Best Lunch near Smithsonian American History Museum - National Place Food Hall

/ Smithsonian American History Museum/

Those looking for good food while visiting the Smithsonian Museums on the National Mall have no need to despair.

North entrance to Smithsonian National Museum of American History on Constitution Ave NW - CC: Anne Meadows

North entrance to Smithsonian National Museum of American History on Constitution Ave NW - CC: Anne Meadows

National Place Food Hall

National Place Food Hall

The National Mall is America’s front yard - it is at once a park and a home to some of the most iconic American museums. What it does not have is great or many local food options. The only restaurants on the mall are the overcrowded and at-best average Museum restaurants and cafes. From the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, the Smithsonian National History of Natural History, and the National Archives, one of the best lunch options is the food hall at National Place.

The food court is fully open Monday through Saturday, though for fewer hours on Saturday. On Sunday, the food court is closed.

 

Just a short walk from the museum

One of the biggest challenges when visiting many of the Smithsonian Museums on the National Mall is that you are relatively isolated from the resources of the city; the museums on the north side of the mall are closer to more options, however, downtown DC starts a number of blocks north. However, there are some closer options, and the food hall at National Place is one of them.

 
Tacos at Takorean - CC: jerdlngr

Tacos at Takorean - CC: jerdlngr

Many great food options

There are 7 restaurants, fast casual establishments, and fast food options inside. These include:

  • Five Guys

  • Moe’s Southwest Grill

  • TaKorean Korean Taco Grill

  • Grill Kabob

  • Kabuki Sushi & Teriyaki

  • A Slice of Italy Pizzeria

  • Esprinto Cafe

 
Metro Center station pylon - CC: Adam Moss

Metro Center station pylon - CC: Adam Moss

Conveniently next to Metro Center metro station

The food hall at National Place is one block from the Metro Center station (exit the station at either 13th and G or 12th and F exits.) This station was designed to be the central point of the metro stations, and is a transfer station for the busiest lines (Red, Orange, Blue, and Silver).

 

Great options for vegetarians and vegans

The food court also has many great options for vegetarians and vegans. Two particular call-outs are Takorean, which serves tofu as well as a seasonal vegetable for your taco base, as well Bottom line

The L’Enfant Plaza Food Court is Urban Atlas’s best bet for lunch when you are at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, the Hirshhorn Museum, and the Museum of the American Indian. However, if you know of any other good options in the area, let us know in the comments.