Chow
One of the East Bay's best mid-range options, with excellent pasta dishes, a laid-back atmosphere, and vastly overpriced won tons that are still worth getting. Meals range in price from $8 to $17. Reservations are not accepted, and the line can be long on weekends; call ahead and try to get your name on the waiting list early.
El Charro
Famous for their margaritas and cheese dip, El Charro has been in Lafayette since 1947. The atmosphere is consistently delightful, and the food is very moderately priced. Kid friendly. Meals range in price from $6 to $15.
Yan's Restaurant
While it's easy to drive past without noticing, Yan's Restaurant is easily one of the best Chinese Restaurants in Lafayette also in Walnut Creek, El Cerito, and Danville. The atmosphere is a little drab, but the traditional Chinese cuisine is excellent on most nights. Parking isn't too big of an issue and you should be more focused on trying the perfectly spicy orange chicken.