NORTHEAST MINNEAPOLIS. If you're looking for one of the best lunch deals in Minneapolis, this Greek eatery is a terrific find. University students tend to pack the place on a regular basis, feasting on moussaka, salads, stuffed grape leaves, authentic Greek pizza, and homemade pastries. Combo dishes, in particular, are great bargains.

LYN-LAKE. Authentic Greek fare is featured in this historic, Romanesque-style building, whose dining room feature a classic blue-and-white color scheme and tiled floors. Enjoy roasted eggplant spread and mavromatikia (black-eyed pea salad), or sample Greek favorites like moussaka, spanakopita, kebabs, and baklava. Vegetarian and unusual seafood offerings, ranging from octopus to Lake Superior smelt, round out the menu. Very casual.

DINKYTOWN. Greece, Russia, France, and Mexico happily commingle at this eclectic bistro near the U of Minnesota campus. Locals are well-acquainted with Kafe 421 as an always-interesting dinner spot, but a selection of hearty specialty sandwiches makes lunch an equally appealing prospect. Try the pepperjack avocado burger on a toasted focaccia roll or the croque monsieur, made with fontina cheese and caramelized onions. Chicken, turkey, and grilled portobello mushrooms also make appearances.