My brilliant, charming and incredibly successful daughter Rachel invited me to lunch today. We’re both creatures of habit, so we headed to Nourish, on Massachusetts Avenue.

We parked in the back and surprisingly found a space – and quarters for the meter.

As we turned the corner, we saw linen-covered tables outside. They were all empty because everyone was sitting inside.

We figured it might be for the dinner crowd, but requested a patio table anyway, because it never hurts to ask.

Hank’s column this morning about Paris didn’t help. I’d thought of nothing but Paris and Provence cafes since reading his piece. Thanks, Hank. 

We were more than welcome to sit outside on the patio. It was a welcome change from the blast of air conditioning. (I’m fickle, next week I’ll be searching for that same frosty air.)

Nourish has an array of healthy options, but when we’re together we always order the beet salad of fresh greens, chopped beets and feta cheese, covered in a rich sweet balsamic vinegar dresing. And, of course, we ordered our usual drink – lemonade.

We talked of work – hers and mine – family, friends and everything in between. We people-watched too, which is another favorite pastime.

One man wolfed down a quick lunch on a nearby bench. Another woman strode by and looked as though she was ready for a bike race. Basically, we just enjoyed being in the Center and eating at one of our favorite restaurants.

Out talk led us to the upcoming opening of Panera Bread in what once housed Decelle’s. We hear it might happen in September and we wondered if people would opt for free WiFi over our small independent shops.

Maybe people can frequent all of them, we thought. Maybe there’s room enough for everyone. This conversation continued as we ran into Officer Paul Jenkins and headed to – wait for it – Dunkin Donuts for a coffee.

Yes, Dunkin Donuts, a chain or franchise, I’m not sure which. 

Think about it. Two Starbucks, Peets Coffee & Tea and three Dunkin Donuts are all more than successful here.

So, maybe my Avenue Deli Reuben sandwich is safe along with Hank's half egg salad at Great Harvest.

Maybe we can all sit together at the table in the center.