Traveling to Paris with little ones can be an exciting adventure, especially when it comes to experiencing the city's rich culinary scene. I find that it takes some work but with the right preparation, dining out with babies and toddlers can be stress-free and enjoyable for the whole family.
Here’s a guide to help you navigate dining in Paris with your little ones:
Types of Parisian Dining Options and Their Baby-Friendliness
1. Cafés
Atmosphere: Relaxed and casual, perfect for a quick snack or light meal.
Baby-Friendliness: Many have outdoor seating, which is great for strollers. High chairs are sometimes available.
Food to Try: Croissants, quiches, and tartines.
2. Bistros
Atmosphere: Cozy and traditional, offering classic French dishes.
Baby-Friendliness: Often have limited space, so smaller strollers or baby carriers might be better. Early dining is advisable.
Food to Try: Croque Monsieur, steak frites, and onion soup.
3. Brasseries
Atmosphere: Larger and more bustling, often open all day.
Baby-Friendliness: More spacious, making them a good option for families. High chairs are usually available.
Food to Try: Seafood platters, grilled meats, and salads.
4. Boulangeries
Atmosphere: Quick-service bakeries, great for on-the-go meals.
Baby-Friendliness: Ideal for grabbing snacks or a picnic meal. No seating typically.
Food to Try: Baguettes, pastries, croissants and pain au chocolat.
5. Restaurants
Atmosphere: Varies from casual to upscale. It's best to check the vibe before entering with a toddler.
Baby-Friendliness: Upscale restaurants may not be the best choice for young children. Family-friendly spots often welcome kids with special menus.
Food to Try: Ratatouille, duck confit, and coq au vin.
6. Crêperies
Atmosphere: Casual and fun, specializing in crêpes.
Baby-Friendliness: Great for kids who love pancakes. Often have high chairs.
Food to Try: Sweet and savory crêpes.
Planning Ahead
Reservations and Timing
Make Reservations: Many Parisian restaurants can be busy, even at lunch time, so it's wise to make reservations in advance if you know what area of the city you will be in that day. This will ensure you have a table that can accommodate a stroller.
Early Dining: Parisians typically dine later, so arriving early (before or around 6 PM) can mean less crowded restaurants and faster service.
Packing Essentials
High Chairs and Boosters: While many places offer high chairs, it's not guaranteed. Consider bringing a portable booster seat.
Snacks and Toys: Bring along favorite snacks and small toys to keep them entertained while waiting for food.
Menu Tips
Kid-Friendly Foods
Croque Monsieur: A grilled ham and cheese sandwich that’s a hit with kids.
Crêpes: Both sweet and savory options are available, perfect for picky eaters.
Soupe à l'oignon: While the name might sound daunting, this onion soup is often appreciated by kids for its cheesy topping.
Adventurous Options
Ratatouille: A vegetable dish that’s both colorful and nutritious.
Escargot: For the adventurous eater, trying snails can be a fun experience!
Navigating Parisian Dining Etiquette
Politeness and Patience
Greet Staff: Always greet the staff with a polite "Bonjour" when you enter.
Patience is Key: French dining tends to be more leisurely, so expect longer meals.
Handling Picky Eaters
Ask for Modifications: Don’t hesitate to ask for simple modifications to dishes if needed.
Share Plates: Ordering a variety of dishes to share can be a great way to introduce new foods.
With a bit of planning, dining in Paris with babies and toddlers can be a delightful part of your trip and you can enjoy the city's culinary delights while keeping your little ones happy. Bon appétit!
Comments