Spoon University Logo
News

The ‘Lunch In My City’ Trend Is Turning Everyone Into Local Food Reviewers

TikTok is storming the internet yet again with another trend, but this time it’s less about the food. The “lunch in my city” trend is both sharing good eats and proving even your hometown deserves to be in the limelight.

What the “lunch in my city” trend is

Honestly, it’s ridiculously simple. Creators look up “lunch in my city” on TikTok, hop in the car, grab lunch from the spot they found, show the food off to the camera, and dig in. Tagging or naming the restaurant is an absolute must, that way restaurants get some coverage, and creators get views. It’s a fun way for people all around to try out new spots and show pride in their hometown or even current city. Not to mention getting a taste of what it’s like to be the food critic from Ratatouille.

@sarahbetts

trying the viral “lunch in my city” trend!!! 📍 Cycho’s Buffalo Wings #lunchinmycity #foodchallenge #whatsforlunch

♬ original sound – Sarah Betts

No borders

One of the best parts about this trend is that regardless of whether the cities are big or small, there’s bound to be at least one spot to slide to. Plus, it can be done with people to make it more fun. Mom-and-son duo @tabbymoschetti tried out the trend and found La Famosa, raking in over 200,000 likes and devouring amazing food. Apparently the burrito they got was so good, people are even making funny stickers of how the mom didn’t want to share. All throughout the comments, viewers are not only wanting to try that restaurant but also rushing to go see what’s near them, proving this trend is more about a solid lunch than needing a large city.

@tabbymoschetti

Trying the “ lunch in my city” trend 🌯#burrito #mexicanfood #lunch #tastetest #momandson @La Famosa

♬ original sound – tabby

Why it’s resonating

It doesn’t take much effort! You don’t need a recipe or great editing skills, just a phone and an honest reaction. The local discovery does seem like the biggest factor, though. Seeing as how most feeds are dominated by big chains, this trend gives the spotlight to small businesses and lets college towns or suburbs compete a bit more with major food scenes. And as we all know, the best food in your city is usually just a spot your friend swears by.

Try it out yourself

Why not go ahead and join in on the fun? Grab your phone, search up “lunch in my city,” and slide over to the first small business that pops up. And if you’re feeling a little more social, how about propping up your camera and savoring your moment as a food reviewer? Just don’t forget to drop your city in the caption and keep your reaction real, because the authenticity and transparency are the best part.

Is it easy to do? Yes. Are you gonna have a new local spot to grab lunch from? Also yes.

If this trend is giving you a bit of déjà vu like it did to me, it’s probably because it’s just like the “my coffee order” and “my Taco Bell order” trends, only this time you get to flex your city to the rest of the world. So next time you’re looking for something to eat, let your city speak for you.

Zach is a national writer at Spoon University, where he covers food news, trends, and budget-friendly hacks for cooking on a college income. His writing focuses on making good food accessible, whether that means breaking down the latest food trend, reviewing a viral product, or finding the cheapest way to eat well in a college town.

Beyond Spoon, Zach has experience as a legal secretary intern and banquet server, both of which sharpened his ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines. He is currently a senior at Florida State University, completing a Bachelor of Arts in Editing, Writing, and Media with a minor in Management Information Systems. He also holds an associate's degree in Marketing Management.

Growing up with Cuban and Jamaican home cooking set a high bar early, which is a big part of what makes budget food interesting to him rather than just a limitation. Outside of writing, he spends time at the gym, watches anime, and is steadily working toward Spanish fluency. He lives in Tallahassee with his dog, who has strong opinions about meal timing. After graduation, he plans to take a gap year before attending law school.