Wake Forest's Best Lunch [Updated 2025]

After countless midday meals and a deep dive into the local culinary scene, I’ve scoured Wake Forest to bring you the ultimate roundup of 12 standout spots. Trust me, I didn’t just stumble upon these hidden gems; I’ve savored every bite, debated flavors, and chatted with the incredible folks behind the counters.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just passing through, you’ll want to make these places your go-to for lunch. Get ready to discover a mix of mouthwatering dishes, cozy atmospheres, and maybe even a new favorite haunt. Let’s dig in and find out where to satisfy that midday craving!

Over the Falls

Highlights
Excellent service
Extensive menu options
Generous portion sizes
Great ambiance
Tasty steak quesadilla

Over the Falls in Wake Forest is a delightful gem for lunch, and my visit was nothing short of fantastic! From the moment I stepped in, the ambiance struck me—bright, inviting, and perfect for a midday escape. The staff greeted me with warm smiles, and their excellent service made me feel right at home.

Now, let’s talk about the menu—it’s extensive! There’s something for everyone, but I couldn’t resist trying the steak quesadilla. My decision was rewarded with generous portion sizes that left my taste buds dancing. The combination of flavors was sublime; the steak was succulent, wrapped in warm, crispy tortillas that were simply impossible to resist.

What truly stands out, aside from the delicious food, is the atmosphere. It’s a place where laughter fills the air and every table seems to share in the joy of a great meal. If you're searching for a fantastic lunch spot in Wake Forest, I wholeheartedly recommend Over the Falls. With a winning blend of tasty dishes and a friendly environment, this eatery certainly deserves a spot on your must-visit list!

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Backfins Crabhouse

Highlights
Perfectly cooked crab legs
Amazing garlic-seasoned cheese curds
Warm and delicious hush puppies
Family-friendly atmosphere
Must-visit for seafood lovers

Backfins Crabhouse is a hidden gem that every seafood lover in Wake Forest should experience. From the moment I entered, I was greeted with a warm, inviting ambiance that felt like a true seaside escape. I couldn't wait to dig into their perfectly cooked crab legs, which were succulent and packed with flavor, a true testament to their culinary expertise.

As a side, I ordered the amazing garlic-seasoned cheese curds, and let me tell you, they were nothing short of addictive! The rich, cheesy texture combined with a punch of garlic made them an irresistible choice. And who can resist warm and delicious hush puppies? They were crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making for a delightful dip into any of the house sauces.

What I truly appreciated about Backfins is its family-friendly atmosphere. It's the kind of place where laughter fills the air, and smiles abound. Whether you're on a lunch date or taking the kiddos out for a treat, this locale has something for everyone. For a vibrant and delicious seafood lunch, Backfins Crabhouse is an absolute must-visit!

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Stewart's Bistro

Highlights
Warm and joyful service
Incredibly fast food
Spectacular coffee
Family-centered vibes
Fantastic staff teamwork

Stewart's Bistro is a delightful discovery tucked away in the heart of Wake Forest. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with a warm and joyful service that instantly made me feel at home. The atmosphere is infused with family-centered vibes, making it a perfect spot for lunch with loved ones or a catch-up with friends.

One thing that struck me was the incredibly fast food service—my meal arrived sooner than I could finish my coffee, which was, by the way, nothing short of spectacular! Speaking of coffee, I found the brew here to be rich and robust, a necessity for any lunchtime pick-me-up.

The staff's enthusiasm and fantastic teamwork created a lively ambiance, making my dining experience feel more like a community gathering than just a meal. It’s evident that everyone at Stewart’s takes pride in their work, and they truly enjoy what they do.

If you find yourself in Wake Forest and are looking for the best lunch, I wholeheartedly recommend checking out Stewart's Bistro. You’ll leave with a full belly and a smile!

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Tikila Tacos & Mezcal

Highlights
Quality meals at great prices
Accommodating and friendly staff
Fast service with tasty options
Bright, uplifting atmosphere
Unique cheesecake burrito

Tikila Tacos & Mezcal has quickly become one of my favorite lunchtime spots in Wake Forest. From the moment I walked in, the uplifting atmosphere wrapped around me like a warm hug. The vibrant décor and cheerful staff made it clear that this place was all about good vibes and even better food.

I opted for their famous tacos, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint! Each bite was a flavorful fiesta, with fresh ingredients that burst with taste. The fast service meant I didn’t have to wait long to dive into this delicious meal, making it an ideal spot for those with a busy schedule.

But what truly stole the show was the unique cheesecake burrito. Yes, you read that right! Dessert had never been so intriguing. This sweet twist, wrapped up like a cozy burrito, was the perfect ending to my culinary adventure.

With affordable prices and a menu that caters to everyone, Tikila Tacos & Mezcal deserves a top spot on the list of best lunches in Wake Forest. I left feeling satisfied, happy, and already planning my next visit for another taco-filled escapade!

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Norse Brewing Company

Highlights
Delicious food and drinks
Dog-friendly covered patio
Fun events and paint nights
Highly recommended salmon burger
Great date night destination

Review of Norse Brewing Company

Nestled in the heart of Wake Forest, Norse Brewing Company is a delightful spot that perfectly balances great food and ambiance. As I stepped onto the dog-friendly, covered patio, I was immediately drawn to the inviting atmosphere that encourages you to settle in and enjoy a leisurely lunch.

I decided to try the highly recommended salmon burger, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Moist and bursting with flavor, it paired beautifully with a crisp local brew. Their selection of craft beers is impressive and perfect for a midweek pick-me-up or a weekend treat.

What truly makes Norse a stand-out lunch destination is its commitment to creating community—a philosophy that comes alive through various fun events, including paint nights that can spark creativity while you enjoy your meal. Whether you’re on a casual outing or a special date, Norse Brewing Company combines a lively atmosphere with delicious offerings for an experience that’s hard to beat. It's a place where deliciousness and playfulness collide, making lunchtime feel a little more exciting. Don’t miss out on this gem in Wake Forest; your taste buds will thank you!

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Amalia's Authentic Italian Restaurant

Highlights
Elegant old-world charm
Exceptional attentive service
Innovative and bold flavors
Cheerful and friendly atmosphere
Memorable dining experiences

Amalia's Authentic Italian Restaurant delivers an unforgettable lunch experience that transports you straight to Italy! The moment you step in, you're embraced by an elegant old-world charm that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia. The light chatter of fellow patrons hovers in the air, mixing with the delightful aromas wafting from the kitchen.

I was warmly greeted by staff who exhibited exceptional and attentive service throughout my meal. I decided to indulge in their signature pasta dish, bursting with innovative and bold flavors that made every bite a celebration. From the perfectly al dente noodles to the rich, savory sauce, it was simply divine—the kind of meal that lingers on your mind long after you’ve left.

The atmosphere at Amalia's is cheerful and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a midday escape. It's not just about food; it’s about creating memorable dining experiences that you crave to relive. Each visit feels like dining with family, where you're treated with care and attention. If you’re exploring the best lunch spots in Wake Forest, don’t miss out on Amalia’s—it's a gem that shines bright in our culinary landscape!

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Lazeez Indian

Highlights
Delicious Goat and Lamb Samosas
Comprehensive Vegan Menu
Fantastic, Friendly Service
Tender, Perfectly Cooked Dishes
Amazing Lunch Experience

Lazeez Indian in Wake Forest has completely captured my heart (and taste buds) with its vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere! From the moment I entered, the friendly service set the tone for a delightful lunch experience. I began my meal with the Goat and Lamb Samosas—an explosion of flavor that reached all the right notes. The perfect crunch paired with a tender filling had me wishing I could order a dozen more.

What truly impressed me was their comprehensive vegan menu. It’s refreshing to see dedication to dietary needs without sacrificing taste. The dishes are thoughtfully crafted, ensuring that every bite is a celebration of spices and textures.

Lazeez takes pride in serving perfectly cooked, tender dishes that cater to both carnivores and plant-based eaters alike. My palate danced as I savored the rich curries and expertly prepared rice.

In the end, the combination of outstanding food and a genial environment makes Lazeez Indian a top contender for the best lunch in Wake Forest. So, if you're looking to spice up your midday meal, don’t miss this gem—your taste buds will thank you!

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The Empanada Factory

Highlights
Delicious Chicken and Beef Tacos
Amazing Empanadas
Outstanding Food
Cute Restaurant Atmosphere
Memorable Service

My venture to The Empanada Factory was nothing short of delightful! The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a charming atmosphere that perfectly matched the playful spirit of the food. This place radiates warmth and friendliness, setting the stage for a memorable lunch.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show—the empanadas! Each savory pocket was like a little treasure, packed with flavors that dance on your palate. I devoured the chicken and beef tacos, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint! The seasoning was spot-on, with just the right amount of zest.

But what truly stood out was the outstanding service. The staff not only greeted me with genuine smiles but also provided recommendations that didn't steer me wrong. I felt like a valued guest rather than just another customer.

In a town filled with lunch spots, The Empanada Factory offers a unique twist that keeps you coming back for more. If you’re craving something different, this is the place to indulge your taste buds. I left with a happy heart and a full belly—what more can you ask for in a lunch spot?

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Brigs at the Forest Restaurant

Brigs at the Forest is a delightful gem where breakfast meets lunch in a cozy, inviting atmosphere. As soon as I walked in, the scent of freshly brewed coffee wrapped around me like a warm hug. I opted for the Benedict Brigs, a fantastic twist on the classic, complete with perfectly poached eggs and rich hollandaise. Each bite was a celebration of flavors! The staff's attentiveness and the restaurant’s charming decor added to the overall experience, making it an ideal stop for a midday refreshment. If you're in Wake Forest, don't miss this spot—it's sure to brighten your lunch hour!

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Farm Table

Visiting Farm Table in Wake Forest was a delightful experience! The atmosphere is both rustic and inviting, setting the perfect scene for a mid-day escape. I indulged in their signature farm-to-table sandwich, filled with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that made each bite a celebration of flavor. The house-made pickles were a tangy surprise, adding a zesty kick to my meal. Service was friendly, making me feel like part of their community rather than just another customer. Overall, Farm Table is an excellent lunch stop that blends quality and comfort seamlessly—definitely a gem worth revisiting!

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Hartura

At Hartura, lunch is transformed into a delightful adventure! Their Mediterranean wraps burst with flavor, while the house-made hummus is simply addictive. The vibrant atmosphere invites you to linger, and the friendly staff makes you feel right at home. I was particularly impressed by the freshness of the ingredients—each bite was a celebration of taste. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Hartura offers a refreshing escape from typical lunch spots. If you're seeking something unique and satisfying, this is the place to be! Don’t miss out on this hidden gem in Wake Forest!

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The Border Restaurant

The Border Restaurant is a delightful spot that infuses a burst of flavor into Wake Forest's lunch scene. As I stepped in, the vibrant decor and lively atmosphere immediately set the tone for a wonderful meal. I savored their fajita quesadilla, which was perfectly grilled, with tender chicken and a delightful blend of melted cheese. To wash it down, their mango margarita was a refreshing choice, combining sweet and tart notes beautifully. The staff was friendly and attentive, enhancing the overall experience. For anyone seeking flavorful and satisfying lunch choices, The Border truly stands out!

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