8 Lunch Spots That Will Never Make You Want To Head Back To Work

There are two types of people in the world: the ones who quickly rush out of the office to grab something as quickly as they can and the ones who savor every last minute of their allotted lunch time. I belong to the latter group.

For me, lunch is an opportunity to let go of the stress of the work day for however long. Your employers are legally obliged to give you this paid time to replenish yourself so why not make the most of it? Here I have gathered for you a list of New York City lunch spots so beautiful and so delicious they’ll make you never want to return to your desk.

From SoHo to the Upper West Side, this list includes the best of the best options, no matter where your office is located. With mouth watering meals and gorgeous ambiances to match, every single one of these New York City lunch spots serves as their own mini luxurious getaway in the middle of your hectic workday.

Don’t even have an office you’re trying to get away from every day? Don’t worry, this list is for you too. This list is for anyone who enjoys a great lunch with an even better atmosphere.

Cookshop

A post shared by Cookshop (@cookshopny) on Jun 27, 2017 at 8:49am PDT

With its bright airy feel, Chelsea’s Cookshop makes you feel as though you’ve stepped outside of the hustle bustle of New York City and into the best lunch spot in Santa Monica. The vibe of the place immediately relaxes you and the menu has something for everyone from salads and grain bowls to your calorie counting coworkers to fried chicken and a burger for the less nutritiously inclined.

Must Orders: Long Island Porgy, 100% Grass-Fed Beef Burger, Cookshop Lunch Bowl

Jack’s Wife Freda

A post shared by jackswifefreda (@jackswifefreda) on Sep 15, 2017 at 5:41am PDT

A favorite of celebrities and models alike, Jack’s Wife is one of the most hyped up lunch spots New York City has to offer. While a hyped up scene sometimes translates to a more flashy atmosphere, Jack’s Wife still manages to maintain a down to earth vibe that makes you feel right at home. As for the food, the unique and fundamentally delicious menu gives you a flavorful culinary experience unlike anything you’ve had before.

Must Orders: Tuna Salad, Chicken Kebab, Prego Roll

Cafe Clover

A post shared by Cafe Clover & Clover Grocery (@clovernewyork) on Aug 22, 2017 at 11:35am PDT

Cafe Clover’s beautiful blue and white aesthetic makes you feel almost as though you have just stepped out of the United States and into a chic modern restaurant in St. Tropez. The only thing better than the St. Tropez vibe? The health conscious menu that leaves you feeling healthier than you were before you got there.

Must Orders: Veggie Crudite, Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Kale Prosciutto Pizette

Lure Fish Bar

A post shared by Lure Fishbar (@lurefishbar) on Dec 4, 2014 at 5:04pm PST

With an interior literally made to look like a yacht, Soho’s Lure Fish Bar is the absolute epitome of lavishness. You walk through its doors and temporarily leave the stress of your work day for a temporary yacht vacation. Lure’s menu matches the nautical with plenty of fresh seafood options that your tastebuds will thank you for.

Must Orders: Crab Cake, Tempura Shrimp, Miso Glazed Salmon

Rue 57

A post shared by Rue57nyc (@rue57nyc) on Jun 5, 2016 at 7:04pm PDT

Built like a bougie Parisian cafe, Rue 57 maintains a decadent French flare that leaves you walking out somehow a little more chic than you felt when you walked in. The cuisine at Rue 57 perfectly matches the decadence of its luxurious atmosphere.

Must Orders: Tuna Nicoise Salad, Rue 57 Skirt Steak, French Dip

Upland 

A post shared by Upland (@upland_nyc) on Sep 20, 2017 at 11:58am PDT

A favorite of Barak and Malia Obama, Upland has gotten a lot of buzz, to say the least. But one trip to the famed restaurant confirms that the buzz is well deserved. From its plush leather booths to its perfectly executed cheeseburgers and pastas, Upland masters the art of everything classic.

Must Orders: Five Lettuce ‘Cesar’ Salad, Bucatini Cacio e Pepe, Upland Cheeseburger

Seamore’s

A post shared by SEAMORE’S (@seamores) on Jul 22, 2017 at 8:59am PDT

Remember that hole in the wall lobster place right along the coast your parents used to take you to when you were vacationing in Maine as a kid? Well, imagine that place got a trendy New York City makeover and still maintained that same mouthwateringly fresh seafood. Now take a step away from your imagination and enter Seamore’s where that dream becomes a reality.

Must Orders: Heirloom Tomato and Watermelon Salad, The Reel Deal, Blackened Fish Burger

Salumeria Rosi

A post shared by Salumeria Rosi (@salumeriarosinyc) on Jun 22, 2017 at 9:12pm PDT

With marble fixtures literally imported straight from Italy, Salumeria Rosi has absolutely mastered the luxurious Italian aesthetic. And the food! Oh, the food. Every bite out of every dish on Salumeri Rosi’s menu is so mouthwateringly delicious that you can almost taste the love put into making it.

Must Orders:  Salumeria’s Signature Salad, Lasagne, Francisco Panini, Salumeria Panini

OK, now time to tell your boss you’ll be taking that long lunch today.