Encino, a vibrant neighborhood in Los Angeles, boasts a diverse culinary scene. Finding the perfect lunch spot can feel overwhelming with so many options. This guide highlights 20 exceptional restaurants offering a variety of cuisines and atmospheres, perfect for your next workday lunch or weekend treat. We've categorized them for easy navigation, ensuring you find the ideal match for your taste and budget.
Quick & Casual Lunch Spots in Encino
These restaurants offer fast, delicious, and affordable lunch options, ideal for a quick bite on your break or a casual get-together.
1. Encino Market Deli: A local favorite known for its generous portions and fresh ingredients. Their pastrami on rye is legendary!
- Vibe: Casual, family-friendly
- Price: $
- Must-Try: Pastrami on Rye, Matzah Ball Soup
2. The Great Greek: Authentic Greek flavors at a great price. Their gyros are a must-try!
- Vibe: Casual, quick service
- Price: $
- Must-Try: Gyro platter, Greek salad
3. Sushi Gen: A popular spot for fresh, high-quality sushi. They offer a variety of lunch specials.
- Vibe: Casual, modern
- Price: $$
- Must-Try: California roll, Spicy Tuna roll
4. Urban Plates: Healthy and delicious, with customizable bowls and plates. Perfect for those watching their waistline.
- Vibe: Casual, modern
- Price: $
- Must-Try: The Mediterranean Bowl, Grilled Salmon
5. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery: While known for breakfast, their lunch menu offers delicious pancakes and other savory options. A unique choice for a casual lunch.
- Vibe: Fun, quirky
- Price: $
- Must-Try: Pancake Flight, Breakfast Burrito (yes, for lunch!)
Upscale Lunch Options in Encino
For a more sophisticated lunch experience, these restaurants offer elevated cuisine and ambiance.
6. Mastro's City Hall: A steakhouse with an elegant atmosphere and exceptional service. Their lunch menu features delicious steaks and seafood.
- Vibe: Upscale, sophisticated
- Price: $$
- Must-Try: Filet Mignon, Lobster Mac & Cheese
7. BOA Steakhouse: Another high-end steakhouse option, known for its prime cuts of meat and extensive wine list.
- Vibe: Upscale, sophisticated
- Price: $$
- Must-Try: Dry-aged Ribeye, Wagyu Beef
8. Spago Beverly Hills (nearby): While technically in Beverly Hills, it's close enough to Encino to warrant inclusion. Wolfgang Puck's legendary restaurant offers a refined dining experience.
- Vibe: Luxury, iconic
- Price: $$$
- Must-Try: Lobster ravioli, California pizza
9. The Ivy (nearby): Another nearby option in Beverly Hills, The Ivy is a celebrity hotspot known for its beautiful patio and delicious California cuisine.
- Vibe: Chic, celebrity-spotting
- Price: $$
- Must-Try: Shrimp Scampi, Cobb Salad
10. Il Fornaio: This Italian restaurant offers a beautiful setting and delicious pasta dishes.
- Vibe: Elegant, romantic
- Price: $$
- Must-Try: Spaghetti Carbonara, Lobster Risotto
Diverse Culinary Experiences in Encino
Explore the world's flavors with these diverse lunch options.
11. Gracias Madre (West Hollywood - nearby): A plant-based Mexican restaurant with vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere.
- Vibe: Trendy, healthy
- Price: $
- Must-Try: Jackfruit tacos, Enchiladas
12. Din Tai Fung (nearby): Famous for its soup dumplings, this restaurant offers a unique and delicious dining experience.
- Vibe: Upscale casual, bustling
- Price: $$
- Must-Try: Soup dumplings (Xiao Long Bao), Noodles with Pork
13. Republique (nearby): A sophisticated restaurant offering a French-inspired menu with seasonal ingredients.
- Vibe: Refined, stylish
- Price: $$
- Must-Try: Steak frites, Roasted chicken
14. Bestia (Arts District - further but worth it): A popular Italian restaurant known for its wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes. Although a bit further, it’s worth the trip for a special lunch.
- Vibe: Industrial-chic, trendy
- Price: $$
- Must-Try: Pizza, handmade pasta
15. Gjelina (Venice - further but worth it): Known for its California-Mediterranean cuisine and beautiful outdoor patio, this restaurant makes for a special lunch occasion.
- Vibe: Casual-chic, trendy
- Price: $$
- Must-Try: Pizza, salads
Cafes & Bakeries in Encino
Perfect for a light lunch or a coffee break.
16. Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf: A classic coffee shop with a wide variety of coffee drinks, pastries, and light lunch options.
- Vibe: Casual, familiar
- Price: $
- Must-Try: Iced Latte, pastries
17. Aroma Coffee & Tea: Another great option for coffee, tea, and light bites.
- Vibe: Casual, relaxing
- Price: $
- Must-Try: Latte, sandwiches
18. Porto's Bakery: Famous for its Cuban pastries and sandwiches, this bakery is a must-visit for dessert lovers and those craving a sweet treat.
- Vibe: Sweet, lively
- Price: $
- Must-Try: Guava and cheese pastry, Cuban sandwich
Unique Lunch Spots in Encino
These are a few unique options that stand out from the crowd.
19. Pick a restaurant based on your mood: Use online reviews and menus to discover hidden gems or unique options based on your personal preferences.
20. Explore Ventura Boulevard: Venture beyond this list! Ventura Boulevard itself is home to many more great lunch spots, waiting to be discovered.
This list provides a starting point for your Encino lunch adventures. Remember to check restaurant websites for menus, hours, and reservations, especially for the upscale options. Enjoy your culinary explorations in Encino, Los Angeles!
