Hey, that's all quite helpful......as mentioned, just a "decent"-level meal within walking distance of Ren hotel on 9th St (and within per-diem) is just what we're looking for......Americanized-Chinese menus are fine...not sure how adventurous colleagues are likely to be, but just wanted to avoid very sub-par places.
Thanks again for the very specific and current recommendations.....wonder if the fresh rice noodle place does a fully gluten-free dish? (I was thinking Chinese cuisine since that's what this colleague says gives her most options in ordering...without MSG, of course.)