Best Lunch Spots in Indio

Lunch. It’s easily one of the most important meals of the day, especially if you’re spending time running around Indio. Luckily, the city has no shortage of spots that serve up legit, satisfying lunches — whether you’re craving sandwiches, tacos, comfort food, or something a little unexpected.
This guide is part of our roundup of the best lunch spots in the Coachella Valley, featuring reliable midday favorites across Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Indio, and surrounding cities.
Here are some awesome lunch spots in Indio, listed in no particular order:
TKB Bakery & Deli
Locals have known for years that if you want a great sandwich, TKB is the move. National recognition hasn’t changed that. Their Breakfast of Champions, massive deli sandwiches, and consistently fast service make this one of the most reliable lunch stops in the entire valley.
Good to know: Lines move fast, but going slightly off-peak or ordering your grub as takeout helps.
Address: 44911 Golf Center Pkwy, Indio, CA
Website: tkbbakery.com
Tacos Gonzalez
This no-frills spot across from Shields Date Garden delivers exactly what you want when tacos are the answer. Expect solid carne asada, al pastor, burritos, and a salsa bar that keeps regulars coming back.
Good to know: Also a sleeper breakfast option if you get there early.
Address: 80120 Highway 111 #1, Indio, CA
Website: Facebook Page
Art Alkobar Grill
Alkobar might look like a quick-stop joint, but the menu says otherwise. Cheesesteaks are the headliner, but there’s also Filipino dishes, burritos, and an impressively large menu for a casual lunch stop.
Good to know: Portions are generous — come hungry.
Address: 82590 Highway 111 #104, Indio, CA
Website: alkobargrill.com
Outside the Masa
What started as a popular food truck has grown into one of Indio’s most talked-about breakfast and lunch spots. Outside the Masa keeps things focused with a simple menu built around big flavors — birria tamales, quesadillas, chilaquiles, and other comfort-heavy dishes that are done really well. There’s not a weak item on the menu, which explains why locals tend to line up early, especially on weekends.
Good to know: They’re open for breakfast and lunch only, and it fills up fast — earlier is better.
Address: 43-905 Clinton St., Suite 5, Indio, CA 92201
Website: outsidethemasa.com
Pho of the Desert
A dependable lunch option when you want something warm, filling, and not fried. Multiple pho options, sandwiches, egg rolls, and boba make this a versatile stop.
Good to know: Can get busy during festival weekends.
Address: 82128 Highway 111, Indio, CA
Website: Facebook Page
Arriola’s Tortilleria
This is one of Indio’s true hidden gems. Known for tamales, tacos, nachos, and the legendary “tamale boat,” it’s the kind of place you tell friends about after your first visit.
Good to know: Grab extra chips. You’ll want them.
Address: 82721 Wilson Ave, Indio, CA
Website: Yelp Listing
Cocky Bull Kitchen (Inside Neil’s Lounge)
The food program inside Neil’s Lounge has evolved, and Cocky Bull is the current reason to stop in. Expect elevated bar food, burgers, sandwiches, and rotating specials that go way beyond typical dive bar fare.
Good to know: Yes, it’s inside a bar — and yes, the food is legit.
Address: 80956 US Highway 111, Indio, CA
Website: neilslounge.com
The Local on 50th
A strong neighborhood wine bar and restaurant that works equally well for lunch or dinner. The menu leans comfort-forward with burgers, sandwiches, tacos, salads, and daily specials.
Good to know: Easy choice when you’re with a group that can’t agree on one thing.
Address: 49950 Jefferson St, Indio, CA
Website: thelocalon50th.com
Sumo Dog
Sumo Dog brings something a little different to Indio’s lunch lineup with gourmet hot dogs inspired by Japanese street food. Think creative toppings, bold flavors, and quick service that makes it an easy stop when you want something fast but not boring. They also have more traditional versions of their dogs as well as a nice offering of burger and side selections.
Good to know: A great option when you want lunch that’s fun, fast, and not another sandwich or taco.
Address: 49-830 Jefferson St., Suite 106, Indio, CA
Website: eatsumodog.com
Enjoy Your Lunch in Indio
Indio’s lunch scene doesn’t try to be trendy — it just works. These are the spots locals actually go back to, which is usually the best endorsement there is.
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Written by : Casey Dolan
Casey is the founder of Cactus Hugs and also works with local businesses on their websites and digital marketing. Learn more (and hire!) him here. Please, send him your news tips and your whiskey!




