Check out these farms where you can cut your own tree in DC and prep for the holidays
Looking to spread a little holiday cheer early this year? Put up your Christmas tree ASAP—it’s proven to make the season that much merrier! Your family will love the experience of cutting down your own tree to take home and decorate. Also, lots of these farms offer food options or even hot chocolate. Find the best farm to cut your own tree in DC and make a day of it.
Maryland Christmas Tree Farms
Showvaker’s Quality Evergreens
Get a jump start on the Christmas season; Showvaker's opens their doors the week before Thanksgiving so you can prop up a tree before you cut the turkey. This farm is anticipating a record number of visitors, so they suggest visiting on a week day for the best service. Want to take a picture here? Just make sure your professional photographer makes an appointment before you head to this Christmas tree farm. Bonus: Pets on a leash are welcome to join you in your quest for the perfect pic (and tree!).
There is no price haggling at Otterdales; all Christmas trees are just $75! You won't find pre-cut trees here, but cutting down your own spruce or fir tree is half the fun. Little ones will enjoy the train that makes its way around the store while you shop. You can also pick up red tarps before you head out to the field to help drag you tree back to your car.
There’s a reason why families come back year after year to Friendship Trees. Their cooperative staff makes this the perfect place to cut your own Fir, Pine, and Spruce Christmas trees. Not feeling up to chopping down your own tree? This farm also has North Carolina Fraser firs ready to go. Check their website for an update on when they open in November.
If you hate spending lots of money on your tree, head to Clemsonville! They sell all their trees for $35! They’re also home to the“Everlasting” Christmas Tree made out of limestone rock and measuring over 50 feet, as well as America’s largest real Christmas wreath! You won’t want to miss all their wonderful things with your family.
Want the tree up and decorated before Turkey Day? Pine Valley Farms is ready for you! This family owned and operated farm has been around since 1977 and truly is a homegrown operation.
For a day in the country, head to Moose Apple, located in the charming Shenandoah Valley (it’s just one hour west of DC). They have a variety of tree types to choose from as well as an assortment of wreaths made on the farm. The scenery is delightful and you can dream of living in the log home with wrap-around-porch and barn. Pre-tagging ends on Nov. 13.
Hartland Farm offers is a no frills operation! They make fresh wreaths at the farm both decorated and bare. Bonus: They have complimentary hot chocolate on weekends. Check back for their opening date.
Forty years ago, Ron and Roberta Clouse allowed some high schoolers to plant pine trees on their property for a school project. All these years later, that assignment has affectionately become the Clouse family’s Pine Hill Farm. Visit their peaceful home and choose the perfect tree for your family.
With thousands of trees to choose from—including Douglas firs and Norway spruces—you'll have to just go with your gut at this farm. The farm doles out maps, saws, and rope to pull the tree back to the barn. And they graciously shake and tightly bale trees for you. Their suggestion: Bring bungee cord to secure the tree to your car. But before hitting the road with your prize, swing by the snack shack for hot dogs and complimentary cups of hot apple cider.
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?
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.
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.
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.
I|O Godfrey I|O Godfrey at The Godfrey Hotel invites guests to enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving buffet featuring staffed action stations. This 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
Sure, a winery tour and tasting with kids in tow may not sound like the most family-friendly event, but we’re here to tell you that’s not the case. In fact, many wineries near NYC cater to families, with events, activities, entertainment and more. From nearby vineyards on Long Island to award-winning wineries upstate, we’ve rounded up the best kid-friendly wineries near NYC for you and the family to visit this spring. (And if you’re more of a cider or brewery type of family, we found those, too.) For more family adventures, we recommend these spring day trips, these spots for ziplining near NYC and where you should go cherry picking this season. Cheers!
You don't have to go to Europe to experience one of the world's best wine regions. Less than a two-hour drive away, Long Island's North Fork is considered one of the best. Pindar Vineyards was named one of the top six family-friendly wineries by Wine Enthusiast and is open daily for tastings from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. The winery also hosts live music on weekends as well as other events like vintage car shows and farmer's markets. In July come by to see sit on the deck and watch the sunset. Feel free to bring a picnic and a blanket to sit on the grounds.
37645 Main Rd. (Route 25) Peconic, NY 631-734-6200 Online: www.pindar.net
Ospreys Dominion
Wine tasting, live music on the weekends, picnic tables-a-plenty and lots of room to run around. Plus, outdoor sangria bars. What's not to like? You can also get tasty bites such as oysters and panini.
A Hudson Valley favorite, Millbrook Vineyards and Winery is open for tastings. On weekends (Fri.-Sun.), tastings happen outdoors in a tent ($17/per person), and on weekdays, tastings happen inside. Either way, you should reserve your spot ahead of time. Weekends also bring a selection of food trucks, and there is jazz on Saturdays from 5:30-7:30 starting July 3 ($20 admission, reservations required.) You can also bring your own picnic to lounge and nosh on the green expanse, as the kids run wild.
This 200-acre vineyard on the North Fork of Long Island (a real hotspot of wine production, thanks to ideal climate conditions) grows 14 different grape varieties. Kick back and relax with a glass—like the vineyard's pinot noir, voted best at the NY Wine & Food Classic. They are open for tastings, and while reservations are not required, they are recommended. You can call 631-298-0075 to do so, or reserve via Open Table. (The vineyard, previously owned by the Entenmann family—yes, the treats—was sold in 2018 to the Rivero-González family, who own a vineyard in Parras, Coahuila, Mexico. The name changed from Martha Clara Vineyards to RGNY in 2019.) FYI: If you've always wanted to stomp some grapes, you can get tickets to a fancy "Stomp Party" here this August, and kids are welcome!
RGNY Riverhead, NY 631-298-0075 Online: rgnywine.com
Jamesport Farm Brewery
Also in Riverhead, Jamesport Farm Brewery promises "farm to pint" beers. Indeed, much of its product is made using hops, wheat and barley grown on-site, and food options include cheese plates, backyard brine pickles and a giant pretzel, as well as food truck offerings Friday to Sunday. A wide-open grassy space makes for good lounging, and you can play a round of corn hole if you like. Jamesport Farm Brewery is also dog-friendly. There is one pretty big catch with this lovely spot: no one under 21 is allowed on Saturdays and Sundays, and yes, that includes babies and kids in strollers. However, they do host family-friendly Fridays. (The brewery is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.)
5873 Sound Ave. Riverhead, NY 844-532-2337 Online: jfbrewery.com
Harbes Family Farm & Vineyard offers fun for everyone in the family. Stop by wine tastings in a restored, 100-year-old barn from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., daily, then check out The Barnyard with events like pig races, musical hayrides and kids' concerts, and attractions like an obstacle course, jumping pillow, petting zoo, hedge maze and much, much more!
This homegrown brewery in Patchogue on Long Island, which made its name with a Toasted Lager, moved into some huge new digs recently. It's a beer-lover's heaven, with a dizzying number of beers on tap, in bottles and cans, as well as ciders, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks. The menu is filled with hearty fare, as well as (fittingly) an oyster bar featuring fresh shucking. Other reasons to like them: kids and dogs are welcome, live music is common and they have a beer advocating making voting day a national holiday! They're open Wednesday through Sunday.
Blue Pint Brewery 225 W. Main St. Patchogue, NY 631-627-8292 Online: bluepointbrewing.com
Wölffer Estate Vineyard Sagaponack is a class act, with stunning grounds, Insta-friendly flights and food and several seating areas for taking it all in. You can experience Wölffer in a few ways: Drop by Sunset Fridays for wine, music and food (no reservation required), or stop by The Wine Stand, (opens late May)a casual affair that has visitors relaxing on the grass and watching the sun set over the vineyard. You can also book a tasting or vineyard tour here; make a reservation up to two weeks in advance on the website. Note that the tasting room is occasionally closed for private events throughout the season.
139 Sagg Rd. Sagaponack, NY 631-537-5106 Online: wolffer.com
Benmarl Winery
Further north and located in Ulster County, is the more relaxed and casual 37-acre Benmarl Winery. Overlooking the Hudson River Valley, Benmarl claims to be the oldest vineyard in America. On weekends, they often make fresh pizza from a wood-fired oven. Reservations are required; make them here.
156 Highland Ave. Marlboro, NY 845-236-4265 Online: benmarl.com
Twin Star Orchards
Twin Star Orchards
Love yourself some cider? Make haste to Twin Star Orchards, home of Brooklyn Cider House, where they also make wood-fired pizzas and burgers. (Bites like portabello burgers and cheese plates are also available.) Take a stroll down to the pond, shop the on-site farmer's market, enjoy live music on the weekends and even the occasional pig roast. Come back in the fall when you can pick some of the apples used to make the many, many kinds of craft cider available here. Dogs are welcome on leash, seating is first-come, first-served, and the kitchen opens at 12 p.m.
Open Fri.-Sun. Twin Star Orchards 155 N. Ohioville Rd. New Paltz 845-633-8657 Online: twinstarorchards.com
Apple Dave's Distillery
In the fall, a trip to Apple Dave's Orchard and Distillery means you can combine an apple-picking outing with sampling local beers, seasonal cocktails, and wines and ciders from area makers. But it's a great place to visit in the spring, too. Apple Dave's has a dozen apple varieties on 112 acres, plus flower and herb gardens, scenic views and walking trails, live music on weekends and a country store selling doughnuts, produce, pies and gifts. Apple Dave's is one hour from the George Washington Bridge and 20 minutes from Woodbury Commons.
Studies have revealed that a toddler can ask anywhere from one hundred to three hundred questions a day on average! That’s one of the reasons why outsourcing the inevitable, ever-present “what’s for dinner” dilemma is such a treat for busy, overstretched parents. We’ve found a bounty of quick prep and prepared meal delivery services in San Diego that bring meal kits right to your doorstep. Read on to feast your eyes on the best meal delivery services, and give yourself a well-deserved break.
Veestro
Ready for 100% plant-based, organic, non-GMO, chef-prepared entrees, soups, and juices that just show up at your front door whenever you want them to? Look no further than this healthy bunch (bonus: they deliver nationally, too).
There are no, zero, zilch animal products of any kind, here, ever! Chick'n Nuggets with chipotle dipping sauce complete with veganaise will do the trick every time for your kiddos and no one will miss the meat. Veestro food is available a la carte, in full-on Meal Packs, and they also carry a surprisingly delicious weight loss menu plan. As with most vegetarian cuisine: most meals have nuts in them so be careful with a nut allergy, but all meals are completely dairy-free and don't contain other allergens.
Cost: Starting at $9.90/serving, free shipping on auto-delivery options
Go local by choosing Territory for your meal delivery service. Choose from a variety of 35 meals, so you and your family never get bored with the option of adding, skipping, and pausing meals at any time. This community-based service has a roster of local, independent San Diego chefs who work with a registered dietician to craft wholesome and nutrient-dense meals—bonus; every dish is made with no gluten, dairy, or refined sugar.
The goal of HelloFresh is to bring the fun of cooking back into people’s lives by doing all the planning, portioning and shopping for in-season, sustainably-sourced, healthy and flavorful ingredients. HelloFresh prides itself on its delicious recipes with quick cook times; all your chopping, zesting and sautéing will take less than 30 minutes. Family-friendly meals include Tomato Tortellini Bake, Ginger Plum Chicken and Pork Chops with Apple Rosemary Pan Sauce.
Cost: Meals $8.99/serving. Delivery is free for all orders.
Purple Carrot brings you plant-forward meals that are good for you and good for the planet. Choose from Quick & Easy, High-Protein, Gluten-Free or Chef’s Choice dinners and customize your choices to your liking. All meals are meat-free and easy to prepare. You can add on breakfast, lunch and snack items to get you through the week. Skip or cancel any time.
If your goal is to get a wholesome, easy meal on the table for your family, then Dinnerly is the meal delivery option for you. Each week Dinnerly customers choose from over a dozen options which change each week. The choices are totally kid-friendly with options like sweet and sour Swedish meatballs, turkey burgers and enchiladas. Each meal has only five prep steps and takes less than 30 minutes to get on the table, perfect for rushed weeknight dinners. Not interested in getting your box this week? No problem! You can skip any time.
Healthy eating at home is the name of the game with Green Chef. Choose from three plans: Keto + Paleo, Balanced Living and Plant-Powered. Set up your deliveries to come weekly or less frequently if you prefer. Menus change every week and you'll enjoy options like Steak & Cheddar Melts, Salmon with Creamy Chimichurri, and Creamy Baked Penne Pasta.
Home Chef meal kits offer fresh, pre-portioned ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes delivered weekly. With a variety 19 different recipes that rotate on a weekly basis, most recipes include a "Customize It" option to accommodate any dietary needs or preferences. Skip a week any time you'd like, the meals are convenient and kid-friendly. The 15-minute meal kits include options like Honey Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Carrots. Or, opt for more sophisticated meals from the culinary collection like Steak and Garlic Thyme Butter with balsamic Brussels Sprouts and Parmesan Twists.
Freshly is a weekly subscription service delivering fresh (not frozen), chef-cooked meals that can be heated and served in three minutes. Unlike meal kits, all you need is a microwave, fork and plate (optional!) to get a satisfying lunch or dinner on the table. Think “nutritionist meets personal chef” vs. TV dinner when it comes to quality and flavor.
With a food philosophy centered on less sugar, less processed and more nutrients, the menu features better-for-you versions of comfort foods with smart ingredient swaps. For example, Chicken Parm is coated in almond flour vs. bread crumbs and topped with marinara sauce sweetened with honey instead of refined sugars; Mac and Cheese is made with brown rice pasta and cheesy sauce blended with a purée of cauliflower and butternut squash; and Turkey Meatballs are packed with mushrooms and served over zoodles for a lower-carb alternative to pasta.
Cost: Customers can order 4 meals ($11.50/each), 6 meals ($8.99/each), 9 meals ($8.99/each) or 12 meals ($7.99/each) weekly.
Blue Apron has been part of the meal delivery game for a long time and their expertise shows. Choose among two-serving, four-serving, wellness and vegetarian menus to pick the options that are right for you. We love that the meals typically take 40 minutes or less and include kid-friendly ingredients like baked chicken and pasta while exposing kids to different flavors like curry and chile-lime. With super easy-to-follow recipes, you can definitely get the kids involved in the cooking process.
Cost: Meals cost $8.99-9.99/serving with free shipping
Say goodbye to grocery shopping, meal planning and prep, and all that cleanup! Gobble shops, chops and delivers gourmet three-step recipes for one-pan cooking with zero prep required. How about picky eaters? Try Pan-Seared Sirloin Steak with Roasted Fingerling Potatoes & Béarnaise Sauce or Crispy Chicken Sandwich & Napa Cabbage Slaw with Caraway Vinaigrette. What have you got to lose when it's just a one-pan cleanup?
This cook-at-home food delivery service partnered with Martha Stewart to help harried families discover their inner Martha. The menu features 22 choices every week and the website tags meals as family-friendly, under-30 minutes, gluten-free and other categories. Favorites include: chicken fajita bowl, bacon-wrapped skillet meatloaf and lemon-brown butter salmon. The website provides big, colorful step-by-step photos for careless cooks and kids who want to help.
Cost: Plans start at $7.99/portion + $8.99 shipping
This meal-delivery service is focused on kids. Carefully sourced fruits and veggies, and perfectly balanced—lunches, dinners and snacks from Yumble are nutritionist-approved and kid-approved, too! Choose your kids' meals for the week and they'll be delivered free to your doorstep. The Bowl of Yays Pasta with veggie marinara and the Mighty Meatballs and Veggie Chili are crowd pleasers for sure. Each box comes with new activities for kids, making mealtime a breeze for you and a joy for them.
Hungryroot is an online grocery service that delivers modern, healthy food with recipe and meal planning support. Hungryroot’s mission is to help people feel their best by making it easier to shop for, cook, and love healthy food. Customers share their food needs and receive personalized weekly deliveries of healthy groceries along with 10-minute recipes to make fresh, delicious meals. All of Hungryroot’s deliveries are nutrient-dense and tailored to a variety of diets and food needs including vegan, vegetarian, soy-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, pescatarian, tree-nut free, peanut-free, and egg-free.
Cost: Pricing plans average from $60 to $100 per week and orders over $70 receive free shipping.
Parents, take one thing off your plate by having Nurture Life put meals on your family table? Nurture Life makes the process super simple by delivering meals with ingredients that are focused on organic veggies, lean antibiotic-free proteins and whole grains. Additionally, their meals are developed by a team of registered dietitians and chefs and all are peanut and tree nut (except coconut) free—and their facilities don’t contain any peanuts or tree nuts. Bonus: Nurture Life meals are ready to enjoy in two minutes or less!
After signing up, you can choose the meals that best fit your kiddos' palate (or what you'd like them to try) based on their age group, and you can select the number of meals you'd like in your box. It's easy to skip weeks or add additional meals, and you can be worry-free with these veggie-forward, nutritious dishes. Food preferences include veggie, meat and fish, and meal plan age groups are: Baby (10-24 months), Toddler (1- 4 years), Kids (5-10 years) and Kids (11+ years). Family meals like mushroom and truffle ravioli are also a great option.
Cost: Plans start at $39 and you can skip weeks, pause or cancel services at any time.
Factor is a weekly subscription service with flexible management options. You can select from plan sizes of 4, 6, 8, 12 or 18 meals per week with the option to change your plan size at any time. You can also skip any weeks when they don’t need a delivery or turn the subscription off and back on at any time. Factor believes clean eating shouldn’t have to be so hard––and that healthy food should be readily available to everyone. They deliver chef-crafted and dietitian-designed meals nationwide; meals arrive fresh (never frozen) and are fully prepared. Simply heat in the microwave or oven and enjoy.
Their menu features a variety of different meal options for those that follow specific diet patterns such as keto, Paleo, low-carb, low-calorie, high-protein and dairy-free. Their dietitians and chefs create these meals to ensure that they reflect the standards of each diet. For example, keto meals are made with 70% fat or above, Paleo meals are dairy-free, and high-protein meals are made with 35 grams of protein or more.
Factor is also very strict about what they put in their meals, and their chefs use only the highest quality, freshest ingredients available. Every meal is free of gluten, soy, hormones, antibiotics, GMOs and preservatives.
Additionally, their dietitians are on-hand to provide an extra level of support. They offer free 20-minute consultations for all new or prospective customers.
Fresh and easy! Michaela’s meals are organic, gluten-free, and contain no GMOs. She’s known for answering the phone to take your order herself, and she shops at the local farmer’s market to source her ingredients. Michaela will customize meals to fit your needs––even catering to Keto and Paleo diets. You can order breakfast too! Half-pints will love the high protein cinnamon roll pancakes.
Delivery: San Diego Area Cost: From $65 for 5 meals/week
Locally made and organic! We love that you can order from breakfast and lunch to dinner and snacks with Foods Made Fresh. Even more, the menu changes weekly, so the family gets a variety of meals. Dig into the blueberry French toast to start the day and delight in the roasted chicken with green tahini sauce, and quinoa salad delivered fresh to your door for dinner.
Delivery: Most of San Diego (see map on website). Cost: Minimum order $35, plus $9 delivery fee.
If you are looking to up your family's health quotient this year then Thistle is the meal delivery service for you. They offer fully-prepared breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as juices, snacks, wellness shots and more. Choose what option works best for you with the price per item decreasing the more items you select. Every week there's a new menu and everything that is available is gluten and dairy-free. You can choose from vegan and non-vegan options.
While the majority of the Thistle menu appeals to greens-loving adults, our kid tasters loved the 24 Carrot Gold muffin and the nourishing green juice. Bonus for busy parents: the most you'll need is a few minutes to warm up the meals (if you desire) or eat them room tempinstead.
Cost: Fully-customizable packages start at $29.98/week.
Farm fresh goodness! We love that these meals are local, organic, farm-to-table meals that offer options like going grain-free. One of our faves is the orange basil Salmon with organic quinoa pilaf and organic heirloom ginger carrots. Even more, if you want to take a week off or not commit to a subscription, then this delivery service is for you. Further, you’ll enjoy large portions and get to choose from Keto or Paleo options too.
Delivery: North County San Diego Cost: Minimum $45 order per delivery. Plus $7 delivery fee.
Calling all vegans! This meal delivery service offers a selection of delicious meals that contain no animal products, and they arrive in plant-based containers too. The vegan meal plan offers dishes like kung pao “beef” (made with vegan beef substitute), steamed broccoli, snap peas and brown rice. Moreover, you can order a family subscription (it’s non-vegan) with dishes like maple BBQ chicken with potatoes if you want too. There are many choices to fit your family’s tastes.
Delivery: San Diego Area Cost: Vegan from $53.55 for 5 meals/week; Family Plan from $54.99 for 5 meals/week
We love this local husband and wife owned meal delivery service with a focus on lean, healthy food. Firstly, if you call, there’s a good chance you will talk to Anthony, the friendly customer-oriented owner. From chicken breast bites with asparagus and brown rice to vegetarian chili, you’ll find plenty of options to fill your family’s dinner table. So what are you waiting for? Try them out today.
Delivery: San Diego Area Cost: From $52.50 for 5 meals/week
Ingredients at your door! You’ll find organic, non-GMO ingredients that are pre-chopped and pre-measured ready to go. Make your nightly meals easy on you with these 30-minute meals from box to table. The meals are perfect for families and offer from two to six servings based on your choice. Even more, there is a pint-sized (kid’s) meal option. From the ground beef tacos to the many vegan and gluten-free options, we give this meal prep service a thumbs up!
Delivery: California (San Diego included) Cost: From $59.79 for 2 meals/week; Plus $7.99 delivery fee.
All the hues of the rainbow! We love that this San Diego delivery service lives up to its name. So, expect plenty of healthy (and colorful!) food on a plate, from spicy shrimp and veggie pad Thai to rainbow veggie tacos. What’s more, you’ll find smoothies and sweet treats like vegan peanut butter cups.
Delivery: San Diego Area Cost: From $33 for 3 meals/week
If your family wants clean protein, organic produce and delicious gluten-free meals, SoCalFRESH has got you covered. Grass-fed beef, pasture-raised chicken and wild-caught salmon mix with heart-healthy oil and Himalayan pink salt. What you won't see is any white sugar, dairy or wheat flour. With tasty dishes like Moroccan chicken or Beef Bolognese, we're pretty sure your family will want seconds.
Delivery: San Diego, Orange County and Riverside Cost: From $67 for 5 meals/week
We’ve all grown more than one sweet tooth during quarantine––so we’re here to help you with that sugar craving. San Diego dessert shops are offering desserts for delivery or curbside pick-up, so you can treat yourself and your family to all sorts of delights. From DIY ice cream sandwich kits to fresh-baked donuts to decadent cake and exquisite cupcakes, read on for how to get the goods delivered to your front door or your car door.
Founded by San Diegan Roanna Canete, the newly opening Gluten Free Baking Co. offers gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan dessert boxes for pickup or curbside delivery at three spots in San Diego. Grab a dessert box filled with cream puffs, donuts, lemon bars, lava cakes, cupcakes, churros and other goodies. Even more, add-in fresh baked breads and if you’re short on non-latex gloves, toilet paper, and paper towels, (like most of us) you can add those items to your order too. Also, be on the look-out for Special Saturday Drive-thru treats posted on the website.
Mark your calendars because:
The week of Apr. 27th is Celebrate Cake Week. The shop will be filled with a variety of cakes and cupcakes in every imaginable flavor and decoration. Whether it's your quarantine birthday, anniversary, or you just love cake, this week is for YOU!
The week of May 4th is Celebrate Mom Week. The shop will be filled with fun treats for you to enjoy with your mom. Order a Mother’s Day Brunch Box for pickup on Saturday so you can make her breakfast on Mother’s Day.
How to order & pay: walk-in (must wear mask) or online (2 day in advance) How to get it: curbside pick-up When: same day available
Your fam will love digging in to The Cravory's April cookie flavors from circus animal and caramel churro to chocolate velvet and oatmeal chocolate chip. Customize your order with a mix and match box for pick-up. Even more, try the Take and Bake chocolate chip cookies to make fresh at home. Whichever you choose, it will be sweet!
How to order & pay: online, call or through Grubhub, Doordash or Uber Eats How to get it: pickup or door delivery When: same day available
Jenny Wenny Cakes is full of tempting treats decorated to perfection. Order-up little goodies and cakes like coffee and walnut cakelets for $4, or regular-sized cupcakes ($20 for 6) in vanilla, chocolate and hazelnut flavors. Or go big and order a Treat Box for $20 with 15 items including cookies, bars and cake. Check their Facebook page for weekly updates on what’s available for that week. They have waived all minimums. Also, they will continue to operate during the pandemic and are performing much more additional sanitation. Plus, they are working in shifts to keep them and you safe. When you arrive, you’ll find the doors locked as they do curbside touch-less pickup.
How to order & pay: email How to get it: scheduled curbside
12265 World Trade Dr. San Diego jennywennycakes@gmail.com
If you’re craving an artisanal donut, head to The Goods to pick up a dozen! From gluten-free Tahitian vanilla, sugared marshmallow fluff and Vermont maple bacon there’s many choices to satisfy the whole crew. You can see a list of what’s available and make your choices on their Instagram page. Be sure to go early to pick-up in the day to make sure they have what you want. Or another option is to choose delivery on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Even more, you can add-in items like avocado toast or coffee to boot!
How to order & pay: Instagram or walk-in How to get it: pickup or delivery (on certain days) When: same day available
We’ve got the scoop! With walk-up spots in Del Mar and Carlsbad, and curbside delivery in Encinitas, you can get a Handel’s cone to enjoy. From chocolate chip cookie dough to birthday cake, we love all the creative flavors. Further, you can order a scoop to support a local first responder and Handel’s will match your scoop.
How to order & pay: online, call or walk-up How to get it: walk-up, scheduled curbside or via mail When: same day available
Have a blast with Sprinkles' new DYO-To-Go Kit! It comes complete with cupcakes, frosting, sprinkles, spatulas and decorations for you to decorate your own unique cupcake treats at home. Don't want to DIY? You can also treat yourself to cupcakes and cookies baked fresh daily from Sprinkles in La Jolla. From sprinkles on top to red velvet and more, there are plenty of flavorful choices. What’s more, get a Bake Box with something for everyone: cookies, cupcakes, brownies and frosting shots. All orders must be pre-ordered via online, phone or the app. There is curbside service––when you pull up to the bakery, give them a call (press 0 when prompted), and they’ll bring your cupcakes out to your car. If delivery is your preference, just choose that option when checking out. There is a delivery minimum of $25.
How to order & pay: pre-order only via online, phone, app How to get it: delivery, walk-in, scheduled curbside When: same day available
Order up fruit-filled pastries and desserts from Han's & Harry's Bakery. They encourage pre-ordering to promote social distancing and a quick in-and-out of the store. You can order a box of pastries, fruit covered strudels, cookies, chocolate croissants, and more.
How to order & pay: call or online How to get it: pickup When: same day available
Whether it's the funfetti cookies paired with cookies and cream ice cream or chocolate chip cookies sandwiching cookie dough ice cream, Baked Bear will have you all screaming for ice cream for delivery through Uber Eats. Even more, check their Facebook page for delivery of their Quaratine Kit (2 pints + 1 dozen cookies) which can make up to 6 ice cream sandwiches. The price (including delivery) is $35 flat, and for every kit delivered, they will be donating a dozen cookies to our brave medical staff working so hard in the local hospitals.
How to order & pay: walk-in or app How to get it: walk-in or delivery When: same day available
Feeling a little decadent? Well, pre-order from Extraordinary Desserts today and dine like royalty tonight. We love this iconic duo: the chocolate dulce de leche and the shangrila (yum!). Right now they offer curbside pick-up or delivery via Grubhub or Postmates to your home. Even more, you can get soups, salads and dinner items.
How to order & pay: call, online or via Grubhub, Postmates How to get it: scheduled curbside or delivery When: same day available
Note: Every effort was made for the information in this story to be current, however restaurants and businesses may change their offerings based on availability.
With parents across the country balancing a lot more time at home with kids and keeping them entertained, many families are coming together to whip up dinner or teach some life skills during remote learning. With some simple tips and tricks, parents can enjoy their time in the kitchen with their kids.
Three to five-year-olds can start by practicing handwashing prior to eating or preparing any foods. Paired with washing fresh produce in the sink and cleaning off tabletops, this habit not only gives kids something to do but teaches them about the important link between food and hygiene. Kids this age have limited dexterity, but can help by brushing or painting oils onto foods or sheet pans, shaking or sprinkling herbs and spices, and scooping foods into bowls or serving dishes. One activity to make food prep exciting for children around this age is to use cookie cutters to cut shapes out of fruits, vegetables, tortillas, or cookies; not only does this give the kids an entertaining and non-dangerous interaction with the food, but the fun shapes may even encourage your child to try a food they were previously averse to.
Along with the above activities, six to seven-year-olds can complete more complex tasks like peeling raw fruits and vegetables, scooping out avocados, and breaking eggs into a bowl (remind them to wash their hands after). At this age, they can also begin to cut fruits and veggies with kid-friendly knives, but must always be under the supervision of an adult. Importantly, they can begin to clear the table and load the dishwasher, enforcing the idea that as much fun as it is to create in the kitchen, we also have to be responsible for cleanup.
Once children are eight to nine years old, they have more developed motor skills and can take over tasks that would be frustrating for a younger child. They can try spinning a hand-held can opener to open canned foods, squeezing citrus fruit to make fresh juice, and transferring leftovers into containers to refrigerate for later. Since reading skills are strong at this point, you can put your children in charge of checking thermometers to ensure food is cooked to the right temperature.
Ten to twelve-year-olds can have some more responsibility in the kitchen, including boiling pasta or microwaving foods. At this age, reading skills are solid enough for children to accurately measure ingredients for more complex recipes. Of course, as always, children should be supervised in the kitchen, and if any task feels like it is too advanced for your child to undertake, leave it until you feel more comfortable.
Cooking or baking together can also be a time to bond, make memories, and teach valuable life skills, as well as incorporate math and more. Looking for some recipes that are kid-approved and family-friendly?
Fruity Energy Bites This is a great option for 12 months plus!
Ingredients:
2 Cups quick oats
1 cup nut butter of choice
1/2 cup honey
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup craisins or raisins, chopped
1 tsp cinnamon
*No honey for children under 12 months of age
Directions:
1. Mix all ingredients together.
2. Freeze mixture until easier to mold.
3. Form roughly 1-2 Tbsp of mixture into a ball and put on a plate.
4. Freeze balls.
5. Place in a Ziploc baggie, store in the freezer and take out as needed!
PB Yogurt Dip
This is a great option for 6 months plus!
Ingredients:
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (adds more protein!)
1 Tbsp nut butter of choice
*For any children over 12 months, add 1/2 tsp of honey for a touch of sweetness
Directions:
1. Stir all ingredients together until well mixed.
Perfect for dipping fruits, veggies and crackers into for an extra boost of protein and fat to prevent them from asking for a snack in five minutes.
Kids in the Kitchen Tip: Let your child stir the ingredients together and depending on their age, have them measure the yogurt!
Banana Cookies
Ingredients:
2 ripe bananas
1 cup quick oats
1/4 to 1/2 cup chocolate chips, M&Ms or ingredient of your choice!
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350F.
2. Mash bananas and mix together with oats and mix in of choice.
3. Place roughly 1-2 Tbsp of mixture onto greased cookie tray for each cookie.
4. Cook for roughly 8-10 minutes.
Kids in the Kitchen Tip: Let them have fun mashing the bananas and counting the chocolate chips or M&Ms into the mixture.
Alexandra Turnbull is Jetson's resident Registered Dietitian and mom to a toddler and infant. She obtained her bachelor of science in dietetics from St. Catherine University, obtaining her credentials as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. Alex loves to eat to live and believes that all foods fit within a healthy lifestyle.
The stunning Columbia River Gorge runs over 80 miles through the Cascade Range forming a boundary between Oregon and Washington. Only a short drive from both Portland and Seattle, families flock to this natural area for its unparalleled, year-round recreation. While popular base-camp options like Hood River draw big crowds and book early, just across the river on the Washington side of the Gorge lies a hidden gem perfect for adventurous families. Bingen is home to dreamy new accommodations that provide easy access to the best outdoor adventure the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Read on to find out more.
photo: via the Society Hotel
Stay
Bingen is accessible by car and is only two stops away from Portland and three stops from Seattle by Amtrak. Just five blocks from the Amtrak station, The Society Hotel is a brand new community gathering space that offers affordable rates, varied accommodation options and concierge-style service parents will appreciate.
A renovated schoolhouse that was built in 1908, burnt down in 1933 and then was converted into a hostel in 1988, the hotel honors the building’s history throughout its campus by featuring some of the original elements of the schoolhouse in the rooms and hotel hallways. Accommodations include 10 European-style standard hotel rooms that are each themed after a school subject and have access to a shared bathroom.
photo: via The Society Hotel
For larger families, we suggest one of the 20 cabins that encircle a grass area with a fire pit, bathhouse and spa. The two-room cabins are perfect for a family of four. They have cozy beds, a sitting and dining area and a small kitchenette where you can cook your own meals. Outside you’ll find a picnic bench and hammock swing to kick back in. And if you’re looking to throw a family reunion, there are two 24-bed bunkrooms you can book for the whole clan.
While we appreciate The Society Hotel’s flexible rooming options, the amenities really make it a special experience for traveling families. The onsite bathhouse and spa features a saltwater soaking pool, cold plunge pool, sauna and bar with juice and cocktails. Parents can also schedule a massage after a long day of outdoor play. Kiddos aren’t forgotten. The owners of the hotel converted the old school’s gym into a multipurpose space where they can get their wiggles out shooting hoops and playing games. The space even features the original bleachers and floors.
During the day, the lobby area has a wonderful space where you can lounge and relax by the fireplace on comfy couches. And there’s even a café that serves coffee and tasty bites for breakfast.
photo: via Wet Planet
Play
If your family loves the outdoors, Bingen is the perfect place to make your base camp for fun. The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail makes for a scenic family bike ride or hike. This trail—once a section U.S. Highway 30—is now only open to bikers and hikers and takes you along the winding curves of the cliffs of the Columbia River Gorge where you catch breathtaking views of the water without motorists zipping by and detracting from the sweeping beauty. If your bike lovers are older (16+), Sol Rides in Hood River offers e-bike tours of the area.
photo: by Annette Benedetti
When the temps rise, getting wet and wild is easy. Wet Planet offers whitewater rafting adventures down the Lower Salmon River, and they are gorgeous! You can book a full or half day trip or go on a multi-day adventure. These trips are appropriate for kids 10+ years old. The younger set are sure to be enchanted while exploring the natural life along one of the Gorge’s trails. Catherine Creek Trail is a stunning wildflower hike that gives visitors breathtaking views of Mt. Hood. It’s easy for little feet and parents with kids on their backs, and makes for a great morning or afternoon activity.
Mosier is only a short bike ride or drive away and it is home to lovely wineries when mom and dad want an afternoon away. Garnier Winery and Idiot’s Grace have beautiful tasting rooms for a romantic escape.
photo: by Annette Benedetti
Eat
You don’t have to go far to get a good meal in Bingen. The Society Hotel has a wonderful onsite café with fantastic bites for the whole family. From coffee and breakfast dishes that include favorites like avocado toast to cocktails and savory sandwiches, you can find everything you desire .Off site, you can grab bites locally at Beneventi’s where you can nosh on amazing pasta dishes, calzones and pizza. When you jump off your raft at Wet Planet, head over to their cafe for some of the best tacos you’ll find in the Gorge.
Across the river in Hood River there’s Solstice Wood Fire Café which Features rustic and inventive pizzas, homemade pasta, seasonal chef’s entrees, and an extensive drink menu. Families enjoy the outdoor patio seating, a kid play area and art by local artists. Located on the Hood River Waterfront, it’s steps away from a fantastic playground (with a climbing wall and other fun features!) and small beach.
Ferment Brewing Company is a newer brewery and tasting room that has an incredible space on the Hood River waterfront with epic views of the river. They pair their handcrafted beers and kombuchas with homemade fermented food. There’s a great kids menu that includes their homemade frozen yogurt.
Finally, there’s Andrew’s Pizza & Skylight Theater which features a family-friendly environment comprised of a pizzeria, two silver-screen theaters with first-run shows, an arcade and frozen yogurt shop. They carry over 100 wines, have more than 15 local brews on tap and make fresh pastries daily.
Visiting the Columbia River Gorge doesn’t mean having to fight the crowds and booking accommodations months in advance. Head to Bingen on the Washington side and enjoy a luxury family hotel and some of the best outdoor recreation the area has to offer with your favorite young adventurers year-round
Winter is around the corner and the cold is here to stay! Don’t let that stop you from having the best winter yet! Zip down a snowy hill, sip delicious hot cocoa, jump around an indoor gym, or snuggle up and play a game at a cozy vintage trailer haven. We’ve come up with 8 experiences to make this a perfect Portland season for you and yours. Read on for details on some of our favorite things to do when the temperature drops.
IceSkating at Lloyd Center Feeling down and need a laugh? Head to the Lloyd Center for Public Skate and giggle your way in ice circles. One of the quickest ways to shift your mood is to try something new, exciting, slightly challenging, and fun. Stop, rest, and get inspiration watching the pros in the center of the circle. Go ahead try it!
Children’s Gym This Northeast Portland gym offers children’s gymnastics and dance classes along with camps, after school care and play time. The space is fun and inviting with lots of seating for parents who want to watch the action. It’s a great spot for kids who need to move and groove! The best part is that they also build lasting friendships and become a part of a new community.
Harlem Globetrotters
You don’t want to miss the Harlem Globetrotters! This worldwide icon is here to provide the whole family with a night of FUN! They are coming to the Moda Center Dec 27 so get your tickets now. Stick around after the game and you might get lucky and score some high fives and autographs. Don’t forget to check out their Girl, Boy, and Cub Scout discounts!
Tubing at Skibowl Do you have a family of thrill seekers? If so, a visit to Mt. Hood might be exactly what you need! Glide downhill on inner tubes, ride a conveyor lift back up, and repeat. Kids must be at least 36” tall to tube. For an extra adventurous day check out the Kiddie Snowmobiles that are specially designed for younger kids in a safe and controlled environment. When it’s time for a short break from the cold head into the heated “Frosty’s Playhouse” for snacks, warmth, and indoor play.
87000 US 26
Government Camp, Or
503-272-3206
Online: skibowl.com
Northwest Children’s Theater
Up Next at the Northwest Children’s Theater is the classic Cinderella! The Oregonian says it’s hip, full of wit, and impossible not to love. Ticket prices range from $16-25 and are available through Jan 1. If your child is more interested in starring in their own play sign up for winter classes.
Northwest Children’s Theater
1819 NW Everett St.
503-222-4480
Online: nwcts.org
Sou’Wester
Spend a weekend snuggling in vintage trailer heaven. The Sou’Wester is a cozy haven located in Historic Seaview Washington. This hodgepodge of vintage travel trailers, cabins and the coziest lodge you’ve ever seen is the perfect winter escape for the whole family. It’s a great excuse to make fresh bread, watch a 80s movie on VHS, and enjoy hazy morning hikes in this Pacific Northwest Wonderland! You may never want to leave.
3728 J Place
Seaview, Wa 98644
360-642-2542
Online: souwester.com
Donuts and Hot Chocolate at Pip’s Original If you have been craving kid sized donuts and Hot Chocolate, say no more. Pick up the kids from school and head straight to Pip’s Original Donuts for a special family treat. You won’t be disappointed. The staff is adorable, the flowers are fresh, and the chalkboard handwritten. Pip’s donuts are the perfect snack size and range in flavors from raw honey & sea salt, cinnamon sugar, ginger peach, Nutella, the dirty wu, and maple bacon! The kid’s hot cocoa costs $1 and is steamed with your choice of hemp, cow, almond, or soy milk. If it’s a sunny afternoon stop by Grant Park on your way home for a quick game of tag or some sliding board & swing fun! If more hot chocolate sounds like a good idea go ahead and work your way through this list.
Spectra Gymnastics Spectra Gymnastics is a specialized studio in Beaverton OR that caters to working with kids with Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities. Their team of highly qualified staff create an environment where everyone can experience success in their bodies. Join them every Saturday from 9am-12pm for family friendly fun in the gym! It’s $5 per child and parents play free! It’s first come first served so get there early!
8344 SW Nimbus Ave
Beaverton, Or
503-754-9794
Online: spectrapdx.com
What’s on your winter must-do list? Let us know in the comments!
A huge part of the reason you’re so excited to celebrate Cinco de Mayo? The excuse the holiday gives your family to check out some of Portland’s best Mexican cuisine. Whether you’ve got a hankering for crunchy tortilla chips, cheesy quesadillas or salty margaritas, head to one of the following eateries to get into the spirit of this festive cultural holiday.
Nuestra Cocina
Got some adventurous little eaters in the family? At the perennial favorite Nuestra Cocina, the dining room will undoubtedly be humming—but it’s worth arriving early to enjoy the tender tacos de puerco and the flavorful sopes de chorizo. The cuisine is somehow refined and comforting at the same time, offering a little taste of Mexico for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. And the atmosphere is so friendly, casual, and lively that you needn’t ever feel self-conscious about bringing the whole family.
¿Por Qué No?
Only in Portland would there be a restaurant creating authentic Mexican flavors with sustainable ingredients that support the local economy. That restaurant is ¿Por Qué No?, where the staff is always warm and welcoming, the food is fresh and flavorful, and the atmosphere is eclectic and engaging. Adults will love the gut-busting Bryan’s Bowl; the daily happy hour discounts on chips, tacos, and drinks (3-6 p.m.); and the margaritas made with a rotating selection of agua fresca. The niños, meanwhile, can choose from their very own simplified menu of tacos, quesadillas, and rice and bean bowls. And even if there’s a line out the door—as there often is—know that it moves quickly and that there is always a place to sit.
Stella Taco
Stella Taco is a delightfully bright and airy space, and one of the newest additions to the Alberta Arts District. The breakfast tacos—whether you opt for the shredded brisket, the house-made chorizo, or the vegetarian—are the name of the game here and (good news!) they’re served every day until 3 p.m. Other reasons to love Stella? It offers an affordable kids’ menu of quesadillas, rice and bean bowls, and both crunchy and soft tacos; a dining room stocked with crayons and drawing paper; and daily happy hour discounts on tacos, margaritas, and draft beer (3-6 p.m.).
Torta-landia
What would Cinco de Mayo be without a margarita (or two)? At Torta-landia, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of a casual, child-friendly neighborhood restaurant (think picnic tables and an open garage door)—but one with an extensive selection of parent-friendly drinks. The guacamole and the griddled burritos are not to be missed, while the Mexican tortas are made with a wonderfully Portland twist—freshly-baked bread from the Pearl Bakery.
Si Señor Mexican Restaurant
Where better to bring the entire family than a family-owned restaurant serving family recipes that date back to 1923? At Si Señor Mexican Restaurant, you’ll find an incredibly varied menu, where kids and parents can enjoy everything from fajitas to enchiladas to a wide variety of mix-and-match combination platters. But the food is only part of the attraction at Si Señor, where the friendly service, ample seating, generous happy hours, and live mariachi performances make for a worry-free and festive outing (call for the most up-to-date music schedule).
625 NW Saltzman Rd.
503-672-9124
8220 SW Hall Blvd.
Beaverton
503-350-1425
Online: mysisenor.com
Verde Cocina
Trying to get your family to eat a little healthier? Grab a table at Verde Cocina, where every dish features fresh vegetables from local farms near Portland. On the Paleo diet? Not a problem. Vegetarian or vegan? Plenty of options. Gluten-free? Try the entire menu. You and your family will not only enjoy a delicious dinner—the kids will be entranced as they watch the chefs make fresh corn tortillas right before their eyes.
Amelia’s Rustic Mexican Restaurant
Is there any better way to keep the kids’ attention while you wait for dinner than warm, homemade tortillas and fire-roasted salsa? At Amelia’s Rustic Mexican Restaurant, those complimentary snacks are only the beginning. The tacos de pescado are some of the best you’ll find north of Baja California; the tamales are tender and flavorful; and the many varieties of mole are rich and complex. Best of all? The daily lunch and dinner specials make these authentic Mexican dishes quite easy on the wallet.