Dining Out with Mini-Me: A NYC Survival Guide
Let's face it, eating out with kids in the concrete jungle can feel like herding cats in a windstorm. But fear not, intrepid parents! NYC, despite its reputation for being a grown-up playground, actually has a surprising number of spots where your little monsters won't turn into tiny tyrants.
Pizza, Pasta, and Pure Joy
Let’s start with the obvious: kids love pizza. And NYC, being the pizza capital of the world, has a slice for every tiny taste bud. But hold your horses, don't just grab a slice from any old greasy joint. We're talking about real pizza here, the kind with chewy crust and gooey cheese that will make your kids do a happy dance. Places like John's of Bleecker Street and Lombardi's are classics, but don't be afraid to explore. There's a whole world of pizza out there, from Neapolitan to Detroit-style.
Pasta is another kid-friendly option. But let's be honest, plain spaghetti with marinara sauce gets old fast. Up the ante with some kid-friendly twists like buttered noodles with grated Parmesan or a creamy pesto sauce. And don't forget the garlic bread! Trust me, it’s a game-changer.
Beyond the Basic Bites
While pizza and pasta are safe bets, let's not limit our culinary adventures. Kids are more adventurous than you think. Introduce them to the magic of dim sum at places like Golden Unicorn. The carts rolling around with delicious treats are like a never-ending surprise party. Or take them on a taco tour. Yes, you read that right. Even the pickiest eaters can be won over by a mini-taco filled with their favorite toppings.
Sweet Endings
No meal is complete without dessert, right? And NYC is a dessert lover's paradise. From ice cream shops like Ben & Jerry's to fancy French pastries, there's something to satisfy every sweet tooth. But let's not forget about the classic American diner. Pancakes, waffles, and milkshakes are sure to put a smile on any kid's face.
Tips for Surviving a Meal Out with Kids
- Be Prepared: Bring snacks, coloring books, or small toys to keep them entertained while waiting for food.
- Choose Your Battles: Don't stress about every little spill or mess. Kids will be kids.
- Embrace the Chaos: Dining out with kids is rarely a quiet affair. So, relax and enjoy the moment.
How To...
- How to survive a picky eater in NYC? Offer a variety of options, be patient, and don't give up.
- How to find kid-friendly restaurants in NYC? Use online resources, ask for recommendations, and read reviews.
- How to make dining out with kids fun? Get involved in the meal, let them help choose dishes, and make it an adventure.
- How to handle meltdowns in a restaurant? Stay calm, remove your child if necessary, and offer distractions.
- How to split the bill when dining with friends and kids? Discuss payment options beforehand or use a splitting app.