Kid-Friendly Stays

Bring snacks, plus other dining-out-with-kids tips

Authored by: Jessica Pawl

Let’s start with a story. After a day spent exploring Rome, likely somewhat jetlagged and delirious, I was feeling two things that never bode well for traveling parents – hangry and confident.

With our one-year-old and four-year-old, we shuffled along cobblestone streets until we found what appeared to be a lovely, lively setting with a reasonable menu. There was a short wait for a table and as we stood in line the restaurant manager brought out green smoothie shooters for the kids, slipping candy into our oldest’s pocket. He was delighted and we were relieved. This was going to be the perfect spot for dinner.

Fast forward 45 minutes and we were seated, still without food, our children getting antsier by the moment. The four-year-old occupied himself with sugar packets, splayed around the table and likely on the floor, as our one-year-old dunked her hand repeatedly into my glass of water smiling. (She wasn’t making noise though, so I was counting this as a win, as I sipped a glass of wine and tried to rub the tension out of my brows.)

Some restaurants offer children’s games or coloring supplies, like this cafe in Porto, Portugal.

Yet, at the next table over, a couple perhaps a decade older than us silently eyed our table. They barely spoke, but their clear annoyance said volumes. I shrank in my seat. I felt terrible, and judged, and exhaled deeply when they finally paid their bill and left. A few minutes later, a couple roughly a decade younger than us sat at the table, smiling gently as they’d look over at the kids every few minutes. Concerned that we’d bother them, I continued to hush the kids, letting the one-year-old wiggle in my arms between bites.

As our meal ended, at least 30 minutes later, the man who’d been sitting across from us stood and walked to our table. He had five Euros in his hand and he gave it to my son with a big smile, praising him for how good he’d been at dinner and telling him he deserved gelato to celebrate. Then, he handed him another five Euro and said that it was for his sister, who’d been just as good, and that he’d be responsible for making sure she got a treat, too.

I was aghast. Dumbfounded. And my heart must have swelled seven sizes. 

Traveling with kids is tough. But eating out with kids, whew, that’s next level after a day on the go. As you navigate mealtime with your littles, keep this in mind. And then keep it in mind the next time you’re out without them. Because kindness goes a tremendously long way in the eyes of a tired traveler who hasn’t yet stocked the vacation rental refrigerator.

Completely kid-friendly dining (complete with toddler buffet!) at Martinhal Family Resort in Sagres; and a fluffy drink in Queensland, New Zealand.

Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s focus on what you can do to best prepare for success when you’re out and about with kiddos and are in need of some sustenance:

  • Skip fine dining, no matter how great the reviews are: While five-star reviews are amazing, what’s most important is that your kids are able to feel comfortable in a restaurant environment and that you’ll feel comfortable alongside them. Ask hostesses if they have crayons or coloring pages handy, or look for al fresco options near grassy spaces or parks so that one parent can duck out with a child if needed for a quick run. Seek out Facebook Groups that focus on traveling to your destination with children and ask for restaurant requests; word of mouth is king when it comes to kid-friendly restaurant gems.
  • Bring snacks, always: But it’s dinner, you say! Don’t be rationale. The food will take longer than expected, or the last spaghetti noodle will fall on the floor. A stash of snacks is your secret weapon. A few healthy options – an apple or fruit leather – hold up well in a travel bag, as do lollipops in a pinch, which are long lasting and nearly always do the trick.
  • Come armed with activities: Sticker books, dry-erase coloring mats, mini magnetic building toys… all of these can serve as fantastic distractions as you wait for food to be served and also happen to be convenient at tabletops. Forgot to pack ahead? I’ve found that watching back videos from the day or sharing photos on your phone is a great alternative and keeps everyone interested.
  • Pack the necessities: Call ahead to ensure a restaurant offers highchairs, if needed, or that their chairs can accommodate a fabric baby seat, should you keep one rolled up in your bag. Bring along child-size spoon and fork, and bib, if that’s going to make mealtime easier for both of you. Consistency is key, even if it’s only in some aspects.
  • Speedy service strategy: Give your little one’s meal top priority by ordering it first, along with your beverage request. This way, they get to munch and enjoy while you await your own feast. For added kiddo satisfaction, ask for a bread basket or some kid-friendly appetizers to keep those hungry tummies at bay.
  • Be strategic on timing: If you’re planning ahead, consider being strategic about when you’ll arrive and dine at a restaurant that’s typically busy. Making a reservation or arriving upon their opening hour (or even “happy hours”) to take advantage of fewer crowds, faster service and less anxiety in general.
  • Patience power-up: Dining out with kids can sometimes feel like a slow-motion adventure, so buckle up for the ride! If a meltdown happens or the waiting game gets tough, take a deep breath and stay cool. A quick stroll or a fun distraction can do wonders. Most importantly, soak up the moment and make some fantastic family memories while you’re at it.

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