I've tried many places over the years, and have narrowed it down to seven of the best in town. From the classic deli sandwiches to the modern pizzerias, I've got you covered.

I'm sure you'll find something that's just right for your palate! Join me as we explore Downtown San Diego's lunchtime offerings so you can make an informed decision on where to go for your next tasty lunch break.


Empanada Kitchen

Empanada Kitchen
🗺️ 819 C St, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-228-9419
🌐 Website
Sunday: 10 AM–3 PM
Monday: 9 AM–7 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM–7 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM–7 PM
Thursday: 9 AM–7 PM
Friday: 9 AM–7 PM
Saturday: 10 AM–6 PM

I've been here several times and have ordered the 🍗 Chicken, 🌮 Fish Taco, and 🐷The Carnitas Empanadas and they've all been delicious! The consistently great taste combined with the reasonable pricing make this an unbeatable spot for lunch.

The staff is always friendly - they'll make sure to answer any questions you might have about what's in the empanadas or what comes with them. Plus, they are very accommodating when it comes to making sure that your order is perfect for you.

If you're looking for a quick but filling lunch option that won't empty your wallet, Empanada Kitchen is the place to go! It has become my go-to spot for weekday lunch because I can count on getting a tasty meal that will keep me full until dinner. Highly recommended if you find yourself in Downtown San Diego!

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Lola 55 Tacos & Cocktails

Lola 55 Tacos & Cocktails
🗺️ 1290 F St, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-542-9155
🌐 Website
Sunday: 12–9 PM
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 12–9 PM
Wednesday: 12–9 PM
Thursday: 12–9 PM
Friday: 12–10 PM
Saturday: 12–10 PM

Their tacos are to die for - you can't go wrong with the Carne Asada and the VeganAsada. And don't forget about their cocktails - they are easily some of the best in town!

The atmosphere is laid-back yet lively, and it's great for group gatherings. Furthermore, service is always excellent and the staff is always friendly.

If you're looking for a great lunch spot in Downtown San Diego, look no further than Lola 55 Tacos & Cocktails!

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Neighborhood

Neighborhood
🗺️ 777 G St, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-446-0002
🌐 Website
Sunday: 4 PM–2 AM
Monday: 4 PM–2 AM
Tuesday: 4 PM–2 AM
Wednesday: 4 PM–2 AM
Thursday: 4 PM–2 AM
Friday: 4 PM–2 AM
Saturday: 4 PM–2 AM

I have been coming to Neighborhood for a few years now and I have to say the food is consistently delicious. The sandwiches are fresh and full of flavor, their salads are tasty, and their chicken tenders are crispy.

The service has always been top-notch as well. The staff are always friendly, attentive, and make sure I'm satisfied with my meal.

The atmosphere is great too. It's cozy inside but has plenty of room, giving you a bit of privacy when you need it.

Overall, Neighborhood is undoubtedly one of the best lunch spots in Downtown San Diego!

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Lucky's Lunch Counter

Lucky's Lunch Counter
🗺️ 338 7th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-255-4782
🌐 Website
Sunday: 7 AM–3 PM
Monday: 7 AM–3 PM
Tuesday: 7 AM–3 PM
Wednesday: 7 AM–3 PM
Thursday: 7 AM–3 PM
Friday: 7 AM–3 PM
Saturday: 7 AM–3 PM

The experience at Lucky's Lunch Counter is always great - their friendly staff and inviting atmosphere make it a perfect spot for lunch. From the moment you walk in, it feels like home.

I love their wide selection of sandwiches, salads, and sides - there's something for every taste! They also have a variety of breakfast items available in the morning. The quality of ingredients is top-notch - I can always count on a fresh meal here.

Additionally, Lucky's Lunch Counter has great prices - they offer reasonable portions at reasonable prices. They also often have specials that are worth checking out!

Overall, Lucky's Lunch Counter is an excellent lunch spot in Downtown San Diego and I highly recommend them to anyone looking for the best lunch in Downtown San Diego!

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The Local Eatery & Drinking Hole

The Local Eatery & Drinking Hole
🗺️ 1065 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-231-4447
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11 AM–10 PM
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Wednesday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
Thursday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
Friday: 11:30 AM–1 AM
Saturday: 11 AM–1 AM

The atmosphere was warm, inviting and had a great vibe. The service was excellent from start to finish, and the staff were friendly and attentive.

The menu offered something for everyone, with options ranging from traditional American fare to creative sandwiches and salads. I had the "Cobb Salad," which was delicious! It came with fresh greens, bacon, cheese, hard-boiled egg, tomatoes, onions and a creamy ranch dressing that was out of this world!

I also tried their famous "Chicken & Waffle Sandwich" which included crispy chicken thighs on top of a perfectly cooked Belgian waffle - definitely one of my favorites so far!

Overall, I would highly recommend The Local Eatery & Drinking Hole for anyone looking for the best lunch in Downtown San Diego. The food was top-notch, the service quick and attentive, and the atmosphere cozy yet trendy - it's definitely worth checking out!

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Hidden Craft SD

Hidden Craft SD
🗺️ 600 W Broadway Ste 130, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-782-9113
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 11 AM–8 PM
Tuesday: 11 AM–8 PM
Wednesday: 11 AM–8 PM
Thursday: 11 AM–8 PM
Friday: 11 AM–9 PM
Saturday: 11 AM–9 PM

When I visited, I found that the dishes were carefully thought out and truly unique. The ingredients were fresh and of great quality and it was obvious that the chef took a lot of care in preparing the meals. I could tell that they wanted each dish to be an experience.

The menu had a variety of unique sandwiches, salads, and vegetarian options that all tasted amazing. The sandwich special was especially good - a combination of savory and sweet flavors that came together perfectly!

One thing that really stood out to me about Hidden Craft SD was their commitment to local businesses. They source their ingredients from nearby farms whenever possible and make it a point to support local artisans. It's nice to know my money is being put towards something meaningful!

Overall, Hidden Craft SD is one of the best lunch spots in Downtown San Diego! The quality of the food is outstanding and you can feel good knowing your money is supporting local businesses.

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Water Grill San Diego

Water Grill San Diego
🗺️ 615 J St, San Diego, CA 92101
☎️ 619-717-6992
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Monday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Tuesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Wednesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Thursday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Friday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
Saturday: 11:30 AM–11 PM

The atmosphere is perfect for lunch, providing both indoor and outdoor seating. The staff is friendly and helpful with advice about the menu.

The food is excellent with a diverse selection of salads, sandwiches, and creative seafood options. I'm constantly surprised by the flavors every time I visit! Their Crab Cakes Sandwich is my favorite - it's one of the best I've ever had.

I also appreciate how they offer a variety of drinks, from coffee to specialty cocktails.

Overall, Water Grill San Diego offers an unbeatable combination of quality food, friendly service, and great atmosphere - making it the best lunch in Downtown San Diego!

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Brad Thomas

With a true passion for exploring all that San Diego has to offer, Brad takes great pleasure in discovering new spots and sharing his experiences with his readers. From hidden gems to tried-and-true favorites, he doesn't miss a beat when it comes to exploring different corners of town. When he's not writing or dining out, Brad can be found soaking up some sunshine at the beach or taking an outdoor adventure around SoCal.