Parent's Choice

Family-Friendly Restaurants: Something for Everyone

by Kevyn Gohu
January 3, 2023

Looking for the perfect dinner place to take the kids? These restaurants have Modern Parenting’s seal of approval for being family-friendly.

This story about family-friendly restaurants first came out in Modern Parenting’s 2022 print edition.

There are restaurants that are meant for hanging out and hen parties, then there are also restaurants that become regular haunts for being family-friendly. Whether you’re celebrating a family milestone or occasion, or you want another alternative from family meals at home, these places have earned Modern Parenting’s seal of approval for being dinner places that put the family front and center. From kind staff, being prepared with high chairs, and recipes that always guarantee a thumbs-up with the kids, check out these restaurants for your next family night out.

Gourmet Gypsy by Chef Waya

Gourmet Gypsy by Chef Waya impressively takes home-cooked recipes and elevates them to a healthier but still child-friendly standard. From using organic ingredients in her dishes to creating meals that are friendly for diabetics, she also offers a variety of keto-friendly options such as Cauliflower Paella and Vegan Adlai Paella. Her old cafe in Alejandro Roces also served as a home for relaxing music. Now with two branches in Baguio and in Maginhawa, Gourmet Gypsy by Chef Waya has become a place that celebrates a homey and warm feeling. We also love that she applies the locavore philosophy to her restaurant in Baguio, where she uses the best and freshest produce from the Cordillera region and lovingly prepares them into her dishes.

Tomo Japanese Dining

Japanese cuisine always appeals to families because of its beautifully plated dishes. Their brightly colored sashimi or sushi platters always catch the attention of teens with their fresh Maguro (Tuna), Hata (Lapu[1]Lapu), and even Tai (Maya-Maya) which are unique to Tomo. They also have their modern[1]Japanese-fusion maki rolls which let kids safely join in on the sushi fun without the risk of consuming raw food such as Age Maki. They have several Yakimono (grilled items) as well, which they request at least a well-worth 20 minutes for grilling perfection

Casa Buenas

Teaching kids how to wine-and-dine includes proper table manners. This means exposing them to restaurants that exude the atmosphere and elegance of fine dining. Casa Buenas offers elevated takes on Filipino and Spanish cuisines while offering naturally bright and wide spaces that are ideal for families and large groups. The place also reflects Mediterranean-style interiors, making it a favored place for intimate gatherings like small weddings and receptions. What makes this restaurant so family-friendly is their wide range of menus all prepared to cater to a variety of family holidays and celebrations — let your family feast on Arroz Caldoso with Mixed Seafood and Rice, their Grilled US Angus Steaks, and even upscale takes on soulful home recipes such as the Garlic Pancit Noodles with Crab Meat.

Jones All-Day

Looking to refuel after spending an activity-filled family day with your fur babies in Serendra, BGC? Take a break at a pet-friendly joint such as Jones All-Day. Covering all sorts of meals, Jones All-Day offers beloved silog recipes (their Jones Beef Tapa is an MP favorite!), classic pizza flavors, handmade pasta, and other home-cooked recipes that warm the heart and comfort the soul.

Farmer’s Table

Nothing will stop parents from finding creative ways to get their kids to eat more greens. What we love about Farmer’s Table is its variety of simple but kid-friendly dishes. These include the Hothouse Cauliflower and Broccoli, adding spice and strong flavors to what some kids may consider “boring” vegetables. But what is a Farmer’s Table without a full-course meal? You can also treat the family to freshly baked and soulful treats such as pastries, breads, coffee, and juices found in the Artisanal Baker. And for those looking for some way to support the farmers and their families before heading home, the Boutique Market and the Nurture Wellness Pop-up offer different fresh produce and artisanal products crafted by them.

From having healthy meals to elevating children’s favorites, these family-friendly restaurants offer parents the hope of having a stress-free dinner that accommodates their brood’s needs, while making sure that there is something for everyone — even the little picky eaters. Have fun and Bon appetit!