Eating out as a family can sometimes prove to be challenging when trying to choose a restaurant that will appeal to fussy eaters and children who are developing a more refined palate, and are ready to venture out or try something new. Finding a place that offers more options than the ubiquitous chicken fingers and fries can also be tricky. Try one of these unique restaurants the next time your family is looking for a culinary adventure. High chairs and booster seats are available at all restaurants.
Kinjo Sushi & Grill - The lively atmosphere and creative Japanese fare at Kinjo makes this restaurant a perfect choice for families. The staff’s endless energy and interaction with guests is highly entertaining. If sushi is a new experience for your family, don’t worry, there are many familiar items to choose from. The kids’ menu offers a variety of basic Japanese favorites, such as chicken teriyaki, and everyone will appreciate the free pocky as a parting gift. Located at 7101 Macleod Trail SW and 415, 5005 Dalhousie Drive NW.
The British Chippy - Friday night calls for fish and chips! The British Chippy serves traditional fish and chips using wholesome ingredients and is sure to be a crowd pleaser. The menu also includes British specialties, such as meat pies, fish cakes and traditional sides like mushy peas. Fish bites and chips are perfect for smaller appetites. Check out the unique selection of imported British pops like Dandelion and Burdock. Located at 233, 2335 - 162 Avenue SW.
The Old Spaghetti Factory - Situated near Eau Claire Market, the location and relaxed atmosphere makes The Old Spaghetti Factory an easy choice to dine as a family. The many varieties of pasta served with sourdough bread, soup or salad, and spumoni for dessert makes it an affordable choice as well. End the evening with a walk through Prince’s Island Park or a skate on the lagoon in the winter months. Located at 222, 3 Street SW.
Calgary Farmers’ Market - A trip to the farmers’ market is the perfect food adventure for every family. The endless stalls of vendors selling fresh local goods will help work up an appetite before heading to the food court. Choose from gourmet burgers, waffles, crepes, Mexican, Greek, Ukrainian and much more. Parents looking to entertain little ones will want to snag a seat near the Barn Yard Kids play area. Located at 510, 77 Avenue SE.
Community Café - This cafeteria-style café is the perfect solution for families looking for a quick and nutritious lunch on the run. Situated inside Community Natural Foods downtown, Community Café offers a wide variety of healthy options including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free. Half the fun is deciding between the burrito bar, salad bar, hot entrées, smoothies and fresh juices. Kids will love the monkey’s lunch, a grilled peanut butter, banana and honey sandwich on multigrain bread. Located at 1304, 10 Avenue SW.
Cora - The playful menu at Cora makes it a fun, family-friendly choice for breakfast or lunch. The creative fresh fruit presentations are almost too pretty to eat. There are three locations: 4600, 130 Avenue SE; 5111 Northland Drive NW; and #147, 255 - 5 Avenue SW.
Without Papers Pizza - Pizza lovers who favor fresh flavors and creative toppings will get their fill at Without Papers. Kids will enjoy the simplicity of the margherita pizza paired with a Grizzly Paw root beer float, while adults will appreciate more sophisticated toppings paired with a nice Italian wine. Located at 1216, 9 Avenue SE.
Salt & Pepper Restaurante Mexicano - With a fun and festive atmosphere, Salt & Pepper offers authentic Mexican specialties such as enchiladas, burritos and quesadillas. Stop by on a Sunday, when kids’ entrées are only $2. Located at 1413, 9 Avenue SE and 6515 Bowness Road NW.
Redwater Rustic Grille - Redwater Rustic Grille boasts an upscale feel and diverse menu. Aside from cheese pizza and pasta, kids can choose from smaller portions of adult favorites, such as salmon and steak. There are four locations: #114, 326 Aspen Glen Landing SW; #181, 250 - 6 Avenue SW; 9223 Macleod Trail South; and 1935 Uxbridge Drive NW.
Xan Mongolian Barbeque - Xan Mongolian Barbeque just might be the perfect solution for even the fussiest eaters. Kids will love selecting their own ingredients for a customized one-of-a-kind stir-fry. Located in Beacon Hill Centre - 11670 Sarcee Trail NW.
Chantal is a freelance writer who enjoys writing about all things food related and embarking on culinary adventures with her daughter.
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