Queens' Best Lunch [Updated 2024]

Having lived and dined in Queens for years, I have tirelessly explored the countless culinary gems this borough has to offer. With a whopping twelve restaurants expertly reviewed, I have scoured the streets, sampled the flavors, and carefully crafted a comprehensive guide just for you.

Queens, known for its vibrant cultural diversity, boasts a myriad of options for every palate. Whether you’re craving delectable seafood, traditional Italian cuisine, or authentic Mexican street food, this guide has got you covered.

So get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through Queens as we unearth the best lunch spots this borough has to offer!

Trattoria L'incontro

Highlights
Authentic Italian food
Exceptional dining experience
Extensive specials menu
Amazing taste and service
Clean and cozy atmosphere

My senses were immediately captivated by the aroma of authentic Italian food as soon as I entered Trattoria L'incontro. The warm and friendly staff greeted me with smiles and made me feel right at home.

The first thing that struck me was the exceptional dining experience. The waitstaff was attentive and knowledgeable, offering suggestions from their extensive specials menu. I decided to try the risotto with seafood, and boy, was I in for a treat!

The flavors exploded in my mouth, each bite a delightful combination of perfectly cooked rice and succulent seafood. The presentation was impeccable, with the dish looking as beautiful as it tasted. I washed it down with a glass of their recommended red wine, which complemented the meal perfectly.

Not only did the food exceed my expectations, but the service was exceptional as well. The waitstaff catered to my every need, ensuring that I was well taken care of throughout my meal.

The atmosphere was clean and cozy, making it the ideal place to unwind and enjoy a leisurely lunch. The rustic décor and soft lighting added to the overall charm of Trattoria L'incontro.

In conclusion, my experience at Trattoria L'incontro was nothing short of amazing. The combination of amazing taste and service, along with the authentic Italian food and inviting atmosphere, make it one of the best lunch spots in Queens. I highly recommend giving it a try, and I guarantee you won't be disappointed.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Queens.

Taverna Kyclades

Highlights
Tasty food
Excellent service
Kid-friendly

Let me start by saying that Taverna Kyclades was a delightful lunch spot that left me craving more. As a connoisseur of delicious food, I am always on the lookout for restaurants that can deliver on taste, and Taverna Kyclades did not disappoint.

The first highlight of my visit was the tasty food. From the moment I took my first bite of their flavorful dishes, I knew I was in for a treat. Their menu offers a variety of Mediterranean specialties that are sure to satisfy any palate. The freshness of the ingredients and the skillful execution of their dishes truly set them apart.

Another highlight worth mentioning is the excellent service. The staff at Taverna Kyclades were not only attentive but also knowledgeable about the menu. They gladly answered my questions and made sure my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. Their warm and inviting demeanor further added to the overall enjoyment of my lunch.

What surprised me the most about Taverna Kyclades was how kid-friendly it was. They had a kids' menu that catered to the younger palate, ensuring that even the little ones were satisfied. The staff was incredibly patient with the children and made them feel welcome.

In conclusion, Taverna Kyclades is the epitome of a great lunch spot in Queens. From their tasty food to their excellent service and even their ability to accommodate families, they truly have it all. If you find yourself in Queens and craving a memorable lunch, I highly recommend paying Taverna Kyclades a visit.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Long Island.

Queens Bully

Highlights
Amazing food
Attentive service
Great portions
Delicious drinks
Seasoned fries

From the moment I walked into Queens Bully, I knew I was in for a delightful lunch experience. The atmosphere was lively and playful, with a modern yet rustic vibe that made me feel right at home. But let's get to what really matters – the food.

The menu at Queens Bully offers a variety of options, and believe me, every single dish I tried was nothing short of amazing. From the first bite, I could tell that the chefs put a lot of love and thought into their creations. The flavors exploded in my mouth, leaving me craving more with every bite.

Not only was the food outstanding, but the service was truly top-notch. The staff at Queens Bully were attentive and friendly, making sure that my lunch experience was nothing short of perfect. They were knowledgeable about the menu and provided excellent recommendations, enhancing my overall dining experience.

And let's not forget the portions. Trust me when I say that Queens Bully does not skimp on serving sizes. The plates were generously filled, leaving me completely satisfied and even with some leftovers to bring home. It's safe to say that you definitely get your money's worth at Queens Bully.

To accompany my delectable lunch, I opted for one of their delicious drinks. The bartenders at Queens Bully truly know their craft, mixing up creative and refreshing concoctions that perfectly complemented the flavors of the food.

Oh, and I can't forget to mention the perfectly seasoned fries that accompanied my main dish. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and seasoned to perfection, they were the ideal side dish to complete my lunch.

All in all, my experience at Queens Bully was a memorable one. The combination of amazing food, attentive service, great portions, and delicious drinks made it clear to me why this spot deserves a place among the best lunch spots in Queens. If you're looking to indulge in a fantastic lunch, make sure to check out Queens Bully – you won't be disappointed.

You might also want to check out the best french fries in Brooklyn.

Good Eats

Good Eats in Queens exceeded my expectations with its playful yet professional atmosphere. Their menu is a delightful blend of flavors, prepared with finesse. The bold flavors and enticing presentation made the lunch experience truly memorable. This place is a must-visit for anyone seeking the best lunch in Queens.

You might also want to check out the best mac and cheese in NYC.

Sanfords

Sanfords in Queens is where lunch dreams come true! The menu is packed with delicious options that will leave your taste buds dancing. From their perfectly grilled burgers to their mouthwatering sandwiches, you won't be disappointed. Oh, and their fries? Absolute perfection. Don't miss out on this lunch haven!

You might also want to check out the best bagels in Brooklyn.

Park Side Restaurant

Are you tired of the same old lunch spots in Queens? Well, fear no more because Park Side Restaurant is here to save your taste buds! Nestled conveniently in the heart of Queens, this hidden gem offers a playful yet professional dining experience that will leave you craving for more.

Upon stepping into Park Side Restaurant, I was instantly greeted by the inviting ambience and friendly staff. The menu was an absolute delight with a wide variety of options, ranging from classic sandwiches to delectable salads.

Deciding on my culinary adventure for the day, I settled on their famous Park Side Burger. Boy, was I in for a treat! The burger was cooked to perfection, with a juicy patty that practically melted in my mouth. The toppings and condiments were abundant and each bite was a burst of flavorful goodness.

For those with a health-conscious appetite, fear not! Park Side Restaurant also offers a variety of satisfying salads that are sure to please your taste buds as well as your waistline. The combination of fresh, crisp greens with grilled chicken and tangy dressings left me feeling energized and nourished.

Let's not forget about the portion size! Park Side Restaurant definitely knows how to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. Each dish was generously portioned, ensuring that no one walks away hungry.

The service at Park Side Restaurant was top-notch, with attentive and knowledgeable staff members who were more than happy to accommodate any dietary preferences or answer any questions. They truly made me feel like a welcomed guest.

Overall, Park Side Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone searching for the best lunch in Queens. With its playful-yet-professional vibe, mouth-watering food, generous portions, and exceptional service, this hidden gem deserves all the accolades it receives. So, grab a friend, head to Park Side Restaurant, and prepare to indulge in a culinary journey that will leave you wanting more. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best diners in NYC.

London Lennie's

Lennie's is a hidden gem in Queens! The playful yet professional ambiance sets the stage for a memorable lunch. The lobster roll was a mouthwatering delight, while their crab cakes were perfectly crisp. Don't forget to save room for their decadent key lime pie. A truly delightful dining experience in Queens!

You might also want to check out the best desserts in NYC.

Uncle Peter's

I had the pleasure of dining at Uncle Peter's in Queens recently, and let me tell you, it was a culinary adventure like no other. From the moment I stepped inside, the aroma of mouthwatering flavors wafted through the air and tickled my taste buds. The menu was an eclectic mix of old favorites and tempting innovations, making it hard to decide what to try first. But try I did, and boy was I rewarded.

I started with their signature appetizer, the crispy calamari. The perfectly fried seafood was tender on the inside and wonderfully crunchy on the outside. Accompanied by a tangy and slightly spicy dipping sauce, it was a match made in flavor heaven. Next, I dove into their pasta primavera – a delightful medley of seasonal vegetables tossed with al dente pasta and a light, garlic-infused sauce. The vegetables were fresh and bursting with color, while the pasta was cooked to perfection.

But the real star of the show was their grilled salmon. This piece of fish was nothing short of a masterpiece. Cooked just right, the salmon was flaky, moist, and rich in flavor. It was served atop a bed of vibrant, sautéed greens and accompanied by a zesty citrus glaze. Each bite was like a little slice of maritime heaven, and I found myself savoring every morsel.

To finish off my feast, I couldn't resist indulging in their tiramisu. Oh, what a sweet ending it was! The layers of sponge cake soaked in espresso and rum were alternated with creamy mascarpone and dusted with a generous amount of cocoa powder. It was the perfect mix of sweetness and richness, leaving me with a satisfied smile on my face.

The friendly and attentive staff at Uncle Peter's only enhanced the experience. They were knowledgeable about the menu and ready to recommend dishes based on my preferences. The ambiance of the restaurant was inviting, with cozy seating and tasteful decor that exuded charm without being over-the-top.

In conclusion, Uncle Peter's in Queens is a hidden gem that shouldn't be missed. With their delectable dishes, attentive service, and charming atmosphere, it's a lunch destination that caters to every craving. So go ahead, indulge in the flavors of Uncle Peter's for a lunch you won't soon forget.

You might also want to check out the best sushi in Brooklyn.

Pete's Grill

Pete's Grill in Queens is a hidden gem for lunch lovers. Their diverse menu satisfies the taste buds of any foodie. The passionate staff and cozy atmosphere add to the overall charm. Don't miss their signature dish, the Queen's Deluxe Burger - it's fit for royalty!

You might also want to check out the best burgers in Manhattan.

Nick's Bistro

Nick's Bistro in Queens is a hidden gem for lunch lovers. Their creative menu showcases a fusion of flavors that left my taste buds dancing. The mouthwatering sandwiches and delicate salads were simply divine. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make this spot a must-visit for a delightful lunch experience in Queens.

You might also want to check out the best sushi in Manhattan.

The Thirsty Koala

As someone who knows a thing or two about lunches in Queens, I recently had the pleasure of checking out The Thirsty Koala. And boy, was I in for a treat! This cozy little spot in the heart of Queens offers a playful yet professional dining experience that is sure to please any lunch enthusiast.

First off, let's talk about the atmosphere. The Thirsty Koala has managed to strike the perfect balance between laid-back and stylish. With its charming decor and friendly staff, you'll feel right at home as soon as you step through the door.

Now, let's get down to the main event - the food. As an expert in reviewing lunches, I must say that The Thirsty Koala offers a truly impressive menu. Whether you're in the mood for a classic burger or feeling adventurous and want to try their mouthwatering Greek-inspired dishes, there's something to please every palate.

One dish that particularly stood out was their Lamb Souvlaki Wrap. The succulent marinated lamb, combined with the fresh veggies and creamy tzatziki sauce, created a flavor explosion in every bite. It was like a little taste of Greece right here in Queens.

In addition to their delectable food, The Thirsty Koala also boasts an impressive selection of beverages. From craft beers to creative cocktails, you'll definitely find something to quench your thirst.

Overall, my visit to The Thirsty Koala was an absolute delight. From the friendly staff to the mouthwatering food, this place has earned its place among the best lunch spots in Queens. So, if you find yourself in the area and in need of a satisfying and memorable lunch, be sure to give The Thirsty Koala a try. You won't be disappointed!

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5 Burro Cafe

Lunch at 5 Burro Cafe in Queens was an explosive flavor fiesta! The playful atmosphere made me feel like I stumbled into a cozy cantina. The fresh guacamole and zesty tacos transported my taste buds to Mexico. This place definitely tops the list for the best lunch in Queens!

You might also want to check out the best dumplings in NYC.