Lunch question

Question

Sorry for the double post. Where to have lunch after a morning at the NM of American Art and before a 1:30 at the National Gallery. Museum lunches can be sooo go or not so good. Thanks

Answer

After a morning at the National Museum of American Art (now known as the Smithsonian American Art Museum), you have a few solid options for lunch before heading to the National Gallery of Art at 1:30. Since museum cafés can vary, stepping out a little can be worthwhile.

If you prefer staying nearby for convenience and a quick meal:

SAAM Café (Smithsonian American Art Museum): Light fare, salads, sandwiches, and soups. Quick and convenient if you don’t want to leave the building.
Osteria Morini: Located just a few blocks away on 3rd Street NW, offers Italian pasta dishes and salads. Great for a more relaxed sit-down lunch without being too far from the National Gallery.
Shake Shack (Penn Quarter): Casual, fast, and kid-friendly if you want burgers or sandwiches. Located near the museums and easy to get in and out.

For a slightly more upscale or scenic option, still within walking distance:

Founding Farmers (10th Street NW): Farm-to-table American cuisine, hearty salads, sandwiches, and soups. Can be busy, so consider an early lunch or reservation.
Jaleo (Penn Quarter): Spanish tapas if you want a lighter, shareable lunch. Vibrant atmosphere and close to both museums.
Café du Parc: French-style café with soups, quiches, and sandwiches. A calm environment for a mid-morning to early afternoon break.

Plan to leave enough time for walking back to the National Gallery (roughly 10–15 minutes from most Penn Quarter restaurants). Picking a place within a 5–10 minute walk from the National Gallery ensures you won’t feel rushed before your 1:30 entry.

Lunch question

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