One of the most common questions when visiting Washington DC for a day, especially if you’re coming on an excursion from New York, is: where can I eat in Washington DC that’s tasty, quick, and close to the monuments? The good news is that, even though many touristy areas aren’t known for having great food, DC actually has several accessible, flavorful, and well-located options.
Whether you’re walking around the National Mall or only have a few hours to see the essential spots of the city, these places will definitely save your lunch (and even your snack break!).
1. Cafeteria at the National Museum of Natural History
It might sound odd to recommend a museum when talking about where to eat in Washington DC, but this one is super practical. The cafeteria is located inside the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, one of the most visited in the city and just steps away from the Capitol.
They offer buffet-style meals, sandwiches, wraps, and snacks. It’s not a gourmet stop, but it’s quick, clean, and with nearby restrooms. Plus, if you’re doing a day tour of Washington DC and want to see the museums without wasting time, you can eat here and keep going without detours.
👉 If you want more ideas about museums worth visiting, check out: 5 must-see museums in Washington
2. Where to eat in Washington DC: Food trucks in front of the Air and Space Museum
Right along Independence Ave SW, across from the National Air and Space Museum, there’s a row of food trucks that shows up almost daily. They offer everything from burgers, tacos, and Asian dishes to ice cream and vegetarian options. The best part: it’s fast, flavorful, and outdoors.
If you’re walking from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, this is a perfect spot to grab a bite without leaving the main route.
3. &pizza (Pennsylvania Ave)
This local artisan-style pizza chain is a gem if you want something quick but with personality. The Pennsylvania Avenue location is just a few steps from the Capitol, and you can get your personalized pizza in just minutes.
The place has a cool, modern vibe, ideal for a short break with air conditioning. If you’re joining our tour to Washington from New York, you’ll probably have some free time in this area, so this is a solid lunch stop.
👉 If you haven’t booked the tour yet, here’s all the info: Washington DC tour from New York – View details and prices
4. Shake Shack (Union Station)
If your route begins or ends near Union Station, you’ve got a reliable classic. Shake Shack is famous for its burgers, fries, and shakes, great quality at a fair price. It’s fast, tasty, and has plenty of seating.
5. Potbelly Sandwich Shop (various locations)
Another local favorite. They serve toasted sandwiches, soups, and salads. Everything is made quickly, and the locations are cozy. You’ll find several Potbelly shops near the National Mall, especially on the side streets.
Perfect if you want to escape the heat, take a seat, and recharge without breaking the bank.
Bonus tip: bring snacks or enjoy the parks
A lot of visitors prep with picnic-style snacks from Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s before starting the tour. Since most of the monuments are surrounded by green spaces, it’s easy to find a quiet, shady spot to sit down and enjoy something simple while soaking up the atmosphere.
Planning your excursion to Washington DC?
Finding where to eat in Washington DC is just one part of the adventure. If you’re still figuring out your trip from New York, take a look at this article: Top 5: How to get to Washington DC from New York
But if you’d rather skip all the planning and just enjoy the ride, our guided tour to Washington DC from New York includes transportation, a Spanish-speaking guide, and stops at the city’s most iconic landmarks. Perfect if it’s your first time or if you want the best photo ops without the hassle.
