Smalltalk is not something we are good at. People coming into the kitchen area and engaging in smalltalk are just being polite. The exchange in smalltalk tends to be quite short, and while it generally has no point, it does give you the opportunity to meet new people.
It is also considered quite rude not to respond. I think it is worth the effort, you might make new friends.
_________________
"Blessed be the cracked, for they shall let in the light."
- Groucho Marx