ML Interest Tag: strawberry-banana

13 Store-Bought Breakfasts That Make Mornings a Cinch

by Erin Lem

Mornings are busy. These breakfast options for kids can help.

Whoever said breakfast is the most important meal of the day never encountered a squirmy toddler or a picky eater. To help fill those bellies first thing in the morning, we discovered a slew of delicious store-bought breakfast ideas that you’ll feel good giving to your kids and they’ll actually eat without putting up a fight. These easy breakfast ideas for kids go beyond just filling them up; they also multitask with good-for-them ingredients that you’ll appreciate (and they’ll never notice!). From new dairy-free yogurts to grab-and-go waffles, scroll down for easy breakfast ideas for kids ideas that’ll become staples in your morning routine.

GoGo squeeZ Morning smoothieZ

Made with whole milk yogurt, fruit, and oats in portable, BPA-free squeeze pouches, these shelf-stable (no fridge required!) smoothies are an excellent source of calcium, too.

GoGo squeeZ Morning smoothieZ—Buy Here!

Evergreen Waffles

Evergreen

Eating healthy food should be delicious! Evergreen Waffles not only packs tons of nutrient but it's completely void of fillers. The frozen breakfast is made with 100 percent whole wheat, flavored by spices, nuts, vegetables and fruits and is free from refined sugar, dairy, or preservatives. Kids will love the current flavors: Peanut Butter & Banana, Zucchini & Carrot, Mixed Berry & Almond and Chocolate Chip & Matcha.

Evergreen Waffles—Buy Here!

Quaker Oats Dinosaur Eggs Instant Oatmeal

Amazon

Quaker Oats is getting creative, launching new flavors that kids won't be able to turn down. Every bowl of Dinosaur Eggs Oatmeal reveals hidden dino eggs as they stir!

Quaker Oats Dinosaur Eggs Instant Oatmeal—Buy Here!

Noosa Whole Milk Vanilla Bean Yogurt

Walmart

Picky eaters will love Noosa's Whole Milk Vanilla Bean Yogurt. Made with live and active cultures, kiddos can mix in fresh fruit, granola, or a little sprinkle of cinnamon to make it their own. Also a great lunchbox option!

Noosa Whole Milk Vanilla Bean Yogurt—Buy Here!

This Saves Lives GranolaPop

Amazon

Your kids will love starting off their morning routine with this option from This Saves Lives. The GranolaPop is perfect for snacking or breakfast with fun flavors like Rainbow Sprinkles, Chocolate and Cinnamon Sugar. You can feel good about serving these to your kids each morning as each serving contains a full serving of fruits and vegetables, and all flavors are totally safe-for-school. 

This Saves Lives GranolaPop—Buy Here!

Homestyle Breakfast Sandwiches from Brazi Bites

The first single-serve, gluten-free breakfast sandwich to hit the market, Brazi Bites' Homestyle Breakfast Sandwiches feature simple, clean ingredients like cage-free eggs and nitrate-free bacon, sandwiched between toasty slices of warm gluten-free bread for a delicious and satisfying homestyle taste that’s ready in minutes in the microwave! 

Homestyle Breakfast Sandwiches from Brazi Bites—Buy Here!

Oats Overnight

Who doesn't love breakfast on the go? Oats Overnight makes morning meal prep a breeze: just mix your packet with milk, store in the fridge and enjoy spoon-free in the morning. Each flavor is gluten free, made with 100% whole grain oats, 20 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber. Try out brand new flavors every month, in addition to classics like Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana, Strawberries & Cream and Mocha Dream.

Oats Overnight—Buy Here!

Catalina Crunch Cereals

No spoon or milk required! Delicious, low-carb cereals are made with the highest quality, all-natural ingredients available and contain a blend of seven Plant Proteins and Fibers that are designed to keep you full longer. Gluten- and grain-free, vegan, zero sugar, Non-GMO, and have 9g of fiber per serving. Choose from Fruity, Chocolate Peanut Butter, (newest flavors), and other delicious options you can snack on all day long. Kids will love these, and so will you!

Catalina Crunch Cereals—Buy Here!

KIND Granola

If you already love KIND products, you'll want to check out their granola! They're delicious, plus they're full of fiber and protein, so they'll be able to stay fueled all morning long.

KIND Granola—Buy Here!

Bear Naked Premium Protein Granola

As parents we’re always looking for healthy ways to add protein to our kids’ diets. Shake up your routine with Bear Naked Premium Protein Granola. Each serving dishes out 10 grams of protein. Choose from flavors including Oatmeal Cookie Crunch and Peanut Butter Toffee Crunch.

Bear Naked Premium Protein Granola—Buy Here!

AYO Almond Yogurt

Breakfast with an interesting story, anyone? Turn to AYO Yogurt—this Almond Yogurt is made from organic, sun-grown California almonds at the Billings family ranch, a fourth-generation family farm. Each yogurt is dairy-free and nutrient-rich with flavors that include blueberry, strawberry, vanilla and peach. Find AYO in health stores and if you’re in California they’re sold at Ralphs. 

AYO Almond Yogurt—Buy Here!

Siggi’s Plant-based [Non] Dairy Yogurts

We’re huge fans of siggi’s and were thrilled to learn that they recently launched a line of plant-based [Non] Dairy yogurts. Choose from five flavors: mango, mixed berry, vanilla and cinnamon, raspberry and strawberry. Like the original siggi’s their products include 40% less sugar than other leading yogurt alternatives and 3x more protein. For those allergic to dairy or are looking for a traditional yogurt alternative, we highly recommend this line (our kids were fans!).

Siggi’s Plant-based [Non] Dairy Yogurts—Buy Here!

gr8nola

Start your day with gr8nola—dish it out to little hands to practice hand/eye coordination or sprinkle on yogurt for the older kids. gr8nola features only 5 grams of non-refined sugar and all natural ingredients like organic coconut oil, whole grain oats, coconut flakes and sunflower seeds. The brand promises that all flavors (think: Black Coco Chia, Cinnamon Chai and Golden Spice) are GMO-free and contains no soy, dairy or refined sugars.

gr8nola—Buy Here!

—Erin Lem, Karly Wood, Kate Cartia

 

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

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4 Kid-Approved Smoothies That Tackle Constipation, Sniffles & More

by Dahlia Rimmon

As a dietitian, it’s no surprise that I’m a smoothie lover—and I’m always cooking up new smoothie recipes for kids. These blended bevys are versatile, easy to whip up, absolutely delicious, and provide a healthy dose of nutrition. Smoothies are also my secret weapon for brightening up cranky moods after a nap—and my kids are over the moon when I turn them into smoothie bowls with rainbow sprinkles. Who wouldn’t want to feel like supermom every time the blender roars?

What you might not know is that smoothies have their own superpowers, too. These handy drinks can be used to address several everyday challenges that kids encounter. The ingredients you toss in your blender can ease constipation, support healthy weight gain, or help balance their moods. And when your kid comes home with their fourth stuffy nose of the month, grab your trusted blender from the pantry because it’s smoothie time! Here are some of my favorite kid-approved smoothie recipes that can turn these challenges into tasty triumphs.

1. The Smooth Move
Supports: Constipation

If your kid’s bowels seem to have gone on strike, this fiber-packed smoothie might just get them moving. In addition to balancing blood sugar and increasing satiety, fiber also combats constipation. Adding high-fiber foods such as chia seeds, ground flaxseeds, and leafy greens can help stimulate the bowels and make it easier to go. If you’re worried your child won’t like chia or flax, rest assured that they have a nutty flavor similar to peanut butter. Prunes are also well-known for their laxative effects (just don’t add too many—you don’t want any accidents at the kitchen table!).

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup frozen mixed berries
  • 1/2 tbsp chia seeds
  • 1/2 tbsp ground flaxseed
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt or kefir (bonus: probiotics!)
  • A handful of spinach
  • 1-2 prunes (optional)
  • Milk of choice, thin to desired consistency

Directions and Notes:

  • Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.
  • Start by adding a small amount of milk to the blender. Nothing is worse than a watery smoothie!
  • Try frozen mango or pineapple instead of mixed berries for a tropical twist.
  • In a hurry to catch the school bus? Pour leftover smoothies into reusable pouches for your kiddo to finish at school.

2. Pink Immuno Blast
Supports: The Sniffles

Backpacks filled with art projects and homework aren’t the only things coming through the door now that school is back in full swing; kids are also bringing home pesky classroom germs. While the sniffles, coughs, and sore throats are basically rites of passage for school-age children, adding some vitamin C-packed smoothies can make stay-at-home-with-mom days a bit more bearable. Dragon fruit, berries, walnuts, and hemp seeds may not cure your little scholars, but they pack a ton of immune-supporting nutrients, including omega-3s and protein. Plus, adding dragon fruit will transform this smoothie into a vibrant shade of pink, adding a touch of magic while your kid is curled up on the couch.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup frozen dragon fruit
  • 1/2 c frozen strawberries
  • 1 tbsp walnuts
  • 1/2 tbsp hemp seeds
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • Milk of choice, thin to desired consistency

Directions and Notes:

  • Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.
  • Swap out half of the milk for pomegranate juice to give your smoothie an extra punch of immune-supporting antioxidants.
  • Freeze leftover smoothie blend into popsicle molds as the cooling effect will work wonders to soothe sore throats.

3. Nutrilicious Delight
Supports: Picky eating and poor weight gain

During those frustrating bouts of fussy eating or when your kid could use some help with weight gain, the key is to focus on foods that are rich in nutrients and packed with energy. Nut or seed butter, coconut oil or milk, bananas, rolled oats, Greek yogurt, and dates are ingredients that make every sip count. Want another helpful tip? You can toss some veggies into the smoothie—not to sneak them past your kiddo (we want them to trust us!) but to prove that vegetables can actually be delicious in different forms. Opt for mild-tasting options like spinach and zucchini to make sure they don’t compromise the flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 1 frozen banana
  • 1/4 cup frozen zucchini or a handful of spinach
  • 2 tbsp nut/seed butter
  • 1/4 cup oats
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil
  • 2-3 pitted dates
  • Whole milk or coconut milk, thin to desired consistency

Directions and Notes:

  • Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.
  • If your kid is craving something chocolatey, toss in 1-2 tbsp of cocoa powder.
  • Looking for a time-saving hack? Get ahead of the game by prepping a week’s worth of smoothies. Simply fill silicone or ziplock bags with all the ingredients (minus the liquid) and toss them in the freezer. When you’re ready to whip up a smoothie, just grab a bag, add your milk, and you’re one step closer to mom of the year!

4. Strawberry-Banana Brain Booster
Supports: Focus and blood-sugar balance

What do iron, protein, and fat have in common? They all play a crucial role in helping our kids bring their A-game. Iron supports brain development, while protein and fat keep blood sugar balanced, sparing us from cracky moods and wipe-out level fatigue. Now that it’s back-to-school season, these nutrients can be a game-changer for kids trying to stay focused and energized in the classroom. So, if you’re thinking of sending them off to school with a smoothie, go for one that’s iron-packed with pumpkin and chia seeds, plus almond or cashew butter for the extra protein and fat kick. Don’t forget to include some vitamin C from strawberries, which helps the body absorb all those iron superpowers!

Ingredients:

  • 1 frozen banana
  • 1 cup frozen strawberries
  • 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds
  • 1 tbsp chia seeds
  • 1 tbsp almond or cashew butter
  • Nut milk or coconut milk, thin to desired consistency

Directions and Notes:

  • Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.
  • Since calcium from dairy can inhibit the absorption of iron, this one works best with non-dairy milk.
  • Consider a fun cup or straw that features a sports team or a character they love, like Paw Patrol or Elsa.
  • Get your kids involved in the kitchen by turning smoothie-making into a fun family tradition!
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Make School Lunch Prep Easy with This Free Printable Planner

by Marianella Orlando
Partner Content

Packing lunches day and day out doesn’t have to be painful. Sometimes, all it takes is a little organization to help you meal prep with ease!

To give you a head start, we’ve partnered with Kemps® to give you a free weekly lunch planner that you can print at home, and reuse again and again.

4 Tips to Help You Pack an Easy & Nutritious Lunch

1. Up for a challenge? Try including all five food groups: Fruits, Vegetables, Grains, Protein Foods, & Dairy

2. Meet at least half of the recommended serving size for grains with a whole wheat sandwich for lunch.

3. If your kids fight you on eating their fruits and veggies, try a juice box that blends the two!

4. Do your little ones need more protein in their diet? Add in Kemps’ new Smooth Cottage Cheese to your children’s lunch boxes, as it’s loaded with two times more protein than non-Greek, low-fat yogurts. Plus, it comes in kid-approved flavors and features fun packaging with some of their most beloved characters, such as Transformers Mixed Berry, PJ Masks Strawberry and Peppa Pig Strawberry Banana.

For more lunchtime inspiration, head to our “Making Smooth Transitions” Back-to-School Rule Book, in partnership with Kemps! You’ll discover easy recipes from Kemps that you can make with your kiddos, recommendations for a well-balanced lunchbox, and even find conversation starters to have with your kids leading up to the new school year.

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Do You Have Cottage Cheese in Your Fridge?

by Anne Hatfield
Partner Content

Tinybeans mom, Anne Hatfield, and her family are here to share why they trust this item on the grocery list. Nutritionists and Betty Draper approve of it, too. Over to you, Anne.

As a mom of two kids under five, I’m always on the search for the best healthy-yet-not-boring snacks to feature in our family fridge. This new smooth cottage cheese blended with real fruit by Kemps® is the first product we’ve tested as a family. Read on to find out why cottage cheese is making a comeback and fueling our family’s full days of play.

Family Tested, “Full Day of Play” Approved: Kemps’ Smooth Cottage Cheese

At the end of the school year, our children grow tired of their lunch box staples. With the change in season and routine from school to camp, there’s an expectation that the fridge will see a refresh, too. Think: goodbye apples, hello watermelon. But this summer, we’re happy to also say “cheerio” to yogurt, and “good day” to Kemp’s new smooth cottage cheese that features real blended fruit, probiotics and no high fructose corn syrup.

I was both a bit dubious and very excited when I heard about Kemp’s new smooth cottage cheese that was being positioned as an alternative to yogurt for kids. The first thing that came to my mind was “An alternative to yogurt, yet still a dairy product? What’s the point?”.

The excitement then came from remembering as a child how much I enjoyed cottage cheese with fresh berries—but only in small doses, as the texture gave me pause (sorry curd lovers, but I’m a smooth versus chunky kind of gal, except when it comes to peanut butter).

Also, does anyone else hear cottage cheese and immediately think about Betty Draper? In Mad Men, Betty’s last meal pre-labor was toast, cottage cheese and pineapple, and cottage cheese is now forever cemented in my mind as a sensible meal choice.

So, our family welcomed the opportunity to test this new product. And we’re happy to report Kemp’s Smooth Cottage Cheese blended with real fruit gives all of the taste and none of the pause from our 2.5-year-old son, Ernie, and 4.5-year-old daughter, Milly.

Kemp’s smooth cottage cheese comes in a four-pack with three flavors to choose from, each featuring a different co-brand of our kids’ most well-loved characters: Transformers Mixed Berry, PJ Masks Strawberry and Peppa Pig Strawberry Banana.

Ernie enjoyed the Transformers Mixed Berry so much that it caused my husband, Jonny, to open the fridge and pull out the Peppa Pig Strawberry Banana to share with Milly. My husband is a Brit and while he was happy to have other UK representation in the house with Peppa Pig in the fridge, he too questioned the product.

Jonny and Milly testing out the Peppa Pig Strawberry Banana.

 

Then, my curiosity was officially piqued, and I went from food tester to investigative journalist.

Why Cottage Cheese is the Nutritious Choice for Summer

The reason cottage cheese is well-loved by nutritionists is that it’s filled with protein—and lots of it—which helps you stay fuller longer (that’s at least what we learned in this video from Doctor Eric Berg).

In the summer, my kids transition from the classroom to full days of play at the lake and happily getting lost in the woods. But, as all adventure-loving moms know, there’s nothing worse than being halfway through a hike when one of the kids complains they’re hungry…even though they ate just before you left the house 30 minutes ago.

So, it got me thinking that Kemp’s may have created a clever new mom hack. A smooth cottage cheese that keeps our kids happy (cheers, PJ Masks), and fuller longer? And still is chock full of probiotics a.k.a. the good bacteria that supports our digestion and immune systems? Game on. Maybe there’s a way to get through our hikes with less complaints and more smiles after all!

Also, if anyone else’s husband or friends question why cottage cheese is a good alternative to yogurt this summer, here’s a quick hit of history for you to share with your mom pals.

During World War I, there was a national food shortage and the Federal Drug Administration called in cottage cheese to save the day. According to the Food Historian, “Cottage cheese was touted as a meat substitute to kill two birds with one stone—it ate up some of the dairy surplus while also allowing people to eat less meat.” Cottage Cheese then proceeded to take off as a health food in the 1950s as people realized the benefits of staying fuller longer with this protein-packed alternative to meat.

“Eat More Cottage Cheese” poster by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, c. 1918. Hoover Institute Library and Archives.

 

So, there you have it. Cottage cheese is trusted in wartime, by Betty and nutritionists, and now by my kids, too. We’re happy to report that Kemp’s Smooth Cottage Cheese has earned its place in our family’s fridge this summer. 

Watch out, kids. Your dad may be stealing your snacks this summer.

 

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The Slice Is Right: NYC’s Best Birthday Cakes For Kids

by rtkimsunshine

With all of the amazing bakeries in town there’s no shortage of options when it comes to finding a fantastic kid’s birthday cake in NYC. But which cakes really deliver when it comes to both look and taste? We’ve got suggestions, from great gluten-free, the best in buttercream, and ice cream cakes, to delicious last-minute saves, crazy custom cake creations and more. Read on for the best kids’ birthday cakes in NYC, no matter how you party!

For an Among Us Cake From a Serious Pastry Pro: SOMA Cakes NYC

SOMA Cakes NYC

Hiroyo Kuramata brings a serious pastry pedigree to her cake creations. She's worked alongside Iron Chef Morimoto at Nobu and pastry chef Eric Bedoucha, as well at FiDi's Financier Patisserie. Her East Village studio opened last year and she gets raves for design, taste and customer service. Popular flavors for kids' cakes are chocolate cake with vanilla buttercream and vanilla cake with strawberry buttercream, and as the gallery on her site suggests, she'll create pretty much anything you can come up with. Pricing starts at $65 for a six-inch cake, which serves six to eight people. Place orders at least two weeks in advance. 

380 E. 10th St. 
East Village 
212-388-1801
Online: somacakesnyc.com

For the Same Cake Jay-Z Eats: BCakeNy

BCakeNy

Yes, this Prospect Heights, Brooklyn shop creates cakes for the stars, but they'll make one for your kid, too! BCakeNy's 6x6-inch round cakes feed eight to 15 people in any theme requested, including a completely custom concept. Popular flavors for kids are vanilla, strawberry, blue velvet and chocolate, but you can choose from a wide variety of options. Pickup from the shop or have it delivered for an additional charge, starting at $25. Cakes are $199. 

702 Washington Ave. 
Prospect Heights
347-787-7199
Online: bcakeny.com

For the Cookie Cake & More: Gracie Baked

Gracie Baked

Gracie Bensimon specializes in "nostalgic 90s-themed treats and completely customizable cakes with endless flavor combinations." Her most popular cake for kids is 'The Cake', a funfetti cake with cookie dough filling and funfetti frosting. All cakes are eight inches and cost $60. You can also truly create the cake of your kid's dreams, choosing from cake flavor, frosting flavor (you can do a different one on the inside and outside), fillings, spreads (hot fudge, caramel, etc.) and crunchies for added texture. Want to keep it simple? Order up a couple of Cookie Cakes (six-inch gooey chocolate chip cookies, pictured above) and call it a day. Gracie Baked will deliver throughout NYC for $20, and they also ship nationwide. 

Online: graciebaked.com

For Harlem Homemade Goodness: Make My Cake

Make My Cake via Yelp

Started as a home-business more than two decades ago, Make My Cake has gained legions of fans for its confections. The heart of the business is the family recipes of Josephine “Ma” Smith, said to combine the baking traditions of Mississippi and Alabama with Harlem soul. Must-haves here include the red velvet cake, German chocolate cake, sweet potato cheesecake and strawberry cupcakes. Need a cake delivered? Call 212-932-0833. 

2380 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd.
212-234-2344
Harlem
Online: makemycake.com

139 St. Nicholas Ave.
212-932-0833
Harlem

For Deliciousness on Demand in Queens & Brooklyn: Martha's Country Bakery

Allie S. via Yelp

Martha's Country Bakery is a destination for both coffee- and dessert-lovers alike. Founded in 1972, it's now a mini empire, with five locations throughout Brooklyn and Queens. (You can find them in Forest Hills, Astoria and Bayside—and in two spots in Williamsburg.) Shops are stocked with full cakes made daily, and staffers are happy to customize with a birthday message or sign. Martha's makes cakes in almost 20 flavors, but ones especially popular for kids' birthdays are strawberry shortcake, strawberry/banana, and Oreo mousse. (We are wild for the berry napoleon.) You can get a seven-inch cake for $40, or an eight-inch for $43; larger sizes and sheet cakes are available, too, and you can even order online for cakes from the Williamsburg store at 263 Bedford. 

Martha's Country Bakery
Numerous locations
Online: marthascountrybakery.com

For Inspired Creations in Queens: Silk Cakes

Mike C. via Yelp

This Forest Hills, Queens bakery describes itself as an "Asian American Cake Boutique", and makes both inspired cupcakes and cakes for celebrations and every day treats. Styles include chiffon cakes, buttercream cakes, as well as vegan and gluten-free. Go classic with your flavors (chocolate, vanilla, red velvet), or less common and Asia-inspired with strawberry chantilly, green tea, purple yam, and black sesame-flavored cakes and fillings. (See all the options here.) Pre-made cakes are available, and they will make a custom cake to your design as well. Can't make it to Forest Hills? Silk Cakes delivers to Manhattan—just make sure you order at least two days in advance. 

98-14 Metropolitan Ave. 
Forest Hills
718-830-3838
Online: silkcakes.com

For a Last-Minute Cake That Doesn't Look it: Butterfly Bakeshop

Butterfly Bakeshop via Yelp

Birthday party planning can be overwhelming, and sometimes figuring out the cake goes by the wayside. If you need a boffo cake with quick turnaround, consider one of the Xtreme Cakes from Butterfly Bakeshop's 48 hour Collection, created with procrastinators everywhere in mind. If you've got more time, they are also happy to make a custom cake in the form of pretty much anything you can come up with, as evidenced by the Minecraft-themed cake shown here. 

Butterfly Bakeshop
4709 30th St. #406
212-686-2253
Online: butterflybakeshop.com

For An Exploding Cake: Flour shop

Flour Shop

If you follow social media, you’ve seen these cakes taking NYC by storm, and yes, they are indeed "exploding"! Cut into them and an explosion of sprinkles and colorful confections comes pouring out. Then there’s the various colors of layers, the sweet icing, and the sprinkles on the outside that make this cake a favorite with young kids, tweens, and grown-ups alike. But beware: this cake might become the hit of the party, no matter who is booked for the entertainment!

177 Lafayette St.
No Phone
Soho
Online: Flourshop.com

For Fans of Magnolia Bakery: Buttercup Bake Shop

Buttercup Bakeshop

After helping to open Magnolia Bakery (the spot made famous by the gals on “Sex and the City”)  Jennifer Appel was up for a solo venture. She started Buttercup Bake Shop, and this store’s classic American desserts have been wowing customers for years. The layer cakes are as delicious as her cupcakes, and will please grown up guests as much as the kids. There are many flavors to choose from, and it’s worth a trip to the midtown location to also sample the  many puddings or bars...and pies, and cookies and bundt cakes!

973 2nd Ave.
212-350-4144
Upper East Side
Online: buttercupbakeshop.com

 

For The Best In Buttercream: Billy’s Bakery

Billy's Bakery

If you prefer the look and taste of a fluffy, buttery frosting, Billy’s Bakery is the place for you. Like most of these bakeries, custom cakes require just 48 hours notice, but Billy’s Tribeca location will even host your party.

Billy's Bakery
75 Franklin St.
TriBeCa
212-647-9958
Online: billysbakerynyc.com

For Classic Cakes from a European Pastry Chef: Der Pioneer

Miho S. via Yelp

A relative newcomer to the scene (it opened in early 2017) Der Pioneer has quickly gained a devoted following. Björn Böttcher and Greg Barbiero are behind this Kensington cafe, where Böttcher, a classically-trained pastry chef who has worked in European luxury hotel kitchens and beyond, creates delicious and refined—but still kid-approved—desserts both big and small. Flavors and fillings include dark chocolate, milk chocolate mousse, and white sponge cake with passionfruit mousse, and cakes come in 6-inch ($28), 10-inch ($52), and half-sheet cake ($110) sizes. We're still thinking about the birthday cake we ate at a kid's bash a few months ago. Amazing. 

737 Church Ave.
347-435-0132
Kensington 
Online: derpioneer.com

For a Great Cake on the Go: Veniero’s

John W. via Yelp

The Strawberry Shortcake from 120 year-old Italian bakery Veniero’s probably isn't the first thing to come to mind when you think of a kid's birthday cake, but we’re here to tell you this cake is a crowd pleaser. And the shop sells so many every day, you can just walk in a buy a fresh one — and you can ask them to dedicate it. (A fridge stocked with other flavors like Oreo Cheesecake and Tiramisu cake, is there for your perusal, too.)

Veniero's Pastry
342 E. 11th St.
East Village
212-674-7070
Online: venierospastry.com

 

For Cake in All Forms: Mia’s Bakery

Tiff C. via Yelp

Mia's does cake any which way you like it: classic cake, cupcake, cake pops — all in traditional and more exotic flavors. The bakery will decorate something from its extensive menu of cakes with a simple "Happy Birthday", or create an elaborate custom confection. (The shop routinely displays impressive cakes in its windowed storefront.) Sampling here is easy — a bit too easy. Slices are displayed in the massive illuminated case, along with the other sweets, which also include tarts, cookies, etc. The roomy cafe and a menu of coffee, teas and more will get you to stay a while. Good news: Mia's Bakery is now also in Manhattan, near Times Square. 

139 Smith
Cobble Hill
347-987-3194
Online: miasbrooklyn.com

716 7th Ave. 
Midtown
917-261-4437
Online: miasbrooklyn.com

To Have Your Singular Cake Concept Realized: Sweet Amanda Leigh

Sweet Amanda Leigh

Got an idea you need executed? (Or want some help coming up with a birthday cake that will blow your kid's — and everyone else's — mind?) Check out Sweet Amanda Leigh. Owner Amanda Leigh Maffucci specializes in custom-made cakes, and will talk with you about what you want, and the little guest of honor, to make a one-of-a-kind confection for the big day. Flavors run from the tried and true — deep chocolate and classic vanilla — to the festive and uncommon, such as "funfetti" and "almond gossamer," although Maffucci is happy to create any flavor she does not offer. Frostings and fillings range from chocolate and vanilla buttercream to fresh strawberries and "toasted marshmallow." Our sources tell us the cakes taste as good as they look! Custom cakes start at $150.

Sweet Amanda Leigh
646-770-2066
Online: sweetamandaleigh.com

For The Naked Cake, made by you!: Milk Bar

Milk Bar

If you’ve seen a naked cake it was either from this place, or inspired by it.  While there are many imitators, this is original, created by sweet master Milk Bar owner Christina Tosi. (She's also the genius behind cereal milk ice cream, compost cookies and crack pie birthday cake.) The newest take on this now classic is that you can customize the naked cake to suit your celebrant's tastes, picking everything from the filling layers to the crumbs. Milk Bar has eight locations throughout NYC.

Online: milkbarstore.com

For a Fun-Fetti Confection: Butter & Scotch

Butter & Scotch

Sadly, Butter & Scotch's brick-and-mortar location (a bar) is no longer. But you can still get one of its amazing birthday cakes!  With rich vanilla cake, pink frosting and rainbow sprinkles, the cake  both looks and tastes really good, making it a crowd pleaser revelers of all ages. This cake was named New York magazine’s “Absolute Best Birthday in NYC”, and so yes, their cake is their best seller.


347-350-8899
Online: butterandscotch.com

For Design Awards: Empire Cake

Empire Cake

This storefront bakery on 8th Ave. in Chelsea became well-known for its many homemade versions of a Twinkie, but any neighborhood mom will tell you, their cakes are what’s celebrated on the kids birthday party circuit. Delectable creations are made-to-order, and no design challenge is too great, as evidenced by the Elsa/Spiderman combo above.

Empire Cake
112 8th Ave.
Chelsea
212-242-5858
Online: empirecake.com

For a Gluten- and Nut-Free, Vegan, or Dairy-Free Cake: Everybody Eats

Everybody Eats

This Gowanus Brooklyn bakery swears you can't tell the difference between its gluten-free cake and the alternative. (Its gluten-free baguette is served at the River Cafe, so they must be doing something right.) And, you can even get one on the same day as long as you call before 11 a.m. (Procrastinators, rejoice!) Plan ahead and choose from flavors including yellow, chocolate, and red velvet cake; frostings of Italian buttercream, or whipped cream, and fillings of fresh fruit, pudding, and chocolate ganache. Cakes start at $85 for a seven-inch round, which serves six to 10 people. 

294 Third Ave. 
718-369-7444
Gowanus
Online: everybodyeats-inc.com

For Vegan, Organic and Gluten-Free: Clementine Bakery

Clementine Bakery Facebook page

Proudly declaring on their web site, “we’re vegan and organic all the time, and gluten-free when you request it,” this bakery in Brooklyn makes great looking cakes and they avoid soy, too. They obviously have a way with custom creations as well, as evidenced by this Peppa Pig tour de force. (If you can make it to the mothership in Clinton Hill, their cakes, pies and other treats are also sold at cafes and other establishments throughout the city; click here to find Clementine near you.)

Clementine Bakery
395 Classon Ave. 
Clinton Hill
718-483-8788
Online: clementinebakery.com

— Mimi O’Connor & Kim Sunshine

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Get Your Vitamins: 13 Recipes for Kid-Friendly (& Healthy!) Popsicles

by Katie Taylor

Healthy, homemade popsicles are a cool treat and a clever way to up your child’s intake of fruits and veggies. Keep them in the freezer for hot days, teething pain, sniffles and any other time your child can use a boost. Make extra; you’re going to want some too!

Pin all 13 recipes for baby-friendly popsicles.

Dole Whip Popsicles

One Lovely Life

If you can't travel to Disneyland for a Dole Whip, these Vitamin C-rich popsicles are the next best thing. These pops from One Lovely Life are made with just two ingredients: diced pineapple and coconut milk, but you can add a sweetener like maple syrup or honey if you'd like (avoid honey for babes under age 1). 

Wild Blueberry & Almond Butter Yogurt Popsicles

The View from Great Island

If you're introducing your child to nuts, these filling and flavorful popsicles are a great way to let them snack on almond butter in a baby-friendly form. Blended with yogurt and blueberries, they offer a nutritional boost along with kid-friendly flavors. Head to The View from Great Island for the recipe.

Blueberry Pomegranate Popsicles

Gimme Some Oven

Superfoods for your super babe! Made with just blueberries, pomegranates and Greek yogurt, these super cute popsicles from Gimme Some Oven are tangy, creamy and sweet. Freeze them in Dixie cups to get this baby-friendly shape.

Swirly Strawberry Creamsicles

Mama Papa Bubba

This fruit-sweetened frozen novelty is packed with protein and calcium. Mix them with your favorite berries (fresh or frozen) to create this picture-perfect, yummy treat. This recipe from Mama Papa Bubba uses medjool dates for sweetness, instead of honey, so it's safe for kids under a year old. 

Veggie Pops

Wanderson1 via Pixabay

Babies get their daily dose of vegetables with these colorful popsicles. The Kids Activities Blog shares recipes such as Berry Red Veggie, Orange Carrot Mango and Lime Green Popsicles (spoiler: this one includes iron-rich spinach!).

Yogurt & Veggie Popsicles

LiveSimply.com

These popsicles are full of calcium and vitamins, thanks to the yogurt, veggies and fruits. Kristin from Live Simply has created three popsicle recipes: Orange Delight (carrots, strawberry, mango), Green Dinosaur (spinach, bananas, pineapple) and Tickle-Me-Red (beets, strawberry, banana). If your child is under age one, swap out the honey for maple syrup.

Rainbow Popsicles

TheFirstYearBlog.com

Taste the rainbow with these beautiful frozen treats. There's prep work involved to blend and then layer smoothies in each of the rainbow colors, so save this one for a special occasion like a birthday or holiday. Get the recipe at The First Year Blog.

Breastmilk Pops

Amazon

Here's a tasty treat for breastfed babes that also provides instant teething relief. Pour pumped breast milk into the cap of a pacifier (1 to 2 ounces per cap), then insert pacifier and freeze for 3-4 hours. 

Strawberry & Yogurt Popsicles

popsicles are a good thing to add to a summer bucket list

Consider this a baby-fied version of the summer favorite strawberries with whipped cream. Full-fat vanilla yogurt replaces cream in this version and adds a little extra sweetness. Head to Pint Sized Baker for the recipe.

Pea & Spinach Green Smoothie Popsicle

My Fussy Eater

This green machine combines peas, spinach, Greek yogurt, banana and chia seeds for a powerhouse snack that includes vitamins A, C and K, magnesium, manganese and fiber. Head to My Fussy Eater for the recipe.

Super Kale Pops

Super Healthy Kids

Kale has many health benefits, including a high amount of fiber that can aid your little one's digestion. Super Healthy Kids blends the greens with frozen berries to sweeten them up.

Fruit & Veggie Pops

Hello, Wonderful

Hello, Wonderful shares four popsicle recipes that are sure to please your baby’s budding palette. Pro tip: To save on prep time, buy cold-pressed veggie juices to mix with your favorite frozen fruits.

One-Ingredient Fruit Popsicles

Ben Wicks via Unsplash

It’s as easy at sounds, and endlessly customizable. Freeze your babe's favorite fruits for a treat they're sure to love. Slice larger fruits like pineapple and watermelon into long pieces. Keep smaller fruits like strawberries, mangoes, raspberries and bananas whole. Avoid dense fruits like whole grapes that could pose a choking hazard. If you’re feeling fancy, insert a popsicle stick into the bottom of the fruit so it’s easier for baby (or you) to hold. Freeze for 3-4 hours, and then enjoy.

—Katie Taylor

featured photo: Wanderson1 via Pixabay 

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Popsicle Brings Fun (& Minions) to Your Freezer

by Jennifer Swartvagher

If the ice cream truck has taken a break for the winter, have no fear. The freezer aisle just got sweeter and a lot more fun. The iconic Popsicle brand just released its newest treats for 2021 and they are now available at a grocery store near you.

Popsicle has created new colorful and delicious products that will inspire imaginative play for parents and kids alike – Popsicles Mango, Strawberry and Vanilla Swirl Fruit Twisters and fan-favorite Minions and Spider-Man Popsicles.

Popsicle Fruit Twisters

The New Popsicle Fruit Twisters with Mango, Strawberry and Vanilla are made with real fruit and milk. The pops feature mango puree and nonfat milk twirled around a frozen strawberry core. Popsicle Fruit Twisters are agood source of Vitamin C, contain 10g of sugar and 70 calories per pop, and made with colors and flavors from natural sources. A pack of six retails for $4.49.

Popsicle Character pops

Minions Popsicles feature a despicably delicious combination of fruity strawberry, banana and tart blue raspberry. Spiderman Popsicles feature the irresistibly delicious fruity flavor of strawberry, blue raspberry and lime. Made with colors and flavors from natural sources they are a perfect treat for the whole family. This frozen treat is 70 –80 calories with under 10 grams of sugar per pop. A pack of six retails for $4.49.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

All photos courtesy of Popsicle

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16 Allergy-Friendly Fruit Bars Kids Will Love

By Susie Hultquist

Photo: Spokin

Fruit bars are the most fun way to get your fruit in! With 16 bars in our top-rated fruit bar guide, it’s easy to take your pick of the crop! 

Verified Brands | Dedicated Facility | Non-Dedicated Facility

VERIFIED BRANDS

1. ZEGO Foods    
Flavor: Cherry Just Fruit Bar
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Sesame, Mustard, Lupin, Molluscs, Sulphites, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: Top 8, Sesame, Mustard, Lupin, Molluscs, Sulphites, Gluten
Verified Brand Allergy Info

2. That’s it.    
Flavor: Apple + Strawberry Fruit Bar
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Sesame, Mustard, Sulphites, Celery, Corn, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: Top 8 (excluding coconut), Sesame, Mustard, Sulphites, Celery, Corn, Gluten
Verified Brand Allergy Info

3. That’s it.  
Flavor: Blueberry Probiotics Bar
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Sesame, Mustard, Sulphites, Celery, Corn, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: Top 8 (excluding coconut), Sesame, Mustard, Sulphites, Celery, Corn, Gluten
Verified Brand Allergy Info

DEDICATED FACILITY (Allergens Vary)

4. Wild Made
Flavor: Berry, Apple + Spinach Veggie-Go’s Strip
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: Gluten
Allergen Statement

 

NON-DEDICATED FACILITY

 

5. ClifKid
Flavor: Mixed Berry ZFruit Bar
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
Allergen Statement

6. Annie’s
Flavor: Swirly Strawberry Fruit Tape 
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
Allergen Statement

7. Stretch Island Raspberry
Flavor: Raspberry Fruit Leather
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
Allergen Statement

8. Bear
Flavor: Apple Yoyo
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
Allergen Statement

9. Bearded Brothers
Flavor: Radical Raspberry Lemon Food Bar 
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
Allergen Statement

10. Pure Organic
Flavor: Strawberry + Banana Layered Fruit Bar 
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
Allergen Statement

11. Ekoa
Flavor: Pineapple Fruit Bar
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
Allergen Statement

12. SunRype
Flavor: Apple Strawberry FruitSource
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
Allergen Statement

13. Good and Gather
Flavor: Strawberry Fruit Strip
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten D
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated

14. 365 Organic
Flavor: Mango Organic Fruit Strip
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: None
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated

15. You Love Fruit
Flavor: Passion Fruit Punch Handmade Fruit Leather
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: Made in a facility that processes coconut.
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
Allergen Statement

16. KIND
Flavor: Mango Apple Chia Fruit Bar
Ingredients Do Not Contain: Top 8, Gluten
Does Contain: No Top 8
Precautionary label: Made in a facility that processes tree nuts, peanuts, soy and sesame.
Facility Dedicated Free From: None stated
Allergen Statement

To learn more about our product guide process see our letter from our founder.

This post originally appeared on Spokin.

Spokin is a modern platform and app connecting people managing food allergies to resources including food, restaurants, hotels and more. Users have personalized experiences based on allergies & location. With 55,000+ reviews across 79 countries, Spokin helps the allergy community share and connect. The Spokin iOS app is free on iTunes.

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DoorDash Releases 2020’s Biggest Food Trends in Deep Dish Report

by Jennifer Swartvagher

Many families have been relying on takeout now more than ever. DoorDash just unveiled the DoorDash Deep Dish report. This report delves into the top takeout and cooking trends to date as we make our way past the halfway point of the year.

Using order data from Jan. 1, 2020 to Jun. 30, 2020 and a national consumer survey, DoorDash’s mid-year report checks in on popular food trends, nationally and regionally, how users ate through social distancing, cravings across the country, and more. The national consumer survey polled 2,000 Americans on what they cooked, ate, and baked the most, the top food and drink they missed while restaurants were closed, the impact the past six months have had on vacation plans and more.

Check out some highlights form the DoorDash Deep Dish Report:

DoorDash

Top Foods of 2020 To Date 

  • Chicken Sandwich & French Fries 
  • Mac and Cheese 
  • Spicy Shrimp Tacos 
  • Make Your Own Pizza 
  • Iced Coffee 
  • California Roll 
  • Breakfast Burrito 
  • Chicken Fajitas 
  • Spicy Tuna Roll 
  • Fish & Chips 

Top Condiments of 2020 To Date  

  • Ranch
  • Sour Cream 
  • Soy Sauce
  • Hot Mustard 
  • Spicy Mayo 
  • Ketchup
  • Hot Sauce
  • Honey Mustard 
  • Salsa
  • Honey BBQ  

DoorDash

 

Top 20 Food On The Rise This Year That You Should Expect To See More Of: 

  • Oatmeal – 1,768% increase 
  • Queso Blanco – 1,735% increase 
  • Iced Caramel Coffee – 1,660% increase 
  • Grilled Chicken Taco – 1,502% increase 
  • Create Your Own Pizza – 1,501% increase
  • Cinnamon Rolls – 1,400% increase 
  • Cheese Nachos – 1,130% increase
  • Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie – 1,193% increase
  • Spinach and Artichoke Dip – 1,092% increase 
  • Iced French Vanilla Coffee – 1,028% increase  
  • Shrimp Tacos – 997% increase 
  • New York Style Cheesecake – 843% increase 
  • Strawberry Banana Smoothie – 822% increase
  • Biscuits with Gravy – 818% increase 
  • Vegetable Samosa – 788% increase
  • Blueberry Muffin – 779% increase 
  • Plant-based Burgers – 433% increase
  • Chicken Fajitas – 318% increase 
  • Churros – 260% increase
  • Horchata – 200% increase 

DoorDash

The State of Flavor in America – Top Items in US Cities 

  • LA: Sushi–California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, Salmon Avocado Roll, Rainbow Roll, and Shrimp Tempura Roll are top sushi items ordered
  • SF: Indian–Chicken Tikka Masala, Garlic Naan, Basmati Rice, Samosas, and Saag Paneer are top items ordered   
  • Denver: Cheese is Supreme–Mac & Cheese, Mozzarella Sticks, Cheesy Garlic Bread, Chicken Quesadillas, and Chips & Queso are top items ordered
  • Chicago: Is A Hot Dog a Sandwich?–Italian Beef Sandwich, Hot Dog, Chicken Sandwich, Chili Cheese Dog, Beef Croissant Sandwich are top items ordered
  • Austin: Tex-Mex–Chips & Queso, Burritos, Baja Shrimp Taco, Fried Avocado Taco, and Chicken Fajitas are top items ordered 
  • Atlanta: Sweet Tooth–Chocolate Chip Cookie, Cookies & Cream Milkshake, Brownie, Apple Pie, and Banana Bread are top items ordered    
  • Miami: Latin American Flavors–Sweet Plantains, Fried Yuca, Jerk Chicken, Tres Leches, and Tostones are top items ordered   
  • DC: Chicken–Roasted Chicken, Chicken Noodle Soup, Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Chicken Tenders, and Curry Chicken are top items ordered    
  • Philadelphia: American Staples–Chicken Nuggets, Cheesesteaks, Cheeseburgers, Italian Hoagie, and Boneless Wings are top items ordered   
  • NYC: Chicken–Spicy Chicken Sandwich, Chicken Quesadilla, Chicken Parmigiana, Crispy Chicken BLT, Buttermilk Fried Chicken are top items ordered 
  • Seattle: Seafood–California Roll, Fish & Chips, Crab Rangoon, Spicy Tuna Roll, and Tartar Sauce are top items ordered 

 

Top Food Items ordered this year during breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late night 

East Coast: 

Breakfast: Iced Coffee, Donuts, Steak Omelette, Belgian Waffle, Bagel with Butter   

Lunch: Crispy Chicken Sandwich, Chips, Iced Tea, Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad, Turkey Sandwich  

Dinner: Chicken Quesadilla, Caesar Salad, Spicy Tuna Roll, Fried Rice, Gyoza 

Late Night: Chicken Fingers, Apple Pie, Mozzarella Sticks, Strawberry Milkshake, Sugar Cookies  

 

West Coast: 

Breakfast: Breakfast Burrito, Bacon, French Toast, Latte, Pancakes 

Lunch: Create Your Own Pizza, Miso Soup, Veggie Spring Rolls, Chicken Egg Roll, Orange Chicken  

Dinner: Chicken Tikka Masala, Spicy Tuna Roll, Mongolian Beef, Bean Burrito, Dragon Roll 

Late Night: Stuffed Jalapenos, Mini Churros, Cheesecake, Horchata, Fried Zucchini 

 

Midwest: 

Breakfast: BEC on a Biscuit, Iced French Vanilla Latte, Breakfast Sampler, Oatmeal, Strawberry Banana Smoothie 

Lunch: Mac & Cheese, Potstickers, Italian Beef Sandwich, Hot Dog, Chili   

Dinner: Potstickers, Chimichanga, Street Tacos, Spaghetti & Meatballs, Fettuccine Alfredo 

Late Night: French Fries, Chocolate Milkshake, Cheese Sliders, Chocolate Chip Cookie, Cinnamon Rolls 

 

South: 

Breakfast: Sausage Biscuit, Hash Brown Burrito, Orange Juice, Fruit Salad, Buttered Biscuit 

Lunch: Spicy Chicken Sandwich, Buffalo Wings, Strawberry Lemonade, Nachos, Southwestern Eggrolls  

Dinner: Fried Chicken, Sweet Iced Tea, Banana Pudding, Country Fried Steak, Ribeye  

Late Night: Onion Rings, Chocolate Chip Cookie, Cheesecake, Nachos, Cinnamon Rolls  

 

DoorDash’s survey found that more time spent cooking is tiring people out. 70% of those surveyed said they are spending more time in the kitchen and 47% report that they are tired of cooking. 25% will order more food when they get takeout so that they will have leftovers for the next day.

Almost half of respondents are most tired of cooking chicken, followed by pasta and microwave meals. While tired of cooking chicken, Americans aren’t sick of ordering in chicken. Chicken Sandwich with french fries was the top food item ordered on DoorDash this year, with Chicken Fajitas also making the list as the 8th most ordered item.

While our Instagram feeds were flooded with pictures of banana bread, cookies are filling cravings for comfort food with 60% of those surveyed saying they baked chocolate chip cookies during the pandemic. Cookies also surged in order frequency, with Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookies seeing a 1,193% increase in orders compared to the first half of 2019.

People missing eating out, especially Mexican food and margaritas, and sushi. Americans made up for missing eating Mexican and Seafood out by ordering these cuisines in–the top items ordered this year on DoorDash include Spicy Shrimp Tacos (3rd most ordered item), California Roll (6th most ordered), Breakfast Burritos (7th most ordered), Chicken Fajitas (8th most ordered), Spicy Tuna Roll (9th most ordered) and Fish & Chips (10th most ordered). Top trending Mexican items ordered on DoorDash include Queso Blanco (1,735% increase), Grilled Chicken Tacos (1,502% increase), Cheese Nachos (1,130% increase), Shrimp Tacos (997% increase), and Chicken Fajitas (318% increase). 

DoorDash

The west coast disagrees: their top response is sushi, edging Mexican food 36% to 34%. Top DoorDash orders from West Coasters support this, with Sushi and Seafood being the dominant items ordered in LA and Seattle, respectively, and West Coast top dinner items including Spicy Tuna Rolls and Dragon Rolls

The pandemic has caused food habits to change. Of those surveyed, 45% have tried at least one of three select new food habits. Intermittent fasting is especially popular with older millennials (25-34-year-olds) as 40% say they’ve tried it. Plant based eating is also on the rise. 18-24 year olds ranked plant-based as the most appetizing vegan dish and DoorDash orders for Plant-based Burgers surged 443% increase in 2020.

DoorDash

The largest amount spent on a single DoorDash food order this year was an order worth $2,578 that included 70 orders of Mediterranean herb chicken, 40 orders of grilled vegetables, and 20 cheese plates.

You can check out the full report here.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

All photos courtesy of DoorDash

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San Diego Restaurants Offering Takeout & Delivery Especially for Kids

by redtricyclewriter

Raise your hand if you’re tired of cooking, snack-slinging and doing dishes. We see you! Take a break from kitchen duty by ordering food for takeout or delivery that’s prepared with the whole family and kids’ tastes in mind. From adorable character buns to waffle churro sticks and grilled cheese platters to kids eat free specials, read on for where to order up a crowd-pleasing meal for the kids.

Fish 101

Nino Camillo

Craving seafood? Burritos, grilled fish bowls with white or brown rice, classic fish and chips, and clam chowder make Fish 101 a perfect option when ordering take-out with kids in mind. The simply grilled and super fresh fish from this North County favorite spot, make it easy for both kiddos and parents to find something to enjoy. Throw in a couple of kiddie cocktails i.e. Izze sodas or chocolate milk (plus a bottle for wine for the parents) and family bliss will come easy. Orders can be placed via their website for either pick-up or delivery.  

Online: fish101restaurant.com

Madison on Park

The neighborhood lounge and eatery in University Heights features Mediterranean and Southern California fare with a menu just for kids. Offering take-out from 5- 8:30 p.m. Tues.-Sun., dishes include Spaghetti and Meat Sauce, Cheeseburger & Fries, and Mac & Cheese. Also offering brunch from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Sat. and Sun., kids will love the Waffle Churro Sticks and Strawberry Banana Nutella French Toast. Delivery is available through Postmates and DoorDash, or by calling the restaurant directly for take-out, 619-269-6566. Guests can also take advantage of their walk-up window to place orders and the restaurant continues to give 100% of revenue, not just profits, back to their staff every night along with all gift card sales.

Online: madisononpark.com

Pho Ca Dao & Grill

John Dole

Pho Ca Dao & Grill has a dedicated children’s menu, allowing kids to pick from seven dishes, ranging from Pho to Broken Rice. In addition to traditional options like Brisket Pho and Char-grilled Chicken with Broken Rice, the kids menu also features more playful options like Meatball Pho and Chicken Noodle Soup. Pho Ca Dao’s offerings are available for both pickup and via delivery through GrubHub, DoorDash and UberEats, at the restaurant’s Mission Valley, Poway, Rancho Bernardo, and Mira Mesa locations.

Online: phocadaogrill.com

Ranch 45

James Tran

With fan favorites like Silver Dollar Pancakes, an Egg and Cheese Burrito, and a Breakfast Plate with bacon, eggs, and potatoes for breakfast, and options like corndogs, burgers, and quesadillas for lunch, Ranch 45’s children's menu has a little something for all kiddos. In addition to the dedicated kids menu, Ranch 45 is currently offering family meals designed to appeal to both kids and adults, aiming to make meal-time a fun and delicious time for the whole family. Offered for both curbside pickup, take-out and delivery via DoorDash and GrubHub, both the children’s menu and the family meal options can be found on Ranch 45’s website, and anything on the menu can be made gluten-free.

Online: ranch45.com

 

Grater Grilled Cheese

The Grater Grilled Cheese location on Del Mar Heights Rd. is offering take-out and giving a 30% discount on phone and online orders for curbside pick-up using code: 30OFF (not applicable for 3rd party deliveries). They will also be providing a free cup of soup for kids under 12 and seniors over 65 at moment of pick-up. Kids will love their menu options including grilled cheese, mac 'n' cheese and chicken tenders. You may also opt for a family meal the whole clan will devour. Options include a grilled cheese platter with Tomato Basil Bisque Soup that serves 6 and Mac 'n' Cheese with Caesar salad that serves 6.

Online: gratergrilledcheese.com

Harumama

Harumama's La Jolla, Little Italy and Carlsbad locations are all open for takeout and delivery. Why not treat your little dumpling to some adorable character buns to brighten his/her day? These sweet little meals come in almost too-cute-to-eat characters including koala, bunny, polar bear, panda and more. Get them both a savory and a sweet option and that's dinner and dessert, done!

Online: harumamasd.com

The Crack Shack

The Crack Shack in Encinitas offers a $7 kids meal that includes a choice of nuggets, grilled chicken or grilled cheese, choice of side: carrots or petite fries,  a cookie and a kid's drink. You can order separately or make it a family affair with their small flock, big flock or svelte flock meals which will feed your whole, well, flock, with fried chicken, biscuits, cookies, classic slaw and chicken nuggets––or in the case of the svelte flock, the extra large baja chop served with four portions of your choice.

Online: encinitas.crackshack.com

Mendocino Farms

Mendocino Farms

Mendocino Farms at Del Mar Highlands Town Center is offering special deals for families across San Diego, including Kids Eat Free (for a limited time). Parents can get a free kids meal with any purchase of a regular sandwich or entrée salad using promo Code: MENDOKIDS. To redeem, add the code to the coupon field on their checkout page at order.

Mendocino Farms is also offering their Mendo Meal Deal that allows you to select any four sandwiches or salads (mix and match) plus two signature deli sides for $40. Bottles of wine and fresh baked bread are also made available for order.  

Kids will love the fresh array of sandwiches available on the kids' menu, ranging from honey ham and provolone to turkey and cheddar to PB and local jelly, and more.

Online: mendocinofarms.com

619 Spirits Distillery & Tasting Room

John Dole

The distillery and tasting room located in North Park has a kid's menu including grilled cheese, fries and soda and chicken nuggets, fries and soda, along with a new menu featuring wings, flat breads, and sandwiches. They are offering a 20% discount through take-out directly from the restaurant and are available via delivery through Postmates, GrubHub, UberEats, and DoorDash, along with drive-thru curbside service. Adults and kids alike can enjoy the premixed mocktails-to-go, and adults can add in some 619 Vodka to enjoy at home (available for $19).

Online: 619spirits.com

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.

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