San Francisco’s Best Dim Sum Spots to Bring the Kids

by Sonia GandiagaJanuary 30, 2022

Xiao long bao, house-made noodles and pork buns galore—take your little dumpling to one of these SF dim sum spots.

Fun, soft, small and delicious—dim sum is perfect food for kids. They can gobble them up with their little fingers, no silverware required. San Francisco boasts the oldest and largest Chinatown in the country and we’ve rounded up seven of our favorite spots there, from fancy and modern to small hole-in-the-wall dim sum bakeries.

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Dragon Beaux

This is for sure one of the most sophisticated dim sum spots around. At lunchtime, you can enjoy some of the most creative dim sum in San Francisco like the delicious squid ink dumplings. At night they also offer hot pot with an extensive selection of meats, seafood, veggies, house-made noodles, and around 10 house-made sauces. If you are not sure of which dim sum to try, order the sampler and get the most colorful selection of dumplings in the Bay.

5700 Geary Blvd.
San Francisco
Online: dragonbeaux.com

Good Mong Kok Bakery

Good Mong Kok is an excellent and affordable bakery for when you want your dumplings on the go. Try their steamed pork, shu mai, har gow, steamed chive dumpling and beef shu mai. The dumplings are plump and generous and packed with flavor. There is no sitting, but you can have a dim sum picnic at Washington Square park nearby.

1039 Stockton St.
San Francisco
Online: goodmongkok.com

Dumpling Time

This trendy, modern and affordable dumpling restaurant makes its home in Mission Bay. They make amazing xiao long baos (soup dumplings!) and focus on local and fresh ingredients to create their traditional dumplings. An added plus is their heated outdoor patio. Keep the kids occupied while you wait by watching the dumplings being made fresh before your eyes.

11 Division St.
San Francisco
Online: dumplingtime.com

Shanghai Dumpling King

This San Francisco staple has been preparing some of the most authentic dim sum for over ten years. There are not a lot of tables and if you come on the weekend be prepared to wait. But, the wait is so worth it. Feast on spicy pork and chive dumplings, plump and delicious shrimp and soup dumplings, and make sure to order their famous green beans!

3319 Balboa St.
San Francisco
Online: shanghaidumplingking.com

Good Luck Dim Sum

Good Luck Dim Sum is known to be one of the most consistent and affordable dim sum spots in the city. Try their siu mai and shrimp dumplings—so juicy and delicious! And their pork buns are to die for (and a kid fave). There are a few tables in the back but most people take their dim sum to go.

736 Clement St.
San Francisco

Wing Lee Bakery

Wing Lee is a classic Clement Street take out dim sum spot. What they lack in ambiance they make up for in tasty food. The shrimp and leek dumplings are outrageous—large shrimp pieces, tender, crunchy and so fresh. Also try their siu mai, pot stickers and bbq pork buns. So good, simple and inexpensive. Bonus: they are super fast, great for feeding those hungry little mouths that can surely not wait.

503 Clement St.
San Francisco

20 Global Recipes Your Kids Should Try at Least Once

by Anna DooganOctober 7, 2021

Heading out of the country and sampling international foods has been put on the back burner as of late. Luckily, you don’t even have to leave your kitchen to get a head start on enjoying some of the best dishes the world has to offer. From savory meat dishes and sweet breads, to hearty soups and fondue, keep scrolling to see some of our favorite recipes from around the world.

Hänchen-Schnitzel

Chicken Schnitzel is a classic German food recipe. — Curious Cuisiniere

Get this easy German Chicken Schnitzel on the table in no time thanks to Curious Cuisiniére's recipe! This thin-sliced chicken recipe cooks quickly and is easily served with traditional German sides, or along your fave veggies, too.

Phở

Chilly night? Time for some Vietnamese Phở! While this traditional soup can take quite some time to prepare (it's all about the broth!), this recipe from Gimme Some Oven gives some easy shortcuts that gets in on the table in 45 minutes. Kids will love putting in their own veggies and meat, while cutting their noodles with a pair of scissors.

Turkish Gozleme

Turkish gozleme is a cheese and spinach stuffed bread that is irresistible. The traditional street food can be yours by following Give Recipe, which uses a super easy dough recipe that's then packed with a savory filling and fried.

Ropa Vieja

The Daring Gourmet's Cuban Ropa Vieja recipe is so easy, it will quickly become a part of your menu rotation. Made with flank steak, veggies and lots of fragrant spices, this traditional shredded beef dish easily pairs with rice and beans—things even picky eaters like! Dinner is served.

Baked Chicken Jollof Rice

A chicken dish that's a great African food recipe. — Recipes from a Pantry

Time for a new spin on your regular chicken and rice recipe! This traditional African recipe uses Jollof rice, which is basically a blend of tomato puree and rice, and adds savory chicken and veggies. Recipes from a Pantry gives you the easy details for this baked recipe that makes dinner a breeze.

Biryani

Make sneaking in the veggies a breeze with Food Fanatic's Indian Vegetable Biryani! While this recipe does have quite the ingredient list, your kiddos will hardly notice their scarfing down carrots, green beans and peas.

Baklava

No Greek meal is complete without a slice of baklava. And while the layered dessert may seem difficult, it actually requires just a few ingredients and a little patience. Kids will love the sweet flavor and counting all those layers. Check out Spatula Desserts to see how easy it is!

Japanese Milk Bread

Also known as Hokkaido milk bread, this Japanese specialty is a soft and springy bread that has a slight sweetness. It’s the perfect weekend project since you’ll need to let it rise twice. Head to Simmer + Sauce to get the recipe.

Dumplings

Many countries have their own version of the dumpling, but Chinese dumplings are a well-known and traditional food for families to make together for Chinese New Year. Depending on the type, they may be steamed, boiled or pan-fried, with different shapes and fillings—and they’re all tasty! Introduce your kids to this easy dumpling recipe. Meat, scallions and soy sauce combine to make these savory bites, and they're simple to make with a wonton wrapper. Try making them with the sweet and salty dipping sauce on the side.

Fondue

Fondue is fun to eat, and kids will love the idea of dipping chunks of bread, meat and veggies into a big pot of gooey, melted cheese. This Swiss dish dates back to the 17^th century, but we’re still digging it today! Have your own family fondue party with this recipe from Genius Kitchen. Want something a little sweeter? Try a chocolate fondue for dessert, and use fresh fruit and chunks of pound cake for dipping.

Crepes

Take an imaginary trip to Paris when you whip up a batch of these yummy paper-thin pancakes. Originating in the northwest region of the country, creperies are now found all over France and offer both sweet and savory variations. Kids can easily help by mixing up the batter and selecting the fillings: Go classic with ham and cheese or sweet sugar and lemon, or get adventurous with your own ideas. Need some inspiration? Try this easy crepe recipe by Catherine McCord of Weelicious.

Ramen

If your only experience with ramen is a ten-cent crinkly package from the grocery store, it’s time to try the real deal version of this popular Japanese dish. The nourishing broth packed with slurp-worthy noodles and endless variations of toppings is a definite kid-pleaser. Your kids can help you make this hearty version full of tofu, veggies and a bit of ginger.

Bibimbap

Meaning “mixed rice,” this amazing dish from Korea is the ultimate rice bowl. On a bed of warm rice, you might find a combo like fried and raw veggies, seasoned grilled meat or tofu, a red chili paste called gochujang and a fried egg added on top. Bibimbap is a great way to introduce kids to new ingredients, and an even better way to use up those extra veggies that are hanging around. Check out this mouthwatering recipe from Rasa Malaysia complete with an extensive list of suggested toppings.

Sushi

Turn your kids into big-time sushi lovers! Simple veggie sushi rolls are easy, healthy and just the right size for little hands. It’s fun to make and eat together at home, and even not-so-adventurous eaters will want these egg, edamame and rice rolls from hello, Wonderful. Start with basic flavors that they’ll love, and then slowly expand the sushi repertoire to include more adventurous foods and textures.

Souvlaki

Make a batch of Greek souvlaki skewers, and it’s a win-win for everyone. Kids love the fun of food on a stick, and adults will love the juicy marinated chicken with lemon, garlic and a side of cool, refreshing tzatziki sauce. Try the recipe by Lemons for Lulu here.

Injera and Lentils

Besides being flavorful and nutritious, eating Ethiopian food is a community experience. Food is often eaten with hands and served on a large shared plate, along with plenty of injera, a spongy and slightly fermented flatbread that’s perfect for sharing. This recipe from Lighter has great tips for adjusting the flavors for kids who don’t love a ton of spice. Authentic injera takes several days for the fermenting process, but you can take the easy route and make this quick recipe in about an hour!

Meze

For a casual meal, put together tasty nibbles and make a meze platter. Made up of a variety of foods served small-plate style, meze is common throughout the Mediterranean and the Middle East, and offers the perfect opportunity for little foodies to sample new foods, like creamy hummus and baba ghanouj. Try making this gorgeous Mediterranean-inspired meze from Kitchen Treaty, and watch it disappear.

Chicken Tikka

This juicy chicken made with yogurt and spices and grilled on skewers is a yummy introduction to Indian cuisine. Let the kids help in the kitchen by mixing up the yogurt and curry marinade for this quick chicken tikka that’s sure to become a new family favorite.

Jerk Chicken

You can’t talk about the foods of the Caribbean without bringing up Jamaican jerk. Moist, spicy and smoky, this memorable seasoning and cooking method produces some of the most flavorful food around. Although traditional jerk can be a bit spicy for little palates, this modified version by This Week for Dinner gives you the signature flavors without as much heat.

Empanadas

Bakd&Raw by Karolin Baitinger via Unsplash

Flaky, portable and delicious, there are endless combination ideas for these perfect pastries that work for breakfast, lunch or dinner! Whether you go savory or sweet, you’re definitely in for a treat. Bring some of the flavors of South America right to your table with these homemade beef empanadas from Laylita’s Recipes.

—Anna Doogan & Karly Wood

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Chocolate Lava Gnocchi Has Returned to Trader Joe’s

by Karly WoodDecember 15, 2020

Trader Joe’s Chocolate Lava Gnocchi is back for a second year and continues to make waves with customers. The sweet treat is back in the freezer section and we are definitely on board for the dinner-turned-dessert!

Traditionally, gnocchi is a soft dough dumpling and made from ingredients like potatoes, flour and semolina and served in a savory white or red sauce. However, in typical Trader Joe’s fashion, the company took a simple food and made it so much better.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4ySv-jJfhC/

The Chocolate Lava Gnocchi’s packaging describes the dessert as “sweet chocolate gnocchi with a molten chocolate core.” Much like the grocer’s popular cauliflower gnocchi, this version can be served up in under 10 minutes by sauteeing in a pan with a little butter before enjoying the melty goodness.

You can find the product in a 12. oz bag in the freezer section for $2.99.

––Karly Wood

Feature image: Red Tricycle

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The Best Dim Sum in San Diego

by Nikki WalshJanuary 22, 2020

Light and fluffy dumplings, pan-fried pot stickers, delicately steamed buns––there’s no doubt about it, dim sum is all that and then some. With Chinese New Year upon us (beginning Jan. 25) and to honor the Year of the Rat, head to one of these local hot spots to dine on Asian cuisine. From restaurants where kids can watch the rolling of dumplings to eateries with adorable pig and panda bao buns, we’ve found a variety of places to get your fill of dim sum. Read on for where to pick up your chopsticks.

Din Tai Fung

Perfectly casual dim sum dining at UTC. Little eaters can watch the rolling of dumplings right inside this eatery. Even more, they'll chow down on chicken fried noodles and wonton soup. For grown-ups, you'll love the pork and crab xiaolong bao, pork bun or veggie dumplings. Yum!

Good to know: expect a wait, as Din Tai Fung encourages walk-ins.

Westfield UTC
4301 La Jolla Village Dr.
San Diego, CA 92122
858-375-5988
Online: dintaifungusa.com

Umami Japanese

With a nod to both meat and vegetarian options, go to Umami for sushi and dim sum. For dim sum, the bao buns with soy-braised pork-belly or caramelized onion and mushroom hit the spot. Likewise, the veggie caterpillar roll or spider roll (with soft shell crab) is a winner. Even more, there's a kids' menu with choices like teriyaki chicken or gyoza with rice and soup ($7). The whole fam is sure to enjoy this dining spot.

251 North City Dr., Ste. 122
San Marcos, CA 92096
760-410-4129
Online: umamijp.com

Bao Bar

Visit Bao Bar inside the Liberty Public Market for freshly-made steamed Chinese bao buns and fresh spring rolls both meat and vegetarian style. Even more, wash it down with a milk tea boba or smoothie with different toppings to choose from. There are plenty of other food offerings at the Market to satisfy every taste bud. Get your food, then pop outside, grab a table and eat up.

Liberty Public Market
2820 Historic Decatur Rd.
San Diego, CA 92106
619-487-9346
Online: libertypublicmarket.com

Jasmine Seafood Restaurant

Let the good times roll at this grand seafood restaurant that's bustling with families. The classic har gow (shrimp dumplings) have a slight crunch and savory flavor. Another favorite, the BBQ pork buns go over well with young diners. There's a stage in the restaurant that hosts the lucky lion dancers several times around Chinese New Year (and it's free)! Remember to bring your red envelopes to feed to the dancing lion.

Dim Sum is served from open- 3 p.m. daily.

4609 Convoy St., Ste. A
San Diego, CA 92111
858-268-0888
Online: jasmineseafood.com

Harumama

Kids will get a real kick out of the playful takes on Asian fare found at Harumama. How could anyone resist these adorable, cartoon-like character steamed buns? We think the panda bun (filled with a not too sweet purple potato) tastes yummy. Also, the cute chicken bun showers your taste buds with the creamy egg custard inside. You'll also find traditional ramen with a contemporary twist, specialty sushi rolls, bites and greens, small plates, noodles, bao buns and bowls on the menu. Wash your dim sum down with Japanese beer including Asahi and Kirin, along with local craft beer, specially imported beers, wine, sake, and non-alcoholic drinks.

La Jolla Location
1250 Prospect St.
La Jolla, CA 92037
858-999-0323

Carlsbad Location
2958 Madison St.
Carlsbad, CA 92008
760-720-7874

Little Italy Neighborhood
1901 Columbia St.
San Diego, CA 92101
619-269-7122
Online: www.harumamasd.com

Dumpling Inn & Shanghai Saloon

Eat dumplings at this cool Shanghai-themed eatery. With little eaters entranced by the rickshaw in the room, it's easy to get your order in. Even more, as far as dumplings go everything is good. We eat up the soup dumplings and pan-fried pot stickers, always good to order with the crew in tow. Grown-ups will enjoy the shrimp and chive dumpling. Still more, the chow mein is a good option too. We recommend arriving early to find a parking spot.

4625 Convoy St.
San Diego, CA 92111
858-268-9638
Online: dumplinginn.com

Steamy Piggy

These decadent dumplings are made fresh-to-order. Little eaters can watch them rolled from scratch right before their eyes! We love this restaurant's homey vibe and stylish decor with macrame hanging plants and a fire pit for outdoor dining. The dumplings are delish and you can choose between many different fillings. Order up their rainbow dumplings sampler and get one of each flavor: cabbage, chives, veggie, chicken & shrimp. Kids will love the cute panda bear or pig dessert bao with custard inside too.

4681 Convoy St.
San Diego, CA 92111
858-492-0401
Online: steamypiggy.com

––Nikki Walsh & Beth Shea

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Topanga from “Boy Meets World” Is Pregnant with a Boy of Her Own

by Erica LoopJanuary 4, 2019

Add another celeb to the list of soon-to-be mommies, because actress Danielle Fishel is pregnant. You may still think of Fishel as Cory Matthews’ girlfriend Topanga from Boy Meets World. But now the actress who played Topanga is all grown up, married and is about to become a mama for the first time!

The star recently announced her baby news in a super sweet Instagram post:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Danielle Fishel Karp (@daniellefishel)

In her IG announcement, Fishel posted a pic of three pairs of shoes on IG: one for daddy, one for mommy and one teeny tiny pair of sneakers for baby. Along with the aww-dorable photo, Fishel added the caption, “I’m eating for two. I’m napping with wild abandon. Baby shoes. Baby clothes. (I’m shopping). I’m nesting. I’m reading books. I’m madly in love with my husband. I cry at commercials. I’m a walking cliché. I’ve got baby apps. I’m confident. I feel inadequate. I’m showing one day and the next I’m not. I’m nervous. I’m excited. He’s due in July. We can’t wait.”

Fishel is expecting her first child, a boy, with husband Jensen Karp, an executive producer in Hollywood. The pair tied the knot in early November 2018.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Danielle Fishel Karp (@daniellefishel)

Fishel isn’t the only one who is super-excited about her pregnancy. Karp shared their happy baby news in his own ‘Gram, writing “GUYS. We’re having a baby boy. Couldn’t be more excited to raise a sweet little dumpling with @daniellefishel.”

Congrats to the Boy Meets World star—and we know the world can’t wait to meet your boy!

—Erica Loop

Featured Photo: Danielle Fishel via Instagram

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Eat Your Way Through Outside Lands: Best Picks for Kids

by Erin LemAugust 8, 2018

While your kid’s music taste may be more Yo Gabba Gabba! than Florence and the Machine, there is one thing you and your Bay Area foodie can agree on: good eats. Whether it’s slurping down a milk tea from Boba Guys or noshing on pastrami reubens from Wise Sons, this year’s Outside Lands is a foodie heaven. If you’re headed to the festival with your fam this year, here are 16 kid-friendly eats—from some from the Bay’s best restaurants—you can’t miss. Don’t forget the wipes!

Dabba

Dabba's Facebook page

If you haven't tried out Dabba—they have locations in the Marina and FiDi—you're missing out. The casual eatery is known for their bold flavors, healthy comfort food and wholesome ingredients. They'll be at Outside Lands this year serving up their rice bowls (choose from chicken or vegan).

Bonus: if you don't make it to their OSL outpost, check out Dabba's new Camp Kits, which debuted recently. Each kit, which cost only $15 per person, comes cooked and neatly packaged in compostable and recyclable containers for the ultimate grab-and-go convenience. Choose from jerk pork tacos or curried lamb rice bowls (veggie and vegan options available). Even if you aren't taking Dabba's Camp Kits camping, we love that they're offering up pre-cooked takeaway meals for busy weeknights.

Cassava

Dean S. via Yelp

New this year to the mouth-watering line-up is Cassava. They'll be serving up their glazed BBQ pork ribs and sweet potato cornbread. Fun fact: they're located just a hop, skip and a jump away from Golden Gate Park at Balboa and 36th Avenue.

Dinosaurs

Elaine Y. via Yelp

If you're jetting from stage to stage you might want to opt for a grab and go meal that's easy to eat on the fly. Turn to Dinosaurs. They're new to the festival this year and will be selling their delicious Banh Mi Tea Sandwiches.

Juice Shop

Mariethonnie M. via Yelp

Stay hydrated with Juice Shop. Sip on watermelon juice and whole cracked coconuts. This is Juice Shop's first appearance at Outside Lands.

Dumpling Time & Live Sushi Bar

Michael Ogata via Dumpling Time & Live Sushi Bar

Bay Area kids are no stranger to dim sum, which is why we're so excited your dumpling connoisseurs will be able to snatch some up at this year's festival. Dumpling Time & Live Sushi Bar will feature their Shrimp and Pork Siu Mai Dumplings and Sushi Handrolls. Fun fact: they are also new to Outside Lands this year!

Powder Shaved Snow

Erin Feher

You may have tried shave ice but have you ever tried Powder's Taiwanese Shaved Snow? The Divisadero outpost is setting up at Outside Lands this year. Head here for a not-to-miss delectable treat.

Firepie

Firepie Facebook page

You can't go wrong with pizza and while there are as always, a bunch of pizza options, new to the fest is Firepie. They'll have their wood-fired pizzas and edible cooke dough on hand to satisfy your salt and sugar cravings.

4505 Meats

Solongo B. via Yelp

BBQ in the Bay doesn't get much better than 4505 Meats. They'll be available this year serving their best damn cheeseburgers (their wording, not ours, though we agree) and chicharrones.

Boba Guys

Natalie C. via Yelp

Milk tea has taken off thanks to Boba Guys. Grab one of their famous classic milk boba teas or jasmine milk boba teas.

Tartine Manufactory

Haynes via flickr

A stop at Tartine Manufactory will give you a spring in your step that'll last you throughout the day. Stop here once you enter the festival and grab one of their legendary baked goods or pressed melts.

Wise Sons

Crystal Z. via flickr

Sandwiches don't get much better than a Hot Pastrami Reuben from Wise Sons. They'll be dishing those out all-day along with their pastrami cheese fries.

Sharona's Chocolate Shop

Yes, a whole land devoted to chocolate. Need we say more? Your kids will be bowled over by everything in this enchanted forest devoted to chocolate, but we’re extra special fans of Sharona’s Chocolate Shop where you’ll find chocolate-dipped peanut butter cups and our absolute fave, chocolate-dipped s’mores.

The Farmer’s Wife

Adam B. via Yelp

The Farmer’s Wife will be at the festival this year dishing out their Lamb Merguez & Chimichurri Melts and Albacore Tuna Melts. We can't think of a better meal that'll sustain you throughout your festival day.

Homestead Cookies

Homestead Cookies from the business owner via Yelp

You’ll be doing so much dancing and walking you will definitely need a sweet boost mid-day. Give yourself a dose of energy by grabbing Homestead Cookie's signature savory sweet chocolate chip cookies on the way to your next stage.

Koja Kitchen

Ed U. via Yelp

What started as a food truck has blossomed into multiple brick-and-mortars with a cult following (psst...read our review of their Clement street location by clicking here. Koja Kitchen is bringing their famous kamikaze fries to hungry festival goers. So if you have a hankering for full flavors and fries that’ll definitely fill you up, Koja Kitchen is a good place to head.

Hook't on Sugar & Spun

Sugar & Spun

Cotton candy isn’t just for the county fair anymore. But, this is a festival–albeit without a petting zoo or ferris wheel–so you can’t leave without grabbing a freshly spun cotton candy bouquet from Hook't on Sugar & Spun.

Click here to get the scoop on the full line-up of impressive eats.

Are you going to Outside Lands this year with your family? Got any tips to share? Which food cart is your favorite? Leave us a comment below!

— Erin Lem

How to Make Your Own Delicious Dumplings from Pixar’s Adorable New Short, “Bao”

by Shahrzad WarkentinJune 22, 2018

If you’re one of the millions that watched the Incredibles 2 during its opening week, then you were treated to Pixar’s latest short, Bao before the film. You’re not alone if the heartwarming short made you tear up —or if it even made you a little hungry. Critics are raving about the cute film and now you can satisfy your cravings with this adorable dumpling recipe from Bao.

Domee Shi, the film’s writer and director—and the first female director for a Pixar short—was inspired by her own experiences forming and cooking the Chinese dumplings with her mom when she was a kid.There’s a reason the film feels so authentic: Shi actually brought in her mom to the studio to give the movie’s production team a lesson in how to actually make the dumplings—and here’s how you can make your very own, too!

Wanting to give fans the chance to share in the dumpling tastiness, Shin created the illustrated recipe to spread her mom’s knowledge. Read on to see how you can make your own bao at home.

The Ingredients

Disney/Pixar

You should be able to find all of these ingredients in your local grocery store; check the Asian or international aisle for the oyster sauce.

First, Make the Dough

Disney/Pixar

Like all good dumplings, start with your flour and yeast.

Time to Roll Up Your Sleeves

Disney/Pixar

Shi's recipe calls for 500 mL of water, which is the equivalent to a little more than 2 cups.

Nap Time

Disney/Pixar

Well, nap time for your dumpling dough, anyway.

Making the Filling

Disney/Pixar

Every dumpling has two delicious elements: a nice, yummy dough and some kind of tasty filling. For this recipe, Shi uses pork, but you could sub for other meats or meat alternatives.

Mix It Up

Disney/Pixar

All of these ingredients for the filling will fill your kitchen with delicious, savory aromas of umami.

Let's Get Rolling

Disney/Pixar

Time to wake up that dough from its nap and roll it into shape.

The Windmill Technique

Disney/Pixar

If you've never used the windmill technique to roll out dough before, Shi has provided this helpful tutorial.

The Dumplings Take Shape

Disney/Pixar

We hope your hungry, because this recipe makes a pretty good amount of dumplings!

Putting It All Together

Disney/Pixar

This part is especially perfect for little hands if you have your kids helping you in the kitchen.

Pinch & Twist

Disney/Pixar

To give your bao its characteristic shape, make sure you both pinch and twist the top to seal it.

Time for a Steam Bath

Disney/Pixar

While the most authentic preparation for Chinese bao would be to use a bamboo steamer, a metal steamer or even a mesh strainer (lined with cabbage leaves to prevent the dumplings from sticking) also works if you don't have a bamboo one on hand.

There’s still one more step in Shi’s recipe—but we don’t want to spoil the ending of the cute film in case you haven’t seen it yet. You’ll have to see Bao for yourself to see the very last and most hilarious step to making these very special dumplings!

—Shahrzad Warkentin

Featured photo: Walt Disney Thailand via YouTube

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Pass on the Pie: 6 Birthday Party Eats That Aren’t Pizza

by Abbey McGeeFebruary 19, 2015

We know birthday parties and pizza go hand in hand, but wouldn’t it be nice to eat something other than cheese or pepperoni pie at your next bash? If you’re ready break the party mold and try something deliciously different, we’ve rounded up six sure-fire kid pleasers from local Seattle favorites.

photo: Wendy S. via Yelp

Blazing Bagels
With over 33 bagel flavors and 12 kinds of cream cheese, Blazing Bagels’ flavor combinations are endless. Try their bagel ball tray (think donut hole in bagel form) or the mini bagel dog bites: a reinvention of the quintessential kid food, perfectly portioned for pint-sized party peeps. Round out your carb-tastic meal with fruit, meat and cheese platters.

Good to know: Blazing Bagels has Eastside and Seattle locations. Place your order at the location nearest you.

Online: blazingbagels.com

photo: Yulanda W. via Yelp

Fu Man Dumpling House
Treat the party to some delicious doughy goodness with homemade dumplings from Fu Man Dumpling House in Seattle’s Bitter Lake neighborhood. The pork and vegetable dumplings are made fresh at this family-owned establishment, and if you show up at the right time, you can watch the kitchen make them from scratch. Order take out or grab a bag of frozen dumplings to prep at home. Round out your meal with other traditional Chinese cuisine like chow mein or fried rice.

Good to know: Fu Man Dumpling House is a small operation, so call ahead to place your order.

14314 Greenwood Ave. N.
Seattle, Wa 98133
206-364-0681

Online: yelp.com/biz/fu-man-dumpling-house-seattle

photo: jdurham via morgueFile

Maya’s Restaurant
You can’t go wrong with Mexican food. Ole! Serve up a spread of rice, beans, tacos, enchiladas, and favorite kid staple: the quesadilla. Maya’s Restaurant is your go-to for south of the border tastes, cooking up party food for the greater Seattle area for over 30 years. Whether you’re hosting a neighborhood bash or a small gathering of besties, Maya’s provides freshly prepared, temperature perfect food when you want it. From traditional fare to healthy vegetarian options, Maya’s Restaurant offers a wide variety of options to fit every taste and budget.

Good to know: Maya’s delivers orders for 20 or more people.

9447 Rainier Ave. S.
Seattle, WA 98118
206-725-5510

Online: mayasrestaurant.co
Email: catering@mayasrestaurant.com

photo: Pampeana Empanadas

Pampeana Empanadas
Pampeana’s stuffs pastry dough with creative fillings, both savory and sweet, and then bakes the pillowly goodness until toasty warm and super scrumptious. Accompany your empanada order with their house-made chimichurri, tamarind ginger sauce, or aji sauce to enhance the flavor factor. Place your order and pick up fresh baked empanadas at the U-District or West Seattle Farmers Markets on weekends or snag frozen empanadas at their Tacoma kitchen mid-week.

Good to know: Pampeana’s sauces are available for purchase or make at home with the recipes provided online.

253-973-6589
Online: pampeanaempanadas.com

photo: Curtis L. via Yelp

Vios Café
How about some Greek food? Opa! Seattle’s Vios Café serves up Mediterranean food perfect for petite party-goers. From chicken souvlaki (what child doesn’t like eating food on a skewer?) to delectable house-made dips served with warm pita bread, Café Vios makes entertaining food with definite yum factor. Order platters from the pre-set catering menu or create your own spread from their extensive menu. Depending on the size of your order, food is available for pick-up or delivery.

Good to know: Vios Café has two Seattle locations; contact the Capitol Hill restaurant for catering orders.

903 19th Ave. E.
Seattle, Wa 98112
206-329-3236
Online: vioscafe.com

Yellow Dot Café
Sandwiches and fruit are guaranteed kid pleasers and the Yellow Dot Café serves up some of the best tasting deli food in the Seattle area. Fresh seasonal fruit platters feature berries and melon cut just to size for little fingers to enjoy. Fill sandwich platters with delicious flavors like turkey pesto, ham and swiss, and hummus and veggie, sure to convert the most stalwart PB&J fan. Yellow Dot Café offers boxed meals or family-style platters.

Good to know: If you’re a party-planning procrastinator, Yellow Dot Café only needs a 24-hour notice to prep your order.

South Lake Union location
301 Westlake Ave. N.
Seattle, Wa 98109
206-381-9200

Fremont location
701 N. 34th St.
Seattle, Wa 98103
206-588-0659

Online: yellowdotcafe.com
Email: catering@yellowdotcafe.com

What other food would you add to our list? Tell us in the Comments!

— Abbey McGee

6 New Restaurants That are Majorly Kid Friendly

by Matt KirouacOctober 14, 2014

Polish donuts. Meatball sandwiches. Nutella empanadas. There’s a lot for kids to be excited about at the local eateries that opened this fall. Parents, we’ve got you covered as well (did you see the part about Nutella empanadas?!). From a family-friendly brewpub to an Eastern Euro-flavored hideaway, this is where to fill your tank now.

photo: 5411 Empanadas

5411 Empanadas
The trend of food trucks going brick-and-mortar carries on with a couple new dumpling-oriented spots. And if there’s one food high on adorability and kid appeal, it’s dumplings. First up: a sleek new Wicker Park restaurant from the 5411 Empanadas food truck team. They already operate a small storefront in Lincoln Park, but their new outpost brings more seating, more menu items, more sweets and more to smile about. Kids will love the BBQ chicken empanada, or the banana-Nutella version for dessert. There’s a sweet corn version for veggie lovers, as well as beef and chorizo empanadas that taste like glorious Hot Pockets.

2045 W. North Ave.
Wicker Park
773-755-5411
Online: 5411empanadas.com

photo: BroBagel

BroBagel
The brothers behind Piece Pizzeria & Brewery have teamed up again to launch a casual bagel cafe alongside the restaurant. For the brothers Jacobs, it’s a return to form, as they previously operated a bagel bakery in their pre-Piece days. The results are gloriously doughy and indulgent. The sunny, casual cafe features a dizzying array of bagels in classic and contemporary flavors, with optional cream cheese spreads, coffee, some pastries, and breakfast sandwiches. It’s a simple formula, and a heartwarming one. Because nothing says “family-friendly breakfast” like a carb bomb bedecked with cream cheese.

1931 W. North Ave.
Wicker Park
773-772-4422
Online: brobagel.com

photo: Polak Eatery via Laura C on Yelp

Polak Eatery
Hot on the heels of 5411’s South American-flavored dumpling debut, another dumpling food truck parks itself at a new storefront in Humboldt Park. The Pierogi Wagon’s new restaurant, Polak Eatery, is open for business, expanding on its pierogi repertoire with numerous other Eastern European-inspired comfort foods. The quaint space gets its homey appeal from reclaimed wood furnishings, exposed brick and a smattering of tables. The comfy-cozy vibe also translates to the menu which offers modern interpretations of Polish nourishment in the form of pierogi dumplings (doughy little morsels brimming with potatoes, cheese and more), along with Polish doughnuts called paczki, soulful borscht soup, gravy-slathered poutine, hearty goulash and other delights.

1043 N. California Ave.
Humboldt Park
312-291-1902
Online: facebook.com/polakeatery

photo: Snarf’s Sandwiches

Snarf’s Sandwiches
Kids and sandwiches go together like Spongebob and square-shaped pants. There can never be enough sandwich spots for kids to drool over, but one newbie has our attention for its impressive array of classic-inspired toasted sandwiches, its cartoon-y branding and its proximity to Oz Park. The Boulder, Colorado-based sandwich shop has locations throughout the state, along with St. Louis and Austin, and its chosen downtown and Lincoln Park for its inaugural Chicago entry (with another one due by nearby DePaul campus). With artsy interiors and facades reflective of the neighborhood, Snarf’s ingratiates itself to its new home well, inviting diners with a Wizard of Oz-inspired tiled mosaic. The sandwiches read like kid catnip — most of them riffs on classic favorites like roast beef, meatballs, corned beef, grilled cheese and PB&J. Ideal for kids is the Novice size sandwich, a 5-incher ideal for smaller mouths. And don’t forget the milkshakes.

2201 N. Lincoln Ave.
Lincoln Park
&
600 W. Chicago Ave.
Downtown
312-644-1500
Online: eatsnarfs.com

photo: The Rivers Edge Bar & Grill

The Rivers Edge Bar & Grill
Chicken wings, bacon-topped burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches and other classic American favorites form the foundation for a solid family-friendly meal at Batavia’s new Rivers Edge Bar & Grill. Located on the city’s historic and picturesque North River Street, the comfortable space features a massive outdoor patio, live music and trivia for those who like to test their wits while tearing into Buffalo wings. The menu is divvied into comfort foods both old school and new. For sports-loving families, Rivers Edge airs football games and serves up chili and hot dogs at halftime.

12 N. River St.
Batavia
630-406-9200
Online: facebook.com

photo: Granite City Food & Brewery

Granite City Food & Brewery
The national restaurant and brewery chain has made its Chicago-area debut in Orland Park, and at long last we have a brewpub with an affinity for kid-friendly cookery. Not only is the restaurant spacious and comfortable, outfitted with large booths, granite pillars and a nifty view into the brewing facilities through tall windows, but Granite City goes to great lengths to make little eaters feel right at home with its in-depth kids’ menu. The “Just for Miners” menu features items like mini corn dogs, grilled chicken, rigatoni noodles and pepperoni flatbread pizza. Plus, the menu features cartoon characters and numerous interactive games like mazes and Sudoku. Cheers to that!

14035 S. La Grange Rd.
Orland Park
708-364-1212
Online: gcfb.com

What restaurant do you love to take the kids to? Let us know in the Comments!

— Matt Kirouac

Pass on the Pie: 7 Birthday Party Eats That Aren’t Pizza

by Anna KnoebelSeptember 17, 2014

No one eats more pizza than a NYC mom or dad. A mom we know even admitted to a childless friend that she eats pizza at least three times per week. The childless friend gaped. How? Why? Birthday parties of course. The primary parenting social event. Sure it’s easy. Sure it’s a crowd pleaser. But wouldn’t it be nice to eat something different? In an effort to vary your birthday party diet, here’s our favorite birthday party eats that thankfully are not pizza.

Alternative #1: Empanadas
Talk about big flavor for small fries. In wheat or corn based empanada shells, Empanada Mama stuffs all manner of no-brainer kid favorites like cheese, chicken, and ham. For adults, try Caribbean roast pork, sweet Italian sausage, or spicy chicken. Empanadas are not easy to slice, so call ahead to order mini versions of your favorite combinations.

Empanada Mama
189 E. Houston St.
Lower East Side
Online: empmamanyc.com
212-673-0300

Photo Credit: Jordin Ruderman

Alternative #2: Sustainable Eats
For 10 years, Ciao For Now has catered events and photo shoots, but they’re perhaps most appreciated at kids birthday parties, where their healthy and delicious food is most unexpected. Local ingredients and sustainability differentiate this food from the rest, and options include chickpea fritters, tea sandwiches, mini quiches, curried samosas, and spanakopita. Kids will eat what they like and your adult guests will love the rest.

Ciao For Now
107 W 10th St.
West Village
Online: ciaofornownyc.com
212-929-8363

Alternative #3: Kimbap
Ever heard of kimbap? These sushi lookalikes are a hugely popular fast food in Korea, and more like a salad than a fish. Filled with cucumbers, spinach, carrots, radish, and proteins like beef and spicy tuna, kimbap is an instant hit among kids who love to pick apart (and eat) the colorful insides. Gochujang in K-Town’s Food 32 Gallery has some of the best, and when you call the manager to order, you can also order from any of the other stalls in the place.

Food 32 Gallery
11 W 32nd St.
K-Town
Online: foodgallerynyc.com
917-355-7884

Photo Credit: Kevin Shand

Alternative #4: Passes as Home-Cooking
If you’re wishing your mom would morph into Grandma Reed and prepare the birthday feast for you, order from Gila’s Nosh. It’s a family-run Mediterranean restaurant in Kips Bay, and when you call, it’ll probably be Gila who answers. Tell her who’s coming and she’ll tell you what you need. From bourekas, to the baked-that-morning challa, and homemade hummus and pita, the woman doesn’t miss a note. Try the Kube Nabousia (bulgar dough stuffed with shredded beef and pine nuts), which is quite possibly the Gila’s own invention.

Gila’s Nosh
221 E 23rd St.
Kips Bay
Online: gilanosh.com

212-213-3334

Alternative #5: Dumplings
We’ve seen kids polish off 6-8 of these little guys in one sitting, and if they’re filled with high quality veggies and protein, it’s like a full course meal hidden in a noodle. For a time-tested NYC favorite, we recommend Vanessa’s Dumpling House. 50 chive and pork dumplings cost less than one large pizza, and Vanessa’s even serves seasonal options like pumpkin and zucchini and spicy beef and banana.

Vanessa’s Dumpling House
220 E 14th St.
East Village
Online: vanessas.com

212-529-1329

Alternative #6: Breakfast
Most of these kids parties start early, so why not make it a brunch feast? You can never go wrong with smoked salmon and bagels, and the same holds true for biscuits and eggs. Paradis To-Go, the Franco-American cafe near Union Square caters all such options, and more, offering made-to-order pastries, frittatas, breakfast sandwiches and even homemade granola.

Paradis To-Go
114 4th Ave.
Union Square
Online: paradistogo.com<
646-416-6709

Alternative #7: Pierogis
In some parts of the country, pierogis count as a food group, and we know why. These semi-circles of dough come stuffed with pleasing fillings like sweet potato, meat, spinach, and cheese. They’re small enough to require eating a variety, at which point your guests will be stuffed with all manner of vitamins and minerals. Little Poland, the East Village stalwart, serves top notch versions of its national dish. You can even order them in bulk to fry at home.

Little Poland
200 2nd Ave.
East Village
212-777-9728

What other food would you add to our list? Tell us in the Comments!

— Anna Knoebel

Xiao long bao, house-made noodles and pork buns galore—take your little dumpling to one of these SF dim sum spots.

Dragon Beaux

Good Mong Kok Bakery

Dumpling Time

Shanghai Dumpling King

Good Luck Dim Sum

Wing Lee Bakery

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