Fast casual spots to visit on your lunch break

Watch the chef cook fresh food behind the counter at Tommy's Joynt. Photo courtesy of Tommy's Joynt.

Searching for the perfect midday meal? From juicy burgers and tasty tacos to savory chicken sandwiches, fresh salads and more — there are so many fantastic eateries serving lunch in the Bay Area. So, how do you choose where to dine? If you’re in the mood for a fast, casual lunch spot near BART, we can help. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite places to visit at lunchtime. Bring your appetite, and don’t forget your Clipper card. 

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Find juicy burgers on fresh sourdough here. Photo courtesy of Red Java House.

Red's Java House | Embarcadero

This classic and casual eatery is known for its burgers served on San Francisco sourdough bread. Their lunch menu also offers hot dogs, fish & chips, tuna sandwiches and egg salad sandwiches. Whatever you order, it’ll taste best from the outdoor patio, which gives the gift of gorgeous waterfront views. Established initially as Frank’s Lunch in 1930 and renamed Red’s Java House in 1955, this iconic waterside eatery is a San Francisco staple. Take BART to Embarcadero. Red’s Java House is a lovely 0.7 miles stroll along the waterfront to Pier 30.

Take in the scenery on a relaxing outdoor patio. Photo courtesy of Gotts Roadside. 

Gotts Roadside | Embarcadero

First opened in St. Helena in 1999, Gott’s Roadside was recognized as a James Beard America's Classic. Luckily, their San Francisco location makes for an ideal lunch near BART. Enjoy California-inspired fare, like burgers and sandwiches, with California wines and beers at the beautiful San Francisco Ferry Building. Take BART to Embarcadero and walk 0.3 miles to the Ferry Building. While facing the iconic structure, you’ll spot Gott’s bright red chairs and wooden tables on the far left hand side.

The service is simple and quick at Uno Dos Tacos. Photo courtesy of Uno Dos Tacos.

Uno Dos Tacos | Montgomery St

For simple, fresh Mexican food and a lively atmosphere, try Uno Dos Tacos. Choose between tacos, burritos, salads or flavorful plates served with rice. Plus, every tortilla and chip is handcrafted in-house, every day. Take Bart to Montgomery St for Chef Luis Flores’ flavors of Mexico just 10 feet away at 595 Market St.

Enjoy breakfast under a heated patio. Photo courtesy of the Grove SF.

The Grove | Montgomery St

Are you a fan of breakfast for lunch? The Grove breakfast sandwich or the eggs Benedict are two egg-cellent options that pair beautifully with a mimosa. For more typical lunchtime grub, The Grove offers salads, soups and sandwiches that are served fresh and quickly. Sit indoors or outdoors. The patio is heated and covered so guests can stay warm on foggy San Francisco afternoons. Take BART to Montgomery St for fresh lunchtime cuisine 0.2 miles away at 690 Mission St.

Tommy's Joynt is open late for a quick lunch or dinner.

Tommy's Joynt | Civic Center/UN Plaza

For 76 years, Tommy’s Joynt has offered only one menu, and it’s a good one! When you get there, hop in line and order from the carver. Specialties include barbeque brisket, ham, roast beef, turkey, pastrami and corned beef. These are served on your choice of bread with either barbeque, gravy or au jus. Also, check out Tommy’s original favorites, like the meatball sandwich or the large turkey leg, and tasty sides, like potato salad and baked beans. Take BART to Civic Center/UN Plaza for a classic San Francisco lunch 0.8 miles away at 1101 Geary Blvd.

Fried chicken is a staple at Matt Horn's Kowbird in West Oakland. Photo courtesy of Kowbird.

Kowbird | West Oakland

Contributing to Oakland’s vibrant culinary scene, Chef Matt Horn is known as a pioneer who brought barbeque to the West Coast. His restaurant, Kowbird, is famous for its hot chicken sandwiches. However, juicy and succulent half-birds and wings are also on the menu. With retro aesthetics and modern flair, the atmosphere is inviting at this delicious Oakland eatery. Take BART to West Oakland for Matt Horn’s soul food 0.6 miles away at 1733 Peralta St.

Handmade fare inspired by Peruvian cuisine. Photo courtesy of Cholita Linda.

Cholita Linda | MacArthur, Embarcadero, Walnut Creek

Vanessa Chaves first offered her Baja fish and carnitas tacos at the Jack London Square Farmers Market. Now, Cholita Linda has three locations, three of which are BARTable. The fish tacos are some of the best in the Bay Area. Take BART to MacArthur for fast, casual Latin American street food 0.6 miles away at 4923 Telegraph Ave. You can also stop by their San Francisco location inside the Ferry Building (0.3 miles from Embarcadero) and their Walnut Creek location (1.0 miles from Walnut Creek Station at 24 Broadway Lane).

There are a variety of options inside Swan's Market. Photo courtesy of Swan's Market.

Swan's Market | 12th St/Oakland City Center

Set in a historic 1917 building in Old Oakland, Swan’s Market is not just one eatery; it’s a compilation of restaurants. Cuisines range from Caribbean to Thai, Japanese and more. Enjoy flavorful food, sweet treats, coffee, beer and wine. Head to Swan's Market for a quick and casual lunch with communal seating. Take BART to 12^th St/Oakland City Center for various delectable options 0.2 miles away at 510 9th St.

What's your favorite lunch spot in the Bay Area?

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