Taking the Kids™
Out to Dinner
Even your kindergartner doesn’t want to eat hot dogs and chicken fingers every meal. You certainly don’t, especially on vacation.
The good news is that restaurants have never been more welcoming to families. Here’s your chance to introduce kids to new foods, if they’re not already more adventurous eaters than you are. Sushi anyone? They can practice their table manners too.
That’s not to say you want to show up with three kids under 10 late on a Saturday night or bust your budget on meals they’re going to leave (mostly) untouched. Next time you’re on vacation or want to take the kids out to dinner:
- GO ETHNIC because even the most finicky eater can find something they like at a Mexican (tortillas) Italian (pasta or pizza) or Chinese (plenty of rice) restaurant. Not only are ethnic restaurants inexpensive, but they are noisy, full of families. Your gang won’t disrupt anyone.
- GO EARLY when restaurants are less crowded and service quicker. You might even get an early-bird deal.
- ASK THE KIDS what they want to eat. They’ll be more cooperative if they’ve been consulted. If they can’t agree, flip a coin.
- BRING SOMETHING TO DO because even if the service is first-rate, you’ll have to wait for your food and will need to amuse the kids. Hangman anyone?
- RESERVE WHENEVER POSSIBLE especially in a resort area so you can minimize the wait. You can always cancel if your plans change.
- LET THE KIDS EXPERIMENT with new foods. On a cruise, they can order whatever and how much they want at no extra cost: In a restaurant, let them order an appetizer portion or ask for a half-order.
Bon Appetit!
By: Eileen Ogintz
