Kirkland's Best Lunch [Updated 2025]

Having explored 12 remarkable spots in our charming town, I've gathered insights that will tantalize your taste buds.

From cozy cafes to vibrant eateries, each location offers its unique twist on lunch favorites.

Kirkland is a hidden gem filled with diverse culinary delights, perfect for a midday break.

Whether you're in the mood for something quick and casual or a more leisurely dining experience, there's something for everyone.

Join me as I delve into the must-visit lunch spots that celebrate both creativity and flavor in our beloved Kirkland!

Sparrow

Highlights
Gorgeous ambiance
Delectable food options
Stellar service
Intimate dining experience
Stunning cocktail presentations

Sparrow in Kirkland is nothing short of a culinary gem that left my taste buds dancing with joy. From the moment I stepped inside, I was captivated by the gorgeous ambiance—a harmonious blend of elegance and warmth that sets the stage for a memorable meal.

The menu features an array of delectable food options, but it’s the vibrant lunch specials that truly shine. I savored a delightful roasted beet salad, complemented perfectly by tangy goat cheese, and the portion was generous enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetite. Each bite was a delightful play of flavors that showcased the chef's creativity.

What truly elevated my experience was the stellar service. The staff was attentive without being intrusive, offering insightful recommendations and ensuring every need was met with a smile. The intimate dining experience lent itself to relaxed conversation, making it perfect for a catch-up with friends or a business lunch.

And let’s talk about the drinks! Their stunning cocktail presentations were almost too pretty to drink— almost. I must say, unparalleled atmosphere, delicious food, and exceptional service make Sparrow a top contender in the Kirkland lunch scene. If you haven't been yet, you’re missing out!

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DERU

Highlights
Fresh, locally sourced ingredients
Amazing pumpkin risotto
Flavorful and fresh kale cake
Warm and welcoming atmosphere
Committed to made-from-scratch food

DERU has firmly established itself as a must-visit gem in Kirkland for lunch enthusiasts. The moment I stepped in, I was enveloped by a warm and welcoming atmosphere that set the stage for a delightful meal. The commitment to locally sourced ingredients truly shines through in every dish they serve.

One standout dish was their amazing pumpkin risotto—a creamy, flavorful concoction that danced on my palate. The seasonal ingredients were not just an afterthought; they brought comfort and warmth, perfect for any lunch craving. And who could resist the flavorful and fresh kale cake? It was an explosion of taste with each bite, a testament to their emphasis on made-from-scratch food.

As I enjoyed my meal, I admired the restaurant's dedication to quality and sustainability—each plate tells a story of freshness. With such irresistible offerings, it’s no wonder DERU has become a favorite among locals. I left feeling nourished and satisfied, already planning my next visit to indulge in more of their culinary delights. If you find yourself in Kirkland, make sure you stop by DERU—it promises an unforgettable lunch experience!

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Le Grand Bistro Americain

Highlights
Scenic views of the marina
Attentive and friendly service
Customizable menu options
Delicious food and drinks
Perfect for celebrations

Review of Le Grand Bistro Americain

Tucked away along the beautiful marina, Le Grand Bistro Americain is a delightful gem in Kirkland that dazzles all the senses. As I stepped inside, I was immediately greeted by the warmth of friendly smiles—an excellent start to my lunch adventure! One glance out the window, and I was treated to scenic views that could easily make any meal feel like a special occasion.

Now, let’s talk about the menu. The variety here is remarkable, with customizable options that cater to every taste bud. I opted for their signature salad, which was as colorful as it was delicious, bursting with fresh ingredients that sang with flavor in every bite. The food quality, combined with the delightful presentation, made it clear that they take pride in what they serve.

The overall ambiance struck a perfect balance between casual and elegant, making it an ideal spot not just for lunch but for celebrations as well. I'd highly recommend stopping by for a leisurely lunch—you might find yourself lingering longer than planned, all while enjoying exquisite cuisine and the gentle breeze off the water.

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Nick's Grill

Highlights
Friendly and attentive staff
Delicious burgers available
Cozy atmosphere
Quick service
Limited seating options

Nick's Grill is a delightful find nestled right in the heart of Kirkland. As I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile from the friendly staff, setting the perfect tone for a cozy afternoon. The atmosphere wraps you in a casual charm that makes you want to linger, even if the seating options are a tad limited.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the burgers. My taste buds danced with joy as I took my first bite, savoring the juicy, perfectly grilled patty. They’ve mastered the art of burger-making here, and each mouthful was a flavorful delight that left me wanting more. What truly impressed me was the speed of service – I barely had time to sip my drink before my meal arrived, fresh and hot.

Overall, my lunch at Nick's Grill was a memorable experience, combining a lively atmosphere with mouthwatering food and quick service. I left feeling satisfied and eager for my next visit. If you're in Kirkland and yearning for a hearty lunch, don't miss out on this gem! It’s a spot that serves not just meals, but a slice of joy. Bon appétit!

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Cafe Veloce

Highlights
Friendly, attentive wait staff
Perfectly cooked food
Ideal for large groups
Renowned pizza
Consistent positive experiences

Cafe Veloce is truly a gem nestled in Kirkland, offering a delightful lunch experience that feels both vibrant and relaxed. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the friendly and attentive wait staff who made the ambiance feel warmer; it’s clear that they genuinely care about the dining experience.

I couldn't resist trying their renowned pizza, and I must say, it did not disappoint! Each bite showcased a perfectly cooked crust paired with fresh toppings, striking a balance of flavors that danced delightfully on my palate.

What I appreciated most was the restaurant's ability to cater to large groups without compromising on quality or service—an impressive feat! It’s a fantastic spot for a lunch with friends, family, or even a casual business meeting.

My visit to Cafe Veloce included consistent positive experiences in both food and service, leaving me eager to return and explore more of their menu. If you’re searching for a playful yet professional lunch spot in Kirkland, this is definitely the place to be. Treat yourself to a slice of heaven at Cafe Veloce; I promise you won’t regret it!

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Cafe Juanita

Highlights
Incredible house focaccia
Unique flavor journeys
A5 Wagyu and charred cabbage
Elegant fine dining experience
Balancing act of flavors

Lunch Review of Cafe Juanita

Nestled in the heart of Kirkland, Cafe Juanita transports you to a realm of culinary delight. As soon as I stepped in, the enticing aroma of their incredible house focaccia wafted through the air, beckoning me to indulge. And indulge I did!

The menu at Cafe Juanita feels like a personal love letter to Mediterranean cuisine. I embarked on a unique flavor journey with the A5 Wagyu complemented by charred cabbage. Each bite was a testament to the chef's mastery; the richness of the Wagyu paired harmoniously with the subtle smokiness of the cabbage. It was a delightful balancing act of flavors that sparked joy in every forkful.

What truly sets Cafe Juanita apart is the elegant fine dining experience, which elevates lunch into an affair worth savoring. The attentive service and thoughtfully curated dishes transform an ordinary lunchtime stop into a remarkable feast. With its creative takes on classic dishes, I can confidently say that if you’re seeking the best lunch in Kirkland, you must indulge in the magic that is Cafe Juanita. I left the restaurant not just satisfied, but inspired—ready to share the secret of this culinary gem with everyone I know!

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Anthony's HomePort Kirkland

Highlights
Beautiful water views
Impeccable service
Fresh, quality seafood
All-you-can-eat Dungeness crab
Great for families

As I stepped into Anthony's HomePort Kirkland, the stunning water views immediately captivated me, providing the perfect backdrop for a memorable lunch. The ambiance perfectly balances casual elegance, making it an ideal spot for both families and those seeking a relaxing meal. The service was impeccable—our server was not only attentive but also genuinely enthusiastic about the menu options.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the seafood. I decided to indulge in their all-you-can-eat Dungeness crab. The crab was fresh, succulent, and bursting with flavor, a true testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality. Each bite was a reminder of why I came here in the first place. With the gentle lapping of the water against the shore, every dish elevated the experience to something extraordinary.

Whether you're dining with loved ones or enjoying a peaceful solo lunch, Anthony's offers a culinary delight that’s hard to resist. I left feeling completely satisfied, both by the delicious dishes and the warm atmosphere. If you're in Kirkland, make sure to visit Anthony's; it's truly a gem for lunch lovers!

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Volterra

Highlights
Attentive and friendly service
Authentic homemade pasta
Hearty portion sizes
Great for date nights
Contemporary Italian cuisine

Visiting Volterra in Kirkland felt like stepping straight into a cozy Italian bistro, where every dish tells a story and every bite is a delightful embrace. Right from the start, I was impressed by the attentive and friendly service that made me feel like a cherished guest rather than just another customer.

The star of my meal? The authentic homemade pasta that was simply divine. Each forkful was a delicate balance of flavor and texture, showcasing the chef's passion for contemporary Italian cuisine. I opted for the Pappardelle Bolognese, and let me tell you, the sauce was rich without being overwhelming, allowing the fresh pasta to shine.

And let’s talk about portion sizes—they were hearty enough to leave anyone feeling satisfied. It’s perfect for lunch, and you may even have enough to take home for later, should you resist the temptation to finish every last bite.

Whether you’re on a lunch break or planning a date night, Volterra is a delightful spot to unwind with good food. I left with my heart and stomach full, already plotting my next visit. If you’re in Kirkland, this place deserves a spot on your culinary map!

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Cactus Kirkland

Highlights
Excellent Service
Vibrant Atmosphere
Bold, Flavorful Cuisine
Innovative Menu Options
Craft Cocktails Available

Cactus Kirkland is a delightful gem that truly captures the spirit of vibrant dining. Upon entering, I was immediately struck by the vibrant atmosphere, filled with artistic decor and a warm buzz of chatter. It set the perfect backdrop for my lunch adventure. The excellent service from the staff showcased their dedication to making every guest feel special—an important touch that turned an ordinary lunch into an extraordinary experience.

Now, let's talk about the food! Cactus offers a menu that bursts with bold, flavorful cuisine that draws inspiration from southwestern dishes. I dove into their famous tacos, and each bite was a fiesta my taste buds wholeheartedly embraced. The innovative menu options cater to various palates, ensuring that everyone is satisfied—whether you're craving something spicy or something a bit milder.

As a cherry on top, their craft cocktails provided a refreshing balance to the meal. If you find yourself in Kirkland and are in search of a lunch spot that combines delicious food, unmatched atmosphere, and remarkable service, look no further than Cactus Kirkland. I left with a smile and a satisfied palate, eagerly planning my return!

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Hearth

Highlights
Hidden gem brunch spot
Delicious, large portion sizes
Excellent attentive service
Savory dishes shine
Great cocktails and desserts

Hearth is truly a hidden gem in Kirkland that deserves recognition for its brunch offerings. As soon as I stepped inside, the warm ambiance enveloped me, setting the stage for a delightful meal. I was impressed by the attentive service—my server was both knowledgeable and genuinely enthusiastic about the menu.

Now, let’s talk about those savory dishes. I dug into their signature brunch plate, and let me tell you, the portion sizes were generous enough to keep me satisfied through the rest of my bustling day! The blend of flavors was simply divine, showcasing the kitchen's skill.

As if that wasn't enough, Hearth also boasts a delightful selection of cocktails and desserts that can easily elevate your meal experience. I decided to treat myself to a refreshing drink, which paired beautifully with my meal and left me smiling.

If you're in the mood for a remarkable lunch that combines comfort and creativity, look no further than Hearth. This establishment has a knack for making every visit feel special! Don’t miss out on this culinary treasure tucked away in Kirkland!

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Island Soul - Kirkland (Arleana's)

Highlights
Great atmosphere and service
Tasty Caribbean and French fusion
Delicious patties, highly praised
Varied menu with unique dishes
Welcoming dining experience

During my lunch outing at Island Soul - Kirkland (Arleana's), I was immediately struck by the welcoming atmosphere and the genuinely friendly service. It felt like stepping into a vibrant corner of the Caribbean right here in Kirkland.

The menu is a delightful fusion of Caribbean and French flavors, which piqued my curiosity. I couldn't resist sampling their renowned patties, and let me tell you, these little gems were nothing short of extraordinary! Flaky and golden, each bite revealed a burst of flavor that danced on my palate.

I was impressed by the variety presented on the menu; there was something intriguing for everyone. From spicy jerk chicken to savory vegetarian options, every dish had a unique twist that made it stand out. The attention to detail in presentation also reflected their commitment to creating a memorable dining experience.

In a nutshell, Island Soul is not just about a meal; it’s about savoring unique culinary artistry in a cozy, inviting space. If you’re hunting for your next lunch spot in Kirkland, do yourself a favor and give this gem a try—you won’t regret it!

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Carillon Kitchen

Highlights
Excellent marina location
Friendly atmosphere
Tasty lunch options
Average smoothie
Decent almond croissant

Carillon Kitchen is a delightful gem nestled right by the marina in Kirkland. The moment I stepped in, I was greeted by a friendly atmosphere that instantly lifted my spirits. With the sun dancing on the water just outside, it’s hard not to feel a little extra joy; after all, who doesn’t love a lunch with a view?

The menu is a cornucopia of tasty lunch options that cater to a variety of palates. I couldn’t resist trying their almond croissant, which was decent, though I’ve had a few that were flakier. But let’s not dwell on the pastries when we have sandwiches that practically sing with flavor! Every bite was a testament to their commitment to quality.

Now, let’s talk about the smoothie I ordered. It was… well, rather average. It didn’t quite match the vibrancy of the setting. Nevertheless, the overall experience was worth it, as I enjoyed my meal with a beautiful view of the marina.

If you're looking for a lunch spot that combines delicious food with a scenic backdrop, Carillon Kitchen is certainly worth a visit. Your taste buds and your soul will thank you!

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