Restaurants can be a challenge for parents to navigate with young children in tow. However, some establishments understand how difficult it can be and cater to parents with children. It usually takes more than a kid's menu and a pack of crayons to keep kids happy, so some restaurants offer fun decor and play areas to keep children happy.
The Riverview Cafe in south Minneapolis appeals to both kids and adults. The cafe sits adjacent to a wine bar under the same ownership and offers gourmet coffee, sandwiches and treats. The kids area in the back is full of toys and games where kids can play while parents eat or surf the web on free, high-speed Internet. Patrons also also order gourmet specialties served at the wine bar.
Riverview Cafe and Wine Bar
3745-3753 42nd Avenue S.
Minneapolis, MN 55406
612-722-7234
theriverview.net
The Rainforest Cafe in the Mall of America offers kids a fun place to eat, with tropical decorations, fish tanks and fun characters who interact with the kids. The menu offers kid-friendly choices such as pizza, macaroni and cheese and mini turkey sandwiches. Waterfalls run between seating areas, simulated rain showers water the tropical plants, and robotic animals capture children's attention. The volcano sundae is a favorite for kids and adults alike. Restaurant staff dress in safari attire.
Rainforest Cafe
102 South Ave.
Bloomington, MN 55425
952-854-7500
rainforestcafe.com
Tilles Bean is a coffee shop and cafe that serves breakfast and lunch and specializes in gourmet coffee, and food made from scratch. The menu includes kid-friendly options such as the grilled PB&J, fluffer nutter—marshmallows and peanut butter on white bread—granola and yogurt parfait. The restaurant includes a play area featuring toys and books; a kids group meets Tuesday mornings. For parents, there is free, high-speed Internet access and music.
Tillie's Bean
2803 E. 38th St.
Minneapolis, MN 55406
612-276-0100
tilliesbean.com
