Discover the Best Lunches in Town: Elevate Your Midday Dining Experience

Looking for some lunchtime inspiration? Look no further. This article covers a wide range of delicious lunch options that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. From soulful tacos to mouthwatering sandwiches and hearty salads, we've got you covered. Whether you're in the mood for a quick and easy meal or a more indulgent treat, this list has something for everyone. Get ready to discover the best lunches in town and elevate your midday dining experience.

Soul Taco

321 N. 2ND STREET and 1215 E. MAIN STREET

A contemporary, fast casual eatery with branches in the historic neighborhoods of Jackson Ward and Shockoe Slip, combining beloved southern dishes with tantalizing tacos to create a distinctive and irresistible fusion of flavors. From Monday to Friday, between 11am and 3pm, you can enjoy any three items for just $10.

Perly's

111 E. Grace Street

This iconic Jewish deli located in Monroe Ward is a must-visit destination for lox and bagels aficionados, potato latkes enthusiasts, and anyone seeking authentic flavors. Don't miss the opportunity to savor their delectable roast beef sandwich, priced at just .25, available every day of the week!

Miyabi Sushi

1712 E. MAIN STREET

At Miyabi Sushi, located in Shockoe Bottom, you'll get the best value for your money, with just $10 you can indulge in a lunch special consisting of two sushi rolls or a bento box complete with rice, salad, soup, a sushi roll, and your choice of entrée.

The Patio Thai

103 E. CARY STREET

Nestled in the charming Monroe Ward, The Patio Thai is renowned for its classic dishes such as pad thai, drunken noodles, and fresh mango sticky rice. Make sure to take advantage of the opportunity to savor your lunch on their namesake patio!

NuVegan Cafe

417 W. Grace Street

Even if you don't follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, NuVegan in the Arts District has a wide selection of hot and cold dishes that are sure to satisfy everyone. From vegan chick'n drummies to fried filets, their menu caters to all tastes and preferences.

Wong Gonzalez

412 E. Grace Street

If you're seeking an authentic ambience to complement your tacos, Wong Gonzalez in Monroe Ward's Grace Street offers a chic setting with plenty of great vibes and a delectable fusion of Mexican and Asian cuisine.

Pig and Brew

1313 HULL STREET

Renowned as the best provider of North Carolina BBQ south of the James, this barbeque joint in Manchester offers more than just shredded pork. During lunchtime, be sure to try their Street Tacos ($4) or Chicken Thigh Club ()!

Tarrant's

1 W. Broad Street

Relive the comforting experience of dining at your mother's or grandmother's house for Sunday brunch or dinner at Tarrant's. Through their extensive selection of homestyle comfort foods packed with nostalgic flavors, they successfully transport you back to your childhood. Whether you crave juicy fried green tomatoes or chicken piccata, Tarrant's serves dishes that truly warm your soul, right in the Arts District.

Cafe Rustika

414 E. MAIN STREET

As Richmond's only schnitzel bar, Cafe Rustika offers an authentic German experience that encompasses both their atmosphere and their food. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy their exceptional lunch menu in the Financial District, all while surrounded by local artwork.

City Dogs

1316 E. CARY STREET

Indulge in specialty hot dogs like the Coney Island Dog and the Santa Fe Dog, topped with an array of mouthwatering fixings, all at a price point under $5 at this hidden gem in Shockoe Slip.

Station 2

2016 E. MAIN STREET

Famous for their gourmet burgers and indulgent adult milkshakes, Station 2 in Shockoe Bottom is the ultimate destination for an authentic "all-American" dining experience. Don't miss out on their griddle-pressed burgers priced at just $4 when you're on a budget!

Secret Sandwich Society

501 E. GRACE STREET

Discover a unique gastropub experience in the heart of downtown Richmond's Monroe Ward neighborhood at Secret Sandwich Society. Indulge in their tastiest sandwiches, burgers, salads, and sides, all crafted with love. Prices for their sandwiches range from $11.50 to $16.

Buddha Bowls

Ethan CalabreseOne of the greatest aspects of this bowl is its infinite adaptability. You can roast virtually any vegetable, experiment with numerous toppings, and still delight in a remarkable dish. However, we strongly recommend that you retain the incredible peanut dressing, as it is incredibly addictive and one of the most fantastic sauces you will ever experience.

Get the Buddha Bowls recipe.

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Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Parker feierbachThis lunch-friendly recipe utilizes canned chickpeas, allowing it to come together in under 30 minutes. 😎 The lemon-parsley vinaigrette adds a perfect touch of tartness and freshness with a hint of spice, making it an ideal dressing for various dishes.

Get the Mediterranean Chickpea Salad recipe.

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Copycat Wendy's Chili

PARKER FEIERBACHHere's an interesting fact: One of the reasons chili was added to Wendy's original menu was to reduce food waste by utilizing leftover burger patties. We're glad they did because this copycat chili recipe is absolutely delicious.

Get the Copycat Wendy's Chili recipe.

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Chicken Patty

PHOTO; ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLIST; BROOKE CAISONMove aside, cafeteria school lunch! The chicken patty is here, reinvented and ready to amaze. In creating this sandwich, we focused on a few classic ingredients: shallots, garlic powder, shredded lettuce, pickles, and honey mustard mayo. By combining ground chicken with minced shallots and copious amounts of garlic powder, we achieve a flavorful patty. Grinding the cornflakes is essential to ensure consistent crunchiness. The homemade honey mustard adds the perfect touch of sweetness, creaminess, and tanginess that will make your taste buds sing.

Get the Chicken Patty recipe.

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Steak Grain Bowls

Andrew buiThese grain bowls are packed with greens, protein, and carbs, providing all the sustenance you need for your day. What sets them apart is the double-purpose chimichurri sauce, which acts both as a marinade for the steak and a finishing sauce for the bowls. Prepare to be amazed!

Get the Steak Grain Bowls recipe.

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Up SpaghettiOs & Meatballs

Ethan CalabreseThe beauty of this bowl is its versatility. You can roast a wide variety of veggies and experiment with numerous toppings, and the result will be fantastic. However, we insist that you preserve the incredible peanut dressing—it's unbelievably addictive and one of our all-time favorite sauces.

Get the Buddha Bowls recipe.

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Chinese Chicken Mandarin Salad

Parker Feierbach This recipe drew some inspiration from The Cheesecake Factory's Chinese Chicken Salad, but with one major difference: instead of wonton strips and crispy rice noodles, we've substituted a crunched-up block of ramen (yes, the budget-friendly, dried variety) to add a delightful crunch to the dish.

Get the Crunchy Mandarin Orange-Chicken Salad recipe.

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Ham Sandwich

Parker Feierbach You might think you don't need a recipe for a ham sandwich, but trust us, this one is worth it. The homemade herb mayo, made with fresh herbs and olive oil, elevates this sandwich above the rest.

Get the Ham Sandwich recipe.

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The Ultimate Grilled Cheese

Experience the decadence of a sandwich that combines the richness of creamy mayonnaise and cream cheese with the gooey goodness of melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese. It's a lunchtime indulgence that you'll find yourself craving every single day. To keep it warm and crispy until lunchtime arrives, wrap it in aluminum foil.

Visit Recipe

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Chicken Pesto Wraps

If you're in need of a quick and easy lunch idea, look no further. Swap out the sun-dried tomato pesto for your own homemade basil pesto or whatever you happen to have on hand. This recipe is all about making the most of what you've got. 3 / 40

Taste of Home

Easy Chicken Salad

Transform last night's chicken into a delicious lunch option with this quick and easy chicken salad recipe. Featuring a creamy combination of sour cream and mayo, alongside the sweetness of juicy grapes and the crunch of celery, it's the perfect hassle-free meal.

Discover more inspiration with these creative cold lunch ideas.

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Tuna Melt on Cornbread

This unique open-faced sandwich brings together the creamy deliciousness of tuna salad, the subtle sweetness of cornbread, and the heavenly richness of melted cheese. Each bite will leave you yearning for more. 6 / 40

Peanut Butter, Chicken and Basil Sandwich

You're probably familiar with PB&Js, but have you ever considered a peanut butter and chicken sandwich? Prepare to be delighted as this easy lunch combines the creaminess of peanut butter, the tenderness of shredded cooked chicken, and the freshness of basil. It's like enjoying the flavors of Thai noodles in a comforting sandwich. 7 / 40

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Hasselback Tomato Clubs

No bread in the pantry? No problem. Put a creative twist on the classic club sandwich by using plum tomatoes instead of bread. Simply make a few crosswise slices in each tomato and stuff them with your favorite fillings, such as meat and cheese. Let your imagination run wild! 8 / 40

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Pesto Quinoa Salad

Enjoy a well-balanced and vibrant lunch with this protein-rich salad. Packed with quinoa, heart-healthy olive oil, and a medley of vegetables including onions, red peppers, and tomatoes, this salad offers a customizable experience. Personalize it by adding crumbled feta cheese or toasted pine nuts to suit your taste! 9 / 40

Faced Pizza Burgers

Satisfy your craving for both a juicy burger and a cheese pizza with this delightful amalgamation. This recipe brings together ground beef, pizza sauce, mushrooms, and oregano, placed on a bun and topped with mouthwatering melted mozzarella cheese. It's the best of both worlds! 10 / 40

Spinach Salad with Hot Bacon Dressing

Toss together a refreshing work lunch by combining fresh spinach, juicy tomatoes, crunchy croutons, and a perfectly boiled egg. And let's not forget the star of the show: the hot bacon dressing. Made with ketchup, red wine vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce, it adds a tantalizing kick to every bite. Pack it in an airtight container to ensure its freshness until lunchtime. 11 / 40

Chicken Cucumber Pitas

Forget about takeout and try these Greek-inspired Chicken Cucumber Pitas. With a tantalizing combination of chicken, cucumbers, olives, tomatoes, red pepper, and red onion, all dressed in a flavorful salad dressing, you'll have yourself a veggie-packed meal that's just as delicious as anything you could order out. 12 / 40

Taste of Home

Basil Chicken Sandwiches

If you're looking for a light and satisfying lunch option, these basil chicken sandwiches are the perfect choice. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika, then cook it to perfection on a skillet. Assemble the sandwiches by brushing salad dressing onto the ciabatta rolls, adding the chicken, and layering basil leaves, red peppers, and Romano cheese for a burst of flavors.

Explore these other nutritious sandwich ideas for tomorrow's lunch.

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Indian Spiced Chickpea Wraps

Embark on a global culinary adventure with these delectable chickpea wraps. Bursting with the exotic flavors of curry powder, coriander, cumin, and a hint of cayenne pepper, this easy lunch transports you straight to the vibrant streets of India. 14 / 40

Sausage and Pepper Sheet-Pan Sandwiches

Elevate your hot dog experience with these mouthwatering sausage and pepper sandwiches. Filled with flavorful Italian turkey sausage, sweet red peppers, caramelized onions, and melty provolone cheese, each bite offers a succulent delight that will make your taste buds dance. 15 / 40

Shrimp Patty Sandwiches

If you're craving seafood for lunch, these breadcrumb-coated shrimp patties are a must-try. Seasoned with parsley, celery salt, mustard, and paprika, these delectable patties are topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, and mayo, creating a flavorful combination that will satisfy your lunchtime cravings. 16 / 40

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Southwestern Pork Salad

Take your taste buds on a journey to the wild west with this salad that captures the essence of the southwest. Utilizing succulent pork loin as the star ingredient, this salad pairs it with refreshing tomatoes, ripe olives, hearty kidney beans, and the satisfying crunch of green peppers and onions. It's a flavor-packed adventure you don't want to miss. 17 / 40

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Dilly Chickpea Salad Sandwiches

Experience a burst of zesty flavors with this delightful chickpea salad sandwich that's incredibly easy to whip up. Simply mash the chickpeas to your preferred consistency, add in the remaining ingredients, mix, and serve! It's the perfect lunch option for when you're short on time but still want a satisfying and tasteful meal. 18 / 40

Fancy Focaccia Sandwiches

Elevate your lunchtime sandwich with the use of delectable focaccia bread. Bursting with flavors of ham, turkey, salami, peppers, tomato, and provolone cheese, this sandwich will satisfy your hunger and leave you craving for more. 19 / 40

Taste of Home

Grilled Steak Bruschetta Salad for Two

Indulge in a flavor extravaganza with this grilled steak topped with bruschetta and blue cheese dressing. Nestled on toasted Italian bread, this steak arugula salad will undoubtedly be the highlight of your week. Share the other sandwich with a friend or save it for tomorrow’s lunch! 20 / 40

Tangy Sloppy Joes in a Jiffy

Give your classic sloppy joes a tangy twist with this effortless lunch idea. The sauce features a delightful combination of ketchup, vinegar, chili powder, and Worcestershire sauce, adding a burst of flavor to your sandwich. 21 / 40

Chicken & Onion Caesar Salad

Unleash your indulgent side with this cream cheese and mayonnaise-filled sandwich featuring melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese. A perfect lunchtime treat that you'd want to savor daily. Envelop it with aluminum foil to preserve its warmth and crispiness until lunchtime arrives. Go to Recipe 2 / 40

Speedy Taco Wraps

For a quick Taco Tuesday lunch break, these wraps are the perfect choice. Smear the cream cheese mixture on a tortilla, pile bean dip, guacamole, cheese, olives, and more on top, roll it up, and voila! A festive wrap ready to be devoured. 23 / 40

Exotic Curried Egg Salad

Spice up your regular egg salad sandwich with this curried version. Add a few slices of tomato and a sprinkle of pepper for a perfect afternoon bite. 24 / 40

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Wholesome White Bean Arugula Salad

Prepare your lunch in just 30 minutes with this refreshing bean salad. Made with onions, tomatoes, cannellini beans, and fresh herbs, this lunch will provide you with the energy you need for the workday. 25 / 40

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Turkey Salad with Delectable Pear Dressing

Featuring a dressing made with lemon, honey, ginger, and pears, and a salad topped with pomegranate seeds and cranberries, this lunch offers a delightful blend of flavors. Keep your salad fresh for lunch by packing the dressing separately and pouring it over the arugula when it's time to eat. 26 / 40

Crunchy Tuna Wraps

These tuna wraps not only taste fantastic but are also packed with protein and veggies, making them a nutritious choice. Roll these wraps up tightly and secure them with a toothpick to keep everything intact until lunchtime. 27 / 40

Taste of Home

Flavorful Fajitas in Pitas

Experience a pocket-sized version of your favorite restaurant dish with these fajitas wrapped in pitas. Prepared with a creamy mayo dressing, grilled chicken, and multi-colored peppers, this lunch is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Pack the ingredients separately to ensure the pita bread remains crispy until it's time to eat.

Have extra pitas? Explore these recipes with pita bread that we adore. 28 / 40

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Delectable Asparagus Nicoise Salad

This vibrant make-ahead salad requires only five ingredients, making it an incredibly simple lunch option. The tuna and potatoes provide a filling element, while the asparagus and zesty Italian dressing add an extra layer of flavor to the dish. 29 / 40

TMB STUDIO

Sugary Macaroni Salad

Trade your usual lettuce salad for this delightful macaroni pasta salad. Combining carrots, green peppers, onions, mayo, sweetened condensed milk, and vinegar, this creamy delight will make you want more than just one serving. 30 / 40

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Delizioso Italian-Style Veggie Wraps

These effortless wraps feature a medley of ingredients found in an Italian sandwich. Stuffed with zucchini, broccoli, tomatoes, olives, onions, hard salami, hot peppers, and lettuce, you can customize this simple lunch idea to suit your preferences. Check out these additional sandwich wrap recipes that are ideal for your lunchbox. 31 / 40

Taste of Home

Low-Calorie Cobb Salad

With the creaminess from Greek yogurt and ranch dressing, this "slimmer" salad boasts half the calories while retaining all the flavor. Laden with chopped apple, feta cheese, chicken, bacon, and garbanzo beans, this lunch option will surely leave you fully satisfied. 32 / 40

Succulent Grilled Cheese & Pepper Sandwiches

With a combo of creamy mayonnaise and cream cheese, along with melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese, this sandwich is a tantalizing indulgence that you'd want to enjoy every day. Keep it warm and crispy by wrapping it in aluminum foil until lunchtime arrives.

Go to Recipe 2 / 40

Bacon Avocado Salad

This disassembled BLT-turned salad incorporates avocado for a full-rounded, easy lunch. The creamy avocado, smoky bacon, and juicy tomatoes give a balanced refreshing and savory taste to this bed of lettuce. 34 / 40

Taste of Home

Guacamole Tossed Salad

This salad features a delightful combination of ingredients, including creamy guacamole and crisp vegetables. Perfect for lunch, the flavors meld together to create a refreshing taste that you won't be able to resist. 35 / 40

Tossed Guacamole Salad

Why not skip the typical tortilla chips and try this simple recipe for a refreshing guacamole salad? Bursting with juicy tomatoes, red onion, crispy bacon, creamy avocados, fresh greens, and a dash of hot pepper sauce, this salad is bursting with fantastic flavors. 35 / 40

Speedy Microwave Egg Sandwich

Indulge in a delightful breakfast dish for your midday meal with this super quick microwave egg sandwich. Crafted with Canadian bacon, cheddar cheese, eggs, and salsa, this protein-packed breakfast treat is surprisingly low in fat. The best part? You can easily prepare it in the microwave for an incredibly hassle-free lunch. 36 / 40

Delectable Almond Strawberry Salad

Whip up a refreshing salad in mere minutes! This effortlessly easy lunch combines a medley of spinach, strawberries, and almonds, all perfectly complemented by a delightful dressing made from vinegar, honey, and sugar. The result is a light and sweet meal that will leave you feeling satisfied. 37 / 40

Fiery Buffalo Chicken Wraps

Add some heat to your lunch with these delightful Buffalo chicken wraps. This recipe combines a tantalizing blend of hot sauce and butter, perfect for dipping battered chicken into. Top it off with creamy salad dressing for the ultimate lunchtime wrap experience. 38 / 40

Taste of Home

Scrumptious Apple Chicken Quesadillas

Enjoy a delightful twist on the classic quesadilla with this Apple Chicken Quesadilla recipe. Combining chicken, apple slices, cheddar and mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, onions, and corn, this unique creation is placed between two warmed flour tortillas for a sweet and savory lunchtime treat. 39 / 40

Taste of Home

Flavorful Loaded Turkey Sliders

Don't be fooled by their size—these mini sandwiches pack a punch! Seasoned with hamburger seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, cumin, and Dijon mustard, these turkey sliders are elevated with gooey Muenster cheese, creating a truly satisfying lunch. 40 / 40

Tasty Greek Salad

Mike Garten

With a short list of quality ingredients, this Mediterranean classic really shines. But don't worry, you don't need to wait for summer to enjoy it. Just be sure to use the ripest, juiciest tomatoes and the crispiest cucumbers you can find.

Get the Greek Salad recipe.

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Spicy Harissa Chicken and Farro Salad

Mike Garten

This pairing of roasted chicken and salad is the epitome of a power lunch. Packed with protein and double complex carbohydrates, it's a nutritious and satisfying meal. Pro tip: make extra dressing and drizzle it over the leftovers for an extra burst of flavor.

Get the Harissa Chicken and Farro Salad recipe.

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Hearty Red Pepper and Tomato Soup

Faith Mason

Pureeing vegetables is a brilliant way to add a rich, creamy texture to your favorite plant-based soup recipe. This mouthwatering red pepper and tomato soup, served with crusty bread or alongside one of our beloved healthy salads, is a perfect choice for a satisfying lunch option.

Get the Red Pepper and Tomato Soup recipe.

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Savory Roasted Mediterranean Shrimp Bowls

Mike Garten

The beauty of a grain bowl lies in its versatility. You can effortlessly mix and match various elements to create healthy and delicious combinations. Plus, most of the components can be prepared ahead of time. Instead of using the usual grain, opt for riced veggies or chickpea-based rice as the base for an added twist.

Get the Roasted Mediterranean Shrimp Bowls recipe.

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With an array of mouthwatering options like Soul Taco and Miyabi Sushi, the best lunches in town are just a bite away. Whether you're in the mood for a flavorful Basil Chicken Sandwich or a tantalizing Red Pepper and Tomato Soup, these delectable dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Pick your favorite from this diverse selection and treat yourself to a culinary journey that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Don't settle for mediocre midday meals when you can indulge in a feast fit for a food connoisseur. From sandwiches and wraps to salads and soups, these lunchtime delights are guaranteed to elevate your dining experience to new heights. Bon appétit!