As we have mentioned in a previous post, restaurant Kids’ Menus are usually full of fat and salt and devoid of fruits and vegetables. But we’ve got you covered so that your night out is not a nutritional flop! Arm yourself with our tips on how to navigate the Kids’ Menu at some popular family restaurants:
1. Panera Bread
Even before it was revamped in 2017, Panera Bread’s Kids’ Menu was, compared to other chains, pretty good to begin with . Now it’s even better, boasting a variety of fabulous options from their regular menu. Kids can choose from:
- seven kinds of soup
- a variety of sandwiches like turkey (with the default choice of whole grain bread)
- macaroni and cheese
- and a bunch of phenomenal salads!
We recommend you choose a side like a fresh fruit cup, yogurt tube, apple, or sprouted grain roll.
We think Panera has done a great job showing kids that there is life beyond cheese pizza and pasta!
2. Bertucci’s
We give Bertucci’s props for offering a healthier twist on traditional foods, in addition to offering great pizza, . You can ask for whole wheat dough for your pizza, multigrain pasta, or a side of broccoli with any kids meal. If your little one isn’t in the mood for a carb-heavy meal, Bertucci’s offers a gluten-free option of grilled chicken with broccoli.
3. b. good
We love b. good for their commitment to local, sustainable, and seasonal foods, and a variety of grain and veggie options to up the fiber in your kids’ diets. At b. good, your kids can choose from several types of burgers, including a traditional hamburger, turkey, veggie, or chicken. Sides include broccoli, homemade applesauce, and regular or sweet potato fries. We should note that although sweet potato fries aren’t lower in calories or fat than regular fries, they are a nice change!
4. Chipotle
Chipotle prides themselves on serving real food with real ingredients. Kids can build their own tacos, in the process creating some pride in and awareness about what they are eating. Meat-free options include their fabulous rice and beans or cheese quesadillas. Choose plain organic milk for an extra serving of dairy. Veggie options are limited on this Kids’ Menu, so make sure you add a side of salsa, guacamole, or grilled green pepper and onions to get a veggie serving in!
5. 99 Restaurant and Pub
The 99 offers a more traditional Kids’ Menu, including a junior burger, pasta with butter or marinara, chicken tenders, and cheese pizza. For sides, we suggest choosing broccoli, mandarin oranges, applesauce, or seasonal veggies. As always, your child’s beverage should be water or milk.
5. Your local pizza joint
As parents, we know – everyone’s favorite pizza is cheese. Instead of avoiding pizza night altogether, up the nutrition factor by choosing a pizza with some veggie toppings. A pizza with tomato slices, green pepper, or mushrooms can add a little extra veggies to your child’s day. Ask if they can make your pizza with whole wheat dough for some extra fiber. Order a side salad to set the tone that a pizza meal is a “pizza and salad” meal!
Because everyone needs a night out now and then, we encourage families to eat out. And we suggest you consider seeking restaurants that have healthier options. Look for whole grains, sides that include fruits or veggies (fries don’t count!), and a variety of options. This way you can show your child that the restaurant world has a lot to offer!
What’s on the Kids’ Menu at your favorite family restaurant? Share it with us in the comments!