food& drink
Happy Meal Photography by J ohn Mi chael Sim ps on
Some favorite spots to find kid-approved menu items, accommodating service and even play spaces Al’s Burger Shack
Vimala’s Curryblossom Cafe
Kids can order a mini version of the burgers – once named best in the country – or a hot dog, grilled cheese or chicken nuggets. Adults can take their pick from the madeto-order burgers with names like “Mookie,” “Paco” and “Kenny J,” all made with 100% fresh ground chuck. Customers of all ages will appreciate the rosemary crinkle-cut fries and the chocolate or vanilla Maple View Farm milkshakes. Eat alfresco at both Chapel Hill locations (Southern Village and West Franklin Street), and don’t worry about making a mess.
Kids with an adventurous palate can try the specials off the menu just for them. Order a plain or cheese dosa served with coconut chutney and sambar, curry and rice, dal and rice or tandoori chicken. And all ages will love the mango lassi!
Weaver Street Market
The three convenient locations in Orange County make this community-owned store a favorite for families. The hot bar means you can mix and match to everyone’s preferences, and the baked goods include tasty conchas, cookies and more. Plus, the market caters to various dietary needs, offering gluten-free, vegan and allergen-free products that make for great snacks or picnic fare if you’re seeing a movie on the Southern Village Green.
Breadman’s
This classic Carolina restaurant has fed hungry UNC students and Chapel Hill residents their favorite breakfast dishes – from corned beef hash to pancakes – since 1974. Grab a booth and flip through the broad menu of omelets, Belgian waffles and kid-friendly fare. Craving an omelet for dinner? Never fear – this down-home diner serves breakfast all day long.
The Loop
The family-friendly restaurant in Eastgate Crossing is known for its pizzas, burgers and milkshakes, offering a menu that kids love. With its casual atmosphere, children can enjoy a fun dining experience, complete with a kids menu full of yummy options just for them. Additionally, the restaurant’s cozy seating makes it a comfortable place for families to savor a meal together.
Breakaway Cafe
The crowd-pleasing kids menu features fried chicken, pasta with cheesy sauce and plenty of sandwiches, from grilled cheese to the trusty PB&J. Adults will find just as many options, like a tofu banh mi or a Caesar salad with kale, lemon and Parmesan and – depending on the time of day – beverages from coffee to beer and wine at both the Chatham and Carrboro location.
Italian Pizzeria III
Find more kid-friendly eats in the Triangle!
The lively, family-owned restaurant will make yours feel right at home. We’ve yet to meet a kiddo who doesn’t like pizza but just in case, there’s plenty of other options on the menu from baked ziti and fettuccine alfredo to a chicken Parm sandwich.
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chapelhillmagazine.com
September/October 2024
El Restaurante Ixtapa
Tucked away on a street not far from Weaver Street Market in Hillsborough is this Mexican spot with picnic tables, a huge field with toys for kids and a play area. There’s plenty of shade under the umbrellas for a meal, and if the kiddos finish their meal early, they can play as the adults wrap up and sip a beverage.
Top of the Hill
If you’re looking for dinner with a view, head to the third-floor eatery with views for days. Kids can chow down on their choice of cheeseburgers, chicken nuggets, grilled cheese sandwiches or the kids macaroni and cheese. Adults won’t mind sharing a bite of goat cheese salad or buttermilk fried chicken that pairs well with a pint of Old Well White. CHM