Work Here, Eat There: I Street between 12th & 15th

Where to Eat | Kiara Badue — Aug 31, 2026

Work on I St. near the California Department of Justice or the Attorney General’s Office? You’re surrounded by everything from quick coffee stops to sit-down lunch spots, all within an easy walk of the office.

When you’re looking forward to stepping out for a midday coffee break or meeting a coworker for lunch, this downtown roundup is worth adding to your rotation.

Lunch

Chef Burma
If you’re tired of your usual lunch rotation, switch it up with Chef Burma. Their Burmese dishes are packed with flavor, and there are plenty of options to choose from. The lettuce wrap is a good option if you want something not too heavy.

Mayahuel
Mayahuel is a great choice for when you want outdoor patio vibes with a side of chips and beans. They have a full menu with plenty of vegan options. If you have the time, head back to grab one of their margaritas!

Merchant25 at the Sheraton Grand
You have to check out Merchant25 at least once! It’s newly remodeled, and the menu has tons of tasty small plates, good for a lunch meeting or after-work crafted cocktails.

Rice Bites
Their purple rice balls make for a quick lunch when you’re trying to get in and out. End the meal by grabbing a boba on the way out. You can’t go wrong with a sweet treat that makes going back to work a little easier.

Sushi Paradise
Sushi Paradise hits the spot when you’re craving a good sushi roll downtown. Save this one for celebrating a promotion or work anniversary. If you’re lucky, they might even do a sake bomb with you.

Capital Crust Pizza
If you love a salad bar and a slice of pizza, this is the one. They have an all-you-can-eat meal deal with 4 different pizza slice options, soup, a fully loaded salad bar, plus a drink. It’s the hidden gem you’ve been waiting to find downtown.

Vegan Deadly Sins
You don’t have to be vegan to make a stop here. Their plant-based spin on Chinese comfort food is a great way to switch up your lunch. If you’re not in the mood for a meal, you can also grab a coffee or boba tea.

Coffee

Chocolate Fish Coffee Roasters
Chocolate Fish is my ol’ reliable. It never fails me, whether I’m grabbing a handcrafted coffee or picking something up from their pastry counter. It holds a special place in my heart, especially when I pair my coffee with their avocado toast.

Cora Coffee
If you’re looking for a coffee shop that has nice aesthetics and a good spot for a coffee meeting, Cora is a solid choice.

Starbucks (SAFE Credit Union Convention Center)
Need a quick coffee without going far? This Starbucks is right inside the Convention Center. Just check the event schedule first since a big convention can mean a longer line.

Save this for the next time you want to step out of the office

Your lunch and coffee routine doesn’t have to be the same every day. Save this list, share it with a coworker, and make your next coffee run or lunch break a chance to discover a new downtown favorite.