Top 15 lunch restaurants in Lower East Side NYC
Discover our curated list of top-ranked lunch restaurants in Lower East Side NYC, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like Davelle, Kiki's, Pig and Khao, Cibao, Saigon Social. Let's explore together!
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1. Kiki's
Authentic Japanese cuisine in a cozy setting
Introducing Kiki's, where the 0-100 rating scale embodies our editors' expert evaluations of every aspect that determines whether a restaurant or bar is extraordinary or disappointing, irrespective of price. Learn more and discover our new ratings that help you choose wisely.
On my second visit to Kiki's for dinner, the food never failed to impress, yet I couldn't help feeling a tad uneasy about the cleanliness of the street. As the night progressed, our dining experience took an unexpected turn when we witnessed roaches scurrying near the end of our meal. Despite this unsettling encounter, Kiki's remains a place that I have long passed on my way to and from work, and finally decided to give it a chance. I must say, it should have been on my radar much earlier. The culinary delights that graced our table were nothing short of very good, with flavors that transported us to the Mediterranean. Moreover, the reasonable prices made it all the more worth it, especially in the bustling city of New York. Although initially designed for a romantic rendezvous, I ended up bringing my brother, and it still delivered an exceptional experience.
On my second visit to Kiki's for dinner, the food never failed to impress, yet I couldn't help feeling a tad uneasy about the cleanliness of the street. As the night progressed, our dining experience took an unexpected turn when we witnessed roaches scurrying near the end of our meal. Despite this unsettling encounter, Kiki's remains a place that I have long passed on my way to and from work, and finally decided to give it a chance. I must say, it should have been on my radar much earlier. The culinary delights that graced our table were nothing short of very good, with flavors that transported us to the Mediterranean. Moreover, the reasonable prices made it all the more worth it, especially in the bustling city of New York. Although initially designed for a romantic rendezvous, I ended up bringing my brother, and it still delivered an exceptional experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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2. Pig and Khao
Authentic yet innovative Thai cuisine
Experience the explosive flavors at Pig and Khao, the hot new restaurant on the Lower East Side. Created by acclaimed Top Chef star Leah Cohen, this culinary gem delivers an unforgettable dining experience. Cohen, with her team from the renowned Fatty Crab, brings classic comforting Thai and Filipino dishes to new heights with her own unique flair. Immerse yourself in this funky, friendly space with its intimate back patio and be prepared for a meal that is both intriguing and delicious. With its combination of mouth-watering food, vibrant decor, and top-notch service, Pig and Khao will quickly become your new favorite restaurant.
Prepare to be amazed by the culinary delights that await you at Pig and Khao. From the flavorful coconut rice to the succulent Khao Soi, every dish will leave you craving for more. Indulge in the Hainanese duck, pork belly adobo, singing shrimp, and donuts for a taste explosion that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Whether you visit for dinner or lunch, Pig and Khao never fails to impress. The lively music and uniquely designed interior add to the overall experience. And don't forget to try their bottomless option, perfect for those looking to savor the array of flavors that Pig and Khao has to offer. Make your reservation today and get ready for a dining experience like no other.
Prepare to be amazed by the culinary delights that await you at Pig and Khao. From the flavorful coconut rice to the succulent Khao Soi, every dish will leave you craving for more. Indulge in the Hainanese duck, pork belly adobo, singing shrimp, and donuts for a taste explosion that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Whether you visit for dinner or lunch, Pig and Khao never fails to impress. The lively music and uniquely designed interior add to the overall experience. And don't forget to try their bottomless option, perfect for those looking to savor the array of flavors that Pig and Khao has to offer. Make your reservation today and get ready for a dining experience like no other.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Dinner
- Weekend Dining
3. Dudley's
Cozy atmosphere with friendly service
Dudley's, the ultimate breakfast destination that promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. My recent culinary escapade led me to this charming eatery not once, but twice in a single week. Curiosity piqued by the rave Google reviews, I delved into Dudley's world of gastronomic delights. The first dish that caught my attention was the much-talked-about ricotta pancakes. While they were certainly palatable, they didn't quite possess that wow factor I had anticipated. However, forgive me for my momentary disappointment, for what followed surpassed all expectations. Behold, the masterstroke that is the Big Brekkie. An exquisite symphony of flavors danced on my palate as I savored every morsel of this delectable breakfast platter. Accompanied by a side of truffle fries that transported me to culinary heaven, I relished the harmonious combination of perfectly cooked roasted eggs and tomatoes. But it wasn't just the food that impressed me. Dudley's commitment to excellence extended to its drinks as well. Sipping on a refreshing matcha lemonade, I marveled at both the taste and the portion size, perfectly balancing indulgence and satisfaction. And let's not forget the impeccable service that elevated my dining experience to new heights.
Dudley's is more than just a restaurant; it's an extraordinary culinary journey that promises to ignite your senses and leave an indelible mark on your taste buds. So, whether you're seeking a brunch spot that goes beyond the ordinary or simply craving a culinary adventure, Dudley's is the answer to your foodie dreams. Prepare to be captivated by their tantalizing offerings, impeccable service, and an atmosphere that exudes warmth and charm. Join me on this gastronomic escapade and discover the magic that awaits at Dudley's.
Dudley's is more than just a restaurant; it's an extraordinary culinary journey that promises to ignite your senses and leave an indelible mark on your taste buds. So, whether you're seeking a brunch spot that goes beyond the ordinary or simply craving a culinary adventure, Dudley's is the answer to your foodie dreams. Prepare to be captivated by their tantalizing offerings, impeccable service, and an atmosphere that exudes warmth and charm. Join me on this gastronomic escapade and discover the magic that awaits at Dudley's.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Kosher Options
4. Cafe Katja
Popular spot for local freelancers and artists
Cafe Katja is an enchanting establishment that exudes warmth and hospitality, serving up mouthwatering Austrian cuisine and delightful beverages in a charming and inviting setting. With its cozy ambiance, the cafe offers an ideal spot to relax and indulge in delicious food and drinks. Whether you prefer soaking up the sun or seeking shelter in the shade, the outdoor seating area provides a fantastic vantage point for observing passersby. Plus, the cafe welcomes furry friends, making it the perfect destination for pet owners seeking to enjoy a delightful meal alongside their beloved companions.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
5. Davelle
Cozy and stylish interior, Emphasis on sustainability
Davelle stands out as one of the most visually appealing cafes in New York. Every order here is carefully crafted to match the cafe's aesthetic appeal. The beautifully presented toast is so visually stunning that it's almost a shame to eat. With a variety of flavors to choose from, you can opt for a savory option like ham and egg or indulge in something sweet like berries and cream cheese.
Davelle is a remarkable restaurant and cafe that offers a truly exceptional selection of drinks, dishes, and desserts. Don't miss out on their black sesame and cream cheese toast, a delightful combination of flavors. However, be prepared for a considerable wait time, both for dine-in and takeout. We waited for a grueling 1.5 hours to secure a seat, and we overheard others discussing a 30-minute wait for takeout. Nevertheless, the outstanding quality of their toast makes the wait worthwhile.
Davelle is a remarkable restaurant and cafe that offers a truly exceptional selection of drinks, dishes, and desserts. Don't miss out on their black sesame and cream cheese toast, a delightful combination of flavors. However, be prepared for a considerable wait time, both for dine-in and takeout. We waited for a grueling 1.5 hours to secure a seat, and we overheard others discussing a 30-minute wait for takeout. Nevertheless, the outstanding quality of their toast makes the wait worthwhile.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
6. Cibao
Authentic Dominican cuisine in a homey setting
Decades ago, the Lower East Side buzzed with Dominican and Puerto Rican cafes, each with their own weekly rotating menus and familiar layout. Cibao, named after Puerto Rico's northwest region, stands as one of the few surviving establishments, under the ownership of Milagro Thina. While Cuban sandwiches remain a popular choice for a quick lunch, Cibao also offers nourishing soups, delectable roast pork, paprika-infused chicken, and a variety of beans served alongside aromatic yellow and white rice. Stepping into Cibao is like stepping into a time capsule of classic Latin experiences, a fading art form in the bustling streets of New York City. The portions are generous, and the prices reasonable for the vibrant atmosphere of the Lower East Side. The attentive service added to the great time I had with my wife, making me eager to return for another culinary adventure.
Impressed by the food's quality, I decided to order lunch for my staff from Cibao, and the response was overwhelming. They absolutely loved it. What made it even better was the unbeatable price. For a mere $300, I was able to feed 40 people, leaving all of us satisfied and grateful.
Impressed by the food's quality, I decided to order lunch for my staff from Cibao, and the response was overwhelming. They absolutely loved it. What made it even better was the unbeatable price. For a mere $300, I was able to feed 40 people, leaving all of us satisfied and grateful.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
7. Sticky Rice
Thai fusion cuisine with a modern twist
Sticky Rice offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with friendly staff and an excellent bartender who can recommend the house specials. One dish that I highly recommend is the prototype, which is guaranteed to rev your engine. The restaurant also boasts flattering lighting and outdoor seating, creating a pleasant and relaxed dining experience on a quiet street closed to car traffic. It's a solid place to enjoy delicious food at a decent price. While the rice and spices are top-notch, the curry falls short of expectations. However, the chicken skewers and pad Thai are both delicious, though the dumplings are just average. Overall, you can expect a solid experience with a friendly waiter, but do note that a vaccination card is required to dine here.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
8. Ernesto's
Authentic Mexican cuisine in the heart of New York City
Beautiful little place: we almost closed for some martinis and the flan.Flan, my friend said, is a religious experience and I couldn't agree more.With the small items we ate, I am very impressed and very curious about the rest of the menu.The hostesses are sweet and unpretentious, which is the atmosphere in the LES area.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- High-End
9. Le French Diner
Romantic date night spot with a cozy and intimate ambiance
One of the best French places in New York to try!Everything we ate was 10/10 and the service was excellent.Definitely order the socca de nice and the grilled steak that comes gratin (the best I've ever had).I can't wait to go back and try other things on the menu :)
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
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10. Lena L.E.S
Intimate ambience and artistic decor
What a great place!French food at its best.Not only is the food amazing, but the service is impeccable and the atmosphere is truly vibrant.Get the foie gras!
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
11. Saigon Social
Traditional Vietnamese street food experience
This place is a great Vietnamese restaurant! Saigon Social offers a seasonal menu with delicious dishes!️ From their summer menu ️, definitely get the pork ribs as a starter and the roast chicken as a main dish.
Bun Cha takes me back to memories of trips I had in Hanoi.The dish offers a combination of three pork delicacies, although the sauce tends to have a slightly heavy seasoning.
Bun Cha takes me back to memories of trips I had in Hanoi.The dish offers a combination of three pork delicacies, although the sauce tends to have a slightly heavy seasoning.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
12. The Vegoist at 113
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
13. Taverna Di Bacco
Live music on select nights, warm and welcoming staff, focus on traditional Italian cuisine
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
14. Mother Duck
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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15. L’origine Italian food
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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