Eating out with the kids - top tips
1) Try to time your meal to coincide with your baby’s sleep as this will give your more time to talk to your partner.
2) Order nibbles and drinks as soon as possible after arrival. This will distract your children whilst you peruse the menu.
3) Noisy restaurants may be bad for hangovers but they are great for drowning out any baby noise or toddler tantrums.
4) Go early – not only will the food arrive quicker but your children will be in better humour and less likely to disturb other customers.
5) Take some entertainment with you. Colouring books, pencils, toys or games are a great way of keeping your kids occupied in-between courses.
6) Sunday lunch is widely accepted by those without children as a time for families, and you will find most restaurateurs and other customers more accommodating.
7) Try a themed restaurant or chain. The food may not always be Michelin rated but you are almost always assured of a warm welcome and good fare at value-for-money prices.
8) Don’t be afraid to ask for children’s portions or to order ‘off’ the menu – a good restaurateur will be more than happy to rustle up something specifically for your child.
9) Book your childfriendly restaurant in advance if you can to reserve that booster seat or high chair. It means having to cart a loss less equipment around.
10) If you are out and about don’t to forget to check out any prospective family friendly restaurants. We’d love to hear about any new ones for this website.