Do you dread the whole idea of taking the kids to a restaurant? Are you not quite sure your children are ready to eat out in public? Worried about a toddler meltdown in the middle of the main course?
You’re not alone. Eating out with kids can feel like a high-wire act, but with a little planning it really can be an enjoyable outing for the whole family. Here’s how to survive eating out with kids.
#1. Set Expectations
Before you ever leave the house, explain to your children what you expect from them in the restaurant — things like sitting at the table, using their table manners, not playing with the food, and using indoor voices.
For younger kids, it helps to explain by demonstration rather than just telling them. And be realistic: if your children wander from the table regularly at home, it’s fair to expect they’ll do the same in a restaurant, so plan accordingly.
#2. Choose the Restaurant Wisely
It makes sense to pick a restaurant that welcomes kids and offers a kids’ menu. Save the fine dining for date nights, and wait until you know how your children behave in a restaurant setting before trying anywhere too formal.
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#3. Timing
Time your trip so the kids aren’t over-tired or over-hungry — both are recipes for meltdowns. For babies and toddlers who still nap, aim to go once they’ve woken up and had a chance to settle.
#4. Come Prepared
Pack distractions. Your kids won’t happily sit for an hour or more making polite conversation, so bring along whatever toys or activities work best for them. Many child-friendly restaurants provide paper and crayons too. For more ideas, check out 13 Fun Games to Play while Waiting in a Restaurant.
#5. Table Choice
If you can, ask for a table near other families and near the restrooms — you’ll likely be making a few trips there. Make sure it’s easy to get in and out of the seating, especially with a buggy or highchair in tow.
#6. Order Quickly and Wisely
- This isn’t the moment for a leisurely browse of the menu, so order promptly. It’s also not the time to introduce new foods — stick to what you know your kids will eat, for a smoother experience all round.
- Don’t over-order, and don’t offer the kids too many choices. You know best what and how much they’ll actually eat.
- Ask your server to bring some bread or crackers to the table as soon as possible.
- This also isn’t the night for a leisurely, multi-course meal for the grown-ups. Consider sharing a starter, or skipping it altogether and going straight to mains.
- Don’t ask for the kids’ food to come out super fast unless they’re truly at breaking point — otherwise they’ll be finished and restless long before your own meal arrives.
- Ask your server to clear away any extra glassware or breakables from the table, out of reach of curious little hands.
#7. Be Patient & Calm
Try to stay patient and calm — if Mum or Dad is stressed, the kids will pick up on it and often mirror it right back. If one of them starts to melt down, it’s usually easiest to step away from the table for a few minutes, either outside or to the bathroom. And be realistic: it’s a lot to ask a young toddler to sit still for a whole meal. Be prepared to take turns with a short walk if you need to.
#8. Order Dessert
Do let the kids have a treat or dessert, and feel free to tie it to good behaviour. Yes, it’s technically bribery — but the promise of a scoop of ice cream at the end of the meal can work wonders, and it keeps the mood positive for everyone. Eating out is meant to be a treat, so let them enjoy that part too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What age can kids start eating out at restaurants?
There’s no set age — it depends on your child’s temperament and how comfortable you feel. Many families start with short, casual meals out once their baby is on solids, gradually building up to longer restaurant visits as toddlers grow.
How do I stop my toddler from having a meltdown at a restaurant?
Good timing helps a lot — avoid visiting when your child is overtired or overhungry. Bring familiar distractions, order their food quickly, and be ready to step outside for a short break if things get overwhelming.
What should I bring to keep kids entertained while waiting for food?
Small, familiar toys, crayons and paper, or a favourite quiet activity all work well. Many family-friendly restaurants also provide colouring sheets while you wait.
Is it okay to use dessert as an incentive for good behaviour?
Plenty of parents do, and it’s a perfectly reasonable approach in moderation. Framing it as a treat for a lovely meal out, rather than a strict reward system, keeps things relaxed.
Related Articles
If you found this useful, you might also like:
- What Makes a Restaurant Child-Friendly
- 13 Fun Games to Play while Waiting in a Restaurant
- 100 Kid Friendly Restaurants in Ireland
Enjoyed these tips? Browse more family days out and dining ideas on MyKidsTime, or save this article to come back to before your next meal out.
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