OP again. I looked at the Cafe Italia menu and I think we have a winner! It actually works out well b/c my aunts wanted to visit the National Gallery, so this way it leaves us more time to wander the museum rather than having to hoof it up to Chinatown (not that I don't love Zaytinya!). Thanks for your recs!

I agree with the recs for The American Indian Museum, Rasika, and Zaytinya. Fiola also comes to mind.

I agree with the sit-down options - if you want something directly int he museum area the Garden Cafe in the National Gallery is a delight. They have a rotating menu that corresponds with current exhibits - right now it's Italian:

Garden Café Italia
Through early spring 2012
In honor of the exhibition Antico: The Golden Age of Renaissance Bronzes as well as the Gallery's own stellar collection of Italian masterpieces, Chef Fabio Trabocchi has transformed the menu in the Garden Café. Having recently returned to DC from New York to open the highly anticipated restaurant Fiola in Penn Quarter, Chef Trabocchi has created a menu of signature Italian cuisine for the Garden Café, including a buffet as well as à la carte dishes.

OP here. Sorry- totally forgot to mention that I looked at Rasika already (my fave!) but can't get a reservation until 1.45. We might go for it though! Will check out Elisir and Mitisam too.

10:17 here, meant food, not floored, sorry! Rasika is also a really good suggestion.

Elisir on 12th Street. Upscale Italian. Nice cozy space. The executive chef was cooking last time I had lunch.

I agree with PP about the American Indian museum! But if you want a sit down, try Rasika (Indian food) - a little pricey, but SO good! Only about 3 blocks from the mall. You may need a reservation though. Also, CoCo Sala - yum!

Rasika. On D Street NW between 6th & 7th , closer to 7th. Indian, though it might be a bit pricey for lunch, but if they are from NYC it won't be a shock to them. The food is awesome. Better and different than any other Indian you've had.

Zaytinya or Rasika (if you can get a res).

Rasika. Get the palak chaat and the avocado banana chaat. Heavenly.

Museum of the American Indian is supposed to have excellent floored and I would think would be a great option for vegetarians.

Family is unexpectedly coming into town for a visit. They're from NYC and we'll be visiting the museums tomorrow. There will be 3 of us, 2 are vegetarians and the other eats vegetarian often. Any ideas? All cuisine is open, except perhaps some Korean. Thanks.