Thanks for all of your tips.
I guess I'm leaning towards just politely bowing out.
Up to now I've been leaving work for my lunch anyways.
Maybe I'm just looking for the polite way of handling it.

Probably not a good idea with a brand new job. Unless you truely have a
doctors appt @ that same time, I'd put in an appearance. Eat some salad, eat
some meat, eat some of the low carb appetizers and cheese and get to know some
of your new coworkers. Have a good time!

Susan