Never mind the recent controversy over several restaurants that have imposed a no-children policy—here are some places that not only welcome children, but go the extra mile to ensure that they have a blast.
Contributed By Reuel Eugene Tay
Brussel Sprouts. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRUSSEL SPROUTS
Brussels Sprouts (80 Mohamed Sultan Road, #01-12 The Pier@Robertson, +65 6887 4344)
The food: Fans of Belgian beer and mussels will dig this Belgian-style brasserie which serves staples such as Filet American (the Belgian version of beef tartare with fries) (S$24) and Steak Frites with Salad (S$35), including the house specialty—Mussels/clams With Fries (S$18.50). Its location overlooking the Singapore River amps up the chilled out ambience, boosted by ample parking facilities in the vicinity.
Kid-friendly factor: For every adult main dish order during lunch from Friday to Sunday (noon to 3 p.m.), a child (10 years and below) dines for free.
Ju Shin Jung Korean Charcoal BBQ Restaurant @ West Coast (27 West Coast Highway #01-18/19, +65 6464 0872)
The food: This authentic Korean restaurant is also the first establishment to offer the traditional Korean charcoal BBQ, offering favorites such as marinated beef ribs (S$49), fresh pork belly (S$22), chicken (S$22), pajun (seafood pancake) (S$20) and samgaetang (ginseng chicken soup) (S$22). Those who drive should come early as there are limited parking spaces available.
Kid-friendly factor: A spacious play area in the shape of a castle located inside the restaurant is enough to brighten up any kid’s day, as parents enjoy their meal while having full view of their kids at all times.
One-Ninety. PHOTO COURTESY OF ONE-NINETY
One-Ninety (Four Seasons Hotel, 190 Orchard Boulevard, +65 6734 1110)
The food: Famous for their applewood grill, this classic restaurant offers both local and international fare. Popular dishes include the risotto dishes (from S$24), One-Ninety Laksa (S$25) and Australia Wagyu beef burgers (S$39). With its understatedly elegant vibe, this restaurant is the ultimate quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road.
Kid-friendly factor: The playland at the second level of the hotel has a special supervised “kiddie buffet” (S$45 onwards) for kids aged 5 to 11 complemented by activities ranging from bouncy castles, face painting, arts & crafts, balloon games and bookmark-making to video game consoles.
La Villa. PHOTO COURTESY OF LA VILLA
La Villa (341 River Valley Road #01-03, +65 6836 5286)
The food: Some of the best-sellers at this Italian-inspired eatery are the La Villa Salad (S$19), Capellini Pasta With Lobster Ragout (S$20), grilled meat/seafood platters (S$36 onwards) and the Pollo Pizza (S$22).
Kid-friendly factor: Free meals plus bouncy castles and playground in an open field—enough said. It also plans seasonal programs i.e Easter Sunday, F1, Halloween and Christmas for the kids.
Tanglin Tree (56 Tanglin Road #01-01, +65 6733 0992)
The food: Related to the popular Flutes at the Fort restaurant at Fort Canning, this Aussie restaurant with a charming alfresco vibe serves up typical outback fare like the Beer Battered Fish And Chips (S$21), pasta—try the Spaghetti Garlic Prawn (S$20) as well as salads.
Kid-friendly factor: Its open air playground aptly nicknamed Treehouse has proven to be a hit with kids, being fully equipped with a colorfully painted treehouse, a flying fox, slide and a sand box. Parents have excellent line of sight of their children, whether they are dining indoors or outdoors. Note: Parking can be tricky at times, and reservations are highly recommended.
