is decorated with tons of Seinfeld memorabilia."

"I thought the breakfast here was the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a wait during peak brunch hours, especially on Sundays.

3

Parking is available but can be tricky during busy hours.

13
Taqueria and Asadero Al Carbon image 1

Charcoal-grilled meat shines with authentic Mexican flavors and spicy queso dip. Clean, inviting space offers indoor and outdoor seating with a full bar. Spanish-only menus and limited English create a truly authentic dining experience.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with a nice char and arrives hot and fresh. The menu offers a wholesome, easygoing dining experience with consistently delicious dishes.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The carne asada tacos here are super flavorful and yummy."

"It's like living your dream here, truly authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking might be hard.

2

The menu is exclusively in Spanish; a picture menu is available.

3

They have a liquor license and a full bar.

14
Taqueria El Grande image 1
Mexican restaurant

Converted gas station offers a calm spot with authentic Mexican flavors and a salsa bar. Known for best breakfast burritos and birria tacos, food arrives hot and ready fast. Quiet inside, it contrasts with lively nearby streets.

Food comes out hot and delicious with authentic Mexican flavors. Orders to go are ready quickly and maintain their great taste.

People are saying

"These tacos are juicy, flavorful, and some of the best I've ever had."

"I thought their breakfast burrito was outstanding."

"The food here is hot and delicious."

Good to know

1

There is a small extra fee for using a card.

2

To-go orders rarely take longer than 10 minutes.

3

The restaurant is open late for late-night diners.

15
Taquería la Michoacana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy spot with fresh tortillas and authentic Mexican food. Expect fast service and reasonable prices. Busy vibe adds to the cheerful atmosphere.

Mexican food here is authentic and delicious, with standout items like tacos and asada fries. Prices stay reasonable, and the food arrives fast whether dining in or taking out.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is outstanding."

"I found the breakfast burritos here to be one of the better ones I've ever had."

"I thought the food here was really good."

Good to know

1

Calling ahead ensures your order will be ready in about 20 minutes.

2

Parking is limited, so plan to arrive early.

3

Most people prefer takeout from this location.

16
Gari of Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Family-run sushi bar offers excellent sushi quality and a cozy vibe with an old-school, authentic atmosphere. Menu features delicious Japanese comfort food that consistently impresses. Interior feels inviting despite a slightly cool temperature.

Delicious and tasty dishes define the menu here, with sushi and Japanese comfort food standing out. The food consistently delivers excellent flavors that never disappoint.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing and authentic."

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

"The fish here is so fresh and high quality."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant can get busy, especially on weekends, so plan accordingly.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller purchases.

17
Cambodian and Chinese Fast Food image 1

Asian fast food spot buzzes with loud islander families and offers authentic Cambodian and Chinese dishes with fresh ingredients. Generous portions come at great value, served in a clean, comfortable space with views of Bangor Watt adding charm.

Food features authentic Cambodian and Chinese dishes with tons of fresh ingredients. Portions come generous and priced well for the quality served.

People are saying

"I got tons of delicious food for a great price."

"I really liked the teriyaki chicken and jalapeño chicken."

"I tried authentic Cambodian food here and it tasted great."

Good to know

1

Prices for dishes range from $7.99 to $13.99.

2

The restaurant offers large portion sizes for a good price.

3

The establishment maintains a clean environment, including bathrooms.

18
Harbor City Tacoma Restaurant image 1

Chalupa's authentic Chinese food shines with fresh, flavorful dim sum. Bright pink walls and worn interiors create a lively atmosphere. High-tech QR code ordering adds a modern touch to this hole-in-the-wall gem loved for large portions.

Authentic Chinese food offers fresh, flavorful dishes with satisfying dim sum. The food stands out for its great taste and consistently delicious quality.

People are saying

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

"The dim sum here, especially the shrimp dumplings, is so good."

"The Lunch Spot portions are huge; I couldn't finish it all."

Good to know

1

The restaurant uses a QR code system for ordering from the table.

2

Parking can be difficult due to a small lot; street parking is available.

3

Prices are reasonable, with dim sum options available all day.

19
Dragon's Crawfish image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood boils shine with house garlic butter and a Ghost pepper hot spice level. Freshness and seasoning make dishes consistently tasty. Family friendly vibe adds to the quaint atmosphere and simple service.

Food comes out fresh and hot with delicious sauce. The dishes are consistently tasty and on point.

People are saying

"I thought their seafood boil had the best flavor and seasoning."

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

"You have to get the bread for dipping in the rich, spicy garlic sauce."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street and nearby stores.

2

They charge a 3% surcharge for using a credit card.

3

The restaurant offers five levels of spiciness for dishes.

20
Tacoma Urban Farm image 1

Farm runs a food rescue to cut waste and methane. Volunteers offer free local harvests on a first-come basis. Strong focus on community support and sustainability shapes the welcoming atmosphere.

Food comes from a small farm focused on food rescue to prevent waste. It is offered free on a first come, first serve basis to support the local community.

People are saying

"I love how this Local Spot provides free produce to the community."

"I found the free food here to be very helpful for the community."

Good to know

1

The farm operates as a food rescue to prevent food and produce from being wasted.

2

Food is available on a first-come, first-serve basis and is posted when available.

3

No registration is required to receive food from the farm.

21
Slice of Life image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza spot shines with perfectly cooked pizza and amazing sandwiches. Walls burst with iconic and celestial art, setting a chill, hippie vibe. Live music adds energy, drawing a community-focused crowd that loves great food and tunes.

Food features amazing sandwiches and perfectly cooked pizza with consistently excellent quality. The owner shows strong passion for the dishes served.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza was super fresh, hot, and tasty."

"These sandwiches are humongous and piled high with meat."

"The food here is amazing, especially the pizza and sandwiches."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 8pm daily, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

They offer custom pizzas made fresh daily upon request.

3

Expect live music events and karaoke on weekends.

22
Erica's World's Best Mexican Desserts image 1

Ice cream shop shines with Mexican desserts and a toppings bar that delight the taste buds. Friendly vibe and cartoons on TV create a homey feel. Plenty of seating and lively music make it a comfortable spot to enjoy treats.

Mexican desserts and snacks stand out with delicious flavors and consistent quality. Drinks and food items are also very good, making the overall selection tasty and satisfying.

People are saying

"They have so many kinds of ice cream, like fresh fruit flavors."

"I found the desserts here to be super delicious and refreshing."

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

Good to know

1

There is a wide variety of dessert options available.

2

The place is very clean with lots of seating.

3

Parking is ample and easily accessible.

23
La Perla Del Mar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with loud Mexican music creates a lively but noisy vibe. Fresh seafood shines with authentic Mexican cuisine served in large portions. Friendly atmosphere feels casual and dive-like, perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors over quiet ambiance.

Fresh seafood and authentic Mexican cuisine stand out with large portions that are consistently delicious and satisfying.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I found the seafood here to be amazing and authentic."

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the Spanish rice."

Good to know

1

The carne asada and shrimp plate costs $46.

2

Dining here is generally considered expensive.

3

This place is casual and not fancy.

24
Taqueria La Fondita image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican food truck serves authentic tacos with crispy carnitas and tacos de tripa. Small, hot seating area feels lively and informal. Prices stay affordable, making it a popular spot despite limited parking.

Food here is undeniably delicious and made with love and care, capturing the true essence of Mexican street food. Tacos and other dishes offer excellent quality at prices better than expected.

People are saying

"I considered these the best tacos I've had in Tacoma."

"The carnitas were excellent and had a perfect crisp."

"I found the tacos here to be amazing and cheap."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and can be dangerous near the taco truck.

2

You can call in orders for easy pickup or order at the window.

3

Expect to pay around $19 for five tacos after tax.

25
Vuelve a la Vida - Tacoma image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot offers authentic flavors with fresh, home-style dishes. Cozy vibe with cute murals and a quiet, relaxed atmosphere. Known for handmade corn tortillas and large portions that deliver great value.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with fresh, home-style Latin American fare. Dishes come perfectly cooked and flavorful.

People are saying

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

"The homemade corn tortillas here are delicious."

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

Good to know

1

On Thursdays, they serve original Chili Rellenos, a special menu item.

2

Customers pay at the register, not at the table.

3

The portions are generous, often enough for two meals.

26
Lucky Supermarket image 1
Asian grocery store

Asian grocery store shines with Matooke and other Ugandan foods alongside Thai and Vietnamese ingredients. Space feels just right for browsing a wide selection of groceries and frozen goods. Prices stay reasonable, with affordable produce standing out.

Offers a solid selection of Ugandan food, including Matooke. Also stocks a wide range of Asian ingredients from Thailand, Vietnam, and other countries.

People are saying

"I found the Ugandan food, especially Matooke, here."

"I found an impressive variety of groceries and frozen goods here."

Good to know

1

The supermarket offers a wide selection of Asian groceries, including Thai and Vietnamese foods.

2

Produce prices are generally lower compared to other local markets.

3

You can find unique Ugandan food products here that are hard to find elsewhere.

27
Billy B's Pub & Grub image 1

Neighborhood pub offers authentic atmosphere with aged wood and local memorabilia. Food serves well-cooked bar dishes at fair prices. Crowd shifts from chill to lively after 10pm, keeping a welcoming vibe with pool tables and jukebox music.

Food centers on good bar food with reasonable prices and well-cooked dishes. Options stay typical for a pub, and waiting times feel worth it.

People are saying

"The food here is good and cooked to perfection."

"The beer here feels like part of the community's lively spirit."

"This pub has an authentic, antique atmosphere with a lively community spirit."

Good to know

1

The Ribeye steak special is served on Mondays.

2

There is a huge parking lot available.

3

The card reader often has issues, so sometimes the ATM is empty.

28
Thai Hut 2 image 1
Thai restaurant

Spacious Thai spot offers generous portions and perfect spice in every dish. Family owners ensure fresh preparation and a family-friendly atmosphere. Cozy, clean space invites relaxed, casual dining with friendly service.

Food comes freshly prepared and served hot with big portions. The menu features excellent Thai dishes with consistently great taste and friendly service.

People are saying

"I thought the crab fried rice surprised me beyond expectations."

"The food here is freshly made and authentic."

"I found the food here to be pretty good and tasty."

Good to know

1

The total cost is about $70 for two appetizers, two entrees, two drinks, and tip.

2

There is a 20% gratuity charge added to the bill.

3

The portions are generous, providing plenty for sharing or eating alone.

29
El Rinconsito | Tacoma image 1
Mexican restaurant

Simple setup with fresh salsa bar creates a cozy vibe. Food is authentic Mexican, fresh and tasty, perfect for quick lunch or late night. Background Mexican music adds energy to the space, making it informal and lively.

Food here is fresh and authentic Mexican with consistently good taste. It suits both dining in and quick takeout, offering reasonably priced options that work well for a lunch break or late night meal.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has the best carne asada tacos."

"I loved the handmade tortillas and salsas."

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

Good to know

1

El Rinconsito is open late, making it a good option for late-night eats.

2

Expect to pay around $20 for a meal with extras like chips and guacamole.

3

The kid's meal costs $10 and may not be filling for some.

30
Jimmy John's image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop serves fresh bread and generous portions with fast, friendly service. Outdoor seating and a soda fountain add charm. Strong air conditioning keeps indoor seating cool, while drive-through stays popular due to closed lobby.

Food comes with fresh ingredients and generous portions. Staff serve it fast and friendly, keeping the quality consistently good.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

"I found the sandwiches to be good and tasty."

Good to know

1

The lobby is always closed; use the drive-through instead.

2

The shop is conveniently located just off I-5.

3

The store is kept very clean and tidy.

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South End, Tacoma

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