National Geographic Cafeteria

Great options, very affordable for DC area… salad bar has endless options, and they even have Phở in addition to classic American lunch items.

I’ve been coming to National Geographic’s cafeteria on a weekly basis now and it’s still my go-​to spots for good food. Here’s why:
1. Lots of variety
In the mood for Asian? Got it. American burger? Check. Salads? You name it. Mediterranean? Often? They always stock up on a good variety of lunch options, so you’ll always find something no matter what you’re in the mood for.
2. Quality ingredients
This cafeteria is known to highlight their local ingredients. Note that National Geographic also hosts a farm stand every Tuesday throughout the summer months. So you can be assured that the ingredients are fresh and delicious.
3. Quality food
I don’t usually by packaged sushi, but I would from here. That says a lot in its own already. The fish is fresh and the rice is delicious. They also a steam bar, a great healthy option that’s also delicious! There needs to be more steamed food options in lunch places.
The place do get pretty busy during lunch, but that is expected with all restaurants around downtown. I love that the cafeteria also takes recycling and composting seriously.
In the summer months, you can sit outside! Note, however, that if you don’t have a National Geographic ID badge, you will not be able to re-​enter the cafeteria unless you go all the way around through the entrance.
Also, sometimes the cafeteria is closed for special events. So keep that in mind! Don’t be surprised when the doors are closed and you’re missing out on your steam bowl.

A great dining option in the NW quadrant of downtown. It offers both standard cafeteria fare, along with more exotic choices. Prices are more than reasonable for the area.

Was not a good lunch for me, no system i. n place, u think its a cafeteria slide down place your order, not here! Lines form all around. As im standing there waiting to placed order, you would think the steamer would tell you where to go to order grill. Finally Placed my order, cook gave it away thanks tony for that and especially for not being able to cook more than 2 hamburgers at one time! I will not be back

While visiting my friend who works at Nat geo we stopped by the cafeteria for lunch. It has a really nice open dining room with plenty of space and comfortable chairs.
The food options were extensive. From sushi, to freshly prepared ethnic cuisines, to a make as you order burger, fries, or chicken. It was really easy to navigate gluten free options as everything was pretty much labeled.
My friend eats here regularly and said he’s always been pleased with the quality of the food. He had the salad bar and I just enjoyed some premade fruit and Greek yogurt which was great.
Price is also pretty affordable. If your in this area of DC and looking for something quick this is a great option.

Like Norry said, this cafeteria is a hidden gem in downtown DC!
Plenty of sittings, spacious cafeteria with outdoor sittings as well!
There are salad bar, hamburger station (e.g. chicken sandwich or in-​house made bean/​vegan burger $ 3.75), sandwich station, daily special ($ 7.95), pizza (e.g. huge slice was $ 1.75) and wok station and also sushi and desserts.
I think the maximum you pay will be $ 10 no matter what you get here.
I really liked the variety and freshness of the food at this cafeteria.
PS: Anyone can come and have lunch.

I have been here numerous times and never been disappointed. Their salad bar is super wonderful and super cheap. The World cuisine or Global something is always tasty. My Tagine Chicken today was SO tasty. This place always makes me happy with the quality food at low price.