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trey.snow Apr 7, 2009 05:42 AM

Lunch on the Mall in DC?

Is there any hope for a decent lunch within a block or two of the DC Mall? Have kids in tow. Thanks!

  1. monavano Apr 7, 2009 10:52 AM

    I usually recomment the Old Ebbitt Grill, especially with kids. The menu is extensive and offers all of the usual lunch suspects, so it pleases all tastes and appetites. What I find fun about bringing in folks from out of town is the historic aspect of the restaurant, and the decor in the main part of the restaurant.
    I would recommend a reservation on the weekend, and perhaps even a weekday if you are going during busy tourist times.

    1. alkapal Apr 7, 2009 07:21 AM

      trey, here is a thread that may give you more ideas: http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/6065...

      1. e
        Elyssa Apr 7, 2009 07:07 AM

        What part of the mall?

        I think the simple answer is yes. Depending on where you are I would try the cafeteria at the American Indian Museum (not your typical cafeteria. They have food from various regions in the US, takes on traditional American Indian cuisine--think salmon from the Northwest, wild rice salad from the Northeast, and fry bread), Central (one of the hottest bistros in town, also have kid-friendly options), or Le Bon Cafe (closer to the Capitol. Cute little french sandwich shop).

        Also I would do a search. This question has been asked many times and there are a lot of suggestions out there depending on what you are looking for.

        2 Replies
        1. re: Elyssa
          trey.snow Apr 7, 2009 07:50 AM

          Thank you, Elyssa. I realized after posting how open-ended my question was. Rookie mistake. Sorry! It is a day trip. We are taking a train into Union Station and hitting a few museums along the Mall.

          I have read a few times on this board about the AIM cafeteria, and think we will give it a try. If not, I have also read several good things about Central, too.

          1. re: trey.snow
            a
            Ali Apr 7, 2009 08:47 AM

            You might be close enough to Teaism (off Penn Quarter). I tried it while in DC this past weekend. It's pseudo-Japanese and nothing terribly special (except for the cookies ... I'm envious of anyone with acess to those salty oat cookies), but it's a quick, decent lunch with the kids in tow (but don't even bother with the tea shop - overpriced).

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