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It’s the ubiquitous question before a meal out. Add kids to the equation and finding that answer can become challenging. Calgary has a diverse culinary scene, and below are 12 ideas for kid-friendly dining that will please parents, too.
You can’t go wrong with a classic burger-and-fries combo. Clive Burger on 17th Avenue is a great stop if you’re out for a day of neighbourhood exploring. The kids’ meals won’t break the bank, and they can even watch their food being prepared for added entertainment. Don’t forget to order a custard milkshake.
How about a side of bowling with your meal? National Beer Hall’s 10th Avenue location comes with the bonus of a bowling alley in the basement. Better still, kids are welcome until 9 p.m. While there isn’t a dedicated kids’ menu, many of the items can be whipped up into kid-friendly versions. Pizzas, tacos, sandwiches and weekend brunch staples all tempt tiny tummies.
This is another option that’s equally fun for kids and adults. Burn Block Social Club in Inglewood is a casual place to bring the family and has pinball and arcade games to keep everyone entertained. Snacks like tater tots, jumbo pretzels and classic nachos appeal equally to kids and parents.
This cozy diner in Bridgeland operates with an ethos of creating delicious, comforting fare using fresh, local ingredients. Menus mix classic favourites like eggs benny and pancakes alongside hearty bowls and burgers (there’s veggie options, too). The Lil Stars menu remains the same throughout the day, with cheeseburgers, chicken fingers, grilled cheese and mac and cheese – all affordably priced.
For special occasions, nothing beats a birds-eye view of the city alongside dinner. Sky 360 in the Calgary Tower focuses on farm-to-table dining with a side of unbeatable views. Children are welcome, and they’ll be mesmerized by their surroundings. The kids’ menu features elevated takes on shells and cheese, chicken fingers and grilled cheese, as well as Sunday brunch.
Who doesn’t love all-day breakfast? Red’s Diner has four locations in Calgary - each serving up satisfying breakfast, brunch and lunch options. As a bonus, there’s no time limits on when you can order certain menu items. With classic breakfast combos, burgers and sandwiches, pancakes and plenty of add-on sides to customize your order, there’s something for everyone.
A day spent outside in East Village and nearby St. Patrick’s Island Park is fun no matter the season. Stop by Sidewalk Citizen in the historic Simmons Building to fuel your activities or take a breather with a sit-down meal. Sidewalk Citizen opens at 8 a.m. for early risers and closes at 2 p.m., so breakfast and lunch are your best bets. There are hot and cold sourdough sandwiches (made with homemade bread, of course), soups and plenty of baked goods to sample. A Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters location in the building provides any necessary caffeine fixes.
This local favourite in the Beltline is a family-friendly destination for brunch and lunch. There’s even a dog-friendly patio when the weather warms up. Kids can munch on eggs and bacon or chocolate chip pancakes, while adult-recommended dishes include salmon and avocado bennies or chicken and waffles. There’s also healthy fare if you want to keep it light. A host of caffeinated beverages, Caesars and mimosas ensure adults stay well hydrated.
If you’ve got young adults in your group and want a nice evening out, Lulu Bar on 17th Avenue welcomes minors until 9 p.m. The décor is stylish yet inviting, and the menu has plenty of dishes to sample and share family-style. The skewers, steamed lobster dumplings, Sichuan noodle salad and crispy new potatoes are a good place to start. There’s also a lineup of mocktails and non-alcoholic drinks to sip in Instagram-friendly glassware.
Tacos are an obvious must-have at Native Tongues Taqueria, but the hamburguesa and papas fritas (crispy smashed potatoes) are tasty alternatives. Fresh guac and house-made chips are perfect for sharing and keeping everyone occupied until the mains arrive. Don’t forget to share an extra-large homemade donut for dessert. Avoid hangry episodes and stretch your wallet further by hitting the weekday Happy Hour from 2-5 p.m.
Comfort food is the focus of the 4th Spot’s elevated pub fare menu. The kids’ menu includes the usual suspects, and each item comes with a choice of beverage and a popsicle for dessert. There’s plenty of variety on the main menu, too. Hearty pasta, slow-smoked tacos and protein-topped salads are but a few of the stand-out dishes.
Did you know Madison 12|12 was the city’s first crowd-funded restaurant? This community-focused hub on Inglewood’s main drag specializes in craft nachos and poke bowls. Creations change seasonally, but they’re always inventive – like ahi tuna poke nachos or loaded pierogi nachos. The regular menu also features a variety of fresh and colourful salads along with spelt grain pizzas (made using spent grains from Cold Garden Beverage Co.). The kid’s menu offers dishes like chicken tenders and grilled cheese, with common allergens noted. Madison 12|12 also offers a full breakfast and brunch throughout the week.
