Diners for Whiners
Let’s play word association. We say: “restaurant”. You think: “fun and delicious”.
No, of course you don’t. You’re a mother. You think “spilled drinks, restless children and wasted food.” So do we.
But thanks to your team of Toronto SavvyScouts, we’ve discovered an international world of opportunities for you to help expand your child’s eating repertoire and have a bit of fun at the same time. Check out our recommendations for some great TO spots to feed families with tots:
Ghengis Khan Mongolian Grill
Where the motto is “do-it-yourself buffet demands creativity”
Food: Fresh food with lots of options – something for even the picky eaters
Atmosphere and Service: Spanking clean new venue with enthusiastic “we want to help” service (love the tags that say HELP on them)
Family Fun Factor: Watching them cook the food you have just picked on the big Mongolian grill right in front of you and (of course) the ice cream sundae bar (with sprinkles)
900 Don Mills Rd, Unit 2 416-449-8228 www.genghiskhanmongoliangrill.com
Aki Da Japanese Seafood House
Ahso – try the CN Tower Roll!
Food: Everything Japanese – from sushi to teppanyaki. Savvy Scout quote: “the best kids’ meal ever”. Highlight: the fruit they cut into shapes of animals.
Atmosphere and Service: Clean and simple atmosphere, friendly service
Family Fun Factor: The kids (and parents) love the beautiful presentation and there are authentic private tatami rooms if you want to sit on the floor and not disturb others. Kids also like to sit up at the sushi bar.
1911 Queen St.E., (416) 691-2788
Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant
For the real enchilada.
Food: Authentic Mexican food, but not too spicy, with lots of options for the whole family – try the quesadillas if you’re not sure where to start
Atmosphere and Service: Warm & friendly. Don’t worry – the interior is more impressive than the exterior.
Family Fun Factor: Everyone likes melted cheese and margaritas !
1201 Bathurst St. 416-534-2528 www.dos-amigos.ca
The Firehall Cool Bar Hot Grill
“Always treats your family to a blazing good time”
Food: Peanut free and good standard fare with child’s menu
Service and Atmosphere: Fun and noisy (good for children and their not-so-little voices)
Family Fun Factor: The firehall paraphenalia and ‘Kids Eat Free’ on Monday nights
2441 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville 905-827-4445 www.thefirehall.ca
Duff’s Famous Wings
Authentic Buffalo chicken wings where Medium IS Hot
Food: Chicken wings of course (and a yummy grilled chicken salad for mom – we love the dill dressing)
Service and Atmosphere: Classic bar décor. Attentive to your every spill with lollipops and crayons to boot.
Family Fun Factor: Adults can pretend they are at a pub just like in the good old pre-baby days while still enjoying family time. Kids love the bell and sirens that are sounded when someone orders the really hot wings.
1604 Bayview Avenue, 416-544-0100 www.duffsfamouswings.ca
Bon appetit!