It’s been too long since I’ve done lunch recommendations, and I’ve found a lot more great places since then. As 2023 comes to a close, here are some of my favorites.

Café Mollie

This is a sweet spot for boba or other fun tea and lemonade drinks. Their menu of Vietnamese food is small, but everything on it is excellent.

Great Wall

This Chinese place is best visited for a Friday lunch, since they only serve dim sum on the weekends. I’d recommend their Mongolian beef any day of the week, though.

The DinerSaur

Much like Café Mollie, their menu is small but mighty. This place is primarily a bakery and focuses on dessert, but I’m obsessed with their lunch sandwich deal. A sandwich, chips, and a little tea cookie as a treat? Perfect.

Harumi

If I’m downtown and want sushi, this is the only place I’ll go. Their lunch specials are great, with options for a lighter lunch or more filling food.

Goji Berry Café

This is an underrated lunch spot on Grand Ave. They have a fully vegetarian menu, gluten free options, and great drinks.

Cibo

If I’m looking for an Italian lunch, this is the go-to. Their sandwiches have some unexpected twists on classic flavor combinations, and it’s always a joy to split a dessert crepe.

Noble Eatery

This sandwich café and bakery is a great spot for bread lovers. I love that they give a little salad with every sandwich and their portion sizes are huge.

Glai Baan

This phenomenal Thai spot should be on everyone’s list for lunch— it’s tough to get a spot there for dinner but a lot easier earlier in the day. They serve the same menu of regional favorites and of course, some classics like pad thai.