Remember the days when you used to enjoy eating a meal at a restaurant? Then you had kids and the process of going out to eat became an anxiety-ridden activity filled with questions such as: Will the restaurant have a kids menu? Does the kids menu even have anything my kids will actually eat? If the restaurant is kid-friendly, will it have something I will actually like to eat?
Of course, you then have to think about the back-up stash of snacks you should pack in case your kids refuse to eat what’s on the menu. (Thank you, Smuckers Uncrustables). And, don’t forget about the Kindles!
The latest San Diego Moms column is my attempt at making your lives slightly easier by rounding up family-friendly restaurants perfect for the summer weather and equipped with foods both you and your kids will like!
As the name suggests, this Oceanside eatery is all about the community and your family. Offering healthy and delicious dishes such as pizzas, sandwiches, toasts and bagels, you can’t go wrong with this kid-friendly establishment. Aside from the delectable menu, kids will enjoy the comfortable outdoor patio, while parents will enjoy the fresh coffees or calming wines. Communal is located at 602 S. Tremont St. Suite 100 in Oceanside.
I know what you’re thinking — you are over pizza. But Corner Pizza is one pizza place that caters to both children and adults! The menu features pies such as Killer Bee, which is made with red sauce, mozzarella, charred pepperoni, soppressata, gorgonzola, rosemary and a drizzle of chili honey, and Caccio E Pepe, which is topped with white sauce, garlic, mozzarella, ricotta, clarified butter, cracked pepper and Parmigiano Reggiano. Indulge in a fine slice of pizza with a glass of wine from a list curated by Sommelier/Director of Operations Ricadro Zarate, Jr. For the kiddos, you can order a classic pepperoni pizza or cheese pizza. Plus, there’s plenty of outdoor space for the little ones to get their wiggles out before the pizza arrives. Corner Pizza is at 1246 N. Coast Highway 101 in Encinitas.
20|Twenty’s outdoor patio offers coastal views by day and warm fire pits at night. On the menu you’ll find thoughtfully prepared and locally sourced coastal cuisine with an international flare, such as diver scallops complete with parsnip puree, cider glazed brussel sprouts and pork belly. The fine dining experience overlooking the Pacific Ocean may even feel like you’re on a date with your partner for a brief moment (until, you know, you see your kids). Speaking of the kids, there is a special children’s menu complete with grilled chicken, chicken fingers, pita chips and more. 20|Twenty is at 5480 Grand Pacific Drive in Carlsbad.
If you’re looking for a spot with good food and drinks, Curbside Eatery and Drinkery in La Mesa is it. Not only does this restaurant offer kid-friendly meals such as quesadilla, grilled cheese and fries, you’ll be able to introduce your kid to a finely-made gourmet burger. Curbside delivers with their 1/2 pound, locally sourced ground Angus burgers grilled to perfection. Other items on the menu include kebab plates, chicken sandwiches and poke bowls. While you enjoy your comforting meal, the kids will enjoy the outdoor patio that faces the street and offers plenty of people-watching opportunities. Curbside Eatery and Drinkery is at 8353 La Mesa Blvd in La Mesa.
Here’s an option with two locations — one at the Market on 8th Food Hall in National City and the other at Liberty Public Market in Point Loma. Weapon Ramen, in partnership with Fuji Ramen, offers customers the freshest ramen noodles drenched in rich broth such as its signature dish Tonkotsu made with Pork Bone Broth, Chashu, Ajitama, Menma, Wood Ear Mushroom, and Scallion, offering Koji Butter toppings including black truffle oil, spicy red pepper paste and fermented black garlic. Aside from cooking up meals quickly (very kid-friendly!), kids will enjoy walking around the food hall and the spacious outdoor patios. Weapon Ramen is located at 41 E 8th St. in National City and 2820 Historic Decatur Rd. in San Diego.
I hope you enjoy mixing up your go-to restaurant list with one of these enjoyable eateries! Just don’t forget the Kindles!
San Diego Moms is published every Saturday. Have a story idea? Email hoaq@timesofsandiego.com and follow her on Instagram at @hoawritessd.