Mid-Wilshire boasts a vibrant culinary scene, offering a diverse range of lunch options to satisfy any craving. From quick bites to elegant affairs, this neighborhood caters to diverse palates and budgets. This guide highlights 14 of the best lunch restaurants in Mid-Wilshire, Los Angeles, ensuring your midday meal is a memorable experience. We'll explore various cuisines and price points, helping you discover your new favorite lunch spot.
Quick & Casual Lunch Spots in Mid-Wilshire
This section focuses on restaurants perfect for a fast, satisfying, and budget-friendly lunch.
1. Republique (French Bistro): Casual Elegance for Lunch
Republique offers a more upscale casual experience. Their lunch menu features classic French bistro dishes with a modern twist. Expect beautifully presented salads, hearty sandwiches, and flavorful soups. While pricier than other options on this list, the quality of the ingredients and the ambiance make it a worthwhile splurge for a special lunch.
- Price Range: $$
- Cuisine: French Bistro
- Highlight: Their daily specials often feature seasonal ingredients.
2. Honey's Kettle (American Diner): Classic Comfort Food
Craving a classic American diner experience? Honey's Kettle is your go-to. Their generous portions of burgers, fries, and milkshakes are perfect for a satisfying lunch. The atmosphere is lively and nostalgic, transporting you back to a simpler time.
- Price Range: $
- Cuisine: American Diner
- Highlight: Their breakfast is served all day, so you can enjoy pancakes for lunch!
3. Little Dom's (Italian Deli): A Taste of Italy
Little Dom's offers a taste of Italy in the heart of Mid-Wilshire. Their Italian deli sandwiches are legendary, featuring high-quality meats, cheeses, and fresh bread. You can also grab a quick pasta dish or a delicious salad for a lighter lunch.
- Price Range: $
- Cuisine: Italian Deli
- Highlight: Their homemade mozzarella is a must-try.
Upscale Lunch Options in Mid Wilshire
For those seeking a more refined lunch experience, these establishments offer sophisticated menus and elegant settings.
4. Otium (Modern American): Culinary Excellence
Otium is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers an exquisite lunch menu. The dishes are innovative and beautifully presented, showcasing seasonal ingredients and culinary techniques. This is a perfect choice for a special occasion or a business lunch.
- Price Range: $$
- Cuisine: Modern American
- Highlight: Their tasting menu is a truly unique culinary journey.
5. WP24 by Wolfgang Puck (Chinese): Panoramic Views & Fine Dining
WP24, located atop The Ritz-Carlton, offers stunning panoramic views of the city along with its exceptional Chinese cuisine. The lunch menu features dim sum, noodles, and other traditional dishes with a modern twist. Be prepared for a pricier experience.
- Price Range: $$
- Cuisine: Modern Chinese
- Highlight: The unparalleled views are a major draw.
Diverse Culinary Experiences
Mid-Wilshire's lunch scene is exceptionally diverse. Here are some options representing various culinary traditions.
6. Guelaguetza (Oaxacan): Authentic Mexican Flavors
For a taste of authentic Oaxacan cuisine, Guelaguetza is a must-visit. This restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere and flavorful dishes, including mole, tamales, and tlayudas. It's a great option for a lively and delicious lunch.
- Price Range: $
- Cuisine: Oaxacan
- Highlight: Their mole negro is a must-try.
7. Sushi Gen (Sushi): Fresh & High-Quality Sushi
Sushi Gen is a renowned sushi restaurant in Mid-Wilshire that prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether you're a sushi connoisseur or just starting to explore Japanese cuisine, this is a top choice.
- Price Range: $$
- Cuisine: Sushi
- Highlight: Their omakase menu is a treat for experienced sushi lovers.
8. Din Tai Fung (Taiwanese): World-Famous Soup Dumplings
Din Tai Fung needs no introduction. Their world-famous soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) are a culinary delight. Besides the dumplings, their lunch menu also includes a wide variety of other delicious Taiwanese dishes.
- Price Range: $
- Cuisine: Taiwanese
- Highlight: Their soup dumplings are a must-try.
Cafes & Bakeries for a Relaxed Lunch
Sometimes, a relaxed atmosphere and a lighter lunch are perfect.
9. Blue Bottle Coffee (Coffee Shop): A Coffee Lover's Paradise
Blue Bottle Coffee is a haven for coffee lovers. Beyond exceptional coffee, they also offer light bites like pastries, sandwiches, and salads. It's an excellent choice for a quick and refreshing lunch.
- Price Range: $
- Cuisine: Coffee Shop
- Highlight: Their pour-over coffee is exceptional.
10. Urth Caffé (Cafe): Organic & Healthy Options
Urth Caffé offers a wide array of organic and healthy options for lunch. Their menu includes fresh salads, sandwiches, and juices, all made with high-quality ingredients. The cafe is a popular spot for a healthy and satisfying meal.
- Price Range: $
- Cuisine: Cafe
- Highlight: Their organic coffee and tea selection is vast.
Hidden Gems & Unique Options
These restaurants offer unique experiences and are worth exploring.
11. Park's BBQ (Korean BBQ): Authentic Korean Flavors
Park's BBQ is a fantastic option for those who crave authentic Korean BBQ. Their lunch menu offers various BBQ meats, banchan (side dishes), and other Korean specialties. It's a great place for a flavorful and fun lunch.
- Price Range: $
- Cuisine: Korean BBQ
- Highlight: The all-you-can-eat option is a great value.
12. Preux & Proper (New Orleans): Southern Charm in Los Angeles
Preux & Proper brings the flavors of New Orleans to Mid-Wilshire. Their lunch menu features classic Southern dishes like po'boys, gumbo, and jambalaya. The ambiance is warm and inviting, offering a taste of Southern hospitality.
- Price Range: $$
- Cuisine: New Orleans
- Highlight: Their cocktails are a perfect complement to their food.
More Mid-Wilshire Lunch Options
This section includes a couple more worthy of mention.
13. The Original Farmers Market (Variety): Diverse Choices Under One Roof
The Original Farmers Market is a fantastic option if you want variety. Located at The Grove, it offers a wide range of cuisines and price points, from tacos and pizza to gourmet sandwiches and international fare.
- Price Range: Varies widely
- Cuisine: Various
- Highlight: The sheer diversity of options makes it a great choice.
14. Pitfire Pizza (Pizza): Delicious Pizza with a Casual Vibe
Pitfire Pizza is perfect for a casual and delicious lunch. They offer high-quality pizza with creative toppings and a pleasant atmosphere. A good choice for a quick and easy lunch with friends or colleagues.
- Price Range: $
- Cuisine: Pizza
- Highlight: Their crust is particularly delicious.
This list provides a diverse overview of the best lunch restaurants in Mid-Wilshire, Los Angeles. Remember to check restaurant websites for hours of operation, menus, and potential reservations before your visit. Enjoy your lunch!
