Top 12 Best Places to Eat for Lunch in 2025

Lola Lin

Lola Lin

April 12, 2025

5 min read

Finding the best places to eat for lunch can make your midday break exciting. No matter if you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. From local hole-in-the-wall spots to famous eateries, we’ve rounded up the top 12 best places to eat for lunch. Dig in to discover hidden gems, budget-friendly picks, and must-try dishes.

Cozy lunch spot with outdoor seating

1. Nepenthe – Big Sur, California

Nepenthe is a must-visit for its stunning ocean views and relaxed vibe. The Ambrosia Burger is a local favorite, perfect after a morning hike.

  • Key highlights:
    1. Breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
    2. Fire pits and rustic wooden decor.
    3. No cell reception—great for unplugging.

For more details, check out this local’s guide to Big Sur.

Cheese and wine picnic setup

2. The Cheese Shop – Carmel, California

Grab a baguette, wine, and cheese for a picnic at Carmel Beach. The Brie is a crowd-pleaser.

  • Why it’s great:
    1. Perfect for a sunset picnic.
    2. High-quality cheeses and wines.
    3. Kid-friendly and relaxed.

Learn more about Carmel’s best lunch spots.

Assembo.ai custom food photography

3. Use Assembo.ai to Visualize Your Lunch Spot

Assembo.ai helps you see how your food photos will look in different settings. Upload a dish and try various backgrounds.

  • How it works:
    1. Upload your food photo.
    2. Choose from realistic backgrounds.
    3. Download your styled image instantly.

Explore Assembo.ai’s features.

Fresh oysters at a seafood bar

4. AW Shucks – Carmel, California

Known for the best calamari on the coast, AW Shucks serves fresh oysters with homemade tartar sauce.

  • Must-try items:
    1. Kumamoto oysters (seasonal).
    2. Crispy calamari with sauerkraut tartar sauce.
    3. Cash-only policy—bring bills!

Read more in this Carmel food guide.

Piroshky pastries on a wooden board

5. Piroshky Piroshky – Seattle, Washington

This Russian bakery in Pike Place Market is famous for its handheld savory pies. The cinnamon-cardamom braid is a must.

  • Why it’s special:
    1. Freshly baked pastries daily.
    2. Long lines—worth the wait.
    3. Warm, aromatic flavors.

Discover more Pike Place Market eats.

Gourmet burger with fries

6. The Boathouse – Disney Springs, Florida

A top pick for lunch at Disney, The Boathouse offers great seafood and burgers with waterfront views.

  • Highlights:
    1. Duck Duck Razz cocktail (comes with a rubber duck!).
    2. Walk-in bar seating for small groups.
    3. Chopped salad and oysters are standouts.

See more Disney lunch spots.

Tiny doughnuts with cinnamon sugar

7. Daily Dozen Doughnut Co – Seattle, Washington

These mini doughnuts, especially the cinnamon-sugar variety, are a Pike Place Market staple.

  • Why go:
    1. Bite-sized, fresh, and addictive.
    2. Quick snack for on-the-go eating.
    3. Fun to watch them being made.

Check out other Seattle sweets.

Greek yogurt with berries

8. Ellenos Real Greek Yogurt – Seattle, Washington

Creamy, tangy, and topped with marionberry pie filling, this yogurt is a lunchtime treat.

  • Tips:
    1. Try the marionberry pie flavor.
    2. Available in small cups or large tubs.
    3. Perfect for a light, refreshing bite.

Find more Seattle food gems.

Cheeseburger with melted cheese

9. 50's Prime Time Café – Disney World, Florida

Step back in time at this 1950s-themed diner with comfort food like fried chicken and meatloaf.

  • Fun facts:
    1. Servers playfully scold guests (part of the act!).
    2. Feels like eating at Grandma’s house.
    3. Reservations recommended.

Explore more Disney dining.

Fresh sushi rolls on a plate

10. Toro Sushi – Monterey, California

A local favorite for fresh sushi, especially the seared salmon and Carmel rolls.

  • Why it’s special:
    1. Authentic, high-quality fish.
    2. Cozy, intimate setting.
    3. Smoked green tea is a unique offering.

Read Monterey’s sushi scene.

Tacos with colorful toppings

11. El Charrito – Monterey, California

Handmade tortillas and flavorful tacos make this spot a winner. Try the taquitos for a quick lunch.

  • Pro tips:
    1. Order to-go for a beach picnic.
    2. Back entrance is faster for takeout.
    3. Bone marrow tacos at dinner are a must.

Discover more Monterey eats.

Avocado toast with toppings

12. Captain and Stoker – Pacific Grove, California

This café serves the best chai and avocado toast in town, with fast, friendly service.

  • Why visit:
    1. Perfect post-beach stop.
    2. Great for a quick, healthy bite.
    3. Local vibe with no tourist crowds.

See more Pacific Grove spots.

Final Thoughts

The best places to eat for lunch range from scenic Big Sur cafes to bustling Pike Place Market stalls. No matter if you're craving sushi, burgers, or a quick pastry, these spots deliver great flavors and experiences. Use Assembo.ai to visualize your food photos or just dig in to these delicious options. Happy lunching!