10 Clever Tips Chefs Use to Get Their Kids to Try New Foods at Restaurants

When dining out with kids, sticking to chicken nuggets or buttered noodles can feel like the only choice. But there are many delicious options if you’re willing to explore a bit. Chefs and food experts have some great suggestions for expanding kids’ palates while enjoying family meals.

Think Beyond the Kids’ Menu

Many experienced parents like Erin Fletter, a cookbook author and co-owner of a Denver restaurant, rarely order from the kids’ menu. Instead, they choose appetizers and sides. This approach encouraged her daughters to try octopus on a whim. By skipping the usual options, kids can discover new favorites.

Family Style Dining

Sharing meals can be fun. Erin recommends letting kids choose dishes for the table. This involvement can make them more eager to try new foods. Chef Frank Bonanno, who owns several award-winning restaurants, echoes this. He suggests ordering a variety of plates to sample, allowing kids to taste items like calamari without pressure.

Ask for Half Portions

For a tasty option without overspending, consider asking for half-portions of adult dishes. Chef Bonanno mentions that pasta with marinara can be a hit, providing better flavor than typical kids’ meals.

Empower Their Choices

Giving children a say in their food can make them more curious about trying new flavors. Asking servers to bring sauces on the side can help kids experience flavors without feeling overwhelmed. Chef Galen Zamarra suggests letting kids read the menu and choose what they want, allowing for customization.

Low-Pressure Introductions

Introducing new foods in relaxed environments can ease anxiety around trying new tastes. Rachel Kirk, a food blogger, prefers casual outings, like visits to food markets. In these settings, kids can explore without the pressure of a formal meal. Even free samples can encourage excitement for trying new foods.

Engaging in the Food Experience

Getting kids involved in the food journey is important. Zamarra highlights kitchen time as a way to integrate food education into everyday life. Letting them pick out vegetables at the store or cooking together can spark interest.

Recent studies show that children exposed to a variety of foods early on are more likely to try different tastes as they grow up. So, while there might be some inevitable chicken tender years, these strategies can help pave the way for adventurous eating. By fostering a curious attitude toward food, you might be surprised by what your kid will love!

For more on changing kids’ eating habits, check out the CDC’s guidance on healthy eating.

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