Wondering where you can sit down for Thanksgiving dinner in Seattle? Make a reservation at one of these kid-friendly restaurants

For some, there’s nothing better than a home-cooked meal on Thanksgiving. Others prefer a turkey that isn’t dry or burnt. All kidding aside, what makes the holiday special is spending time with loved ones and family, whether it be in your home or at a favorite restaurant. When it comes to enjoying Thanksgiving dinner in Seattle, families have options. Whether you’re hoping to have a chef cook the meal for you or you want to bring home a prepared meal for the day, we’ve compiled a list of kid-friendly restaurants that are offering delicious Thanksgiving dinner for families. So, sit back and relax. It’s time to let someone else do the cooking for a change.

These Seattle Restaurants are open on Thanksgiving Day

a turkey reading for thanksgiving dinner in seattle at Goldfinch
Goldfinch Tavern

1. Goldfinch Tavern

At Goldfinch Tavern, an Ethan Stowell Restaurant at Four Seasons Hotel Seattle, Executive Chef Brian Doherty and his team are really going all out this year. The festive brunch/dinner begins with an appetizer buffer (fruit, house-made pastries, seafood, charcuterie, cheeses, Ellenos yogurt parfaits, and salads), a choice of entrees (roasted Tom turkey, shaved Iberico ham, roasted dry aged Wagyu striploin, smoked king salmon, or Delicata squash cannelloni) and finishes with an amazing dessert buffet. The kids will gobble up their own menu with also an appetizer buffet (fruit pops, organic vegetable crudité, house-made strawberry granola bars, peanut butter & jelly pizza, and pastries), a choice of entree (turkey platter, salmon, chicken tenders ,or mac & cheese) followed by a dessert buffet (including an apple pie "chips 'n dip" and pumpkin whoopie pies).

Good to Know: Bottomless mimosas are $25/person

Date: Nov. 24, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Cost: $150/adult; $70/kids, ages 3-14. Plus a 20% service charge.

99 Union St.
Seattle
Online: goldfinchtavern.com

a whole turkey is part of thanksgiving dinner in seattle at salish lodge
courtesy Salish Lodge

2. The Dining Room at Salish Lodge & Spa

With outstanding views of the Snoqualmie Falls and River, The Dining Room at Salish Lodge & Spa provides the perfect backdrop for your Seattle Thanksgiving dinner. The traditional feast will include a three-course meal starts off with either butternut squash soup or a winter chop salad (dried cranberries, Beecher's cheese, candied pecans and a honey vinaigrette). Then it's on to tougher choices—do you stick with the traditional Thanksgiving dinner or go with the rosemary garlic prime rib, pan-roasted king salmon or wild mushroom raviolo? Pumpkin mousse or bourbon pecan tart finish off the decadent meal. If upscale is how your kiddo rolls, this is definitely the spot to be. The children's menu is similar but starts with a tomato soup.

Date: Nov. 24, 11 a.m.- 8 p.m.
Cost: $135/adult; $40/kid (10 and under)

6501 Railroad Ave. S.E.
Snoqualmie, WA
Online: salishlodge.com

Related: Your Family Guide to Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Seattle

courtesy Motif

3. Frolik Kitchen + Cocktails

A sweeping view, twinkling lights and outdoor/tented seating makes Frolik Kitchen + Cocktails a welcoming spot this Thanksgiving. Instead of a set menu this year, Chef Michael Grande is offering a special holiday menu of starters (crispy brussels & bacon, seafood chowder, PNW charcuterie are some of the choices) and main dishes that include roast turkey (with wild mushroom stuffing, potato puree and sage gravy), wild mushroom gnocchi and salt-crusted prime rib. For dessert, enjoy the pumpkin spiced cheesecake or apple cobbler.

Date: Nov. 24, 1-7 p.m.
Cost: Varies

Motif
1415 5th Ave. S.
Seattle
Online: destinationhotels.com/motif-seattle

Related: Play with Your Food at the City's Most Entertaining Restaurants

Thanksgiving Seattle restaurants
Water's Table

4. Water's Table at Hyatt Regency Lake Washington

Expansive views of Lake Washington are only part of what make this Thanksgiving Day celebration special. The other is spending it with your family. Water's Table Restaurant invites you to celebrate the harvest with a sit-down dinner with your family from their lakeview dining room or the spectacular Grand Ballroom. The adult buffet includes the obligatory roasted turkey as well as ham, king salmon, and a seafood bar. You'll also find a composed Waldorf salad, cauliflower & potato soup, roasted marble potato, chestnut stuffing, and more. Kids can feast on Caesar salad, chicken tenders, mac & cheese, pizza, and fruit. Everyone will enjoy the selection of desserts including mini pecan pies, mini apple tartlets, pumpkin spiced latte choux, and cranberry chocolate pots de crème.

Good to Know: Children ages 1-6 will have complimentary access to the buffet.

Date: Nov. 24, noon-7 p.m.
Cost: $95/adult; $23/kids, 12 & under. An additional 18% gratuity will be added.

1053 Lake Washington Blvd. N.
Renton, WA
Online: waterstable.com

three kinds of pies surrounded by pumpkins for Thanksgiving dinner in seattle
Flora Bakehouse

5. Café Flora

When it comes to vegan and gluten-free Thanksgiving meals, Café Flora is hard to beat. This year their families can once again dine at the restaurant (inside or outside their heated outdoor patio) and enjoy a fabulous four-course feast. It includes a bowl of heriloom potato and celery root soup; fresh radicchio, frisee and Belgian endive salad; a puff pastry with porcini mushroom cream sauce or delicata squash stuffed with quinoa, wild rice and root vegetables; a variety of sides and either pumpkin pie or bourbon peacan pie for dessert. Kids can celebrate with a menu that consists of cauliflower tots with housemade ranch dressing, a green salad with apple, grapes and pomegranate and a Shepherd's pie. Make your reservation by calling 206-325-9100. Online reservations aren't available.

Good to Know: Take home a pie (pumpkin or bourbon pecan) or fresh-baked caramelized onion rolls from The Flora Bakehouse for your feast at home. They will be available for pick-up Nov. 23.

Date: Nov. 24, 1-6:45 p.m.
Cost: $85/adult; $28/kid, 12 & under

2901 E. Madison St.
Seattle
Online: cafeflora.com

Related: Eat Your Veggies: 11 Plant-Based Restaurants Kids Love

a woman carves a turkey for thanksgiving dinner
Hearth Restaurant

6. Hearth

Bring the kids to sit down at Hearth on Thanksgiving for a three-course meal. This Eastside restaurant puts its signature on each creative dish so things taste familiar but excitingly different at the same time. Choose the traditional three-course roasted turkey dinner or go off the board with a meal of braised short ribs, pan-roasted wild salmon or roasted squash risotto. Finish off with pumpkin cheesecake (with a cranberry compote) or apple tarte tatin.

Date: Nov. 24, noon-7 p.m.
Cost: $70/person

220 Kirkland Ave.
Kirkland, WA
Online: hearthkirkland.com

a golden turkey for thanksgiving dinner in seattle at the lakehouse
The Lakehouse

7. The Lakehouse

Sit down to a traditional Thanksgiving meal that you don't have to cook at this Bellevue restaurant. It's Thanksgiving the way you would cook it, without the hassle. The three-course meal, designed by Chef Jason Wilson and Chef de Cuisine Thomas Cullen, is described as a "refined and classic meal with choices for everyone in the family ranging from turkey to squash to Wagyu. 

The Lakehouse also offers a "Thanksgiving To Go" menu. Pickup is Nov. 23 between 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Items will be fully cooked with re-heating instructions included. The traditional home package includes all-natural turkey breast and thigh, dinner rolls with sage butter, wild mushroom stuffing, roasted garlic-miso mashed potatoes, cranberry preserve, brown buttered Brussels sprouts, sprouted ancient grains and squash salad and individual pumpkin pies. The cost is $61/person. Vegan and children's meals as well as ala carte options are available too.

When: Nov. 24, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Cost:
$74/adult; $25/kids, ages 6-11

10455 N.E. 5th Pl.
Bellevue, WA
Online: thelakehousebellevue.com

Related: 12 Themed Restaurants Every Seattle Family Must Experience

Seattle restaurants preparing Thanksgiving dinner to-go

Thanksgiving dinner seattle take out
Suzi Pratt/Metropolitan Grill

8. Metropolitan Grill

They may be known for serving the best steak in town, but The Metropolitan Grill may earn a new place in Seattle families' hearts with their Thanksgiving Meal delivery which is back this year due to popular demand. Executive Chef Stan Ross and his staff have worked hard preparing a delicious feast that includes all the fixings so you don't have to. Wondering what you'll serve? Choose from prime rib, Kurobuta ham with citrus-honey ginger glaze or herb roasted turkey for your main. Then prepare to dig into classic sides like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, traditional stuffing and brussels sprouts. And for dessert there's mini pies (apple and pumpkin) sized just-right after a filling meal.

Good to Know: The take home meal serves four people and orders must be placed by November 16. Meals are available for pickup or delivery.

Pick-up: Nov. 22 and 23
Cost: $195-$250

820 2nd Ave.
Seattle
Online: themetropolitangrill.com

a vegan thanksgiving dinner in seattle by plum bistro
courtesy Plum Bistro

9. Plum Bistro

Chef Makini Howell has been preparing vegan Thanksgiving dinner for over 16 years and this year is no exception. Expect the same creativity and passion in this year’s take-home feast that feeds four. It will include the classic maple glazed seitan roast, mashed potatoes, skillet gravy, flavorful sides like bacon green beans, sweet cornbread, citrus pear cranberry sauce and everybody’s favorite (especially your kiddo’s) mac and yease. Save room for the salted caramel apple pie. These feast feeds five to six people. Ala carte options are available as well.

Pick-up: Nov. 24
Cost: $230

1429 12th Ave.
Seattle
Online: plumbistro.com

10. Husky Deli

The Husky Deli's Thanksgiving meal is becoming legendary. It's back once again! It comes with more than just Husky's beloved ice cream too (although that's definitely a perk). No matter who's sitting around your table this year, you can easily pull off the perfect Thanksgiving because this prepared meal includes turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, rolls, green beans and a half gallon of the ice cream goodness mentioned above. It'll feed 5-7 people and just needs to be reheated. All you have to do is remember to place your order by November 21.

Pick-up: Nov. 23
Cost: $185

4712 California Ave. S.W.
Seattle
Online: huskydeli.com

Tired of cooking the turkey every year? Put your feet up and let these Chicago restaurants serve up Thanksgiving dinner for the whole family

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends and feasting—not freaking out about meal planning or burnt birds. Skip the hassle of time-consuming food prep by treating yourself and your loved ones to a Thanksgiving dinner that didn’t come from your kitchen.

Even better, there’s plenty of options on how to make the most of this special holiday meal. You can order provisions to-go, have Thanksgiving dinner catered, or do one better . . . and dine out. From smoked turkeys to pumpkin pies to all the traditional fixins’, Chicago’s best chefs have you covered. You only need to decide one thing: dine at your table or theirs?

Related: Meal Delivery Services in Chicago That Are Perfect for Busy Families

Grocery Stores That Provide Thanksgiving Dinner in Chicago

Eataly
Thanksgiving might not be an Italian tradition, but Eataly believes in giving thanks for bountiful harvests and fresh ingredients. Their turkeys are organic and raised humanely, so you can bring the signature Italian quality to your Thanksgiving feast. Complement your meal with their curated salumi & fromaggi board of cured meats and cheeses, freshly baked bread, or go for a selection of fresh seafood platters. Complete the meal with housemade Torta di Mele (apple tart) or Tiramisù della Nonna.

Pre-order before Nov. 19 by emailing Eataly at chi-catering@eataly.com. Available for pick up only November 23 & 24.

43 E. Ohio St.
River North
Online: eataly.com

Whole Foods
Whole Foods has catered Thanksgiving meal packages for up to 12 people. They even have a vegan option for four. Meals includes sides such as green beans with roasted shallots or cranberry orange sauce. Order must be placed at least 48 hours in advance of pick-up.

Various locations throughout Chicagoland
Online: wholefoodsmarket.com

Restaurants Open for Dine-In Thanksgiving Dinner in Chicago

Alinea
For the first time, world-renown Alinea is offering a Thanksgiving Dinner for either four or eight people. Indulge with baked brie en croute, roasted garlic and sage stuffing, cranberry and orange compote, and more. Be even more decadent by adding on French Winter Truffle Mac & Cheese.

1723 N. Halsted
Lincoln Park
Online: alinea.com

https://www.instagram.com/p/CWYZdeUsnhR/?hidecaption=true

Farmhouse Evanston
Farmhouse is known for their hearty Midwestern comfort food, making them a great Thanksgiving Day option. Their Thanksgiving Buffet will run from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and includes classics like turkey, ham, buttermilk smashed potatoes, green bean casserole, maple candied yams and more. $44 per person, $21 for children 10 and under.

703 Church St.
Evanston
Online: farmhouseevanston.com

I|O Godfrey
I|O Godfrey at The Godfrey Hotel invites guests to enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving buffet featuring staffed action stationsThis festive meal prepared by Executive Chef Alfonso Martinez offers something for everyone. $59 for adults. $15 for kids. Additionally, I|O is offering Thanksgiving To-Go for those doing home celebrations for 8-10 people. Thanksgiving To-Go orders must be placed in advance by Nov. 23rd.

127 W. Huron St.
Near North
Online: iogodfrey.com

Maggiano’s
Enjoy Thanksgiving family-style at Maggiano’s. Maggiano’s is serving up a three-course menu plus balsamic tomato bruschetta compliments of the chef, two pasta dishes, and two additional sides. Add a pitcher of sangria or rum punch!

Various locations throughout Chicagoland
Online: maggianos.com

River Roast
What could be better than feasting riverside for Thanksgiving? River Roast will be serving up a spectacular Thanksgiving dinner featuring herb brined & roasted turkey, grilled carrots, stuffing with house sausage, whipped Yukon potatoes and more! Finish it off with carrot cake, apple cobbler or pumpkin pie.
$75 per person. Kids under 10 eat free.

315 N. LaSalle St.
River North
Online: riverroastchicago.com

RPM Steak
RPM Steak‘s special Thanksgiving Feast features local turkey breast, halibut, or a prime mid-west strip steak alongside traditional holiday sides and pecan pie. The four-course holiday spread is $105 per person.

66 W. Kinzie St.
River North
Online: rpmrestaurants.com

The Smith
Indulge in a three-course prix fixe menu with a choice of turkey three ways—roasted breast, braised leg or turkey pot pie, along with other options for non-turkey lovers. Dinner is $75 per person and includes fixings for the whole table.

400 N. Clark St.
River North
Online: thesmithrestaurant.com

Tortoise Supper Club
Have turkey or hand-carved prime rib, and save room for the iced oysters and decadent pumpkin pie, at Tortoise Supper Club's Thanksgiving Grand Buffet on Thanksgiving Day, 11:45 a.m.-8:15 p.m.

350 N. State St.
River North
Online: tortoisesupperclub.com

Wildfire
Enjoy a family-style Thanksgiving dinner featuring roasted turkey, glazed salmon, beef tenderloin and all the traditional side dishes. Gluten-free items will also be available. The meal costs $64.95 per person, and $29.95 for children 12 and under. If you’re entertaining family and friends at home, Wildfire is also offering a Thanksgiving Party Platter Menu of all your favorites for carryout.

Locations in Chicago, Oak Brook, Lincolnshire, Schaumburg and Glenview
Online: wildfirerestaurant.com

Related: Colorful Spots For Fall Strolls Throughout Chicago

Restaurants That Will Cater Thanksgiving Dinner in Chicago

BLVD Steakhouse
Toss the apron and make room for BLVD. Chef Johnny Besch has prepared a special menu full of Thanksgiving favorites for pickup Nov. 23 with offerings like confit turkey legs, brussel sprouts, and PQB sourdough stuffing. Order via BLVD's tock.

817 W. Lake St.
Fulton Market
Online: blvdchicago.com

FireLake
Enjoy Executive Chef Leonard Ventura's delicious food at home.  The special Thanksgiving to-go menu includes packages that serve up to 12 people and include turkey and ham, served with imaginative and traditional sides like fire roasted mushrooms with crispy shallots, maple glazed yam and apple, green beans, cranberry stuffing, cheddar herb mashed potatoes with cider gravy, and more.

221 N. Columbus St.
Loop
Online: firelakechicago.com

Frontier
A hot Wicker Park restaurant specializing in game, oysters and tap brews brings the bounty to your home with their Thanksgiving-to-go package. Executive Chef Brian Jupiter offers guests the option of ordering a whole smoked Amish turkey to-go. The antibiotic- and hormone-free turkeys are offered cooked and cooled. Available sides include five-cheese mac & cheese, traditional mashed potatoes, cornbread stuffing, Brussel sprouts and string beans. Orders must be placed by Fri., Nov. 18, with pick-up up to Thanksgiving morning from 9 a.m.-noon. Meals can also be enjoyed in-house.

1072 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Wicker Park
Online: thefrontierchicago.com

Prairie Grass Cafe
Prairie Grass is taking all the thinking out of Thanksgiving dinner with a preset family-style meal, with wine pairings if you'd like, available for pickup on Thanksgiving Day. Orders must be placed by November 18, but beware, they may sell out!

601 Skokie Blvd.
Northbrook
Online: prairiegrasscafe.com

The Smoke Daddy
Whole turkeys at this Wicker Park and Wrigleyville BBQ bastion are slow-smoked until heady and crisp; opt for Southern-style pulled turkey if you prefer your birds on the tender side. Or, skip the turkey this year and go with a glazed ham.  Since families can’t exist on meat alone, the restaurant has housemade cornbread stuffing, green bean casserole, mac & cheese, mashed potatoes and turkey gravy at the ready, available by the quart. Orders are being taken through Nov. 18th for pickup on Nov. 22 & 23.

1804 W. Division St.
Wicker Park

3636 N. Clark St.
Wrigleyville
Online: thesmokedaddy.com

Weber Grill
Thanksgiving is finger-licking good when you’re greeted with a whole smoked turkey feast, and Weber Grill has flavor-filled party platters featuring all your fave fixins. We’re talking about maple whipped sweet potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, Weber sausage stuffing, and classic pumpkin or apple pie. Whole turkey orders must be placed by Friday, Nov. 18th. All other orders must be placed by Tuesday, Nov. 22nd. Pick-up with reheating instructions on either the 23rd, or Thanksgiving Day between 10am and noon.

And, if you want Weber Grill to do all the heavy lifting, the restaurants plan to be open and are accepting reservations for a three course turkey dinner. $39.95 for adults. $15.95 for children under 12.

Locations in Chicago, Lombard, & Schaumburg
Online: webergrillrestaurant.com

Restaurants That Will Deliver Thanksgiving Dinner in Chicago

 

Fresh Picks
In the spirit of their mission to make fresh, organic food readily available to everyone while supporting local farms, Fresh Picks is offering a Thanksgiving option. For those who would like to serve a locally grown feast, Fresh Picks features locally grown produce commonly found in holiday recipes. It's a great way to support local businesses, with the added benefit of skipping the grocery store lines. Plus, turkeys will additionally be available to order through two different Fresh Picks farms. Orders can be placed now!

Online: freshpicks.com

Meal Village
Meal Village offers affordable locally made, non-subscription-based comfort food on a same-day delivery basis. Look to them for all your made-from-scratch sides and sauces.

Online: mealvillage.com

 

 

 

Remember carefree, weekend brunches where all the adults could sit and dine (at the same time!) without interruption from a bored or antsy kid? Yeah…neither do we. Thankfully, though, in the last few years, the Los Angeles restaurant industry got wise to parents needing a little more than a great menu—think enclosed play spaces, room to roam and play and entertainment—all while you enjoy your hand-tossed pizza. Here’s our current list of the best family-friendly restaurants in Los Angeles where kids can be kids. Brunch is back, baby.

Eastside Restaurants Where Your Toddler Can Run Around

Kitchen Mouse

Kitchen Mouse is the sweetest, green pastel wonderland offering hearty, healthy breakfasts and lunches, a cornucopia of hanging plants, delicious treats, and an adorable little fenced-in kids play area so you can watch your kiddo play while you pilfer bites of their Snickerdoodle pancakes. Relax with a latte and a Morning Glory Bowl (brown rice, kale, chili lemon dressing, cashew mint chutney, sesame seeds, shishitos) or jump into a the Psychedelic Daalipop (red lentil daal, cucumber mint salad, cilantro mint chutney, tikka mushrooms & cauliflower, coconut brown rice & garlic herb chapati) while your little plays shopkeeper in the play corner. After lunch, pop next door to Topo, Kitchen Mouses's little sister takeaway shop with baked goods, sandwiches, whimsical toys, and gorgeous homewares galore. 

5902 N. Figueroa
Highland Park
Online: kitchenmousela.com

 

Golden Road Brewing Company

Give it up for Golden Road Brewery: they really know what they're doing. Their outdoor area is basically a playground with servers who bring you beer. They have a large astro-turf'd area that is practically impossible for children to destroy. They boast bean bag toss games, table soccer, Connect-4, and other games, in addition to a beloved photo booth, which is a suspiciously easy way for your kids to spend $36 before you blink. Their beer and food menu is delicious, their fries are stellar (a must for family-friendly spots), and they even have a kids' menu with all the faves like mini corn dogs, mac & cheese and chicken nuggets. As if all that weren't enough, a train passes by on tracks every so often, which will be sure to wow your tiny locomotive lovers. 

5410 W San Fernando Rd.
Atwater Village
Online: goldenroad.la

Westside Restaurants Where Your Toddler Can Run Around

 

The Proud Bird

This airplane-themed restaurant is the spot to go when you have a wiggly toddler in-tow. Grab food from the food bazaar (choices include family-favorite Bludso's BBQ not to mention a spot-on kid's menu), then head outside where a large playground, large grassy area and incoming flights are making their way into LAX. There is no limit to running around or noise your kids can make here. 

11022 Aviation Blvd.
Westchester
Online: theproudbird.com

 

Playa Provisions

This beachfront restaurant (that's really like two restaurants, one ice cream bar, and one whiskey bar all wrapped into one area) has it all. There are open-air patios, one in the back of the restaurant facing the beach, and the second in front where tables are spaced nicely apart. Little kiddos get individually packaged crayons and coloring pages as well as kid-friendly menu faves like pretzel croissant, grilled cheese, burgers, and even PB&J. You're obviously not getting out of there without stopping at the small batch ice cream bar for some frozen sweet treats. 

Insider Tip: There's a great playground and park around the corner called Del Rey Lagoon—it's the spot to hang either before or after you eat (if you don't head to the nearby beach of course, which is also one of our favorite spots to go sand sledding in the winter).

119 Culver Blvd.
Playa Del Rey
Online: playaprovisions.com

The Point

With not one, not two, but eleven options to eat, there isn't a single palate that won't be satisfied by the array of locales at El Segundo's The Point. From juice at Pressed Juicery to burgers at Hopdaddy to inventive riffs on Southeast Asian cuisine at Little Sister, there's no way anyone will go away hungry. And yes, of course, there's ice cream—fan favorite Van Leeuwen is here, with some vegan frozen options too. Did we mention free parking? And tons of shopping options, too? But the best part? There are loads of grassy areas for kids to run around and play if and when they get antsy. 

850 S. Pacific Coast Hwy.
El Segundo
Online: thepointsb.com

 

Back on the Beach

Dip your toes in the sand and slurp an oyster while you vaguely observe your children playing over yonder on the beach. You're not dreaming, this restaurant actually exists and is truly a family-favorite! With a reasonably priced food selection and a kids' menu that has all the classics (and even soon-to-be-classics like veggie dogs!), Back On The Beach checks off pretty much all the boxes for fun, family-friendly dining right at the edge of the Pacific Ocean. 

445 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Santa Monica
Online: backonthebeachcafe.com

Downtown Culver City

Quite possible the mecca of kid friendly restaurants with outdoor seating, downtown Culver City, has transformed its entire downtown district to be jammed pack with amazing restaurants, now complete with adorable outdoor patios. Worth checking out: Citizen Public Market—a food hall with 7 vendors serving everything from Mexican and sushi to fried chicken, also has a rooftop and outdoor street-side dining. And don't miss one of our favorite ice cream shops—Salt & Straw—across the street on the Culver City Steps—an urban playground where the kids can run around post meal. 

Main St & Culver Blvd.
Culver City
Online: downtownculvercity.org

Restaurant in the Valley Where Your Toddler Can Run Around

Pitfire Pizza

Pitfire's patio at the North Hollywood location is quite expansive which makes spreading out with your hungry hippos easy to do. Expect kid-sized pizzas, mini mac & cheeses and even packs of clay they can play with while they wait! Built-in heaters at every table guarantees those chilly nights won't kill the vibe—and don't miss the ping pong table!

5203 Lankershim Blvd.
N. Hollywood
Online: pitfirepizza.com

 

Your kids’ favorite go-to for a picnic or a meal, hot dogs don’t have to be just about the basic bun. From mac and cheese dogs to hot dog curry to hot dog hash, we’ve rounded up creative hot dog recipes that will change the way you think about franks. Keep reading to discover our favorite hot dog recipes for kids.

Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket

Give Me Some Sugar

Pigs in a Blanket got an Air Fryer makeover with this recipe from Bake Me Some Sugar. Add cheese for variety and serve with various dipping sauces! Get the recipe here

Polynesian Sweet and Sour Hot Dogs with Rice

Tablespoon

A sweet and delicious stir fry that includes a go-to ingredient like hot dogs? Yup, we've just found the answer to your busy weeknight dinner problems. Get the recipe from Tablespoon

Pretzel Dogs

Food Fanatic

Pretzels and hot dogs, what's not to love about this recipe? Soft and chewy dough surrounding a juicy hot dog, sprinkled with sea salt, yum! Get the recipe over at Food Fanatic

Marinated Hot Dogs

© Casey Barber/Good Food Stories LLC

When you give your hot dogs a good overnight soak in this sweet-and-spicy marinade from Good Food Stories, you won't need to worry about fancy toppings. Made with ketchup, soy sauce and other yummy ingredients, the only thing left to do is check out the grilling tip that Casey from Good Food Stories shares here.

Mini Corn Dogs

The View from Great Island

Everyone's favorite fair food can be yours at home with this sweet recipe from The View from Great Island. Even better, there's a recipe for onion sauce, which fancies it up for the parents!

Seattle Hot Dog

Show Me the Yummy

Our tummies are growling over this Seattle hot dog spotted over at Show Me the Yummy. Loaded with sauteed onion, bacon cream cheese and spicy jalapeños, this is a grown-up edition of your kiddo's go-to dinner. Find out what you'll need over at Show Me the Yummy

The Classic New York Hot Dog

Peter Secan on Unsplash

If you haven't had a hot dog from a New York street cart, you haven't had a hot dog. Luckily, you can recreate the simple but classic flavors by following Pennywise Mama's recipe. One secret? Boil the dogs, don't grill 'em! 

Pigs in a Blanket

This little piggy goes down great for playdates, lunches or even kid-friendly appetizers and it's easier to make than you think. Just click here for the full how-to. 

Chili Cheese Dilly Dogs

Garlic & Zest

You can’t let the summer slip by without having a chili dog—and if you’re going to do it, you might as well do it right, with this recipe from Garlic & Zest. The “dilly” part comes from a pickle, which makes for a crisp and tangy contrast to the hearty chili. 

Taco Dogs

Mama Gourmand

We like to keep a stash of hot dogs in the freezer for those times when cooking up an elaborate meal isn’t in the cards. This twist on chili dogs from Mama Gourmand is the perfect way to make an old favorite new again—and it’s a guaranteed kid-pleaser too. 

Ball Park Frank Grilled Cheese

Bob & Carlene

They loved grilled cheese. They love hot dogs. Why not switch things up and combine the two for a lunch that invokes the ballpark and comfort food all in one. Get the full recipe right here

One Pot Spaghetti Hot Dog

Curry and Comfort

This recipe, courtesy of Ramona at Curry and Comfort, combines two of your kids’ favorite foods: spaghetti and hot dogs. Add in veggies like onions and bell peppers and the result is a delicious hearty meal that requires only one pot. Hooray for easy clean-ups! Get the full recipe by clicking here

Baked Corn Dog Muffins

Karen's Kitchen Stories

Corn dogs were one of our favorite summer foods when we were kids, so we’re obsessed with this bite-size version that works perfectly for picnics. The only problem? It’s impossible to eat just one. To snag the recipe, click here.

Cheesy Hot Dog Wontons

Cheap Recipe Blog

Try out this clever twist on pigs in a blanket, swapping crescent rolls for wonton wrappers. Don’t forget the key ingredient: gooey cheddar cheese! Click here to get the details from Cheap Recipe Blog.

Tortilla Dogs

Or Whatever You Do

Here’s a perfect “the-fridge-is-nearly-empty” meal—just wrap hot dogs in a tortilla and fry them up, then you’ll have perfectly sized bites to dip in ketchup and mustard. Get the full recipe from Or Whatever you Do.

Hot Dog Sliders

Cook the Story

Whether served as a finger-food appetizer or as dinner alongside a green salad, this recipe from Cook the Story is bound to be a home run. The mini hot dogs are topped with honey mustard and a peach salsa.

Polynesian Hot Dogs

The Midnight Baker

Hot dogs become something brand new with this recipe from The Midnight Baker. With a salty-sweet sauce made using pineapple juice, soy sauce and brown sugar, it’s going to be an instant hit with the kiddos.

Threaded Spaghetti Hot Dog Bites

Damn Delicious

This fun idea from Damn Delicious gets the tots involved in the cooking. Have them thread uncooked spaghetti through hot dogs before you boil the pasta, and pair it with homemade or jarred marinara sauce for a delicious meal. To get the recipe, click here.

Tex-Mex Hot Dogs

Country Cleaver

To add a colorful Tex-Mex flair to your usual hot dog, top it with corn, beans, salsa and peppers — or let your little ones pick their own topping combinations. Get the recipe from Country Cleaver.

Franks & Beans With Sweet Potatoes

The Weary Chef

Try this twist on the classic franks and beans that incorporate hearty sweet potatoes, crispy bacon and tangy barbecue sauce for a stick-to-your-ribs meal. Get the recipe from The Weary Chef.

Tot Dogs

The Merry Thought

Got a tater tot lover in your family? Top some hot dogs with tater tots, cheese sauce, sour cream and crumbly bacon for a kid-approved meal. Get more details from The Merry Thought.

Hot Dog Curry

Curry and Comfort

Transform hot dogs into something totally unexpected with this great recipe from Curry and Comfort. It’s not spicy, just sweet and tangy, so even picky eaters will love this one. To snag the recipe, click here.

Chili Dog Casserole

Cully’s Kitchen

This dish from Cully’s Kitchen will come together in no time at all — just layer chili, hot dogs, tortillas and cheddar cheese to make a warming meal that the whole crew will love. Grab the recipe by clicking here.

Mac and Cheese Dogs

Taste and Tell

Two kid-favorite foods combine in Taste and Tell’s awesome mac and cheese dogs recipe. Whip this one up as a decadent weekend treat. It’s sure to be a big hit with the whole fam. Grab the recipe by clicking here.

BBQ Bacon Cheese Hot Dogs

Barbara Bakes

As if grilled hot dogs weren’t delicious enough already, this recipe from Barbara Bakes ups the ante by wrapping them in bacon and stuffing them with gouda cheese. Sign us up! Click here for the full recipe.

Hot Dog Bar

Lindsay from Pinch of Yum

If you can't decide on what kind of hot dog you'd like, Lindsay from Pinch of Yum has you covered with her hot dog bar! Check out her yummy toppings for a California dog (and more!) here.

Tropical Hot Dog Bar

The View from Great Island

Try out these tasty toppings from The View from Great Island. There are so many fresh and delicious topping options that everyone will find a favorite! Find the recipe here.

 

 

San Diegans are living their best summer and making the most of the long, sun-filled days and warm nights. So, having a list of the city’s top food trucks at the ready comes is helpful. These meals on wheels offer variety, convenience and great taste for all ages. From killer tacos to an award-winning lobster grilled cheese, check out what food truck you should hunt down next and get ready to dine alfresco.

Taco Picasso

Taco Picasso via Yelp

Taco Picasso dishes up artfully crafted tacos with a fusion of flavors from south of the border and SoCal. They buy all of their ingredients fresh and locally, which makes every bite of their tacos sumptuous. We dig the cactus-nopales taco which boasts flat-top grilled cactus on a bed of cabbage topped with a fresh pico de gallo, cilantro, avocado crema and cotija cheese. The Picasso nachos, rice bowls and quesadillas are a great option for kiddos––and they come with vegetarian or meat options. They have a kid's menu with a plain taco of any variety, rice and beans or a cheese quesadilla. Save room for a churro for dessert!

Check their calendar to see where you can catch up and grab a bite off the Taco Picasso truck.

Online: tacopicasso.com

The Beaten Berry

Be sure to hit the brakes if you see The Beaten Berry Food Truck, or hear their music playing. The health-conscious option serves the north county community acai bowls, cold press juices, organic wraps and cold-brewed lattes. They might even have fruit-flavored popsicles in stock for extra hot days. You can follow the truck here or opt to book the truck for your own event. 

Online: beatenberry.wordpress.com/

Mangia Mangia

Mangia Mangia via Facebook

Need a comfort food fix? Mangia Mangia Mobile is a one-stop-shop for freshly prepared gourmet pastas, meatballs, Italian sandwiches, pizza burgers, and more. This authentic Italian food truck was featured on The Cooking Channel’s Eat St. and ABC’s The Chew. With their tasty food and friendly service, these Italians will have you and your crew coming back for more. The chicken parm and lasagna grilled cheese are two of their most popular items, and kids will go crazy for the meatball lollipops––meatballs on a stick that are tempura fried and served with marinara dipping sauce. Check here to see where Mangia Mangia is pulling up next!

Insider Tip: Make sure you save room for dessert because Mangia Mangia Mobile also offers orange dream bars that are to die for. 

Online: mangiamangiaitaliankitchen.com/food-truck

Old School Authentic Hawaiian Shave Ice

Old School Authentic Hawaiian Shave Ice

Nothing beats a cool treat on a hot, summer day! Old School Authentic Hawaiian Shave Ice puts a fun spin on serving up their shave ice out of a revamped, original 1982, 20-foot long school bus. Old School Shave Ice is all-natural so you don't have to worry about dyes, corn syrup or artificial ingredients with this sweet treat. They use many organic syrups as well as eco-friendly compostable cups, bamboo straws, recycled paper napkins and cornstarch spoons. Their shave ice is authentic, Hawaiian style, so it's shaved and fluffy. Check out their calendar here to see where to catch this school bus and indulge in a delicious, refreshing dessert.

Insider Tip: You can also invite Old School Authentic Hawaiian Shave Ice to serve at your next event––which will definitely make it too cool for school.

Online: oldschoolshaveice.com

God Save the Cuisine

Peijean T. via Yelp

Two brothers from Britain bring you the tastes, sights, smells and even sounds of the UK with God Save the Cuisine. That’s right, their food truck looks just like a London double-decker bus and plays British music––think of the money you’ll save on plane tickets! With a passion for good “real” food, God Save the Cuisine serves up local, sustainable, organic food.  Try favorites like the Big Ben Burger, traditional Fish-n-Chips, or The Butty-–a beer-battered fresh fish sandwich served with homemade tartar sauce. Check their Facebook page for where to find the truck throughout San Diego each week.

Online: godsavethecuisine.com

Shawarma Guys

According to Yelp's new list of "Top 100 Places to Eat in 2020," Shawarma Guys is the number one restaurant in the U.S.! We love that they offer vegan options including vegan chicken to accommodate a variety of diets. Nosh on their vegan chicken pita while your little ones enjoy the freshly made falafel pita. Share an order of the lemon cream chop fries and the shawarma egg rolls. You'll find this popular food truck in South Park at 3012 Grape St.

Online: theshawarmaguys.com

Pierogi Truck

Tianyu I. via Yelp

Pierogi Truck is the only place to get authentic Polish food on the go. Pierogis (similar to dumplings) are their specialty and they are all made by hand. The potato and cheese flavor is a yummy choice for kids who are trying them for the first time. Authentic Eastern European dishes like Polish Sausage, Hunter's Stew, stuffed cabbage and goulash are also available. Check the website for a daily listing of where the truck is located.

Online: pierogitruck.com

Devilicious

Jack M. via Yelp

Holding the title of #1 Food Truck in San Diego for four years in a row, Devilicious' menu gets (and deserves!) any foodie's attention. Featured on the TV show, The Great Food Truck Race, Devilicious' most popular item is the Butter Poached Lobster Grilled Cheese! Other favorites include the All Crab Crab Cake, and The Cubano. All sandwiches are served with a baby green salad, or add a side truffle parm fries. Kiddos will love the All American Cheeseburger with fries, and a Smores ‘Wich for dessert. Their food truck has become so popular, they decided to open up a restaurant called Devilicious Eatery, located in Old Town Temecula. They have a huge menu of brunch, lunch, and dinner favorites, and be sure to wash it down with a cold brew from their taproom. Check out their website for the food truck schedule with locations all over San Diego.

Online: deviliciousfoodtruck.com

Super Q

Not all superheroes wear capes. Some, like the one in Super Q Food Truck, wear aprons and deliver mouth-watering, hickory-smoked all-American BBQ! The Super Q Pork, Brisket, and Chicken Melt Sandwiches all feature their Three Cheese Mac-n-Cheese inside the sandwich, along with sautéed onions on grilled sourdough with melted cheddar. For healthier fare, try the BBQ Chicken Salad or their daily vegetarian entrée. There are plenty of options for little BBQ lovers too, like sliders and fries, or the side of Mac-n-Cheese which is a perfect toddler-sized dish. Follow them on Facebook for their schedule of locations throughout San Diego. If you don’t see a location near you but still need your BBQ fix, visit their family-friendly restaurant called Kaminski’s located in Poway.

Online: kaminskisbbq.com/super-q-food-truck/

––Aimee Della Bitta, Kelly Powell & Beth Shea

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Santa Maria is a Central California-coastal city, boasting of vineyards, breathtaking coastal views, Hollywood history, agriculture and it’s famous Santa Maria-style barbecue. Situated along the historic El Camino Real, between San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara, this hidden gem offers loads of family-friendly activities and local eateries that make it the perfect destination for your next SoCal road trip. Read on for our picks, to make your central coast family trip a breeze!

Explore

Dig deep into the native Chumash past and Learn about the local National Natural landmark-The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes, filled with Hollywood history, at the Dunes Center, in historic Guadalupe. The Center offers animal specimens, interactive educational activities and short films about the local area. Enjoy researching and comparing sand samples from all over the world at the Great Sand Challenge wall, where you’ll learn how to tell sands age and what region it’s from based on color.

Add to the collection by taking an information card, collecting a sand sample from your next travels and delivering it to the Center. Get up close to the fascinating, unearthed artifacts from the “Lost City of Cecil B. DeMille”, who built the largest set in movie history in the nearby dunes, for the 1923 silent epic, The Ten Commandments. Every hollywood buffs dream! Check out all the films that have been shot in the area and find out why its referred to as Hollywood’s second home. Open Wednesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., other days by appointment. $7/adults, $6/seniors, kids 12 and under are free.

Get a closer look at the dunes by driving all the way down West Main Street to the entrance of the 592-acre Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve. The miles of photo-worthy sand dunes and views of the shore are truly spectacular and familiar from films like The Ten Commandments (1923), G.I Jane, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest and At World’s End. The park has beach access, although swimming here is highly discouraged due to strong rip currents. There are restrooms, hiking and picnic areas and plenty of free parking. Tip: be sure to bring a sweater as it gets pretty windy at times. Keep an eye out for a friendly ranger, ready to answer all of your questions and share the efforts taken to conserve the snowy plover and California least tern nesting grounds, the preserves diverse ecosystem and fauna and flora that thrive in this habitat. Hours: 7 a.m.–sunset. No dogs allowed at any time.

photo: University of the Fraser Valley via flickr

Take the fun indoors and let your mini mad-scientists run loose at the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum. This hands-on, science-based, education space is the hub for all things creative exploration and play. The interactive exhibits, daily educational programs and Discovery Makerspace will keep everyone occupied for hours. The Makerspace, where you can enjoy stations like robotics, woodwork and circuitry is included with museum admission.

Your little music lovers will love The Walking Piano where they can learn to read simple sheet music and play familiar tunes in no time. The Vandenberg Launch Experience will give the whole family an opportunity to experience a space launch using actual United Launch Alliance Control Center computer consoles and all will have a blast with pretend play at the various real-life replica exhibits.

If all that discovering makes you tired, head down to Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard & Winery for a relaxing, countryside setting and an assortment of handcrafted wines. The kiddos can play games like cornhole, giant Jenga, Apples to Apples and chess, while you sit back, take in the peaceful surroundings and enjoy a glass of their smooth dessert Syrah. Take a stroll through their beautiful 78-acre, family-friendly estate and explore the wine caves—the first built in Santa Barbara County. Tasting is $15 for six pours with last pour at 4:45 p.m. and cave tours are $40 per person, include a small food pairing, tasting, guided tour and barrel tasting. Take in the peaceful surroundings and let the knowledgeable staff fill you in on the vineyards history and their “distinctively different age-worthy wines.”

Eat

Moxie Cafe is a local favorite serving wholesome, health-conscious foods, that range from pastas to sandwiches. The staff is welcoming and the aviation decor, honoring the cities WWII aviation contribution, is inviting. There’s a variety of yummy breakfast to dinner choices for the 12-and-under crowd, several paired with locally-sourced, Santa Maria strawberries, some of the sweetest you’ll ever taste. Try the popular Chicken Milano pasta, in house-made Milano sauce, with all-natural chicken and warm, fresh ciabatta on the side.

There’s plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options as well as an extensive beer and wine list. Complete your meal with their crowd pleasing Snowball Brownie—your choice of favorite gelato on top of a freshly baked, warm chocolate brownie. You may want to get your own. Dine Thursday–Saturday and enjoy family-friendly, live music.

For wood fired pizzas and fresh ingredients you can taste, visit Pizzeria Bello Forno, in Old Town Orcutt. With creation’s like Stephanie’s Carne Asada and Tart Cherries and Sausage, it’s easy to see why they were voted best pizza in Northern Santa Barbara County. Their hearty house-made angus beef meatballs and flavorful roasted pepper-tomato cream soup were a hit with adult and kiddos alike. The friendly staff and charming location make this a foodie must.

Enjoy Santa Maria-style barbecue and history at the Far Western Tavern. Established in 1958 by the Minetti family, this landmark restaurant is established in native ingredients and methods made known by the local 19th century rancheros. Using Santa Maria Valley local ingredients and traditional family recipes, the cuts are juicy, uniquely seasoned and served with the classic pinquito beans, bread, salsa, choice of green salad or farmers market soup and more.

Your little vaqueros won’t be left behind with choices including beef sliders and steak skewers. The western decor will take you back to the towns Swiss-Italian ranching roots and top-notch service will make you feel like family. If you still have room for desert, do your wild bunch a favor and savor the Crème Brûlée Trio in vanilla bean & lavender shortbread, orange blossom and walnut tuile and seasonal berry & orange biscotti flavors.

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Doc Burnstein’s Ice Cream Lab—a Central Coast go to, serving hand-crafted, premium ice cream in unique monthly featured flavors and original, traditional classics such as Merlot Raspberry Truffle and Elvis Special. The Orcutt Crunch-marshmallow ice cream, caramel, pecans, chocolate chips and toffee, is this location’s featured flavor and Motor Oil—dark chocolate, Kahlua ice cream and fudge swirls—are both worth the stop. The fun interactive parlor design, including an ice cream lab and giant checker board, will keep the whole family entertained while enjoying your treats.

Stay

The newly remodeled Fairfield Inn and Suites Santa Maria is centrally located to main points of interest and right off Highway 101, making it the perfect destination for your stay. Amenities include, fitness center, indoor pool, business center open to all guests, ample free guest parking and convenient in-room refrigerators. The assortment of items offered at the complimentary hot breakfast buffet will surely please even the pickiest of eaters and get you going on your adventures. Your little travelers will enjoy the do-it-yourself waffle maker and you the complimentary 24/7 coffee bar in the lobby. The courteous staff will help you with your needs and make you feel right at home.

Seasonal Adventures

If you’re in the Santa Maria Valley in the spring, be sure to check out the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum’s Free Family Kite Festival. Attracting over 2,000 kite enthusiasts from all over the central coast, the festival is quite a sight to see. It also hosts several children’s educational activity booths with games for the kids, community resources and local vendors including your usual fare of churros, snow cones, kettle corn and more.

Held annually at Rotary Centennial Park, in the beautiful South College Drive neighborhood, the park has two playgrounds, basketball courts, large grassy open space, several picnic tables, restrooms on site, free parking lot as well as plenty of free street parking. Pack a picnic and lawn chairs, wear plenty of sunblock, enjoy the view and live entertainment and don’t forget your kites!

—story and photos by Nella DuBon-Koch unless otherwise noted

Editor’s note: This trip was paid for by Santa Maria Valley but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer. 

When you’re a busy parent, the hardest part about dieting is sticking to it, especially when it means making two separate dinners every night. One of our favorite things about the keto diet is that it’s actually fairly easy to make kid-pleasing dinners that still fit the low-carb, high-protein bill. While we don’t suggest putting your kids on this exclusive diet, we do think many of these recipes in rotation are yummy and nutritious enough to be home-runs. Keep reading to see them all.

Crock Pot Tuscan Garlic Chicken

Eat Well 101

This mouthwatering chicken dish from Eat Well 101 is bound to be an instant family favorite. It has a creamy, cheesy sauce that tastes indulgent, but you can also sneak in some greens to up the healthy factor. Click here to get the recipe.

Low-Carb Oven Fried Fish

The Wholesome Recipe Box

Crispy breaded fish that’s still keto? It’s actually possible, thanks to this genius recipe from The Wholesome Recipe Box. Best of all, your kids won’t even be able to tell it’s not a normal breading. To find out the secret trick that keeps it crispy, click here.

Zucchini Chicken Enchilada Roll-Ups

Skinnytaste

If you’re dying for a Mexican food fix, you’ve got to try these yummy roll-ups from Skinnytaste. They’re filled with shredded chicken and smothered in homemade enchilada sauce and shredded cheese. Get all the details by clicking here.

Keto Spaghetti Bolognese

Stylish Cravings

For those days when all you want is a huge bowl of pasta, this keto spaghetti bolognese recipe from Stylish Cravings will keep you on track. You can pair it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice and whip up some pasta for your minis. Click here to grab the recipe.

Hot Chocolate Brownie Mug Cake

The Big Man’s World

Just because you’re keto, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on dessert! This mug cake from The Big Man’s World is just the thing when you’ve got a craving for something sweet, and can be made in the microwave or oven. Click here to get the recipe.

Cheesy Mexican Taco Skillet

Cast Iron Keto

This Mexican taco skillet from Cast Iron Keto is tasty enough to woo even the pickiest of eaters. It’s filled with ground beef, tomatoes and cauliflower rice and topped off with a healthy dose of melty cheese. To get the recipe, click here.

Spaghetti Squash Casserole

A Mind “Full” Mom

Spaghetti squash is one of our favorite veggies to work with, and kids love it too. If you haven’t given it a go yet, this casserole recipe from A Mind “Full” Mom is a great way to introduce it to your diet. It’s got all the flavors of spaghetti minus the heavy pasta. Grab the recipe by clicking here.

Low-Carb Chicken Cordon Bleu

Mama Bear’s Cookbook

Get a little fancy with this fabulous chicken cordon bleu recipe from Mama Bear’s Cookbook. Chicken thighs are filled with ham and cheese, then breaded with almond flour. To get the recipe, click here.

Meatball Mozzarella Bake

Modern Low Carb

We can never turn down a meatball, especially when they look as delicious as these homemade ones from Modern Low Carb. Pair them with pasta for the kids and a simple green salad for yourself. Click here to grab the recipe.

Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream

Low Carb with Jennifer

For a sweet treat, whip up this decadent strawberry cheesecake ice cream from Low Carb with Jennifer. The base is made from cream cheese and coconut cream (yum!), and chopped strawberries are mixed in. To get all the details on how it’s done, click here.

—Susie Foresman

 

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Got a garlic fiend in your family? These recipes are bound to be instant favorites. From flavorful stir fries to delicious garlic twists, there’s something for everyone (yes, even picky tots!). One thing’s for sure—the smelly breath will be totally worth it. Click through the gallery to find your favorite new dish! 

Garlic Herb Roast Chicken

You can’t go wrong with roast chicken, and this garlicky, herby version from Two Purple Figs is surprisingly easy to make. Pair it with a green salad and some crusty bread for a guaranteed crowd-pleasing meal. To get the recipe, click here.

photo: Two Purple Figs

What’s your favorite garlicky recipe? Let us know in a comment below.

—Susie Foresman

Box meals will become a thing of the past once you try this easy, creamy Skillet Lasagna from one of our favorite food blogs, Our Family Eats. This recipe is full of wholesome, nutritious ingredients that quickly come together to create a hearty meal that you can feel good about serving again and again.

Ingredients
8 sheets of lasagna noodles
1 lb lean ground beef
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups all natural prepared pasta sauce
3/4 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, grated (you can use more if you’re a cheese lover)

Method
1. Break lasagna noodles into pieces, approximately 2″ long.  Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions and drain well.

2. Meanwhile, cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium high heat for about 5 minutes, breaking up large pieces.  Add onion and continue cooking until beef is cooked through and no longer pink.  Drain fat and return to the pan.  Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.  Pour in the pasta sauce; cook for about 2 minutes.

3. Reduce heat to medium low.  Add the cooked lasagna noodles to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.  Place 4-5 spoonfuls of ricotta cheese to the skillet, spacing them out around the skillet.  Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top.  Cover the skillet with a tight fitting lid until cheese melts, about 2 minutes.  Stir to combine the cheese with other ingredients.

4. Serve warm with a green salad or steamed vegetables.

Serves 4

Recipe adapted from Weight Watchers One Pot Cookbook.

Susan Schuman is a working mom with two small kids and a hungry husband. She writes Our Family Eats to share ideas for fun, wholesome meals that anyone can fit into their hectic schedule.  You can connect with Susan on Twitter @ourfamilyeats.

It’s too hot to heat up the kitchen. You’re too tired to cook. You’ve been having too much action packed fun to plan ahead for dinner. Whatever the reason, summer is a great time to eat out. Ditch your usual dining spot in favor of one of our favorite new summer menus just for kids. Each restaurant is like a vacation in and of itself, plus there’s loads of tasty options for everyone in the family. Bon appétit!

photo credit: Meghan Rose

Sushi Roku Pasadena
Almost every kid raised in LA becomes a sushi connoisseur at a very young age. But that doesn’t mean that they’re great at the behavior required for sitting at your favorite omakase bar. Or that you’re into paying big bucks for the massive amount of cucumber rolls they can devour. That’s why we’re huge fans of the new Okosama Kids’ Menu at Pasadena’s Sushi Roku. These kid bento boxes feature protein—beef, chicken, or sushi—in addition to health sides like tempura sweet potato and broccoli, edamame, and applesauce. Every meal also comes with the chance to pick a toy from a big box of options that range from sticker puzzles to building blocks that keep kids entertained (and quiet) while they wait for their meals and you sip your sake.

Prices: The kids meals range from $8-$13.

Summer bonus: Roku has a beautiful patio for summer sipping and relaxing and listening to the Saturday night August & September concerts at One Colorado, or for dinner before the concerts a few blocks away at the Levitt Pavilion.

33 Miller Alley
Pasadena
626-683-3000
Online: innovativedining.com/restaurants/sushiroku

photo courtesy of Stir Market

Stir Market
Stir Market has been our go-to spot for picking up gourmet treats on the go since opening last November. We also have become devotees of the “Re-stocking Hour” where from 5 p.m.-6:30 p.m. you can get bar snacks (like Porchetta Chili Cheese Fries) and on tap beers and wines for less. Perfect for a light dinner on the way home from the park… But the one thing this gourmet market and food hall didn’t have was a dedicated kids menu. That’s no longer the case, and the new-for-summer Kid’s Menu is available all day, so you can have Meyer Lemon Pancakes for dinner, After School Cinnamon Toast for an after school snack and the chicken and brown rice bowl or cheesy flatbread anytime.

Prices: The kids meals range from $5.95-$8.95. The children’s menu also features a variety of specialty drinks ($1.95) such as Coconut Water, Organic Milk, and Housemade Lemonade.

Summer bonus: When it’s your turn to be snack parent for your kid’s summer soccer league, you can stock up on a variety of healthy delicious and unique packaged take-away snacks in the marketplace. Grape coconut water and granola snack bags get gobbled and are so much better than goldfish and juice boxes! And in addition to being right across the street from the park, you’re also walking distance to Pan Pacific Park Public Pool. (Did you know you can sign your kiddo up for a $10 summer pass that’s good at all citywide swimming pools? Good through September 7, so it’s still totally worth it for the dog days of summer.)

7475 Beverly Blvd.
Mid-City
323-879-8283
Online: stirmarket.com

photo credit: Ashley W. via yelp

Simmzy’s Venice
We fell hard for Simmzy’s when we first tasted the gastro pub’s kids menu at the Burbank location that opened in January of this year. (Yes, residents of Manhattan Beach, we were late to your party!) The new location still has everything we love about the other spots: local, sustainable, organic, craft beer selection,yummy food and laid back atmosphere. But the Venice location that just opened at the end of June has summer written all over it, being just steps from the beach and the Venice Pier. The kids menu is short, but built for kids and parents alike. There’s a burger, cheeseburger, “awesome” grilled cheese (it is) and plain chicken tenders (which are even more awesome, and you will sneak some, just so you can try one of the dips that comes with it: garlic aioli, avocado buttermilk, BBQ or blue cheese). Kids also get to pick from green salad, shoestring fries or sweet potato fries. The adult menu is also very solid, but in the summer, for us, it’s all about the beer, and they’ve got a great selection of frosty summer sipables.

Prices: The kid meals are a steal at $5.25.

Summer bonus: Hello, beach. Simmzy’s is at the end of Washington Blvd, which puts you practically on the sand and super convenient for a lunch or dinner stop on a beach day or before a concert or movie at the nearby Marina.

37 W Washington Blvd.
Venice
424-835-6580
Online: simmzys.com

photo courtesy of Mr. C Beverly Hills

Mr. C Beverly Hills
Nothing says summer like a little poolside dining, and the Mr. C Hotel in Beverly Hills has a new menu just for kids available poolside from The Restaurant at Mr. C. While pool use is reserved for guests, you can pretend you’re at the Mr C in Montecarlo or Ibiza while you dine by the sparkling blue pool on seared ahi salads and sip Shred cold pressed juices. The “Little C” menu features elegant but kid appealing dishes like Baked White Tagliolini Pasta with ham (a super fancy and to-die-for mac and cheese), Mini Margherita Pizza with Buffalo mozzarella and Spaghetti alla Bolognese. Kids also get a Little C coloring book to keep them busy.

Prices: The Little C menu items range from $5.95-$11.95, Little C drinks are all $4.95.

Summer bonus: While lovely for lunch (you can order poolside from 10 a.m.-5 :30 p.m.), our favorite meal here is a weekend lazy brunch, when kids can order Belgium waffles with Nutella and sip virgin Little C Bellinis. While you drink the real deal. And we do mean real deal: the Bellini was invented by Guiseppe Cipriani, founder of Harry’s Bar in Venice, great-grandfather of the owners of Mr C.

1224 Beverwil Dr.
Beverly Hills
310-277-2800
Online: mrchotels.com

photo courtesy of The Larchmont

The Larchmont
Speaking of brunch, there’s a new brunch in town this summer, and they’ve got a menu just for kids. The Larchmont (on Melrose by Larchmont Blvd.) began serving brunch in June, and it’s just where and how you want to eat in summer. The dining room is light and airy, the porch is sunny yet private and it feels like eating in someone’s charming Hamptons home. A home that serves straight from the farm veggies and where you don’t have to do the cooking or dishes. Kids items are basic but delicious: Pancakes with organic maple syrup and whipped cream, Scrambled Eggs with bacon, crispy potatoes, and toast or French Toast with berries and whipped cream. This sets the leisurely tone to a weekend, while they devour the food you didn’t feel like making and you nosh on anything from King Crab with Bearnaise, veggie hash or Peanut Butter Crunch French Toast with bacon, roasted banana and foie gras. Oh yeah. Those taste great with the house made brunch cocktails…

Prices: The kid’s brunch items are all $10.

Summer bonus: Sunday is the perfect day to visit Larchmont! The Farmer’s Market is open from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Sam’s Bagels stocks you up with east breakfasts for the rest of the week, and you can do a little back to school shopping at Bluebird or Flicka.

5750 Melrose Ave.
Mid-City
323-464-4277
Online: thelarchmont.com

Have you discovered a new kids menu this summer? We’d love to hear about it! Let us know in the comments!

—Meghan Rose