You picture a terrace by the water, a glass of wine and a plate of fresh fish. Your toddler pictures a tablecloth to pull, sugar sachets to rip open and a pigeon to chase. A few smart choices get you both what you want.
Pick a place with noise and space
A quiet restaurant with candles and linen napkins turns every squeal into a scene. Look for a place that is already busy and loud: a beach bar, a pizzeria with an open kitchen or a terrace on a square. Nobody hears your toddler there, and a terrace with some room around it lets them wander between bites. If you spot other families with high chairs as you walk in, you’ve found the right place.
Eat early
Sit down before your toddler gets hungry or tired. In Spain and Italy many kitchens open late in the evening. There, go for a big lunch out and a simple dinner in your apartment, or find a place that serves food all day. Arrive early and the staff have time for you, and the first sitting often puts other parents at the next table.
Call or book ahead
When you book, mention that you’re bringing a toddler and need a high chair. The staff can set one out or find a table with room for the stroller. Check the menu online beforehand. If you already know what you want, you can order straight away.
Order your toddler’s food first
Don’t wait for the drinks to arrive. Order something for your child the moment the server comes over and ask for it to come out as soon as it’s ready. A plate of bread, some cucumber or a small bowl of rice covers the wait. No kids’ menu? Ask for something plain, like pasta with butter, steamed vegetables or a fried egg. Most kitchens are happy to make it. You can also share. Your toddler wants what’s on your plate anyway.
Bring a small bag of distractions
Pack a bib, their own sippy cup and a few snacks. Add two or three small things your toddler hasn’t seen yet: a little book, some stickers, a toy car. Bring them out one at a time. A drawing on the back of a placemat buys you ten minutes too.
Keep an exit plan ready
If it gets too much, take your toddler outside for a bit. Look at the boats, count the scooters and come back once they’ve calmed down. Ask for the bill in good time, so you’re not waiting with a tired child on your lap. A forty-five minute meal where everyone laughs beats two hours at the table with tears.
We find a place where eating out works too
Wabokkio plans family holidays for young parents with toddlers and works on request only. Tell us how old your children are, when they go to bed and whether you’d rather cook or eat out. We look for a stay with a kitchen and child-friendly restaurants within walking distance. You’ll get a personal quote within 5 working days. We charge no service fee and show no off-the-shelf prices.