SingaporeMotherhood | Family Fun
April 2017
37 Kid-Friendly Restaurants and Cafes every Parent in Singapore needs to know (updated for 2017!)
Indoor and outdoor play areas. Board games. Activity sheets. Kids’ Menus. With so many kid-friendly restaurants and cafes, there’s every reason for families to eat-and-play island-wide all day!
Going out for a meal with the kids doesn’t have to be an eat-and-run activity propelled by boredom, tantrums, and tears. These days, with kid-friendly restaurants and cafes all over Singapore, eating out can be as relaxed or as exciting as you want it to be. And most of the time, the food’s not bad either.
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THOSE WITH OUTDOOR PLAY AREAS
:: NEW! :: New Ubin Zhongshan Park
The New Ubin name is synonymous with top-notch family-style ‘cze char’ – with a twist – in Singapore. Every meal there has been perfect for us. We’re fans of the familiar local favourites and New Ubin’s signature dishes like the USDA Black Angus Rib Eye, garlic baked crab, Boss Bee Hoon and more. Now we can enjoy all that at the lushly verdant Zhongshan Park too. When al fresco seating next to the majestic Banyan tree is introduced, this will be a perfect spot for relaxed family dinners as the sun sets. Menu-wise, our picks for kids include: the har cheong gai (prawn paste chicken which is not too overwhelmingly prawn-y), traditional satay (which kid doesn’t like this?), crispy pork jowl, and the claypot carbonara which comes with house-smoked pork belly. My kids were fans of the deep-fried ‘man too’ buns when they were younger – soft, fluffy, and shaped like a larger-sized Duplo block, it was easy for them to hold in their little hands. They still are now, dipping it into the chili crab gravy for the ultimate taste explosion in their mouths!
Where Ramada by Wyndham Singapore at Zhongshan Park, 16 Ah Hood Road, Singapore 329982
Tel 9740 6870
Web https://ubinseafood.com/outlets/zhongshanpark/
Opening hours Lunch: Mon-Sun 12pm–3pm (Last order at 2pm). Dinner: Mon–Thurs 6pm–10.30pm (Last order at 10pm), Fri–Su 5.30pm–11pm (Last order at 10pm).
1. Wheeler’s Estate
You may have heard that Wheeler’s Estate, housed in a former British military airbase-turned heritage building, is the latest beautifully sleek and Instagram-able restaurant to see and be seen at. But more importantly for those of us with over-energetic little humans, it’s the closest casual eating place to the newly open aviation-themed playground at The Oval@Seletar Aerospace Park. And this, my fellow parent friends, is crazy cool. (see our review here). Apart from the playground, families can also look forward to relaxed weekends on the lawn here. Wheeler’s Estate will also be starting a picnic service in the near future (we’ll let you know when it starts), where all you’ll have to do is grab a mat and basket from the café counter, collect snacks and drinks along the way, head out onto the lawn, pick your favourite picnic spot, and enjoy!
Where 2 Park Lane, Singapore 798386
Tel 6262 0001
Web https://www.facebook.com/wheelersestate/
Opening hours Tue-Thu 11am-10pm; Fri 11am-10:30pm; Sat-Sun 8am-11pm. Closed on Monday
P/S Wheeler’s Estate will be having Mother’s Day activities for families and kids. Check their Facebook page to stay updated and find out more closer to the date.
2. Camp Kido at Camp Kilo Charcoal Club
Camp Kilo is the hip, laid-back camp you wish you’d gone to when you were young. You still can now, even with the kids in tow, for they’ve created Camp Kido, a new bi-monthly Sunday series for young campers. Here, mums and dads can relax with a cool drink while kids explore being wild things with activities like mask making, rock painting, bracelet making, and face painting, interactive storytelling in a Blanket Fort, and get their camping face on at the Makeover Station. There’ll also be special Camp Kido platters of Cheeseburger Sliders, BBQ Chicken Skewers, Potato Wedges, Apple and Carrot Sticks for hungry campers, and kid-friendly mocktails. It’s best for explorers and discovers aged 5 to 10 years but kid-adults (that’s you, mum and dad), and pets are welcome too!
Where 66 Kampong Bugis #01-01, Singapore 338987
Tel 9830 6252
Web http://kilokitchen.com/camp-kilo-charcoal-club/
Opening hours Check Camp Kilo’s Facebook page for updates on the next session. 12noon – 5pm (Camp Kido). Club Kilo is open from 5.30 – 11pm (Fridays); 11am – 11pm (Saturdays & Sundays)
P/S On a regular day at Camp Kilo there’re hula hoops and skipping ropes for kids to play with too!
3. Grub at Bishan Park
Grub’s not new but its playtime activities for kids are! We love the inspired menu here and its awesome location, smack in the heart of Bishan Park so kids can run around and scoot to their heart’s content before winding down with Milo Floats (no one else does it quite like Grub!). While there’s no kids’ menu, Grub has activities galore for the little ones from 4 to 12 years of age, from Sensory Play Dates (open-ended play with sensory items like child-safe play dough, water beads, rice bin, and interactive storytelling session (10 am – 1 pm on Saturdays during the school holidays) to Sand Art (fortnightly, from 10 am – 1 pm on Saturdays). Don’t miss Grub’s upcoming 4th Birthday bash on 27 May 2017 (10 am – 5 pm), where there’ll a bouncy castle, sand art, sensory play, and star gazing too!
Where 510 Ang Mo Kio Ave 1, Singapore 569983
Tel 6459 5743
Web http://grub.com.sg
Opening hours 11am – 3pm; 5.30 – 10.30pm (Mondays to Fridays); 9am – 10.30pm (Saturdays, Sundays & public holidays)
4. Soek Seng 1954 Bicycle Cafe at the MAJ Aviation Building
Images: Seok Seng 1954 Bicycle Cafe Facebook page
Situated right next to the runway of Seletar Airbase, this is the perfect spot for kids who love anything aviation-related. Sit outside to indulge in an evening of plane spotting while the kids scoot up and down the open area. There are vintage vehicles to get up close and personal with, and bicycles galore for two-wheeled enthusiasts to take selfies with. Food reviews are mixed, but hey, with a view like this, who cares?
Where 80 #01-01 MAJ Aviation Building, Seletar Aerospace View, 797563
Tel 6659 6124
Web https://www.facebook.com/SoekSeng1954BicycleCafe/
Opening hours 10am – 10pm (Tuesdays to Thursdays, Sundays); 10am – 11pm (Fridays and Saturdays). Closed on Mondays. The kitchen is closed daily from 3-5pm.
5. Coastes
Sip that cocktail (or mocktail if you’re a nursing mum) under a beach umbrella and let the soft, warm, sand sift through your toes as you watch the kids build sandcastles (beach toys provided!) or play at the water’s edge. No matter how old the children are, dining at Coastes is a sure-win, thanks to its right-on-the-beach location. The food’s not shabby either. Kids can opt for smaller portions of popular favourites like Spaghetti Bolognaise ($12) or Fish and Chips ($14). No one to watch the littlies? No problem. Download Coastes’ C Side App to browse the menu, order, and pay on your smartphone. So even if you’re there alone with the kids, you won’t have to leave them unattended to make an order at the cashier. For every dollar spent, you’ll also earn points that can be converted into coupons for future dining. Win!
Where 50 Siloso Beach Walk 01-06, Singapore 099000
Tel 6631 8938
Web http://www.coastes.com
Opening hours 9am – 11pm (Mondays to Thursdays, Sundays and public holidays); 9am – 1am (Fridays, Saturdays, and public holiday eves)
P/S Till 31 May, get a complimentary parking coupon (applicable for Beach Station carpark) when you make a minimum $100 order through the C Side App. Valid Mondays to Fridays only. Other T&Cs may apply.
6. SandBank at Parkland Green
With the whole of East Coast Park at their feet, what else could the kids want when dining at Sandbank? Hmmm… a pool, perhaps? Yup, this family-friendly beachfront resto has its very own 15m plunge pool that guarantees a splashing good time for young ones. There’s no lifeguard so do keep an eye on your water babies when they’re inside. Other kid-friendly facilities include a diaper changing station, colouring sheets, and a dedicated kids menu. We hear that the interntional breakfast buffet on weekends is a must-do! *Plunge pool is available till 7pm from Tuesdays to Sundays.
Where 920 East Coast Parkway, #01-28/32 Parkland Green, Singapore 449875
Tel 6247 7988
Web http://www.sandbank.com.sg
Opening hours 12pm – 11pm (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays); 12pm – 12am (Fridays and eves of public holidays); 8.30am – 12am (Saturdays and public holidays); 8.30am – 11pm (Sundays)
SingaporeMotherhood has 3 sets (for 4 persons each) of Sandbank’s International Weekend Breakfast Buffet to give away. Here’s how you can win a set so everyone in the family can enjoy a fab brekkie by the beach!
1. Like and Share this article on Facebook (make sure your share is public so we can see it)
2. Let us know in the comments
3. Sit back and relax. We’ll get in touch if you’ve won!Terms and Conditions: This giveaway is applicable in Singapore only. Prizes won cannot be sold or exchanged for cash. Closing date: 12pm, Monday 24 April 2017.
7. Sabio By The Sea at Quayside Isle
Sometimes you have to venture a little further to find a gem. We discovered one recently – Sabio at the Sea at Quayside Isle, which serves a kicka** Spanish Hangover Brunch ($59.90++ for adults, $30++ for children aged 7-11 years) on weekends. The sea breezes, the view of Sentosa Cove marina and the yachts bobbing placidly on the water give it a fabulous holiday vibe that you just can’t quite get on ‘mainland’. The brunch menu, which includes hot and cold tapas, grilled items, and desserts, is extremely kid-friendly. We loved the Chorizo Salad, the Garlic Mushrooms, the Grilled Asparagus, and Serrano Ham with Egg. Add $15 for a small Paella to share and everyone will leave happily stuffed. Remind the kids to save some room for dessert. The Churros, which come with chocolate and maple sauce dips, were voted best in Singapore. Now we know why!
Where 31 Ocean Way, Quayside Isle, #01-02, Singapore
Tel 6690 7568
Web https://www.facebook.com/SabioByTheSea.Official/
Opening hours 11.30am – 11pm daily
P/S Sabio by the Sea will be introducing play areas like a bouncy castle and craft stations outside the restaurant later this month, so it’ll be even more kid-friendly, especially for the little ones!
8. Timbre @ Gillman – Super Social BBQ
Super Social BBQ is the weekend party that everyone in the family – especially the kids – will love. Here’s why. There are mega inflatables to bounce on, art and craft sessions, face painting, hula hoops, bubbles, balls, and a whole lot of kids’ stuff to play with. There’s a live station serving up fresh-off-the-grill barbecue, and lots to glug down (beer, bar cocktails, wine, and non alcoholic drinks). There’s live music (requests allowed!). And there’s no cleaning up at all after that! Bring the kids over and over again – it’s a different theme every month so there’ll be something new to experience each time.
Where 9A Lock Road, Gillman Barracks, Singapore 108926
Tel 6694 4201
Web https://www.facebook.com/SuperSocialBBQ/
Opening hours Super Social BBQ is on every Saturday and Sunday, 4pm till late
9. Trapizza
This casual Italian eatery has a children’s menu to cater to little ones’ hunger pangs. But what keeps families coming back are the various activity centres, from a pizza dough making section to a mini playground on the beach that kids of all ages can have fun with. Food-wise, you can’t go wrong with the yummy thin-crust pizzas packed with gooey, melted cheese and chunks of fresh ingredients. The pastas and salads – we’d recommend the Siloso Prawn Salad which comes with a sprinkling of fresh fruits and caramelised walnuts on a bed of crisp mesclun – are popular too.
Where Level 1 on Siloso Beach
Tel 6376 2662
Web http://www.shangri-la.com/singapore/rasasentosaresort/dining/restaurants/trapizza/
Opening hours 11.30am – 9.30pm
10. Café Melba at Mediapolis
Sleeping in during weekends is a pipe dream when you’ve got kids who wake at the crack of dawn and demand entertainment. That’s why we love that Café Melba at Mediapolis gets the fun going from 9am in the morning every weekend and public holiday (weather permitting of course). There’s an awesome bouncy castle and loads of ball games to keep the little ‘uns active while parents enjoy a hearty breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. There’s no bouncy castle if you’re there on a weekday, but kids can play a giant game of tic-tac-toe, or scoot around in the wide open area outside the cafe. Need an earlier shot of java? Café Melba at Mediapolis is open from 8am every single day. Perfect for post-school drop-off mummy dates!
Where 1 Stars Avenue, #03-01, Singapore, 138507
Tel 6352 2721
Web http://www.cafemelba.com.sg/mediapolis-about/
Opening hours Every day (including public holidays), 8am – 10pm
P/S Living in the east? Café Melba at Goodman Arts Centre has a bouncy castle and games on weekends and public holidays. On Mondays, there’s a “Kids Club Monday” promotion where kids can eat for free with every main meal purchased. They’ll also be able to enjoy the bouncy castle from 3pm, and a great arts corner from 5-8pm!
11. Open Farm Community
Who’d have expected a farm in the middle of the city? That’s what you get here at OFC, which grows its own edible crops such as fruits, herbs and vegetables, and even has a chicken coop with roaming live chickens! We’re fans of OFC’s farm-to-table offerings, and love that the Little Diner’s menu serves a Baby Caesar salad with poached chicken breast ($17++) for kids. There’s no need to rush off once the little ones are satiated. Release them to the sand playground outside while you relax at the outdoor cafe patio, or join them for the family-friendly activities outside, like a game of lawn bowling, or table tennis.
Where 130E Minden Road, Singapore 248819
Tel 6471 0306
Web http://www.openfarmcommunity.com/
Opening hours 12pm – 4pm/6pm – 10pm (Mondays to Fridays); 11am – 4pm/6pm – 10pm (Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays). Cafe opening hours: 8am – 9pm (Mondays to Sundays)
12. Schmear
First there’s its gorgeous location next to the boardwalk of Quayside Isle at Sentosa Cove, open to cool sea breezes and perfect for lazy, relaxing mornings/afternoons with the kids. Then there’s the fact that Schmear is an authentic New York Delicatessen that makes New York bagels the way New Yorkers make them, because the owner/baker himself hails from the Big Apple and finessed his bagel recipe until it was Big Apple standard. Furthermore there are a-mah-zing spreads to lay on your slices – think Chipotle Avocado, Jalapeno Cheddar, Spring Onion and more. The kids’ favourite? The chocolate spread into which they can’t stop dipping their crunchy bagel bites! If that’s not enough for the man, let him sink his teeth into a juicy US-sized beef burger and lapse into a blissful food coma while the kids play along the boardwalk all afternoon. Peace.
Where 31 Ocean Way, #01-03, Quayside Isle, Singapore 098375
Tel 6334 3832
Web https://www.facebook.com/schmearsg/
Opening hours 8am – 10pm (Mondays, Wednesdays to Fridays); 8am – 2.30pm (Saturdays and Sundays). Closed on Tuesdays.
THOSE WITH INDOOR PLAY AREAS
13. Old School Delights (OSD)
Step into OSD and you’ll feel as if you’ve catapulted back in time, thanks to the chalkboard walls, wooden tables and chairs, vintage memorabilia, and cartoon etchings of 80s Singapore on the walls. You’ll be telling your little ones, “Look at this! You know, when I was your age, we…” Then again, the kids may be too engrossed to listen to you. Each table has its own mini entertainment centre: a flip-top desk box that houses toys of yesteryear such as five stones, Snakes & Ladders, card games (Donkey, Happy Families, Snap, etc) and country erasers. If you can tear your young ones away from play (good luck!), fill ’em up with local classics such as Nasi Lemak, Chicken Macaroni Soup, Kueh Pie Tee, Mee Rebus, or kid-pleasers such as Fish and Chips and Chicken Nibblets, then wash it all down with Milo Dinosaur or Horlicks.
Where OSD@City Square Mall, 180 Kitchener Road, #02-23/24, City Square Mall, Singapore 208539 & OSD@The Esplanade Mall, 8 Raffles Ave,#02-25, Esplanade Mall, Singapore 038902
Tel 6458 4518 / 6909 3507
Web http://www.oldschooldelights.com/
Opening hours Mondays to Sundays, 11am to 10pm / 12pm to 10pm
14. Brez’n
Come 10am on weekends, Pure Bavarian restaurant Brez’n puts on fresh brew and warms up the grill for a wholesome breakfast of hand-made sausages, freshly baked warm pretzels and more. After the kids have had their breakfast ($8), sit back and enjoy a classic Bavarian Weissweust & Weissbier (best served with the recommended chilled glass of Paulaner Wheat Beer) as the little ones play at the interactive play wall. There’s a car steering wheel, block puzzles, and sensory games to keep them occupied for a while, and each child will also be given a Brez’n kids’ activity bag filled with crayons, an interactive game and colouring book.
Where 491 River Valley Road, Valley Point, #01-21/22/23, Singapore 248371
Tel 6235 1613
Web http://brezn.com.sg
Opening hours 11.30am – 11pm (Mondays to Thursdays); 11.30am – 12 midnight (Fridays); 10am – 11pm (Saturdays and Sundays); open till 12 midnight on the eves of public holidays
15. IKEA
Almost every child in Singapore may have spent happy hours in Småland, IKEA’s free play area where children can frolic in an enchanted Swedish Forest while waiting for their parents to finish looking at furniture with funny names. But did you know that IKEA’s restaurants are also kid-friendly areas? Children (aged 4 to 12 years) who are Småles members get a free drink on every visit, discounts on selected children’s meals, and earn Småles dollars which can be redeemed for goodies in-store. The littliest ones are not left out: there are highchairs and cutlery, and free baby food* (*with any purchase at the IKEA Restaurant, dine-in only) for toddlers, and microwaves to warm up food for Baby. The nursing room and baby changing facilities are nearby as well.
Where 317 Alexandra Road, Singapore 159965
Tel 6786 6868
Web http://www.ikea.com/sg/en/
Opening hours 9am – 10 pm (restaurant), 10am – 11pm (store and Småland) daily, including public holidays
16. The Bank Bar + Bistro
After serving up hearty meals to the folks at the CBD on weekdays, The Bank Bar + Bistro gives us two more reasons to head back to town with the family over the weekend: great food, and a playroom for kids! Yes, complete with ball pit, toys, and cartoons on the telly! Young ones also get their own personal menu which does double duty as a colouring sheet. There’ll be enough high chairs and kids’ friendly utensils so no (little) one has to complain. The adults won’t either, we’re sure, since kids eat FREE with any adult main course ordered! (Psst: Please note that the playroom will only be available on weekends and public holidays, from 11am to 6pm).
Where One Shenton #01-01, 1 Shenton Way, Singapore 068803
Tel 6636 2188
Web http://thebankbar.com/homepage.html
Opening hours 11am – 11pm (Mondays); 11am – 12am (Tuesdays to Fridays); 11am – 12 am (Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays)
17. Eat Play Love
Best for craftaholics and hands-on kiddos, who will go gaga over the variety of crafting supplies for them to stick, paste, cut, glue, build, colour, fold, and bend. For $5 per hour (two hours on weekends), kids can unleash their creative juices at this lovely blue-walled cafe’s craft corners while adults sit back, relax, and indulge in a Pad Thai (from the cafe’s Thai-Western menu) or two. Prefer to join the kids? Buy one of the easy crafts — foil art, paper puppets, dolls & monsters, sock monkey kits, and Shrink plastic — to DIY. Just look around if you need inspiration; the cafe is decorated with delightfully quirky vintage pieces that pay homage to our retro past.
Where 28 Aliwal Street #01-07, Aliwal Arts Center, Singapore 199918
Tel 6444 6400
Web http://www.eatplaylove.com.sg
Opening hours 12pm – 10pm (Kitchen closes @ 930pm). Closed on Tuesdays.
18. Bricks N’ Cubes
The original Bricks’N’Cubes Café at The Cathay is no more. But kids (and big kids) can still play with bricks and game-filled iPads at their new home at Gobi Desserts in the east. This small but cosy cafe is better known for its desserts, which include rainbow cakes, lava cakes, and even owl-shaped cakes (they do lessons for this too). Kids will probably zoom in on the five blue bins next to the cake display. Filled to the brim with colourful bricks and accessories, these keep little hands creatively occupied long enough for mums and dads to have that tea or coffee break.
Where 350 Joo Chiat Road Singapore 427598
Tel 6345 2127
Web http://www.bricksncubes.sg/
Opening hours 7am – 9pm (Mondays to Thursdays), 7am – 10pm (Fridays to Sundays)
19. Marché Mövenpick 313@somerset
Apart from delicious freshly-cooked meals, addictive rosti, and a fantastic drinks selection in a warm Swiss Alpine village setting, Marche outlets also have kid-friendly amenities that make them perfect for family meals. We love this one at 313@somerset, with a train table (and train sets) for them to play with, and a little playhouse structure that they can climb in and out of. From Mondays to Thursday, excluding the eves of and on public holidays and school holidays, spend $60 in a single receipt and get one Picky Kids meal free. By the way, the bakery’s open from 7.30am in the morning if you’re looking for breakfast in Orchard.
Where Level 1, Discovery Walk, 313 Orchard Road, Singapore 238895
Tel 6834 4041
Web http://www.marche-restaurants.com/en/marche-313somerset
Opening hours 11am – 11pm (Mondays to Thursdays); 11am – 12 midnight (Fridays); 10am – 12 midnight (Saturdays); 10am – 11pm (Sundays)
20. Quentin’s The Eurasian Restaurant
Every dish here is freshly cooked, and takes 15 to 20 minutes to get from stove to table. But there’s no need to worry that the kids will get bored and cranky while waiting. You’ll get Quentin’s complimentary fish (Tamban) Keropok with their signature Sambal Belachan to munch upon first, and little ones can order from the Kids Set Menu (fish and chips or fried chicken served with tapioca and yam chips, or chicken stew). Each set comes with freshly squeezed apple juice and one scoop of ice cream. But the kids will probably make a beeline for the restaurant’s amazing play area! Perfect for children from age 2 to 9 years, there’s a ball pool, a mini library, ride-on vehicles, and a mini slide. Less active kiddos can watch cartoons and movies in the same place too. This is one place where the kids won’t mind the wait, we reckon!
Where Eurasian Community House, 139 Ceylon Road, Singapore 429744
Tel 6348 0327
Web http://www.quentins.com.sg
Opening hours 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6.30 – 10.30pm (Tuesdays to Fridays); 11am – 2pm, 6.30 – 10.30pm, tea from 3 – 5pm (Saturdays and Sundays); closed on Mondays
21. Zaffron Kitchen East Coast
This modern Indian restaurant has two outlets but it’s the East Coast one that’s kid-friendly. There’s a small children’s play area where the owners have constructed a ‘cottage’ playhouse complete with pinewood picket fence and furnished with kid-friendly toys. There’s also a TV playing kids’ movies, and a hand sanitiser to clean those little hands after playing. We’re fans of the kids’ meals too. For $7.50++, kids can choose a main (Masala Chicken Burger, Naan Wrap with Chicken, Homemade Masala Breaded Fish), a side dish (fries or corn), a drink (Ribena, Milo, Apple juice, or Orange juice), and dessert (a scoop of ice cream).
Where 137 E Coast Rd, Singapore 428822
Tel 6440 6786
Web http://zaffronkitchen.com
Opening hours 11.30am – 10pm (Mondays to Thursdays); 11.30am – 11pm (Fridays to Sundays, eves of and on public holidays). Closed from 3 – 5pm (Mondays to Fridays)
22. Ju Shin Jung
This family-friendly Korean BBQ restaurant has three branches: one in the West, one at Robertson Walk, and one at Guillemard. While the Robertson Walk branch is more of a drinking establishment, the West and Guillemard branches have a host of kid-friendly features: good-sized ball pits for jump practices, baby rides, toddler playground toys, and more. There are tables right next to the play areas so parents can have dinner while kids play on. While there’s no kids’ menu, most of the BBQ meats are seasoned only with soy sauce, making them relatively safe for children to consume. Need something sweet after all that meat? Ju Shin Jung has also opened up a new cafe next to the Guillemard restaurant, serving Bingsu – Korean style ice kacang snow flakes.
Where 102 Guillemard Road #01-01, Singapore 399719
Tel 6440 7707
Web www.jushinjung.com.sg
Opening hours 11.30pm – 2.30pm (Weekday Lunch. Last order at 2pm); 6pm – 11pm (Weekday Dinner. Last order at 10pm); 11.30am – 11pm (Sat, Sun, and public holidays. Last order at 10pm)
23. NOM
With its cool, modern, decor, NOM (an acronym for No Other Meaning) stands out like a beacon in the Macpherson-Circuit Road heartland. Its menu, while small, boasts gems like Orange Duck Salad and the 6am Waffle (smoked pork bacon, sauteed mushrooms, and a poached egg on a waffle, drizzled with salted egg yolk sauce). Then there’re the specials such as Laksa Pizza, Earth Burger, and Waffle Dino (two scoops of Milo ice cream on a waffle, topped with Milo powder and chocolate sauce). The Little Nomsters menu is standard kids’ menu fare but if your kids are like mine, they’ll be too busy sliding up and down the #seriouslycute miniature dragon slide to eat. When they do eat, we love that they’ll be chomping down on seriously healthy stuff! NOM’s special 8-veg pasta sauce for the kids contains eight different types of vegetables blended together. Desserts (mini sng baos) made specially for kids are 100% fruit and dairy-free, refined sugar-free and egg-free. NOM is extending its children’s play area by June 2017 so do come on over for more fun then!
Where 400 Paya Lebar Way, Macpherson Community Club Level 1, Singapore 379131
Tel 6747 3839
Web http://www.noothermeaning.com
Opening hours 11am – 11pm (Wednesdays to Mondays). Closed on Tuesdays.
24. E-Sarn at The Grandstand
When you’re in need of Thai comfort food, E-Sarn at The Grandstand is a good choice. We love the cosy booth seating, and the fact that it has a kids’ play area is the coconut on the pudding! The play area is padded and fenced – so kids stay safe as they can’t wander off into the weekend crowds as easily. A small slide on a climbing structure lets little ones aged 2 to 6 years work off energy and settle down to eat. While there’s no dedicated menu for young ‘uns, kids’ favourites like Mini Pandan Wings, Sweet and Sour Chicken, Pad Thai, and Pineapple Rice can do no wrong.
Where 200 Turf Club Road, #01-13, Singapore 287994
Tel 6468 4484
Web https://esarn.com.sg
Opening hours 11.30am – 10pm. Closed on Mondays
THOSE WITH BOARD GAMES & MORE
25. Play Nation
“Saving the world from boredom” is their motto and rightly so. If the kids love board games but get bored with them after a while, Play Nation can offer much, much, more. Like – ahem – console games. Yes mum and dad, it’s okay to let them shoot moving objects on a screen sometimes. One hour gaming rates are $6.50++ per hour (board games) and $7.00++ per hour (console games) from Mondays to Thursdays, including free flow of drinks. The set lunch ($8.90 nett, 12pm – 2pm at Prinsep and OTH) includes coffee or tea, and one complimentary board game to play. If you’re up for serious gaming though, take the Happy Hour Package ($10.90++ per person, 12pm – 6pm ay Prinsep and OTH, 2 – 6pm at *Scape) which offers four hours of board and console games plus free flow of drinks from Mondays to Fridays.
Where 58 Prinsep Street, #01-01 & #02-01; *SCAPE, 2 Orchard Link, #03-01; 51 Tampines Ave 4, Our Tampines Hub #B1-19
Tel 6336 9578 (Prinsep) / 6634 3065 (Scape) / 69044885 (OTH)
Web http://playnation.com.sg/playndine/
Opening hours 12pm – 11pm (Mondays to Thursdays), 12pm – 3am (Fridays and Saturdays), 2pm – 11pm (Sundays)
26. The Living Room – Zion Bishan Bible-Presbyterian Church
This small but cosy cafe in Zion Bishan Bible-Presbyterian Church is a heartland secret that not even most Bishan residents know about. Tucked under the auspices of a church but open to all faiths, it serves excellent comfort food that’s way better than the usual suspects at any hipster cafe. Not kidding! Think melt-in-your-mouth Beef Bourguignon, Asian Stewed Pork, and Nonya Curry Chicken, pasta, pizza, and even pulled pork burgers. Pioneers have a 20% discount and students get a 10% discount but what the kids really love here are the board games that turn every mealtime here into family playtime!
Where 4 Bishan Street 13, Singapore 579792
Tel 6715 7899
Web www.facebook.com/livingroombishan
Opening hours 11am – 9pm, Mondays to Saturdays
27. Dignity Kitchen
Dignity Kitchen is Singapore’s first social enterprise food court working with the disadvantaged and disabled offering quality food and service to the public. Turn your visit here into a mini learning journey. Tell the kids about how Dignity Kitchen gives the disadvantaged and the disabled a new lease of life by helping them to embark on a new career as food stall operators or cleaning staff. They’re all friendly and happy to chat too, if the kids want to find out more. A shelf at the wall of windows has a limited selection of board games. When we were there, a group of elderly on Dignity Kitchen’s Lunch Treat for the Elderly programme came in for their meal and entertained the rest of the food court with karaoke!
Where Block 267, Serangoon Avenue 3, #02-02, Singapore 550267.
Tel 8189 7678
Web http://dignitykitchen.sg/
Opening hours 8am – 3.30pm (Mondays to Sundays). Baked items, beverages, and desserts are available till 5.30pm every day except Sundays.
28. The Mind Cafe
The Mind Cafe is more board game place than café but no one’s complaining. If your kids already love playing Monopoly, Risk, Ludo, Cluedo, bring them here for even more table-top fun. There are over 500 games in the game library and the friendly staff here can teach you to play every single one of them. Pay by the hour (from $3 for students) or buy a gaming package which includes drinks, snacks, or a meal. It can get extremely noisy – board games have the ability to rouse even the shyest introvert to action — but that’s part of the fun isn’t it? And oh, kids below 7 play free! Tip #1: Space is limited so book your table online. Tip #2: Go on a weekday afternoons if you’re bringing younger ones, as it’s less crowded then.
Where 60A Prinsep Street, Singapore 188664
Tel 6334 4426
Web http://themindcafe.com.sg
Opening hours 2pm to 11pm (Mondays to Thursdays); 2pm – 6am (Fridays & public holiday eves); 12pm – 6am (Saturdays), 12pm – 11pm (Sundays & public holidays)
29. Settlers Cafe
Settler’s Café, established since 2003, was the first board games cafe in Singapore. With over 700 titles to choose from, there’s absolutely no excuse for any child to whine “I’m bored!”. You can either choose from just gaming packages to those that include meals, appetisers, or free-flow drinks. There’s a good selection of family-friendly games (see here) as well. And if the kids really like what they’re playing with, you can even buy it to play on at home!
Where 39 North Canal Road S059295
Tel 6535 0435
Web https://www.settlers.sg
Opening hours 6 – 11pm (Tuesdays to Thursdays), 1pm – 1am (Fridays and Saturdays), 2-8pm (Sundays), closed on Mondays. Check the Facebook page for opening hours on public holidays and their eves.
THOSE WITH KIDS’ ACTIVITIES
30. Bread Street Kitchen
Singapore’s first Gordon Ramsay restaurant (the second in Asia, the first is in Hong Kong) boasts cosy orange-hued interiors and… surprisingly kid-friendly amenities! Kids get a colouring book, colour pencils, and a chef’s hat. The kids’ menu, which folds into a funky orange envelope, has mains such as Fish & Chips and Crushed Peas and Cheeseburger and Chips (both $14), and Rigatoni Pasta in Tomato Sauce ($12). Let them order an Ice Cream ($7) as that will give them the opportunity to get dressed in chef jackets and aprons and go right into the counter to scoop and decorate their ice cream! Are you thinking photo-op already?! During special event days there’ll also be craft corners where kids can get creative. P/S The next one is cookie decoration on Mother’s Day.
Where The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 01-81, 2 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018972
Tel 6688 5665
Web https://www.gordonramsayrestaurants.com/bread-street-kitchen-singapore/
Opening hours 11.30am – 10pm (Mondays to Wednesdays); 11.30am – 11pm (Thursdays and Fridays); 7.30am – 11pm (Saturdays); 7.30am – 10pm (Sundays)
31. PizzaExpress
The first outlet of this iconic British pizza brand opened at Scotts Square in July last year. It has a very filling three-course Piccolo menu for little ones consisting of signature baked doughballs as starters, a pasta or pizza main, and dessert (doughballs with nutella or ice cream). Kids are entertained as they wait too! Each child gets a mini chef’s hat and a colouring kit that includes a colouring worksheet and colour pencils.
Where Scotts Square, Unit B1 08/09, 6 Scotts Road, Singapore, 228209
Tel 6538 0083
Web https://www.pizzaexpress.sg
Opening hours 11.30am – 10pm (Mondays to Sundays)
32. Jamie’s Italian at Vivocity
We like this outlet because of its floor-to-ceiling windows that let us all enjoy the waterfront view towards Sentosa. The kids love looking out for monorails travelling in and out of The State of Fun too. And if that’s not enough, Jamie’s gives every child a multi-activity kids’ pack. There’s so much to do in it – from puzzles, to colouring, to making a spinner and a folding shapes game, you’ll probably end up bringing it home ‘cos they’ll definitely not be able to complete them all before the food arrives! Kid’s meals come in two sizes (little kids from $9.50 and big kids from $13.50) which is perfect for those of us who have smaller ones with corresponding appetites. Even better, they’re all served with a drink and a fresh shake-me salad – so kids have no excuse not to eat their greens!
Where #01-165/167, VivoCity, 1 HarbourFront Walk, Singapore 098585
Tel 6733 5500
Web https://www.jamieoliver.com/italian/singapore/
Opening hours 12 – 9pm (Mondays to Thursdays); 12 – 10pm (Fridays); 11am – 10pm (Saturdays); 11am – 9pm (Sundays)
(See also: Jamie’s Italian Kids’ Menu – Awesome New Kiddie Meals even the Adults Love!)
33. Slappy Cakes
Grandma and Grandpa may balk at the thought of going to a restaurant and paying to make your own food. But this is the exact winning premise that Slappy Cakes operates on, and which kids really love. Each table has its own griddle, upon which kids can squeeze their batter to create pancakes in any shape they want! The chocolate batter’s the most popular, we reckon, but don’t worry mum, there are other batter options like whole grain, buttermilk, peanut butter, and pandan. And what’s a pancake without toppings? With “fixins” like chocolate chips, banana, chicken sausage, turkey bacon, roasted mushrooms, blueberries and more, kids (and adults too, we reckon) will have a grand time bettering their batter with these.
Where The Grandstand, 200 Turf Club Road (Old Turf Club in Bt.Timah), #01-20/21, Singapore 287994
Tel 6465 1814
Web http://www.slappycakes.com.sg
Opening hours 10am – 9.30pm (Mondays to Fridays); 8am – 9.30pm (Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays)
THOSE WITH GREAT KIDS’ MEALS
34. Miam Miam
The French-Japanese casual café kitchen has a brand new kid’s menu that we’re sure little ones will love. That’s if they can bear to dig into the dishes, which score full marks for presentation from all of us. The Volcano Tomato Rice explodes with back bacon and shimeji mushroom flavours, while the Volcano Mac and Cheese casts a new spin on the creamy classic. Both are topped with freshly whipped and baked soufflé, and Tomato sauce flows from the peak of the soufflé, like lava expelled from a volcano! Kitty Chicken Fingers are easy for younger ones to grab and chew. They’ll love that the rice comes in the shape of a cat! There’s also an adorably smiley Meatball Pasta, and a Growing Up Sundae to cap off the meal – perfect!
Where Bugis Junction, Westgate, Tampines One, and Waterway Point
Web http://miam.sg
Opening hours 11.30am – 9.45pm (Sundays to Thursdays); 11.30am – 10pm (Fridays and Saturdays)
(See also: 13 Droolicious Kids’ Menus that your Little Ones will Love at Cafes & Restaurants in Singapore)
35. Meet Casual Dining
Images: Meet Casual Dining Facebook page
Just newly opened in January this year, Meet already has a reputation for delicious and affordable Japanese-French fusion food. So if you’re craving for something like Mentaiko Pasta or Braised Beef Cheek with Angel Hair Pasta, this is the place to be. On Saturdays and Sundays, kids under 12 years get a free Kids’ Meal with every $25 spent. They can choose from Pasta Pomodoro, Chicken Schnitzel, Sausage Mash, and Mushroom Mac served in super duper cute monkey heads!
Where #02-37/38 City Square Mall, 180 Kitchener Road, Singapore 208539
Tel 6909 0568
Web https://www.meetdining.com
Opening hours 11.30am – 10pm (Mondays – Sundays)
36. Brussels Sprouts
This Belgian Mussels and Beer bistro is part of the Emmanuel Stroobant Group of restaurants. We love its breezy riverside location, where kids can scoot along the wide pedestrian walkway while we adults sit back to enjoy the evening breezes. But did you know that your kids can eat free here as well? Yup, from Sundays to Thursdays (not applicable on public holidays), from 5pm to closing, kids aged 9 years and below can choose a dish from the Kids Eats section of the menu for each paying adult who orders from the Big Eats. One kid eats free per paying adult. Some terms and conditions, and blackout dates, may apply. Call the restaurant before going, to confirm.
Where 80 Mohamed Sultan Road, #01-12 The Pier @ Robertson, Singapore 239013
Tel 6887 4344
Web www.brusselssprouts.com.sg/
Opening hours 3pm – 12 midnight (Mondays to Thursdays); 2pm – 2am (Fridays); 11am – 2am (Saturdays); 11am – 12 midnight (Sundays)
(See also: Emmanuel Stroobant on Cooking with his Daughters, and his Parenting Style)
37. Canopy
This side of Bishan Park is better known for having a river where kids love to wade, a sand playground that’s also disabled-friendly, a bustling McDonalds outlet, and a huge field where concerts and events are regularly held. It’s a busy, busy area. However, there’s an oasis of peace and calm upon this little compound of manicured green where mid-range eateries like Canopy, Middle Rock Bar, and Cornerstone sit. Kids come in red-cheeked and sweaty after scooting, cycling, or chasing each other around the park. If they’re under 10, children dine free from the kids’ menu with each main course ordered! This is available from Mondays to Thursdays, subject to terms and conditions. Just ask the friendly staff if you’re unsure.
Where 1382 Ang Mo Kio Ave 1, Bishan Park 2, Singapore 569931
Tel 9113 4666
Web http://www.canopygardendining.com.sg/home
Opening hours 9am – 10.30pm (Mondays to Thursdays); 9am – 11pm (Fridays); 8am – 11pm (Saturdays); 8am – 10.30pm (Sundays)
P/S Pets are welcome if you’re seated outside!
38. Summerlong @ The Quayside – NEW!
Summerlong now has a menu specially for kids and everything – everything! – on it looks delicious! even better, all items are made from scratch in-house so you can be sure that the kids are getting clean, wholesome nutrition while enjoying their favourite foods. Children also get a specially designed placemat to colour in and play games on while waiting for food. Can’t sit still any longer? Let them play by the riverside promenade (bring the scooters!) while you watch (with drink in hand, yes?) in comfort from the outdoor seating area.
Where 60 Robertson Quay, #01-04, Singapore 238252
Tel 6235 1225
Web https://www.summerlongsg.com
Opening hours 5.30pm – midnight (Monday to Friday), 10.30am – 3pm (Saturday and Sunday), 6pm – midnight (Saturday and Sunday)
Have we missed out any new kid-friendly restaurants and cafes? Let us know and we’ll add them in so other parents and kids can join in the eat-and-play fun. Just add them in the comments below, or email [email protected] Thanks in advance!
Header image: Kids’ Strozzapreti at Open Farm Community. Feature image: Camp Kilo
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