It was Miranda Hobbs from Sex and the City, who so bluntly said to her friends, “Mommy needs two hands to eat.” For any parent out there, this statement rings true in so many ways, because eating with kids (especially younger ones), can sometimes be a challenge. But there’s a way to keep the little ones busy, thus allowing parents to eat in peace, and that’s location, location, location.
Here are some of the best dine-in spots for you to go with them:
1. Green Tomato Cafe, Ampang
Truly a unique setting and concept, Green Tomato Cafe allows you to eat in a home setting away from home. Sometimes you just need a change of environment, are we right? Tucked away behind the National Zoo in Ampang, this homely cafe has an outdoor garden with a bouncy castle and kid-friendly activities that your little ones can keep themselves busy with. They even have batik classes for kids, and their health-conscious menu is also a major plus point!
Address: 51 Embun Kemensah, Jalan Tiara Kemensah 3, 68000 Ampang, Selangor
Contact: +6012 257 9775
2. Marmalade, Bangsar
Located in Bangsar Village II, Marmalade is relatively well-known amongst parents who love brunch and lunch. The decor of this restaurant is minimal, which is great when kids are around and has plenty of natural light coming through its glass windows. Kids are spoilt for choice here with food options like fish fingers, mac n’ cheese, and cereal-coated chicken tenders! The play area dedicated to children (check with the restaurant for COVID-19 restrictions) will keep your kids busy while you enjoy a plate of healthy nasi lemak.
Address: F18 Level 1, Bangsar Village 2, Jalan Telawi 2, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +6017 240 3440
3. Antipodean, Bangsar
Brunch in peace with your kids at Antipodean in Bangsar, where a designated play area will keep them busy, and who knows, they’ll make a friend or two while playing. While it’s smaller than its sister outlet in Atria Shopping Mall, your kids will still have a great time playing with the teddy bears, Lego pieces, train sets, and even a slide! Don’t hesitate to order their delicious banana pancakes and a cup of iced latte while you’re there. Pets are welcome too!
Address: 20 Jalan Telawi 2, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +603 2282 0411
4. Beauty in the Pot, Kuala Lumpur
Hot pot-loving parents, assemble! You can now have hot pot and bring your kids with you while taking your time to savour the delicious and flavourful soup bases. It doesn’t take a lot to entertain kids, so they’ll immediately be awed by the giant pink teddy bear at the Beauty in the Pot entrance. If that’s not enough, they also have a small indoor playground. So you can have your soup, and eat it too!
Address: Lot T–201B, 3rd Floor, The Gardens Mall, Lingkaran Syed Putra, Mid Valley City, 59200 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +603 2202 1599
5. Wondermilk, Petaling Jaya
Every day is a day for treats at Wondermilk, and with so many sweet offerings on display for the kids (and adults), they won’t even need any play area to keep them occupied. However, they do have one, if you’re wondering! Having been around for over two decades, this cafe/restaurant offers some delicious desserts and food as well. Your kids will thank you for taking them here!
Address: 37 Jalan SS 21/1A, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact: +603 7732 5136
6. Bucket B Cafe, Petaling Jaya
There’s no way any kid would be bored at Bucket B Cafe with so much to do — cubby houses to play in, books to read, slides to go on, and the list continues. Parents can indulge in the healthy Western-style menu and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while their little ones run off to the play area. This cafe often hosts events catering to children, so keep up with their social media to stay updated on the fun things your kids can be a part of.
Address: L2.11-L2.13, Level 2, IPC Shopping Centre, Jalan PJU 7/1, Mutiara Damansara 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact: +6012 638 1810
7. Out of Africa, Petaling Jaya
Serving up some delicious food that’s unlike any cuisine you’ve ever tasted, Out of Africa is perfect for families with kids (and those without too). Specialising in South African cuisine, you can indulge in their Zebu Steak Pie and Braaied Boerewors (South African sausage served with sides) to name a few. We also highly recommend the Lamb Samosas as starters! Kids will love their children’s menu and the outdoor playground equipped with slides and swings.
Address: PJ Palms Sport Centre, 1, Lorong Sultan, Pjs 52, 46200 Petaling Jaya
Contact: +603 7955 3432
