Around the World Without a Ticket: International Foods to Try with Kids

We suggest adding some spice to the family dining routine: Try these delicious and family-friendly restaurants that specialize in cuisine from around the world.

By Charlotte Burgoyne May 26, 2015

Is your kid’s culinary passport stamped solely with Italy? (AKA they are fluent in the language of pizza, pasta and bread.) We suggest adding some spice to the family dining routine and trying some of these delicious and family-friendly San Francisco restaurants that specialize in cuisine from around the world. Whether it be Burmese, Vietnamese, Indian or Ethiopian, we’ve found that even the pickiest eater can discover a new favorite dish (Udon is simply spaghetti from another mother!).

Vietnamese: Yummy Yummy

Lucky for us, one of the best Vietnamese restaurants in town also happens to be extremely kid-friendly. Even if you roll your stroller in during busy hours (which are most hours) a friendly host will offer to park your stroller in a closed corridor just off the entrance. The entire staff there is wonderful with children: They don't hesitate to engage with the little ones, waving and talking to them. The food is just as satisfying. The chicken noodle soup (Hu Tieu Ga) is a big hit among kids, but as it is served piping hot and in a large bowl, we recommend you order one for yourself and request a little extra bowl for your little one. The porridge (Chao) is popular with younger crowd, while more adventurous eaters will enjoy the vermicelli noodle bowls (Bun). If your worried about spice, go for one of the rice plates (Com Dia)—grilled meat of your choice served over rice.

Insider's tip: Is your little fish getting squirmy? Take him to the back of the restaurant to see the tank filled with live crabs and lobsters.