Looking for a quiet lunch place outside of DL or DCA. One that isn’t so popular they’re needing the table inside of 40 minutes. (slight exaggeration) But we’ll be lunching leisurely. Probably Tuesday 9 June.
We four will be joined for lunch by our (sort of) local stepmother/aunt. She’s just back from sightseeing in Turkey so we’ll be looking at photos as well as generally visiting.
I’m interested in a diverse menu in a quieter space. What are your recommendations?
Would you eat outside?
We enjoyed Craftman Bar poolside.
Definitely I would unless it was a gray damp chilly day or blazing hot
We now have an 11:30 reservation for the GCH Craftsman Bar. My sister’s looking forward to trying out the DCA entrance. 
Oh good.
Marie and I actually shared an appetizer as our meal. It was very chilly out that PM, but they had heating units on. I bet they do the same with fans and AC.
I will always pitch Din Tai Fung if you’re willing to give it a try! Every dish I have tried is to die for.
It is busy, but not rushed or loud. We were seated for like 90 min each time I ate there.
That said, Craftsman will probably be less peopley.
This was one of the first places I looked at. Tho the menu is interesting the vibe didn’t seem quite as quietly cozy as a midday bar/lounge might be. Plus there’s that “extra” GCH entrance that intrigued my sister.
We finally tried it in Anaheim, and I expected to love it since it seems so popular. It was fine. We tried all sorts of things but found the food to be a bit bland. I do think my favorite thing was the dessert bao with the melting chocolate. 
That desert bao sounds delicious. 
I had been wanting to try the Craftsman Bar anyway. 
I have been to the Craftsman Bar a few times and it is good. Enjoy!
One of my favorite underappreciated places for lunch or dinner is the great Maple restaurant in the Pixar Place hotel. Accessible to the parks by walking through downtown Disney, also has validated parking.
I think Ceaftsman Bar is the perfect choice. It’s one of my favorites due to the quiet atmosphere and no frills menu. While your there, check out the hotel lobby. I love the Craftsman details and the live piano music and the fireplace.
I’m on my way to Turkey in 2 weeks, too! It’s a Living Passages tour. You should see some amazing photos!
