15 Best Lunch Spots in New York [for 2023]
Discover the Best Lunch Spots in New York, A Guide to Daytime Dining Delights! As late-night dining regains its charm and New Yorkers head back to work, lunch takes center stage in this triumphant comeback.
Whether you’re in a Midtown office or grabbing takeout in Ridgewood, these handpicked gems promise an extraordinary lunchtime experience.
From a swanky Midtown hideaway to a trendy Soho luncheonette, a sophisticated Downtown French spot, an authentic Hong Kong-style diner, a bigger location for a wildly popular pizzeria, and a serene Seaport oasis with stunning views – these spots cater to every craving. Savor the flavors and ambiance of these top lunch destinations!
1. The Migrant Kitchen
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Discover the Ultimate Fusion of Arab and Latin Flavors at Migrant Kitchen’s Uptown Haven – a Top Pick for the Best Lunch Spots in New York! Eater NY’s esteemed critic, Robert Sietsema, can’t get enough of Chefs Dan Dorado and Nasser Jaber’s masterpiece: the Lamb Torta.
This delectable Mexican-style sandwich showcases sumac-seasoned lamb roast, harmoniously paired with creamy Oaxacan cheese. But that’s not all – the menu boasts an array of tantalizing bowls, refreshing salads, and more, creating the perfect fast-casual daytime option.
Embark on a culinary journey where diverse culinary traditions blend flawlessly, satisfying your cravings for an unforgettable lunchtime experience.
2. Mischa
Indulge in Global Flavors at Chef Alex Stupak’s Exquisite Midtown Eatery! A must-visit among the best lunch spots in New York, Chef Stupak’s restaurant offers an American menu with captivating global influences. Prepare to be wowed by the much-discussed $29 hot dog, a true culinary sensation.
Delight your taste buds further with the unique Gai Lan Caesar salad, perfectly complemented by the tantalizing Roumanian steak. As a pastry chef extraordinaire, Chef Alex Stupak presents a stellar collection of desserts that will leave you craving more. Embrace this delectable fusion of tastes and textures, elevating your lunchtime experience to new heights in the heart of Midtown.
3. Le Rock
Le Rock, Your Ultimate Lunch Destination at Revamped Rockefeller Center! Witness the transformation of the tired Midtown development into a bustling citywide dining hotspot, where millions were invested to create a culinary haven. Riad Nasr and Lee Hanson, renowned for Tribeca’s iconic French bistro Frenchette, have brought their magic to the center.
Nestled in a high-ceilinged space, you’ll forget you’re just yards away from the ice skating rink. Indulge in a delightful a la carte lunch experience from Tuesday to Saturday, featuring prix fixe menus to tantalize your taste buds. The newly opened terrace boasts an enticing abbreviated menu, making Le Rock the perfect lunch spot, starting at noon on select days.
4. La Chilaqueria
Savor the Best Lunch Spots in New York with a Mexican Twist! Chilaquiles, a breakfast staple in Mexico, take center stage for lunch too, offering a delightful array of options.
Indulge in these flavorful delights stuffed into sandwiches, burritos (an off-menu special), or served on their own in eco-friendly, compostable bowls reminiscent of Sweetgreen’s vibe.
With around two dozen combinations to choose from, you’re in for a treat. Kickstart your culinary journey with the chorizo and chicharron prensado, perfect starting points.
Complete your lunch experience with cups of cafe de olla, a tantalizing coffee infused with cinnamon and piloncillo, alongside lattes sweetened with condensed milk. Dive into this fusion of flavors, making every lunch a memorable Mexican affair.
5. S&P
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Discover the Perfect Daytime Haven at S&P, the Flatiron Lunch Counter! Housed in the iconic former location of Eisenberg’s, S&P has quickly become the ultimate daytime destination.
Take a seat at the 40-foot counter and delve into a mouthwatering menu featuring creative sandwiches topped with chopped olives and cream cheese, tuna salad with cranberry sauce, and the delectable combo of peanut butter and bacon. As a part of Court Street Grocers, this spot promises exceptional flavors and quality.
Craving something more traditional? Fear not, as S&P also offers standard lunch fare like burgers and comforting matzoh ball soup. Embrace the inviting atmosphere and diverse offerings, making S&P a cherished spot for lunchtime delights.
6. Burmese Bites
Queens Night Market Favorite Burmese Bites Finds a New Home at Queens Center Mall! Embrace the Burmese culinary boom in the city as Burmese Bites opens its own standalone venue inside the mall’s vibrant food court. Owner Myo Lin Thway invites you to savor the authentic flavors of Burma with delightful offerings.
Indulge in the mouthwatering chicken curry served with flaky palata bread (a vegan version available too), relish the delectable shan kaukswe featuring rice noodles with chicken curry and pickled mustard greens, or dive into the delightful nan gyi thoke – a rice noodle salad. Additionally, discover daily-changing specials, all crafted for dine-in or takeout. Relish the true essence of Burmese cuisine at Burmese Bites, your ultimate culinary adventure awaits!
7. Les Trois Chevaux
Les Trois Chevaux: A Power Lunch Haven with Classic Elegance! Step into a world of sophistication and clout, where Les Trois Chevaux beckons with its timeless allure. The bustling bar sets the stage for martinis expertly shaken by the skilled bartender. Drawing inspiration from iconic establishments like Lutèce and La Côte Basque, this venue pays homage to an era of luxury and grandeur.
Indulge in a sumptuous menu featuring exquisite delights such as caviar service, white asparagus with creamy bechamel, and the decadent spring garlic and black truffle soup en croute.
For a truly indulgent experience, savor the steak haché adorned with a generous slab of luscious duck foie gras. Les Trois Chevaux embodies the essence of a power lunch, where timeless elegance and divine cuisine converge for an unforgettable dining experience.
8. Revelie Luncheonette
Revelie Luncheonette, A Hidden Gem Among the Best Lunch Spots in New York! Brought to you by the team behind the iconic Raoul’s, Revelie Luncheonette is a must-visit destination. Renowned for its beloved burgers, Raoul’s influence shines through with a more accessible burger version at Revelie, now available for all to savor.
Don’t miss the option to elevate your burger experience by adding the flavorful green chile. Embrace the true essence of a classic luncheonette as you wash it all down with a delightful pistachio float, the perfect accompaniment to your scrumptious meal. Discover this hidden gem and relish a lunchtime experience that embodies the spirit of New York’s finest dining offerings.
9. Scarr’s Pizza
Experience Pizza Perfection at Scarr’s Pizza, A New Location for Your Lunchtime Delight! Owned by the talented Scarr Pimentel, an esteemed Black pizza maker, Scarr’s has earned its place as the epitome of perfect slices.
This iconic eatery has garnered widespread recognition, recently making The New York Times’ prestigious list of the city’s top 100 restaurants.
Since its inception in 2016, Scarr’s has been celebrated for its authentic New York-style slices, complemented by the unique practice of milling its own grains. Despite its expanded space, the demand remains unwavering, with customers lining up around the block.
Optimize your experience with a delightful lunch visit, where you can relish the best slices without the dinner rush. Join the legions of pizza aficionados and savor the unparalleled flavors of Scarr’s Pizza, a true gem among the best lunch spots in New York.
10. Mabu Cafe NYC
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A Hong Kong-Style Cha Chaan Teng Haven Among the Best Lunch Spots in New York! Hailing from Toronto, Canada, Mabu Cafe marks its first United States location, bringing a taste of Chinese and Taiwanese delights to the city.
Paying homage to Hong Kong’s beloved cha chaan tengs, this cafe offers a massive menu featuring over 80 delectable items (excluding drinks).
While other Hong Kong-style cafes may offer lava toast and baked spaghetti, none match the wide selection and creative twists found at Mabu Cafe. Prepare for a culinary adventure, exploring the rich flavors and diverse offerings that make this spot a standout among New York’s finest lunch destinations.
11. Tin Building by Jean-Georges
Indulge in Culinary Delights at Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Food Hall: A Breakfast and Lunch Haven! Nestled within the former Fulton Fish Market, this food hall offers an array of delectable options to savor on the go or while seated with mesmerizing waterfront views.
Experience a gastronomic journey with choices like Shikku’s exquisite sushi, Double Yolk’s tempting BEC (Bacon, Egg, and Cheese) for a late-morning treat, or delightful crepes and dosas from the aptly named stand, Taquito taqueria, Fulton Fish Co., and T Brasserie.
Relish the diverse flavors and culinary delights from renowned chefs, making your breakfast and lunch experiences truly unforgettable. Treat yourself to a delightful meal while basking in the captivating ambiance of this waterfront haven.
12. Super Burrito
A Taste of San Francisco and Mexico at Super Burrito! Just down the street from Mission Sandwich Social, this new location of Super Burrito brings the flavors of the Bay Area to Williamsburg.
Having gained a devoted following in Rockaway Beach, this eatery delights with its authentic Mission-style burritos, stuffed with mouthwatering options like al pastor, carne asada, and grilled shrimp.
Customize your burrito by making it “super” with creamy avocado and sour cream for a nominal fee, or indulge in a side cup of queso for delectable dunking.
Super Burrito offers an irresistible fusion of San Francisco and Mexican cuisines, making it a must-visit among New York’s finest lunch spots. Savor the flavors and immerse yourself in this culinary delight that captures the essence of both regions in every bite.
13. Mama Yoshi Mini Mart
Mama Yoshi Mini Mart, Your Katsu Haven! Nestled in Ridgewood, this delightful counter service spot caters to all your katsu cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for cauliflower or chicken, with a dash of spice or regular, served in squishy potato buns or in a satisfying rice bowl, Mama Yoshi has you covered.
Venture into the world of fast-casual dining with a few indoor seats, perfect for a quick bite. Apart from their mouthwatering katsu offerings, indulge in pick-up snacks like onigiri or karaage presented in Greek coffee cups. This versatile spot doubles as a provisions shop, offering drinks, pantry staples, and more to complete your lunchtime experience.
Discover the perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and charm at Mama Yoshi Mini Mart, your go-to destination for the best katsu options in New York. Immerse yourself in a culinary adventure, where every bite promises to delight your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
14. Bobbi’s Italian Beef
A True Windy City Delight! Joining the ranks of Brooklyn’s latest trend in Chicago-focused eateries, this sandwich shop stands out as a must-visit spot. Following in the footsteps of other beloved Chicago-inspired spots like Emmett’s on Grove, Dog Day Afternoon, and H&H Reserve, this eatery pays homage to the Windy City’s culinary delights.
Indulge in the authentic Chicago dogs, loaded with neon green relish, sport peppers, a pickle spear, and all the classic fixings, staying true to the original form. Another standout is the Italian beef sandwich, a beloved Chicago staple, where the meat is soaked in flavorful juices before serving.
Sandwiches are available in half or whole portions, making it easy to savor a quick bite or indulge in a full meal. Immerse yourself in the true essence of Chicago’s iconic flavors, right in the heart of Cobble Hill. Join the culinary adventure and experience the tastes of the Windy City in every delicious bite.
15. Baby’s Buns & Buckets
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Make the Most of Your Lunch Break, Discover Baby’s Buns & Buckets at Dekalb Market! After a quick stop at Trader Joe’s, head to this vibrant stall resembling a diner straight out of Saved by the Bell. Baby’s Buns & Buckets offers a delightful fusion of Thai American fast food, presenting an array of mouthwatering sandwiches and generously sized rice buckets that promise leftovers for dinner.
Indulge in a diverse selection of fillings, including delectable fried mushrooms, honey pork, crispy fried chicken, or succulent fried shrimp. With flavors that pack a punch, these satisfying sandwiches and hearty rice buckets will leave you craving for more.
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Dekalb Market and treat yourself to a unique lunchtime experience at Baby’s Buns & Buckets. Savor the perfect blend of Thai and American flavors, making every bite a delightful adventure for your taste buds.