The Lunch Room

I have eaten here 2 times. The first time I got the Buffet and thought it was really good. The smothered porked chops had me going for seconds. I went again today to try the bayou Philly. I didn’t read much into it and just figure it was going to be a regular Philly with some Cajun seasoning. Well I was wrong. When it came out with shrimp and Cajun sausage, along with chicken, peppers, onions and cheese I couldn’t remember getting food that put a smile on my face like this did. I’ve had food that was really good before but never put an actual smile on my face. The overall taste was very good and the portion was more than enough. This service was very nice and I might make the bayou Philly a weekly meal.

I recently dined at The Lunch Room located right by the Eglin Gate in Valparaiso, Florida, and I wanted to share my thoughts on the experience. I opted for the BBQ buffet during my visit, and while the meal was decent, it didn't quite leave me eager for seconds. The standout item for me was the sausage; it had a good flavor and was quite enjoyable. However, I found the pork chops to be a bit tough and dry, and the smoked chicken suffered from the same issue. The pulled pork, too, was on the bland side, and in hindsight, I probably should have gone in search of some BBQ sauce to liven it up. In a way, the overall taste of the meal reminded me of what you might expect in a cafeteria setting. I was not compelled to get a second plate which ruins the whole point of a buffet. Additionally, we tried the steak quesadilla, but I was a bit surprised to find the meat ground up rather than in the expected cut pieces. It had a flavor reminiscent of steak-umms, and it was a tad greasy. We ended up needing to dab off some excess oil with a napkin. We also opted for a side of fries, which did cost extra and were okay, although a premium ketchup would have helped. All in all, the food at The Lunch Room was decent, but it didn't quite hit the mark for us. I might consider returning to give their brunch menu a try, but I'm not sure if I'd personally revisit the BBQ buffet. The prices were slightly high and portions were adequate. The service was polite and the atmosphere was comfortable, so there's potential for improvement. While I may have my own set of preferences when it comes to food, it's essential to remember that our individual tastes are as diverse as our community itself. What I find delectable, someone else might not. That's precisely why local businesses are so invaluable. They offer a wide array of options, each tailored to satisfy the distinct tastes and preferences of our community members. Encouraging and fostering this local support ensures a thriving, diverse, and vibrant community, where everyone can find something that suits their palate.

Fantastic made-to-order breakfast right outside the Eglin gate in VP. Omelettes were absolutely delicious, and their sausage gravy is right up there with some of the best I’ve had. Owners were very sweet and accommodating early on Veteran’s Day too!

Food was good. I ordered beef tips, greens and green beans and tea. Got most correct, received pork that the tails of the ribs -- was very good, little sauce -just the way I would cook it. 3FEB23 ordered the Salisbury steak with mash greens and tea. It was a good choice. The place still does not have vinegar sauce. I upped the service because it was good this time. 16FEB23. I ordered the country fried chicken, I dropped my rating from 5 to 3 stars. The chicken was stupidly over cooked, I ask if I could get dark meat and the staff man laughed and said it was all breast. The only good thing was the green beans and fries. This was the worst meal I have had from this place, it is not so bad that I will not come back. The cook should have not served the driest chicken I ever had. The white gravy did not help a bit. 21FEB23 I ordered the fried pork chops. This was the best chops I have had outside of my home! I could not finish my plate as I was full. I requested mid rare or medium chops and is was cooked perfectly! The greens are still the best - Brothers in blue water bay needs to taste these and adjust! I changed my overall rating back to 5 stars

My husband and I decided to patronize this establishment based on the recommendation of someone from work. I am elated that we decided to eat lunch here!! First, the gentleman (I am assuming one of the owners), was very inviting and acknowledged us, as soon as we walked in the door. He was in the midst of cleaning from another big group but he helped us within a few minutes. They have a great selection of soul food, sandwiches, burgers, and wraps. We finally decided on the fried porkchops with 2 sides and the Reuben & fries. For the sides, we tried the mac & cheese and fried okra! First and foremost, all of the food were skillfully seasoned. There wasn't a bland morsel among the fare of delectable foods. Like I told the gentleman, it's like eating at home on a Sunday evening! The Reuben was moist, seasoned, and satisfying. The sauerkraut wasn't overpowering but it hit beautifully with corned beef, melted swiss cheese, and the special dressing. Next, the pork chops were prodigious! They were fried to perfection and they also had Louisiana hot sauce to accompany this amazing soul food! The okra was too tasty! Sometimes, okra is not cooked properly and it's either slimy or taste like hard pebbles - THIS okra were not either of those! They were fried perfectly and lightly salted. The mac and cheese was creamy. You could tell it was made with love. The ONLY tweak I would make is bake it with a layer of cheese on top, so, it can have that thin baked layer of crispy cheese on top. But really, that's just a small adjustment based on my tastes. Lastly, the gentleman allowed me to try the slush with my lemonade. I told him I would try it next time and he brought me a complimentary cup with a sample of each of his flavors. It was GOOD! It wasn't overly sweet or sour and it complimented the Sun Fresh, I was drinking. Also, it cooled my mouth from the Louisiana hot sauce! Our overall visit was an A+. The food was hot, homemade, well-seasoned, and exceptional. I would recommend this place every day of the week and twice on Sunday! Thank you for a wonderfully authentic meal!