Hmm, how about Bibendum? Pretty non-threatening menu, but a great building and a great location and some cool Conran stuff as well. Food is good as well, just not too inventive. If memory serves me right, wasn;t it just redone as well? Also, the area seems just right for a midwestern farm girl.

Might also think about Yauatcha in Soho for dimsum, as Wingnut recommends. As well, I'd second the Oxo tower for the views (and maybe for an oh so hip drink), but I've been disappointed with the food there.