The tmc neighborhood guide: lunch edit

Explore our neighborhood favorites (most within a mile, but no more than 2 miles of The McKinley Club).

There's something quietly wonderful about the way this neighborhood feeds people. Handmade tortillas pressed fresh each morning. Focaccia that arrives warm and improbably perfect. Brunch counters where the coffee is strong and no one is in a hurry. These aren't just places to eat — they're places to land, to breathe, and to remember that a good meal in the middle of the day is one of life's underrated pleasures.

☕️ our coffee edit:

Testal Mexican Kitchen

📍1325 Grand Ave Suite #1

Chihuahua-style burritos made with handmade tortillas. Fantastic vegan options, great cocktails, and an easy-going vibe on Grand Ave. Open daily from 9 AM.

First & Last

📍1001 N 3rd Ave

Cult-favorite focaccia sandwiches by day, intimate fine dining by night. The sandwiches are made-to-order on fresh house-baked focaccia - people travel across the city for them for good reason.

Matilda's All Day Cafe

📍822 N 6th Ave

The perfect neighborhood café, Matilda’s makes its second appearance on our list for good reason. Sandwiches and salads, cocktails and caffeine, it covers all the bases in a chic and welcoming space. 

Closed Mon–Tue.

Malegria Latin Cafe

📍1031 Grand Ave

A Latin café walk-up window on Grand Ave serving knockout coffee alongside a short but soulful food menu. The Abuelita mocha — made with Mexican hot chocolate — is something people drive across the city for. Order the fish tacos, the beef pastelitos, or the chilaquiles, then settle into the sweet little back patio and let the morning stretch out a little longer. Open Wed–Mon, 7 AM–3 PM (until 6 PM Fri–Sat).

Venture a little further

Sophia's A Brunch Counter

📍336 E Thomas Rd

A lively, aesthetically stunning brunch spot. The golden corn waffle with maple butter and the best espresso martini in the area are the highlights. Open 7 AM–3 PM daily. Arrive early or expect lines.