This post is all about the best lunch spots in Midtown NYC.
If you’re used to dining in downtown Manhattan like I am, you know it’s full of cute, trendy cafes and Instagram-worthy spots at nearly every corner. But Midtown? That’s a whole different story.
With the mix of chain restaurants, tourist traps, and office crowds, finding a truly great lunch spot can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
But to me, that’s the beauty of New York City, there’s always something new to discover! Having spent enough lunch breaks in Midtown, I’d like to think that I’ve got an arsenal of the best spots to eat at.
Whether you’re visiting NYC and looking for a memorable midday meal or you’re a local craving something delicious, keep reading for some of the best lunch spots in Midtown NYC.
9 Best Lunch Spots in Midtown NYC
1. Omar’s Mediterranean Cuisine
Starting off with my favorite, Omar’s! This is a go-to spot for fresh, flavorful Mediterranean food. On the menu, you’ll find falafel wraps, chicken shawarma, and salads, all made fresh daily. The staff is so kind, and I always leave with a smile on my face.
You can eat in the restaurant or grab your food to go. When the weather is nice, I head to Bryant Park nearby. Talk about a 10/10 lunch break.
2. Burger Joint
Hidden behind a velvet curtain in the swanky Parker Hotel is Burger Joint, an unassuming little spot that serves one of the best burgers in NYC. The vibe is casual and no-frills, with graffitied walls and simple menu options: burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
The line can get long during lunch hours, but trust me, it’s worth the wait. There’s something about biting into a perfectly cooked burger in such an unexpected setting that makes it feel even more special.
3. Kazunori
Kazunori is a sushi lover’s dream. This handroll bar specializes in made-to-order rolls that are simple, fresh, and absolutely delicious. You sit at the counter, where the chefs prepare each roll in front of you and serve them immediately to ensure the seaweed stays crisp.
The menu is straightforward, with set options that include a mix of tuna, yellowtail, and crab handrolls. It’s the perfect spot for a quick but high-quality lunch that feels like a treat.
4. Ace’s Pizza
If you’re craving pizza, Ace’s Pizza has you covered with their Detroit-style pies. I love the original Brooklyn location and was so happy when they opened a restaurant in Rockefeller Center.
These square, thick-crust pizzas are crispy on the edges, airy on the inside, and loaded with toppings. My favorite is the vodka meatball, but you can’t go wrong with any of their creative options.
5. Joe’s Home of Soup Dumplings
Soup dumplings might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to lunch in Midtown, but once you try Joe’s Home of Soup Dumplings, you’ll wonder why it took you so long. This spot specializes in authentic Shanghainese cuisine, and the soup dumplings are the star of the show.
I love to keep this in my back pocket for a cold winter day. It’s the perfect cozy lunch spot in Midtown.
6. All’Antico Vinaio
image courtesy of All’Antico Vinaio
Straight from Florence, All’Antico Vinaio has made its mark in Midtown with its famous Italian sandwiches. These paninis are enormous, loaded with fresh ingredients like prosciutto, truffle cream, and mozzarella, all served on perfectly crispy bread.
I always go for the La Paradiso sandwich with mortadella, stracciatella, and pistachio cream.
7. The Original Soup Kitchen
Fans of Seinfeld will recognize this spot as the inspiration for the show’s famous “Soup Nazi” episode, but The Original Soup Kitchen is much more than just a pop culture reference. This no-nonsense spot serves some of the best soup in the city, with options like lobster bisque, lentil soup, and jambalaya.
Each order comes with bread, fruit, and chocolate, making it a filling and satisfying lunch option, especially on a chilly day.
Address: 259A W 55th St, New York, NY 10019
8. La Grande Boucherie
If you’re looking for a sit-down lunch experience, head to La Grande Boucherie. There are a few locations in the city, all of which I’ve visited, and this one is definitely the most impressive.
Fun fact: the restaurant is located on 6½ Avenue, right between 6th and 7th Avenue. I had no idea there was such thing! The restaurant fills the entire block of the open-air passageway. It’s a unique dining experience and the menu won’t disappoint.
I always have the boeuf bourguignon or the French onion soup and am immediately transported to Paris. Ahhhh.
9. King of Falafel and Shawarma
What started as a food cart in Astoria is now a Midtown favorite for authentic Middle Eastern street food. King of Falafel and Shawarma serves up some of the best falafel, chicken, and lamb platters in the city.
The portions are huge, the flavors are bold, and the prices are super reasonable—a rare find in Midtown. Don’t forget to grab a side of their creamy hummus or baba ghanoush to complete your meal.
That concludes this post with the 9 best lunch spots in Midtown NYC.
These spots are sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a more leisurely dining experience, Midtown has something for everyone.
So the next time you find yourself in the heart of the city, skip the chain restaurants and try one of these local favorites. I promise you won’t regret it!
Which spot are you most excited to try? Let me know in the comments!