I have a few ideas, but haven't been to D.C. in 18 months . . .
I'd head over to
Habesha Market for some amazing Ethiopian on 9th NW just south of U. Plenty of vegetarian options, unlimited injera bread. I thought I didn't like Ethiopian food until I started eating it on 9th street. This is an order at the counter and wait until your number is called kind of place. It's definitely quick and inexpensive. If you have a bit more time and want table service,
Etete, across the street from Habesha, is solid.
I'd also very strongly recommend the
Greek Deli on 19th NW, between L & M. It's a take out joint with only a few tables. Everything's made fresh, including the bread. You wait in a line, ready to quickly place your order when called. Then you get out of the way and wait for your food. $9 gets you a veggie platter big enough for two substantial meals. (you can also order less, of course.) Great pasta with feta, string beans with tons of garlic, fava beans, spanikopita, etc.
Quick and delicious pizza can be had at
Alberto's on P Street NW in a basement, just west of Dupont Circle. Order whatever is just about to come out of the oven. Eat standing there. I still dream about the cheese pizza, piping hot. If the pizza's more than three minutes old, wait for a hot one. If you have more time, just a bit further west on the opposite side of the street is
Pizza Paradiso, a sit down spot with good Neapolitan-style pizzas.
I don't know if it's still good, but perhaps my favorite veggie sandwich of all time is from
Breadline, on Pennsylvania NW just Northwest of the White House. Wonderful crusty bread, grilled veggies, and tons of black olive tapenade. Oh, and their french fries are spectacular.
You may also enjoy the veggie-friendly
Teaism, which has three downtown locations. It's a great place to dine solo, and there are outside seats at some locations (should it actually be cool enough to sit outside midday). Not cheap, but super-fresh, quickly-served Asian food.
Honestly, I don't think the D.C. burrito cart (unless it's changed) is worth seeking out. There are dozens of better burritos in Chicago. Casual Mexican is not D.C.'s strong suit.
I like Amsterdam Falafel. Great toppings bar.
Let us know how the trip goes and what you discover!
Ronna