Ask Lauren: a real breakfast meeting, unadventurous in-laws, and a Short Pump stopover

This week Lauren the Restaurant Oracle speaks about breakfast meetings, where to take unadventurous in-laws, and a convenient Short Pump dining option.

July 5, 2013; 10:25 AM • by Ross Catrow

Now, through the magic of the internet, you too can ask Lauren your myriad food-related questions. Well, technically, you can leave your questions in the comments below, I’ll ask Lauren, and then I’ll let you know what she says. It’s like the three-legged stool of restaurant recommendations.

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I need to have a morning meeting, but I want eat a real meal, not just coffee and a danish. Recommendations?

Lamplighter in The Fan is the perfect place to take a client or coworker for an early morning meeting and grab a real breakfast. They’ve got a long list of serious egg sandwiches (quilted bacon with cheddar!), loaded bagels, and the world’s best yogurt parfait with housemade granola. Lamplighter also has plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options for whatever your dietary restriction may be.

My in-laws are coming into town and they only eat grilled chicken, spaghetti, plain baked potatoes, and salad with no dressing. Where can I take them for dinner?

Edo’s Squid–with its nondescript door, narrow staircase, and dimly lit space–will make your in-laws feel like they’re eating at some highfalutin big-city dining establishment. But nothing could be further from the truth! Look, here are two actual menu items at Edo’s: pasta with garlic and olive oil, spaghetti with marinara (aka spaghetti sauce). That’s about as normal as you can possibly get, so your in-laws should feel totally comfortable. Meanwhile, for your dinner, try the whole fish, and don’t forget to get an order of the squid!

Pro tip: you definitely need reservations!

My best friend lives in Charlottesville and is coming through town to see her boyfriend in Fredericksburg. Where’s a good spot near the highway to meet her for lunch?

Assuming you like Indian food (do some people not like Indian food?), Lehja might be the spot you’re looking for. Located in the Short Pump Town Center, it couldn’t be more conveniently located for your off-the-highway rendezvous. The vegetable vin d’ alho off the Daily Express Lunch Menu is nine bucks and delicious.