The Best Lunch Spots in Riverside, CA - A Foodie's Guide

Downtown Riverside is a foodie's dream come true, boasting an array of award-winning restaurants that offer something for everyone. From AAA five-diamond steakhouses to Mexican dishes, French cuisine, Italian specialties, and sandwich boutiques, there's something to satisfy every palate. If you're looking for a quick bite, California Pizza Kitchen, El Torito, PF Chang's, Yardhouse and The Cheesecake Factory are all conveniently located close to the center. EveryTable is a great takeaway option with the mission of making fresh and nutritious food accessible to everyone.

Saku Ramen is a must-try for its attention to detail in cutting proteins and preparing complex broths. Urban Dripp offers unique and classic donut flavors, including several vegan options. Bella Trattoria seduces the palate with its delicious Southern Italian cuisine. Arcade Coffee Roasters is known for its locally roasted coffee, freshly baked pastries and delicious weekend lunches.

Winner of the AAA Four Diamond Award since 1996, the Golden Baccus Award for its excellent wine selection and the Best Excellence Award from Wine Spectator, Duane's immerses guests in a world of elegance with warm amber tones and sophisticated decor. Inland Empire is Southern California's first gastropub located in the pedestrian mall just steps from hotels and the local convention center. The Pig is a city-wide favorite for its homemade brioche rolls, artisanal cocktails with alcohol and syrups, and ice cream prepared daily. The Pig exclusively offers craft beer from the best local and world-renowned breweries.

Located less than a block from the Riverside Convention Center, Prohibition Whiskey Bar & Restaurant is a classic, contemporary place for everyone to enjoy. Le Chat Noir “The Black Cat” pampers its most experienced customers with French cuisine à la carte. Las Campanas restaurant at the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa offers the best in fresh Mexican cuisine, exclusive margaritas and outdoor dining in Southern California. Heroes & Brewery restaurant offers hearty servings of excellent American food with an attractive presentation as well as craft beers served in two full-service bars.

The Riverside Tamale Factory has become a favorite restaurant for locals and visitors with recipes that have been in the family business for generations. Simple Simon's is a legendary place for its fresh atmosphere and impressive food with sandwiches, soups and salads made from scratch. Mezcal is an authentic Mexican restaurant with an atmosphere like no other combined with its delicious Mexican cuisine. Lake Alice has been chosen for nine years as the best sports bar in the Inland Empire by the Press Enterprise Reader's Choice Awards.

Back to the Grind brought to Riverside the first community coffee shop that was an alternative to the old coffee hangouts of the past located in a Victorian café. CPK is one of Riverside's favorite places for business lunches and family reunions because of its special decor, warm and friendly service, and exceptional meals. Blaze Pizza offers exceptional quality at breakneck speed with healthy artisanal ingredients on the assembly line cooked in an open kitchen. Jersey Mike's offers a unique dining experience to meet & greet in the historic center of Riverside.