THE HEDONIST’S GUIDES are the quintessential travel guides for those wanting nothing but the finest in eating, clubbing, sleeping, drinking, shopping and spa-ing the world over. They have taken some time out of their busy travels to give us their top places to dine out with tots in New York.
Going on a holiday to New York without experiencing the bevy of culinary destinations on offer can feel like an incomplete trip. But with kids in tow, suddenly eating out can become a tricky equation. Between wrangling buggies, securing high chairs, praying for good behavior and seeking out kid-friendly menus, it can all seem like a little too much effort.
Luckily, a number of top restaurants in cosmopolitan New York are well prepared for guests of all ages. This is a city where whole families dine out together and parents expose their young ones to New York’s culinary wonders at an early age. Whether you’re seeking a high-end eatery or a neighbourhood café, you are after trendy Brooklyn fare or a decadent afternoon tea, these six restaurants pride themselves on their exceptional family-friendly service as much as their menus.
Smorgasburg
In the last 20 years, Brooklyn has gone from being a borough that was avoided by most travellers to one of New York’s most talked about hotspots. Families who are eager to take a trip out of Manhattan have a slew of dining destinations on offer – and we mean destinations. Both a main event and a giant eatery rolled into one, Smorgasburg is located right on the waterfront in trendy Williamsburg on Saturdays, and at Brooklyn Bridge Park on Sundays. Regarded as one of the city’s top foodie spots, its casual, open-plan format means kids can select whatever their heart desires from dozens of stands – from brisket and Chinese bao to ice cream and doughnuts.
Brooklyn Farmacy
Another Brooklyn family-favourite is located in nearby Cobble Hill: Brooklyn Farmacy, a cute boite modeled on an old-fashioned soda fountain. Here, kids have the chance to nibble on pretzel sticks at the counter while their orders are being prepared. When they do arrive tableside – whether it’s melting grilled cheese sandwiches or frothy egg creams – they’re sure to be pretty pleased.
Fornino
No trip to New York would be complete without sampling the city’s famous pizza – and we don’t mean the $1 slice shops that abound across the city. For a taste of authentic, traditional New York pizza, made with fresh ingredients and more than a touch of Italian inspiration, families should head to Fornino. Its Brooklyn Bridge Park location – a huge space, outfitted on the inside with picnic benches – is particularly family-friendly, while add-your-own-toppings allow everyone to customize their perfect pizza. Its location right on the park also means kids can let loose after their meal.
Hill Country
Another venue offering large open spaces and a friendly ambiance is Hill Country. Those in the know value the eatery as Manhattan’s barbeque Mecca; named after the region in Texas that’s famed for its BBQ tradition, you can bet that the food here is worth writing home about. The original location on West 26th Street is a buzzing and popular option, and the volume means kids’ voices won’t bother fellow diners. In addition to the brisket and chicken, a number of sides – from mac and cheese to cornbread – are perfect for children.
Balthazar
Of course, travelling families after something a little more upscale also have a number of dining options at their fingertips. One that we love is the resolutely family-friendly Balthazar, a great option for those after a well-made Martini and steak frites but also impressively equipped to host kids. Buggies can be checked, crayon kits provided, and kids are even treated to bread from the bakery next door. Those in need of an early dinner can also stop by in the late afternoon, where dishes like the Balthazar Burger and macaroni au gratin will suit young palates nicely.
Alice’s Tea Cup
And to cap off your family holiday in New York? Make sure you save an afternoon for Alice’s Tea Cup. Grown-ups will appreciate the phenomenal, colossal scones on offer, as well as an extensive menu of teas, but there’s no doubt that this venue is first and foremost targeted toward children. Between its whimsical, fairy tale-inspired décor, huge range of sweet treats, and the tradition of sprinkling kids with glittering ‘fairy dust’ upon arrival, this one’s a stellar bet for families.
For more family-friendly New York ideas click here.