ML Interest Tag: young-foodies

Treat Your Family to a Luxe Vacation at Four Seasons The Biltmore Santa Barbara

by Beth Shea

Get ready for an exquisite vacation that’s a world away from the ordinary right here in SoCal! Four Seasons The Biltmore Santa Barbara welcomes families to an elevated experience thanks to attention to detail, thoughtful amenities and a first class, friendly and accommodating staff. A stay at this extraordinary resort, which is just steps away from one of the most gorgeous beaches in the world, is something every clan should indulge in. Read on for 11 among countless reasons you must book a stay at Four Seasons The Biltmore Santa Barbara.

A Gorgeous Setting That's Idyllic During All Four Seasons

Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara

Thanks to southern California's ideal weather and year-round beach vibe, Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara is truly a destination you can visit any day of the year, throughout all four seasons. This Spanish colonial hideaway is nestled within 22-acres of lush jungle and boasts serene gardens and the largest planting of Kentia palm trees outside of Australia. The relaxed setting has a tropical feel akin to Hawaii––but you needn't fly anywhere when this phenomenal resort is so close to home.

Oceanfront Swimming at Coral Casino Beach & Cabana Club

Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara

Guests of the Resort's Jungle Rooms and higher categories have access to the glamorous and wow-worthy Coral Casino Beach & Cabana Club. Here you can dive in to one of the world's largest swimming pools, which overlooks the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands. There's also a smaller pool for young kids and a large whirpool you can relax in while soaking up ocean views. Private Cabanas are also available that come complete with staff to attend to you.

Seamlessly enjoy both the pool and the beach via the Club's private, gated stairway to Butterfly Beach. Plan on heading up to the sundeck to watch the sun set over the ocean each evening.

Get your workout in at the fitness centre that offers an array of equipment and fitness classes as well as spa areas with stone-clad steam rooms and red-cedar saunas.

Dining options at the Coral Casino Beach & Cabana Club include poolside dining at Coral Café and Bar and fresh-pressed organic juices and smoothies from Fins during the day. For dinner, head to Tydes to dine on local seafood and seasonal dishes with Mediterranean flair.

Direct Access to Butterfly Beach

Beth Shea

As mentioned above, it's a truly priceless experience to be just footsteps away from the pristine Butterfly Beach during your stay. Surf, swim, watch the sunset and stroll the beach at your leisure. There's no need to pile in the car or navigate to find the best stretch of sand, because it's right there at your feet.

Welcoming Amenities Especially for Kids

Beth Shea

Four Seasons The Biltmore Santa Barbara welcomes kids upon arrival by letting them choose from an adorable selection of Beanie Babies. Ty Warner, the creator of Beanie Babies owns the Resort, and this thoughtful touch makes kids feel comfortable and special right from the start. Kids will also love the "Fun in the Sun" toiletry kit waiting especially for them in their room. Made exclusively for the Resort, the kit contains dreamy-scented, soothing and natural bubble bath, conditioner and body wash.

You can also take advantage of the complimentary Kids for All Seasons program. Available for kids ages 5-12, the professionally run program keeps kiddos entertained and happy while you're on a date, at the Spa or enjoying some me-time. Hours: during the festive season, 7 days a week 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Off-season, Sat. only, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., peak season, 7 days a week, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Luxurious & Comfortable Rooms

Beth Shea

The guest rooms are impeccable, equal parts luxurious and cozy, and decorated with a combination of modern elegance and Spanish colonial style. We loved the spacious Jungle Room that includes a furnished outdoor terrace in a garden setting with soothing fountains. Some Jungle Rooms come with additional connecting rooms to accommodate families who need more space. Suites, bungalows and villas are also available, depending on the size of room you need and your budget.

 

Bike Rentals on Property

Beth Shea

For a nominal fee, you can rent bikes from the Spa right on property and take one (or more) of several scenic and memorable bike paths from the Resort. We recommend the 3 mile coastal bike path that runs from the Resort to the harbor and downtown's State Street. They offer an array of bikes and beach cruisers to suit your whole family, from kid-sized to adult-sized, and they include helmets, bottled water, bike locks and bike maps.

Also good to know: the Resort offers complimentary, continuous shuttle service on Fridays (4-9 p.m.) and Saturdays (1-9 p.m.) to and from downtown Santa Barbara, with drop off and pick up service from any location within a five-mile radius of the Resort. Go enjoy shopping on nearby State Street without having to worry about parking. 

Delicious Dining with Ocean Views

Beth Shea

Dine on local and fresh, organic, Italian-inspired California-coastal cuisine and soak in opulent ocean and island views at the Resort's Bella Vista restaurant, where kids ages 5 and younger eat free. You may get extra lucky and spy seals or dolphins splashing about in the distance as you enjoy your meal.

Whether you're in the mood for the Santa Barbara Harbour Seafood Platter, the fresh house-made pasta dishes or the Portobello Piccata, there's a dish to delight everyone and to accommodate any dietary needs on Bella Vista's menu.

Young diners will surely find their perfect meal on the extensive kids' menu (for ages 5-12) which includes items ranging from waffles, pancakes and breakfast burritos to start the day to all day offerings like a kid-spin on a steak salad, fried chicken sandwich, veggie burger or skinless salmon. Eye-popping dessert options for kids include a decorate your own cupcake platter with assorted toppings and an ooey-gooey brownie sundae

We appreciated all of the delicious vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options that were available on both the kids' menu and regular menus.

Bella Vista is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and they offer brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. 

Food Prepared Especially for Kids & A Heavenly Buffet

Beth Shea

Treat the fam to the Biltmore Champagne Sunday Brunch and you'll all think you're in heaven. This buffet-style brunch includes bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys as well as endless decadent dessert works of art and savory options at sushi stations, omelette and soup bars and so much more. At $85/person, it's worth every penny. There's even a table dedicated to kid diners that's full of fare like chicken tenders, fruit skewers, PB&J sandwiches, grilled cheese and Jello.

Don't miss the Little Chef Experience! Offered daily, kids ages 5-12 can take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Resort Kitchen, enjoy a meet-and-greet with the chefs, cupcake decorating, and they'll get a chef hat and apron! $40/per child––perfect for young foodies.

Pickleball & Tennis Courts

Beth Shea

Get sporty with your crew and reserve a complimentary pickleball or tennis court via the Resort's concierge. If your kiddo's can't quite swing it for tennis yet, pickleball is a super fun option on a smaller court with larger paddles that make it easier to get the ball over the net. 

Additional Resort activities to keep you all entertained include croquet and a putting green.

Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara
1260 Channel Dr.
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
805-969-2261
Online: fourseasons.com/santabarbara

Nearby Spots to Visit During Your Stay

MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation

Beth Shea

MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation is a unique and wonderful wonderland of learning that combines science and creativity in unprecedented activities that will make a memorable impact on kids. The MOXI's interactive "powerfully playful" exhibits constantly engage kids in experiencing the environment. From creating a wind-, sun- and human-powered symphony with the Weather Orchestra on the rooftop Sky Garden while taking in amazing views of Santa Barbara, to creating giant digital mosaics using personal photographs, building your own race car and sending it speeding down a track, strumming a gigantic guitar to learn more about music and countless additional activities that encourage curiosity––from the moment kids step into The MOXI until long after they leave, young minds will be inspired this visit.

125 State St.
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
805-770-5000
Online: moxi.org

The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Beth Shea

Consider The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden's temporary exhibit, Garden Casitas: Playhouses Designed with Nature in Mind (running now through Feb. 29, 2020) a must-see! Kids will love exploring six playhouses created by local designers that are constructed using plant-based materials. Shown above is the Big-eared Woodrat House. Each house has an informational plaque by it with fun facts such as: "big-eared woodrats (Neotoma macrotis) are nocturnal and forage for leaves, plants, and seeds during the night. If they come across anything shiny or cool-looking, they will carry it back to their nests for display." Kids will delight in all of the playhouses they can climb through and explore. It's an unbeatable way to spend an afternoon.

Even if you don't make it in time to catch this exhibit, a visit to this Botanic Garden is a peaceful family outing that's not to be missed. Here you can roam through towering Redwoods, follow the Canyon Trail across Mission Creek, enjoy an array of family-friendly programming and so much more!

1212 Mission Canyon Rd.
Santa Barbara CA 93105
805-682-4726
Online: sbbg.org

––Beth Shea

This trip was partially paid for by Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara and Visit Santa Barbara, but all opinions here belong to the writer.

RELATED STORIES:

Go Car Free on This Epic Train Vacation to Santa Barbara

Go Off-Grid in Ojai on a Family Getaway in Nature

Say Aloha to a Dreamy Family Vacation at Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

When Your Child Is Reading above Grade Level

By Keira Pride

As children become exposed to reading at an early age, they may advance quickly and be ready to enjoy more challenging books to read. Finding the right books that are both age-appropriate and captivating to young readers may be a growing challenge for some parents.

At Stratford School, we have found that helping students craft a reading list—one that will challenge them and provide interesting topics to enjoy—all while avoiding subjects they may not be emotionally mature enough to handle, can be a delicate balance. Many such books are written with young children in mind, but with vocabulary and literary complexities typically associated with older readers.

Below is a curated list of books specially designed with young readers in mind. These great books will make them want to read more while fulfilling their desires for heftier literature. Enjoy and happy reading!

Preschool and Kindergarten

I Can Read! Series (Various Levels): With titles like Amazing Snakes! and Beyond the Dinosaurs, your preschooler will love the fun pictures, and the pronunciation guides will help them learn new words. Start with level 1, then as your child progresses introduce some of the level 2 titles. Arthur’s Loose Tooth is a great way to get your reader ready for the inevitable day when that tooth will come out. There are also favorite characters like Batman, Flat Stanley and Marley. These colorful books are lots of fun and will have your child reading them again and again. 

First to Third Graders

Who Was (Is) Series by Various Authors: This exciting, illustrated biography series is perfect for children who are beyond easy-to-read books about famous people, but not quite ready for thick, lengthy biographies. The books cover sports heroes, presidents, musicians, authors, and scientists. The books will give young readers a good sense of who these people were (or are). There are little blurbs on what else was going on in the world at certain moments in history, which helps put the subject in context.

Fourth to Fifth Graders

The Doughnut Fix (Series) by Jessie Janowitz: Tristan’s family has always loved living in New York City, but all that is about to change. His dad announces that they are moving to a dilapidated, purple house on a hill on the outskirts of the very small town of Petersville in upstate New York. Tristan is devastated because he is a city kid through and through. They won’t be starting school for several months, and Tristan’s parents tell him that he must complete a project. Tristan, who loves to cook like his chef mom, decides to start a business making and selling the supposedly mind-blowing chocolate-cream doughnuts once famous in Petersville but now no longer made. His business plan leads to adventures, new friends and a sense of acceptance. Tristan’s doughnut endeavor will hold wide appeal as a pleasure read and may inspire young foodies or entrepreneurs to think beyond the lemonade stand.

The Inquisitor’s Tale: Or, the Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog by Adam Gidwitz: Join William, an oblate on a mission from his monastery; Jacob, a Jewish boy who has fled his burning village; and Jeanne, a peasant girl who hides her prophetic visions. They are accompanied by Jeanne’s loyal greyhound, Gwenforte . . . recently brought back from the dead. Told in multiple voices, in a st‌yle reminiscent of The Canterbury Tales, the narrator collects their stories, and the saga of these three unlikely allies begins to come together. A fantastic story set in the middle ages with beautiful characters, fast-moving action and creative artwork in the marginalia. This book transmits a strong set of values. Enjoy this author’s Grimm series as well. 

Middle School

How To: Absurd Scientific Advice for Common Real-World Problems by Randall Munroe: Former NASA robotics scientist Randall Munroe considers unlikely solutions to common problems. The book is written in a question and answer method. Questions are presented and followed by scientific answers. The book covers subjects such as forces, properties and natural phenomena, with the aim of encouraging readers to reach for revolutionary ideas by considering unusual and fun approaches. Calculating how thick a wall of cheddar cheese would need to be to support an above-ground pool leads to a discussion of nuclear weapons testing and the engineering disaster that formed California’s Salton Sea. If your child loves this book, there are more by this author. Munroe also wrote the following books:  What if?: Serious Scientific Answers to Absurd Hypothetical Questions and Thing Explainer: Complicated Stuff in Simple Words.

Keira Pride is the Head Librarian at Stratford School, the leading independent private school founded with a vision of creating a unique, multi-dimensional, educational foundation for children. As Stratford's Head Librarian, she manages the library services department across campuses throughout Northern and Southern California. 

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Experience the Traditions of New Mexico in Albuquerque

by Annette Benedetti

If your next “wrong turn” lands your family in Albuquerque, you’re in store for an exceptional experience. This vibrant New Mexico city offers visiting families the opportunity to go on aerial excursions, have close encounters with native wildlife and to get a front-row seat to traditional flamenco performances. Read on for a guide to a family vacation in Albuquerque that gives your crew a chance to experience the magic of the local culture firsthand.


photo via ABQ Bio Park

PLAY

Located in the High Desert, Albuquerque is New Mexico’s largest city. It was founded in 1706 as a Spanish colony, and today its vibrant history can be experienced all throughout the city.

Old Town
Families interested in experiencing Albuquerque’s rich culture can start by heading to the Historic Old Town. Considered the heart of the city, this area of town has a shopping plaza  with over 150 stores and galleries to peruse. It’s the perfect spot to pick up gifts or memorabilia with true southwestern flair.

photo by Annette Benedetti

The Albuquerque Museum can be found in the middle of old town just of Route 66. It gives families a dose of history with its massive collection of over 35,000 historical objects and permanent exhibits, as well as regular traveling exhibits. The New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science offers families a high-tech experience, bringing the past to life in its Dyna Theater and stunning stargazers with its planetarium. And the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center features the art, dance, and food of the 19 Pueblo tribes of New Mexico with exhibits and live entertainment.

While you are wandering around old town you’ll want to stop by the iconic Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe which is tucked away in a corner of the Patio Escondido Mall.

Flamenco
Flamenco is no small deal in Albuquerque. In fact, New Mexico is considered the center for Flamenco in the U.S., and Albuquerque is home to both the National Institute of Flamenco and the Festival Flamenco Albuquerque, which is the single largest gathering of flamenco performances in North America. Families can see incredible performances at the Hotel Albuquerque’s Tablao Flamenco where high-caliber dancers take the stage and put on an incredible show, while the audience dines on authentic Sevilla tapas and drinks regionally inspired fine wines and spirits.Best of all, Sunday nights are family nights! For an exceptional date night experience check out Casa Flamenca, where you are allowed to bring your own bites and sips and sit in an intimate setting that nearly puts you center stage with the dancers.

Trams, Zoo’s & More
For panoramic views of the Rio Grande Valley, grab the kids and catch a ride on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway. It takes you 2.7 miles up over canyons to an observation deck at the top of the 10,378 foot Sandia Peak in the Cibola National Forest. Here you’ll find the soon-to-open restaurant, Ten3 where you can buy a bite before you head out to hike the peak’s wilderness trails.

If your kids love animals, plants and catching fish, then a day at the ABQ BioPark is a must. The bio park consists of a 64-acre zoo that offers an opportunity for close encounters with both exotic and local wildlife. Additionally, your kids will love visiting aquatic life at the Aquarium and wandering 1.5 miles of botanic garden paths. But the fun doesn’t stop there, Tingley Beach is located adjacent to the Rio Grand Boseque. It has three fishing ponds perfect for your young anglers and when you’ve caught all of the fish you can handle, you can rent a pedal boat and get on the pond!

STAY

There are so many wonderful places for families to stay in Albuquerque, but we’ve picked the best of the best. For an upscale stay in the city, we suggest the beautiful Hotel Andaluz Albuquerque. The fourth hotel built by Conrad Hilton in 1939, this beautifully restored building features a Spanish-inspired design that sets the tone for your cultural experience. The accommodations leave you wanting for nothing with each beautifully-appointed  room featuring luxury linens and free WiFi. The building features two restaurants and a fitness room.

For a truly unique experience, a stay at the El Vado Motel will thrill the history buffs and the fun-seekers in your family. Opened in 1937, this spot was one of the first places in New Mexico to welcome those coming off Route 66. Once a drive up motel, complete with a carports for each room and a gas pump (think Cars), these accommodations have been completely re-imagined. The mid-century, modern rooms are comfy and can fit the whole family, and right outside the door, you’ll find a pool and food and play court. Your crew can easily spend the whole day on site! Best of all, rooms are super affordable for those traveling on a budget.

Finally, if you want a break from the hustle of the city, Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm will not disappoint. This gorgeous lavender farm situates its rooms on 25 acres of lavender fields, surrounded by giant cottonwood trees. The classic New Mexican style accommodations are as beautiful as the surrounding area. With walls decorated with original artwork antique furnishing, luxury bedding and Los Poblanos’s own signature lavender spa amenities, you are guaranteed a dreamy stay. Kids have plenty of room to run with yard games available for entertainment, and the whole family will enjoy checking out the resident peacocks and lamas while taking in views of the Sandia mountains.

EAT

If your family loves fine Southwestern fare, Albuquerque will not disappoint. There are an endless number of fantastic eateries with delectable dishes. For breakfast and lunch, head to The Grove Cafe & Market where you can nosh on dishes like the Croque Madame and the Turkey Toastie all made from locally sourced food, much of which is organic. Fun fact: this cafe was a filming location for several scenes in Breaking Bad.

Even if you haven’t booked a stay at the El Vado, you can get a good dose of the fun these quirky accommodations offer in its food court. The El Vado features a changing lineup of food pods that house up-and-coming restaurants. You can enjoy a sweet treat at Rude Boy Cookies, get a taste of Costa Rican fare at Buen Provecho, enjoy some pizza at Sandia Crust Pizza or hang out in the El Vado Tap Room. Everyone gets what they want at this cool food court.

For a taste of delectable Rio Grand Valley Cuisine served in a stunning farm setting, head to Campo at Los Poblanos. Featuring a field-to-fork menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner, diners get to choose from items like Forbidden Rice and handmade pasta. For an extra special experience, book the Chef’s Table where you and your young foodies can dine while enjoying a front-row seat to the chefs while in action.

Mas Tapas y Vino and the Ibiza Rooftop are located inside Hotel Andaluz. Mas tapas features the best of traditional Spanish cuisine in specialty dishes that are served for breakfast lunch and dinner. Their Latin American Power Bowl is the perfect fuel for an active day. And honey bacon wrapped dates, Iberico ribs and Manchego-Cheddar Mac & Cheese tapas make for the perfect dinner. End the evening with a cocktail at Ibiza Rooftop.

Albuquerque offers families a unique opportunity to look back in time and experience first-hand the unique cultures and traditions that combined to make New Mexico the beautiful, colorful place that it is. As you taste, dance and explore your way across the city, you’ll have a chance to expand your knowledge, tastes and you might even pick up a new hobby (think Flamenco!). You may even find yourself booking your next vacation to the area before you have even left.

— copy and photos by Annette Benedetti (except where noted)

Special thanks to Visit Albuquerque for assistance with accommodations and entertainment. All opinions here expressed are the writer’s own. 

RELATED ARTICLES

Discover Bingen: A Hidden Gem in Columbia River Gorge

14 Unplugged Family Vacations to Take This Year

Discover Colorado Springs

 

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Pregnancy Cravings? Sam’s Club Has the Perfect Pickle Solution

by Shahrzad Warkentin

Whether your baby bump has you craving pickles or your young foodies are just pickle fanatics, you’re going to love this awesome Sam’s Club deal on OH SNAP! Dilly Bites.

Right now at Sam’s Club you can score a cure for all of your pickle cravings with a 12-pack of OH SNAP! Dilly Bites. Unlike your usual pickle jar, these dill pickle slices come in small, snack-sized packs perfect for eating on the go, or when your belly is just so big you don’t feel like getting off the couch for more pickles.

https://www.instagram.com/p/ByGiVC0A-jL/

The 12-pack sells for just $8.98, that’s less than a dollar a pouch, which makes this crunchy, salty treat a total bargain. Not to mention the fact that each pouch has just 10 calories so you can indulge your cravings without any guilt.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

Featured photo: OHSNAP!Pickles via Instagram

 

RELATED STORIES

This Cookbook Written by Preschoolers Is the Perfect Recipe for a Good Laugh

25 Sweet Ice Cream Sundae Bars to Try Yourself

The Best Donut Shop in Every State (& D.C.)

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Just Opened! A Hot New Spot for Pizza Night

by Michelle McIvor Cohen

It’s Friday and the whole family is ready for some R&R. What better way to kick off the weekend than with a steaming hot pie? Whether you’re searching for a new go-to pizza joint or just looking to hit the latest hip family-friendly spot, you’ve got to give PizzaMoto’s eatery in Red Hook a try. Super fresh tomato sauce. Creative toppings. A perfectly charred, bubbly crust. Sold? Read on, there’s more.

photo: PizzaMoto

Wait, Haven’t I Heard of PizzaMoto?
Most likely. PizzaMoto has been serving Neapolitan pizzas for eight years and has developed an impressive following. You may have spotted their mobile operation at Brooklyn Flea or Smorgasburg. Now, after years of looking for the perfect spot, they’ve opened their first permanent home on the border of Red Hook and Carroll Gardens.

photo: PizzaMoto via Instagram

A Place with a Past
The restaurant is housed in an old bakery building, which was built in the mid-1800s by John Grace, an Irish immigrant. The spot has also been home to a Prussian cigar maker, an Italian pasta and sub purveyor and an American coal-fired pizza baker. The building’s main attraction? A turn-of-the-century coal oven that has been restored and retrofitted to burn wood. The decor is as interesting as the building’s past. The owners designed and executed everything from the beefy soapstone bar to the crazy cool pinball wall art. They even welded their own bar stools out of desks discarded from a nearby Red Hook Public School.


photo: PizzaMoto

What’s to Eat?
Some of the best Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizza this city has to offer. While the menu is still a work in progress, some of the current highlights include a pie featuring winter green-pistachio pesto, olives, ricotta and fresh mozzarella; a pie topped with bacon fat, rosemary, salt and black pepper, and the restaurant’s aptly-named Eggs in Hell pizza, which includes tomato, bacon, chili, soft cooked egg and mozzarella. A safe (yet equally delicious) order for young, picky eaters is the tomato, buffalo mozzarella, olive oil and pecorino.

Not a pizza lover? Or just off gluten or dairy? PizzaMoto also offers small and large plates defined by a New American palate with Italian and French influences. Don’t leave without trying the fried broccoli with yuzu-kosho lemon curd; the whole fish and meatball tartare and toast are also good choices. And if you’re in need of a beverage, the bartender will gladly serve you wine, beer or one of their tasty signature cocktails.

photo: Michelle Cohen

Why Kids Love It
The establishment boasts stroller parking, plenty of high chairs and a warm, relaxed atmosphere. Service is quick. Plus, the friendly kitchen and wait staff will put you at ease (even if a meltdown is imminent). Young foodies and want-to-be cooks can watch pizza being made in the open kitchen — they may even get handed something yummy to smell or taste. (Our little one spent the evening studying a piece of cilantro.) The one downside? If you’re not a Red Hook denizen, you’ll need to cross the Gowanus Expressway to get there. Take note: The best route to take is Garnet Street, where you’ll find a traffic light and crosswalk.

Ready to check it out? The restaurant is open Tuesdays through Sundays, starting at 5:30. They are also expected to add a weekend brunch as well as delivery later this fall or winter.

Pizza Moto
338 Hamilton Ave.
Red Hook
773-931-7900
Online: http://pizzamoto.com

Have you visited PizzaMoto? What did you think? Tell us in the comments below!

—Michelle McIvor Cohen

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Lunch With a View: Top Spots for Kid-Friendly Waterfront Noshing

by rtsarahvogel

What better way to enjoy the rising temps than with a family meal by the water? But where in the DMV can you take your kiddos without interrupting other diners or breaking the bank? We’ve done the sleuthing for you and found four family-friendly places for a meal with a view.

 Photo: Farmers Fishers Bakers via Facebook

Best for Brunch: Farmers Fishers Bakers
Farm-to-table dining is now a mainstay on the Georgetown Waterfront at Farmers Fishers Bakers, a restaurant known for its classic American fare and sustainable dining practices. The best bet for your brood is their all-you-can eat brunch buffet. From breakfast standards like waffles and scrambled eggs to sushi and jambalaya (we recommend the bruleed pink grapefruit), you’ll find plenty of options for young gourmands and picky eaters alike. Plus, kids under six eat free!

3000 K St., NW (Georgetown)
202-298-8783
Online: farmersfishersbakers.com

Photo: The Waterfront Market via Facebook

Best for a Quick Bite: The Waterfront Market
Snack attacks in Old Town can be fulfilled with a nosh at The Waterfront Market. A new addition to the Alexandria dining scene, this cafe/market hybrid offers quick food service alongside fabulous views of the Potomac. Enjoy soups, salads, sandwiches and even sushi either inside or outside on the dock. The market also offers great “to-go” options (local craft beer, anyone?) that you can enjoy at home.

7 King St. (Alexandria, Va)
571-970-0552
Online: thewaterfrontmarket.com

 Photo: The Walrus Oyster and Ale House via Facebook

Best for Seafood Lovers: The Walrus Oyster & Ale House
Named for a Lewis Carroll poem, this National Harbor seafood spot offers views of the Potomac to go along with its beach-themed fare. A “Shucking Bar” features 15 varieties of oysters with fun names like Maryland’s Sweet Jesus and Royal Miyagis from California. While you chow down on chowder or fried seafood samplers, young foodies will enjoy a veritable feast off the kids menu. Each option, available for $10.50, includes fruit or salad, fries, entree and dessert

152 Waterfront St. (Oxon Hill, Md)
301- 567-6100
Online: walrusoysterandale.com

 Photo: Sam’s On the Waterfront via Facebook

Best for Bargain Hunters: Sam’s On The Waterfront
Annapolis is known for crabs and Chesapeake Bay views. You can enjoy both with family in tow at Sam’s. Get a table for your brood at the outdoor patio and enjoy Maryland favorites like crab cakes and locally-raised oysters while you watch the boats sail by. The restaurant’s got great happy hour specials every day of the week, but we’re a fan of their family-friendly twist on Thirsty Thursday: kids under 12 eat free!

2020 Chesapeake Harbour Dr. (Annapolis, Md)
410-263-3600
Online: samsonthewaterfront.com

What’s your family’s favorite waterfront dining destination? Let us know in the comments below!

—Sarah Vogel

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

12 Signs You’re a Chelsea Parent

by Michelle McIvor Cohen

Once run down and desolate, Chelsea is now one of the most “kidcentric” hoods in Manhattan. Filled with indoor play hubs, newly renovated parks and charming tree-lined streets, traffic jams on 8th Avenue have been replaced by stroller jams on the sidewalks. Whether you’re new to the area or were lucky enough to buy before real estate prices soared, it’s the place to be if you’ve got little ones. The Highline and Chelsea Market are world-famous attractions for kids of all ages. But read on to see if you’re really in the know about what it means to be a Chelsea parent.

                                                                                                                           photo: via Chelsea Piers Field House on Yelp

1. Chelsea Piers is #1 on your speed dial. Every member of your family is enrolled in an athletics program – even your 12-month-old.

photo: Michelle Cohen

2. You order your kiddo’s birthday cake from Billy’s every year.

                                                                                                     photo: Dan Griffith

3. You jam with Dan Griffith (a.k.a. Ramblin’ Dan & The Freewheelin’ Band) at least once a week.

                                                                                                     photo: Salim Fadhley via Flickr

4. Your loft apartment doubles as an indoor playground. There is a swing and an ergonomic bouncer hanging from your 12-foot ceiling.

                                                                                                             photo: Kelko S. via Yelp

5. You shop at Buy Buy Baby so often the sales associates know you by name.

                                                                                                photo: Tribeca Pediatrics via Yelp

6. You spotted Chelsea Clinton at your pediatricians office and your neighbor’s kids studied Mandarin with Suri Cruise at Avenues.

                                                                                                                           photo: NYC Parks

7. You practically live at “Seal Park” during the warmer months – so what if “some people” say it’s infested with mosquitos?

                                                                                      photo: Books of Wonder via Instagram

8. You’ve met some of the most celebrated children’s authors in New York at Books of Wonder.

                                                                                                                 photo: Michelle Cohen

9. Families come from every borough to trick or treat on your block. Last Halloween, you and your neighbors decorated the facade of your brownstone with cobwebs and handed out enough candy to make any suburban kid jealous.

                                                                                                   photo: Umair Mohsin via Flickr

10. You’re raising emerging artists. Your six-year-old spends Tuesday nights drawing Manga characters at HiArt! and your two-year-old just celebrated her first gallery opening at Appleseeds.

                                                                                                                       photo: Vi N. via Yelp

11. Your family eats breakfast at Grey Dog every Saturday. You treat your young foodies to fine delicacies on the kids menu, especially the dog-bone shaped pancakes.

                                                                                                                   photo: Paul L. via Yelp

12. You can get anywhere in Manhattan in 20 minutes, but you can’t think of a reason to leave. All you have to do is walk outside to experience some of the best restaurants, parks, art galleries and shopping in the city. Life is good in Chelsea.

What did we miss? Tell us in the comments below!

–Michelle McIvor Cohen

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement