As you know, DCist is a hungry media powerhouse. So, when we moved into our marbled Hall of Justice-like complex in Dupont Down Under, we insisted that our lair contain a state-of-the-art cafeteria. According to the internal memo sent to “All DCists,” we included a cafeteria because we wanted our staff of thousands to have quick access to a reasonably priced meal.

But you’ve got to realize that that’s only partially true. Even though the cafeteria is a money-loser, our efficiency experts told us that we would lose far more valuable productivity time if our staffers ate “on the outside.” And in our promotional materials, we knew we could tell our potential cult members — er, prospective bloggers — that they would have a bounty of goodness at their disposal. It just sounds good. And you can’t eat here unless you have a DCist badge, which is harder to come by than a liquor license in Georgetown.

For every Subway, Potbelly, Quizno’s, Chinese take-out, and kebob joint in this town, there’s a hidden office cafeteria that caters primarily or exclusively to a single company’s, government agency’s or organization’s employees at lunch hour. They’re perceived as perks, but they keep workers motoring along close to their desks and away from the dangerous time-suck of socializing out of the office. Regardless of their purpose, hidden office cafeterias are just like everything else: some are better than others.

Back in 2004, the Washington Oculus picked apart an eGullet discussion on the best office cafeterias in downtown Washington. Major kudos went to the cafeterias at the World Bank and the State Department (presumably, international types demand better food than local yokels). The Library of Congress’ cafeteria (open to the public) won praise for its fried chicken, and the Longworth House Office Building’s cafeteria (also open to the public) scored points among the commenters for its behemoth salad bar. And diners reported that the National Geographic cafeteria was good, if a bit pricey — and only accessible if you have a membership.

More than two years have passed since the discussion. Which in-office cafeterias are your favorites in D.C.? Leave your comments below — we’ll bus them for you.

Photo by flickr user dangerding and used under a Creative Commons license.

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