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Family Dining

Munch Family Restaurant Your lipstick is smeared, the screaming kids are putting you over the edge, tummies are growling and a potty break is in order. What’s a mom to do? Sometimes you just need a gourmet chef, a little Ebay browse and a well-trained barista. On Vancouver’s North Shore, head to the oh-so-European Lynn Valley square filled with smiling children and family-oriented shops. Munch Family Restaurant (formerly Babyeats) is a free play space where you can reclaim a bit of yourself without the guilt.

The wooden toys from Natural Pod, imagination-inspiring costumes, fabric fruits and wooden trucks will keep them busy for hours (or certainly long enough to down a latte with a little leaf design on top). There is no cover charge, and the organic food that’s high on taste will ensure their behaviour issues aren’t from Red Dye #40.

With wireless internet, a Parisian patio and ultra-low plumbed toilet for the toddler make the experience perfect. And the truffle cream pasta doesn’t hurt either. Oh – not that we seek it out or anything… but did we mention that you can now order wine and beer? And if you still can’t handle the stress, it’s time for plan C. On Fridays and Saturday nights all summer long, Nannies on Call will provide care for special dinners on the patio. (Check our summer childcare article here).

If the north shore is too far (or the bridge is backed up), check Little Nest off Commercial Drive for brunch and lunch. The retro décor combined with the tasty food and heirloom playthings will keep them busy for hours.