Get ready for a flavor rush. Sparkling Smartwater from Coca-Cola will soon come in strawberry blood orange, fuji apple pear and raspberry rose.
This isn’t exactly the first time Coca-Cola has put its own stamp on the flavored water market. In a 2018 press release Brad Spickert, SVP of hydration for Coca-Cola North America said, “We’ve increasingly seen a blurring of lines between categories like diet soft drinks, sparkling waters, sports drinks and more as consumers look for new choices for every beverage occasion.” Back then Smartwater’s sparkling flavor was…well, just sparkling.
According to reports, by the end of March Coca-Cola will release the three new sparkling flavors in North America. They’ll join the bevy of fun fruity flavors that the beverage bottler has debuted in the past few years.
While the Dasani brand is Coca-Cola’s only other flavored sparkling water, the company’s newly-released Orange Vanilla Coke recently joined Diet Coke’s new lineup of flavors including strawberry guava, blueberry acai, ginger lime, zesty blood orange, twisted mango and fiesty cherry.
The heat has arrived, and it’s time to cool off with some tasty treats! Elevate your game a bit and try one of these amazing floats or sundaes—we promise you won’t be disappointed! Read on for a dozen of the best spots to float on this summer.
It sounds like a wondrous place, and you’re not far off. Cloud City on Woodstock serves up fluffy scoops of delicious flavors like Sparkle Magic, Totes Ma’Goats, Circus Friends, and Unicorn.
Their magical storefront with unicorn murals and coloring pages is sure to please the under 9 crowd (or, let’s be honest, under 99), and the options of floats, milkshakes and freshly pressed waffle cones are divine.
If it’s a hot day in the Pearl, you’re probably already cooling off at Jamison Square. That means your a stone’s throw away from delicious treats! They make everything right there in their storefront kitchen, so it’s as fresh as it can get when it hits your mouth. A hot fudge sundae or a root beer float are perfect choices at this classic ice cream parlor.
1105 NW Johnson St. Sun.–Thurs., Noon- 10 p.m. Fri. & Sat., Noon- 11 p.m. Online:coolmoonicecream.com
If you love something, go to the source. And now with the newly remodeled visitor’s center, just opened this year, there’s a whole new reason to visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory! Get the background scoop on how all your favorite dairy products are made, then relax with a sundae, malt, float, or more of your choice!
The makers of Salt and Straw knocked it out of the park with their soft serve bar in the downton food hall, Pine Street Market. Their magic cone sundaes include pastry right in the cone, like homemade brownie bites in the Rocky Road Sundae. For a smaller treat their mini sundaes, and top them all off with hot fudge, party nuts, sprinkles and homemade candies.
This cafe could almost be called a relic of Old Portland, but don’t think of skipping it. With almost 40 years of being in business, they know how to please. Cultivating an almost-spooky vibe (ask for the “special” tables), they deliver on the handmade desserts. The Hot Fudge Sundae is a classic winner, or mix it up with the Ship Goes to Pieces Against a Rock (mint chocolate chip ice cream, hot fudge and whipped cream). It’s small place that fills up quick, so get there early!
The popular ice cream sandwich joint has gone from ranging food cart to 3 whole storefronts in the last years! No one’s complaining, though, as their cookies are big and chewy and their ice cream is delicious– you can’t beat Honey Lavendar or Caramel + Salted Chocolate! Mix your favorite up in a sundae with your choice of topping (like sprinkles, marshmallow fluff, chocolate sauce, and more). You just made summer even better.
West: 428 SW 12th Ave. Mississippi: 3713 N. Mississippi Ave. Hawthorne: 4703 SE Hawthorne Ave. Daily, Noon-11 p.m. Online: rubyjewel.com
This magnificent sundae promises 4 whole scoops of ice cream topped with something wonderful called magic dust. If that’s not enough to convince you, you can also make your own ice cream sandwich– it comes on a tray for a build-it-yourself experience!
This old-school neighborhood shop is mostly popular for donuts, but they also have an almost-secret menu item: the handwritten “doughnut sundae.” You can choose whatever donut you want then add any number of ice cream scoops (pick from over 16 flavors!), and of course all the fixin’s: sauce, whipped cream, sprinkles, fudge, finished off by the perfect cherry on top.
Scoops, shakes and floats dominate at this ice cream shop, but you won’t miss a sundae one bit. Flavors like Blood Orange Creamsicle, Caramelized Honey, and the adventurous Thai Rice and Cornbread with Honey Butter await! Pick your favorite to mix in a root beer float, or in a creamy milkshake.
2021 SE Clinton St. 2742 E. Burnside St. Sun. – Thurs., Noon- 11p.m. Fri. & Sat., Noon- midnight
Online: fifty-licks.com
Back to Eden
You’ll have a choice of nine sundaes from the menu, or build your very own! A favorite is the Columbia River Highway: soft serve, dark chocolate chips, chocolate cream cookies, and Holy Kakow chocolate sauce. Adults might like the kombucha float, or there’s a whole menu of shakes to choose from. Oh, and did we mention? It’s all vegan! And delicious.
2217 NE Alberta St. 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. 2880 SE Division St. Daily, 10 a.m.- 10 p.m. Online:backtoedenbakery.com
What could possible make a sundae any better? Adding churros to it! This loco food cart whips up amazing soft yet crispy churros and adds them to their popular sundaes. Topped with sprinkles, whipped cream and your choice of sauce, it’s a winning treat. Follow them on Instagram or Facebook to see where to catch the roving cart next.
For the sophisticated kid. Because when you have a sundae in front of you with chocolate ganache, cinnamon butter cracker crumble, vanilla soft serve, and torched housemade marshmallow, you know you’re a special kid. They also have vanilla soft serve with strawberry dust, making one very pretty pink cone. Or try matcha, beet, or espresso! Watch their instagram for specials, like the recent glitter cone or strawberry shortbread sundae.
Your neighborhood ice cream joint in Hillsdale, this shop scoops all the local treats, like fresh ice cream from Alpenrose Dairy. Design your own stunning sundae with a range of topping options like gummy bears, waffle cone pieces, crushed oreos or the classic hot fudge. Get your scoop or sundae served in a little baseball hat for extra fun!
Like the holiday season, the summer months give families time to bond. While social media posts relay the joy and excitement of seasonal family adventures, finding the perfect location for your getaway can be challenging—even stressful—when individual interests and travel time come into play. If the members of your clan can’t agree on where they want to go or what they want to do on your next trip, but warm weather is a must, then Southern California is your next, best vacation destination. Read on to find where to go, what to do—and why some folks are calling the golden state by a new name: Kidifornia.
photo: by Annette Benedetti
Why California?
With weather that is warm and sunny year-round and activities that range from luxurious to kid-tastic to rugged and perfect for the outdoor enthusiast, California is ideal for any family. There are numerous theme parks to explore, stunning beach fronts to relax and play on, plenty of museums for the history buffs in your family, and a variety of activities to satisfy the outdoor adventurer. If you live in the Pacific Northwest, airfare is reasonable and the flights are short, which is perfect if your vacation time is limited. If you have a bit of extra time on your hands, this vacation makes an ideal road trip, with plenty to see and experience along the way!
Catalina
What to do If you live in the PNW and only have a weekend to escape the daily grind, Catalina is your dream destination. With an airport located in Long Beach, the flight from major airports like Seattle’s Sea-Tac International Airport and Portland’s Portland International Airport is just a couple-hour trek, giving you extra time to relax once you reach your final destination.
From Long Beach, you can either catch the Catalina Express and enjoy an hour-long, 22-mile scenic cruise off of the coast of Southern California to your final destination in Avalon. Tickets start at $36 per person, per round trip. Or, you can get there by helicopter with IEX Helicopters, which takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes and gives passengers a bird’s-eye view of the ocean and Catalina Island. Rides start at $135 per person and provide an unforgettable experience. If you need more time in the sky, you can plan a helicopter tour of the island! Chances are, you’ll see plenty of local wildlife including buffalo, dolphins and more.
photo: courtesy of IEX Helicopters
At first glance, Catalina will make you wonder if you’ve landed in a completely different country where island escape dreams come true. This stunning location has white-sand beaches for kids to play on while their parental units unwind. Vehicles are limited on the island, so road noise isn’t a thing, nor is the fear of eager youngsters running out into the streets should you take your eyes off of them for a moment.
Both locals and visitors primarily get around by bike or golf cart, and both options are fun for everyone in the family. Rent your family bikes from Brown’s Bikes where you’ll find a multitude of options to fit every need and interest. Go tandem or try an electric bike. They even have bikes for kids and prices start around $50 per day per bike when you order online. If touring the island by golf cart sounds exciting, head to Catalina Island Golf Cart Rentals where you can pick up your rig with prices starting at $90 per two hours.
Activities on the island abound. The adrenaline junkies in your family will thrill at the chance to go on the Catalina Island Zip Line Eco Tour. 88 percent of the island is protected by the Catalina Island Conservancy, which keeps it from being developed. The eco-tour let’s you soar above the island’s natural beauty through the Descanso Canyon on five separate zip lines. Smaller children can go tandem with mom or dad (note: there are size and weight restrictions), and the knowledgeable staff not only keep you safe and having fun, they educate you on the island’s history and the local wildlife. Your journey lasts approximately two hours and prices start at $129 per person depending on the time of year.
photo: by Annette Benedetti
For those who prefer to remain at sea level—or below— the Catalina Undersea Expedition is the perfect activity. Your ride inside this semi-submersible vessel puts you five feet under the water where you are surrounded by windows that get you up close and personal with the local sea life. Expect to see vivid orange garibaldi, spotted calico bass, urchins, rockfish, bat rays and more on this 45-minute ride. Tickets start at $31 a person and are well worth the price!
If you prefer a more personal sea life encounter, sign up for a snorkeling excursion with Catalina Divers Supply. Their professionals will suit you up, get you out in the water and help you find plenty of beautiful creatures in person for just $55 per person. For a more educational experience, stop by the Catalina Island Museum for a tour or to check out the exhibits on your own. Recently relocated to a new building, this museum has 18,000 square feet of space for exhibits and a wide range of modern amenities. From a theater area to an outdoor amphitheater, there’s plenty to see and do here. Visitors get the opportunity to learn about the history of Catalina or “ooh,” and “aaah,” over exhibits like Houdini: Terror on the Magic Isle and JAWS: The Art of Fear in Filmmaking.
photo: by Annette Benedetti
Where to Stay and Eat You will feel right at home at the Old Turner Inn where the rooms combine local elegance with the comfort of home. Their king and queen suites both have beautiful wrought-iron beds with luxurious linens, wood-burning fireplaces, and french doors that lead into a separate room with a daybed. These lovely suits give parents a little extra privacy and kids a sweet place to crash after their long day filled with adventure.
When you stay at the Old Turner, your breakfast is covered. Enjoy a home-cooked meal every morning. Also included every evening, are light appetizers with sips for adults and kids. When you do head out to eat, hit the Descanso Beach Club for an oceanfront meal and drinks. From street tacos to burgers there’s an array of menu items to tame the hungriest of tummies, and mom and dad can enjoy sipping one of their signature cocktails while the kids play nearby in the sand. We suggest the Cabana Colada and the Blood Orange Margarita.
If you want to let the kids live out their own beach dreams, get dinner at the Three Palms Avalon Restaurant & Arcade. There’s nothing quite like playing old-school and new-school arcade games on the beach! Let the kids run wild while you nibbling on pizza or a salad. When everyone has filled their tummies, enjoy island-style bowling to end your day!
photo: by Annette Benedetti
Carlsbad
What to do When it comes to summer fun, it’s likely that the kids and adults in your family have strikingly different ideas about what they want to do. Young adventurers dream of them parks with rides that spin them around and give them an excuse to scream and shout. Mom and dad, on the other hand, likely envision scenic strolls, relaxing on the beach with a tasty beverage, and perhaps even a romantic meal.
Carlsbad has a little something for everyone.
LEGOLAND is a Carlsbad highlight that will make your youngsters squeal with joy. With prices starting at $89 per child and a variety of package options, this theme park is filled with rides and activities that are designed to delight the younger set—especially little ones who like to fill their time playing with their favorite tiny bricks. This theme park has a water park and the Sea Life Aquarium all in one location, so it lends itself to kids with an array of interests. Get up early to beat the crowds and hit the Coastersaurus, Knights Tournament, and the Dragon—and satiate the adrenaline junkie’s need for speed early on.
If you have little ones who are timid when it comes to rides, not to worry, there are plenty of gentle but fun experiences like the Sky Patrol for them to enjoy. LEGOLAND is perfect for kids of all ages, but especially those zero to 10. Height requirements and ride intensity are designed to leave no child behind wishing,“If only I were big enough,” and minimizing the tears that are shed during your visit.
When the temperatures soar, suit up and hit the waterpark to cool off with splashy rides and slippery slides. Then head to the Sea Life Aquarium where your young discoverers have the opportunity to see glowing jellyfish and walk beneath sharks and rays as they swoosh through the water. There’s even a hands-on experience that allows small fingers to touch and feel sea life.
photo: by Annette Benedetti
Once you have theme park fun out of your kiddos’ system, take time to explore Carlsbad. Up the fun with electric bike rentals or a tour at Pedego Electric Bikes. Prices start at $16 per hour with a two-hour minimum rental. The tours give families the opportunity to experience the coastline in a unique and exhilarating way while learning fun facts about the area from an expert.
The Carlsbad Flower Fields bloom in early spring, making for a spectacular early morning or late afternoon stroll. You’ll need to put this activity on your itinerary for 2019 as the flowers are no longer currently in bloom.
Don’t forget to get beach time in at one of the Carlsbad beaches. With five unique stretches of shoreline to explore, including the North Carlsbad Beaches, Tamarack-State Beach and more, you can enjoy a variety of oceanfront experiences.
photo: by Annette Benedetti
Where to Stay and Eat LEGOLAND Resort and Hotel and LEGOLAND CASTLE Hotel are both perfect for families looking for a playful adventure and a whole lot of comfort. The rooms are themed according to a variety of adventures and the adult sleeping area is separated from the children’s bunk area, giving a bit of much-appreciated space after a long day full of adventures.
Both hotels have direct entrance to the theme park and they are situated close to Carlsbad making for an easy commute to the beach. There are multiple restaurants on site where kids can be kids and parents don’t have to stress. Rooms start around $499 per night.
For a higher dining experience, take the family to Vigilucci’s Cucina Italiana—or sneak in a romantic date night out. Located in the heart of Carlsbad’s beautiful downtown area, this authentic Italian restaurant offers an elegant atmosphere, handmade pasta dishes and the option to dine in or enjoy eating outside in their patio dining area. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of theme park fun, or take in the magic of a day on the beach.
You can’t go wrong ordering anything on the menu, but we suggest the Brodetto di Cozze e Vongole for an excellent seafood experience, any of the handmade pasta dishes, and kids will delight at the scrumptious meatballs.
Park 101 offers families another wonderful dining option and is located in the center of the Village. Its multi-level dining plaza gives hungry customers the opportunity to lounge, play, or dine and drink. This location is both kid-friendly and dog-friendly and features a market-style eatery with fresh menu items that include salads, soups, sandwiches, and an array of savory plates. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to devour their mac and cheese! It is delicious. And your kids will love the cotton candy machine and it’s sugary treat. You can enjoy your meal on the deck where you will find fantastic views of Carlsbad and a lounge with fire pits or down in the lawn area where there’s plenty of room for the kiddos to play.
photo: by Annette Benedetti
Oceanside
What to do Fun fact: the site of the iconic Top Gun House is located right off the Oceanside beach front, taking parents back to “the good ol’ days.”
This area provides families with plenty to do. From biking along the beach to whale watching to sand play, it’s easy to fill a day. Kids will love the long stretch of beachfront dotted with play areas that offer the opportunity to swing, slide, and climb to the sound of waves crashing. Rent bikes from Wheel Fun Rentals and bike the famous Strand. When little legs get tired, take a leisurely stroll down the pier.
While it’s easy to stay on the beach and play all day, Oceanside has a multitude of additional adventures you’ll want to fit into your trip itinerary. Experience sea life in its natural habitat with Oceanside Adventures luxury whale and dolphin tours. These cruises can be found on the Oceanside Harbor and they thrill family members young and old with a spectacular adventure through the Pacific waters. The captain knows exactly where to go, and along with the whales and dolphins you encounter sea lions and a variety of seabirds. Best of all, you are likely to meet new people and your kids may even make a new friend or two while squealing with joy at sightings of exciting marine life.
photo: by Annette Benedetti
Additional adventures to consider while in this charming beach town include taking a hike at Buena Vista Lagoon: the only freshwater lagoon in California. Your young (and old) surf fanatics will enjoy visiting the California Surf Museum where they can learn all about the history of the sport and its culture. After your tour through the exhibits is done, head back to the beach for a little surf fun.
Where to Stay and Eat For a spectacular view of the beach and a front seat to the Top Gun House, reserve a room at the SpringHill Suites Marriott Oceanside. The rooms are beautiful, spacious and have a double queen with sofa bed option for larger families. The complimentary breakfast is a highlight at this location. With offerings that include eggs, sausage, and make-your-own waffles, every appetite is sure to be satisfied. Make sure to take advantage of the rooftop pool. This amenity will please both parents and children with its incredible view, hot tub, and a pool that little ones can splash and play in.
Hello Betty is attached to the SpringHill Suites and you will find fresh-off-the-boat fish at this location. Their Baja inspired menu ties in beautifully with the beach experience this location offers visitors. They have an upstairs patio with games like giant Jenga that kids and parents can play while waiting for their meals. Or kick back and enjoy live music while sipping on tasty cocktails. The menu is full of great options. We suggest the ceviche and smoked tacos. Younger pallets are sure to love their cheeseburger too.
Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill is located on the Oceanside Harbor, diners climb the stairs to the restaurant and enjoy being served on a deck overlooking the harbor. This restaurant is the perfect place to refuel after your whale-watching adventure. With dreamy views and a menu filled with savory seafood delights, you can count on top-notch service and excellence in every prepared dish. Fresh fish is their specialty, we recommend their Mahi Mahi and Lobster Tacos. The younger set will delight at their grilled sirloin cheeseburger, mac and cheese, and pasta bowl. For dessert consider splurging on their chocolate lava cake or keep it simple and delightful with berries and cream.
Do you have a favorite Southern California vacation location? Share it with us in the comments below!
—Annette Benedetti
This trip was paid for by Visit California, but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
Sick of the same old pizza, carrot sticks and cake at kids’ birthday parties? Get in on the food truck craze and let one cater your kiddo’s next bash. Grilled cheese-only diet? There’s a truck for that. Doughnuts delivered to your door? There’s a truck for that, too. Cookies baked fresh onsite without the mess in your kitchen and served with local milk? ’Nuff said. Costs for renting trucks vary based on many factors, including the food you choose to serve, location, number of guests to be served, day of the week and length of time. It’s best to contact each place directly to get the most accurate numbers. Here are nine trucks that will help you shake things up.
Astro Doughnuts and Fried Chicken So, yes, the truck has chicken fingers and a chicken BLT, but more importantly, it has doughnuts. A lot of them. Flavors include vanilla glazed, maple bacon, PB&J, mint cookies n cream and yuzu toasted coconut. Fun fact: The owners were the first native Washingtonians to play for the Washington Capitals – a bonus for little hockey fans.
Online: astrodoughnuts.com
Matty Ice This water ice and ice cream company makes small-batch ice and cream frozen desserts such as the Metropolitan, which has layers DC Dirt, chocolate ice with Oreo, Vicious Vanilla and cherry ice, and the DMV, which is DC Dirt topped with Chunk Brownie and mango ice.
Captain Cookie and the Milk Man The name pretty much says it all, no? The cookies are baked fresh right on the truck. Cookie options include chocolate chip, double chocolate, vegan chocolate chip, funfetti and oatmeal raisin. Pair those with local milk of the skim, 2 percent, whole or chocolate variety. And did we mention there’s ice cream? That can be made into a custom ice cream sandwich? BRB, stalking this food truck right now.
FroZenYo If your tot likes to create his or her own cup of fro yo, opt for this. FroZenYo offers fat-, dairy-, gluten- and nut-free options in addition to no sugar added and low-fat flavors. Speaking of flavors, they include cake batter, cookies and cream, chocolate, and vanilla. Toppings are too many to list, but this sampling should give you an idea: fresh strawberries, mango and blueberries; Reese’s peanut butter cups, hot fudge, brownies, and the all-important rainbow sprinkles.
Carmen’s Italian Ice and Café Flavors change daily but the extensive list of potential tastes include cotton candy, horchata, coconut spicy mango Thai dye, sour melon, chocolate and vanilla chip mousse. There’s also frozen custard in marshmallow, blood orange, Nutella and maple bacon. Note: popcorn, cotton candy and hot dog carts are available, too.
Scoops2U Choose between a novelty truck – a Classic Good Humor truck – which can provide 25 to 2,500 servings of prepackaged novelty ice cream bars and the modern Scoops2U truck, which can serve novelty bars, scoops in cups and cones, sundaes, and chipwiches. Note: For birthday parties, they operate only in Virginia.
Sweetbites Now a brick-and-mortar café in McLean, Sweetbites started as a food truck and still takes it out for rides. It’s also available for rental and serves treats such as cakes, cupcakes, cookies and brownies. Classic cupcake flavors include chocolate peanut butter, cookies and cream and cinnamon bun.
The Big Cheese Grilled cheese is pretty much on the (often literally) short list of foods kids love. Give them some gourmet options on this traditional comfort food, such as grilled Gruyere with roasted asparagus on sourdough. OK, maybe that’s a stretch. Perhaps Chèvre with Nutella on multigrain is a better starting point.
Say Cheese! As we were saying, grilled cheese is popular with kids – and adults, too, if we’re being honest. Menu options include the Merica, with two cheeses on square white bread and the Philly with steak, American and provolone cheeses plus mushrooms and mayo on ciabatta. You can also create your own, or opt for something from the kids’ menu, which includes hot dogs, burgers and, wait for it, grilled cheese. And there’s the dessert option from the catering menu, offering s’mores grilled cheese. Note: They have a two-hour, 50-person minimum.
Ice cream trucks aren’t the only things kids are chasing down the street. With mobile takes on fried chicken, french fries and even doughnut ice cream sandwiches (yes, it’s a thing), food trucks are your next breakfast, lunch and dinner go-to. Hit the streets for these six stalk-able trucks the whole family will love.
photo: Bruges Brothers
Bruges Brothers
If there’s one thing kids fantasize about, it’s french fries as a meal. Operating since 2014, Bruges Brothers fulfills those fry dreams. This Belgian-inspired starch mobile peddles crispy french fries every which way, hand-cut and paired with assorted dipping sauces like English curry, smoked ketchup, chimichurri and horseradish-laced tiger sauce. They’ve also got entree cones like braised oxtail poutine, fish ‘n’ chips, and cheesy, eggy croque madames.
The Roost Carolina Kitchen
The only thing better than chicken tenders are chicken tender tacos. And really, the only thing better than that are chicken tender tacos on wheels. The Roost delivers crispy goodness to hungry Chicagoans clucking for chicken on the go. While the brick-and-mortar iteration of Roost is notoriously jam-packed in Lakeview, the food truck is a good option for a quick fix. Generally roving around the Loop on weekdays, it dishes up herb-seasoned fried chicken, fried chicken sandwiches, biscuits, peach cobbler and — let’s not forget — those chicken tender tacos.
Firecakes Donuts
If your breakfast cravings skew sweet, than follow the scent of fried dough to the Firecakes truck. This mobile outfit of the River North doughnut shop serves the masses via a vintage 1968 Citroen. Expect all the Firecakes favorites on board, such as honey glazed, coconut cream, old-fashioned buttermilk and peanut butter cup, plus seasonal specials like raspberry-blood orange jelly. And just in time for summer, Firecakes has brought back its crowd-pleasing ice cream sandwich doughnuts, wherein homemade vanilla ice cream is stuffed inside glazed doughnuts.
The Eastman Egg Company
Egg McWhat? If it’s a killer egg sandwich your kin craves, head to Eastman Egg Company and do not pass “Go.” Or better yet, let Eastman come to you. Featuring locally sourced, sustainable eggs, meats and produce, not to mention locally baked bread from Chicago’s La Farine Bakery, these folks make a mean breakfast sandwich. Try the Doc with a farm egg, thick-cut bacon and white cheddar; or the namesake Eastman heaped with egg, country ham, Egmont cheese, cucumber and house sweet chili sauce.
Chicago Pizza Boss
Pizza and Chicago go together like beaches and summer vacay. Which is what makes the Chicago Pizza Boss such an ideal food truck for summertime stalking. A mainstay in the ‘burbs since 2013, the food truck launched in Chicago three years ago to tons of fanfare. Pizza bakes in a wood-fired, mobile brick oven, featuring popular pies like margherita, sausage, pesto, five-cheese and a fiery option called Hellfire’s Kiss. There’s also arancini rice balls and fried pizza puffs called panzerotti.
The Nomad Food Company
Okay, this isn’t truly a food truck, in that it doesn’t rove around the streets tweeting out its locale. But it is mobile. And there is food. In fact, it’s some of the best food you’ll taste this summer. The pizza-focused operation sets up shop at Green City Market every Wednesday and Saturday during the outdoor season (i.e.: now through October), in the heart of Lincoln Park proper. Seeing as this is a farmers’ market spot, you can expect fresh fixins throughout the season, like pizzas topped with morel mushrooms in the spring, or summer squash in the summer. They’re all cooked on thin crust in a mobile wood-fired brick oven, providing a bit of a show as you wait for your meal. The Nomad also makes special appearances throughout Chicago, so be sure and follow them on Twitter to keep up to speed.
Back-to-school is a time when we say good bye to the long days of summer and routines come back into play. If you’ve got a tot missing their school-bound sibling and suffering from a case of back-to-school blues, then we’ve got the perfect cure. Treat your little one to some quality time with a fun activity just for them. Here are four ideas to cure the back-to-school blues.
Photo credit: Victoria Pearson/Lemonade
Enjoy Some Lemonade One of Los Angeles’ most popular spots has come to San Diego! With the big kids in school, why not grab the littles and enjoy a refreshing sip of lemonade at one of the newest locations in Westfield UTC and Hillcrest? The popular chain boasts a menu full of Seasonal California comfort food in a fast-casual cafeteria setting. You can’t go wrong with a strawberry lemonade cupcake or one of their sandwiches (a strawberry lemonade cupcake“El Tijuana” turkey, jalapeno aioli, jicama slaw, queso fresco). But what really makes Lemonade all that is their variety of, well, lemonade! We love the Cucumber Mint, Guava Limeade, Watermelon Rosemary and Blood Orange. And with their casual, family-friendly dining style, it’s the perfect place to escape with the kiddos.
Westfield UTC
4525 La Jolla Village Dr.
San Diego, Ca 92122
858-251-0912
Hillcrest
3958 Fifth Ave.
San Diego, Ca 92103
619-293-7900
Bounce it Out at Sky High Sports Trampoline Park Get ready for some high octane fun at Sky High Sports trampolining center. Your little one will be able to jump, bounce and flip through San Diego’s largest trampoline park that has a wall-to-wall trampoline field, swings, a foam pit, an arcade, and that’s just the beginning. Mondays are made especially for the under school age kiddo. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. they hold a Munchkin Monday play time. Kiddos 6 and under can bounce away their cares at a special price while Disney music plays from over head.
There’s also a parents lounge with free wi-fi, and you can finish off your session with a sweet treat at their cafe. To cut through the paperwork, book your time and fill out the waiver online up to two days in advance. Bare feet are okay for jumping (and mom, feel reassured as each trampoline is disinfected nightly), or grip socks are available for purchase.
8190 Miralani Dr.
San Diego, Ca 92126
858-693-5867
Online: sdo.jumpskyhigh.com
Connect with Your Inner Artist at Color Me Mine Have some bonding time mixed with crafting at Color Me Mine, Rancho Bernado’s pottery painting studio. They help kids of any age (and adults for that matter) find their inner artist. There are hundreds of pottery pieces to choose from like mugs, plates, garden statues and cookie jars to choose from. Simply use their wide range of paints, stencils, stamps and brushes to create your own masterpiece.
Don’t worry if things get messy; in fact, it’s encouraged with kids here (as is some good old finger painting). And you’ll be happy to know that all the paints are washable and won’t stain clothes. Plus they are toxic free, lead free and food safe. Once you’ve painted your pottery masterpiece, the Color Me Mine team will fire it up for you in the kilm and then it will be ready for collection in 3-5 days.
4S Commons Town Center
10550 Craftsman Way, Suite 183
San Diego, Ca 92127
858-312-5500
Online: ranchobernardo.colormemine.com
Feeding the Ducks at Lake Chollas Get back to nature by talking your mini explorer to feed the ducks at Lake Chollas. Originally designed as a water reservoir for San Diego in the early 1900s, these days its home to a beautiful 16-acre lake and parkland. Stop at the kiosk near the entrance to buy some bread to feed the ducks. Then head on down to the lake for the feeding to begin! These ducks are use to people feeding them so you shouldn’t have to do too much trouble enticing to get them over. While you’re there, check out the squirrels and busy bird life surrounding the lake on the looped pathway. At under a mile long, it’s perfect for those little legs.
Or if a bit of play time is required, check out the four playgrounds the park has to offer including one big massive viking ship guaranteed to to make some oohs and ahhs. Entry to the park is free and there is plenty of parking on site. Restrooms are limited so take a potty break before arriving.
6350 College Grove Dr.
San Diego, Ca 92115
619-527-7683
Online: sandiego.gov
Do you have any ways to help your younger kids beat the back to school blues? Let us know in the comments below!
Whether slathered in creamy peanut butter or a heaping helping of jam, toast is a classic kid favorite for breakfast and beyond. Restaurants around town are wising up to something our pint-sized foodies knew all along—toast is the perfect vehicle for getting yummy goodness into ones tummy. Savory to sweet, breakfast, lunch, snacks or dinner and found in every corner of town, raise a toast to the newest food trend: toast!
photo credit: Jolie Loeb
Lavender and Honey
Caffeine deprived with a car full of hungry tots? Morning or afternoon, you can head straight for Pasadena’s Lavender and Honey, which has an espresso bar for you and a kids menu for them. Parents (and adventurous kids) love the namesake toast spread with velvety goat cheese, drizzled honey, and a dusting of lavender. Kids dig the sticky sweet peanut butter, honey and banana option. Or pretty much anything else on the menu. Each toast plate is reasonably priced at $3 a pop. Grab a French Lavender Breve to go along with your snack. The combo will keep you going for the rest of the afternoon.
Lavender and Honey Espresso Bar
1383 East Washington Blvd.
Pasadena
Phone: 310-528-0745
Online: lavenderandhoneyespresso.com
Sqirl
Calling all parents of early risers: Sqirl is the place for you. We say that because the lines can get pretty long, and your best bet is to show up when the place opens. But the food is worth the wait, and worth the national attention this simple spot is garnering. Toast at Sqirl starts with thick slices of brioche bread. Then they add the good stuff like chocolate ganache, fresh almond hazelnut spread, and house made ricotta. And don’t forget about the jam: strawberry thyme, blackberry lemon verbena or Moro blood orange marmalade. Bring home a jar of the sweet stuff for a toasty morning at home.
Sqirl
720 N Virgil Ave.
Silverlake
Phone: 323-284-8147
Online: sqirlla.com
photo credit: Le Pain Quotidien’s facebook page
Le Pain Quotidien
Tartine is French for open-faced sandwich, but however you slice it this toasty treat is a hand held favorite. Big communal tables welcome strollers, high chairs and weary parents who are eager to feed kids and be fed themselves. Tartines come sweet or savory, but always go well with French press coffee for the adults or fresh squeezed juice for kiddos. Try a savory tartine with smoked turkey and avocado or basil chicken and mozzarella. And picky eaters delight in just plain toast and one or all of the tableside (free) chocolate, cookie or vanilla spreads for a sweet treat.
Le Pain Quotidien has locations in Studio City, Larchmont, West Hollywood, Downtown, Beverly Hills, manhattan Beach, Glendale and more. To find the location nearest you, check their website.
Black Dog Coffee
Hit this place up before a trip to LACMA or the La Brea Tar Pits for some down home grub that’s sure to fuel your day. Thick cut rosemary bread is the perfect vehicle for whipped butter and preserves – a little savory, a little sweet, a little salty. One order is enough to feed two kiddos or one really hungry grownup. Wash it all down with organic milk, hot chocolates, fresh juices and more. Insider drink tip: the Café Cubano is worth a try, made with deep, rich coffee with condensed milk.
Black Dog Coffee
5657 Wilshire Blvd
Miracle Mile LA
Phone: 323-933-1976
Online: blackdogcoffee.com
photo credit: Kim Orchen Cooper
Superba
Superba boasts five different toast offerings for hungry breakfast crowds. And if you thought that was superb, just wait until you taste their house made jams. To keep you coming back for more, they offer a new jam every week. And forget about peanut, almond, or sunflower. This place serves a mean pecan butter and jam toast that kids will love. Parents will go hog wild for the maple custard toast with bacon confit and sage. Actually, kids love that one too, and it’s perfect for palate expanding.
Superba Food and Bread
1900 S. Lincoln Blvd.
Venice
Phone: 310-907-5075
Online: superbafoodandbread.com
The Source Cafe
If you or your kiddos have a gluten sensitivity, The Source Café is serving up some delicious wheat free options. They are also vegan and vegetarian friendly and everything comes from organic ingredients. Talk about a wholesome start to the day. Toast flavor combinations are definitely for adventurous eaters—smoked wild white fish, walnut pesto with cashew cheese, curry egg salad. But you can also always get a plain piece of toasted paleo flax bread with or without toppings for picky eaters or ask them to toast up the cherry cashew bread that comes with ghee and honey for kids who are looking for a sweeter option.
Swingers
Pre-kids you’d hit this place up for late night eats, but now it’s more of a post play date hang out. But time has not changed the deliciousness of this diner food. Buried in the larger than life breakfast menu (served all day) is the bright green, buttery and oh-so-kid-friendly avocado toast. It starts with an extra thick slice of multi grain toast piled high with California’s favorite fruit, sprinkled with sea salt and a squeeze of lemon. Make sure to ask for it sans red pepper flakes, as it might be too hot for tiny taste buds to handle.
Swingers
8020 Beverly Blvd
Mid-City Los Angeles
Phone: 323-653-5858
Online: swingersdiner.com
Where do you get your toast fix, besides the pop up contraption on your counter at home? Tell us your spot for this trending treat in the comments below.
Summer may be gone, but the weather is just warming up here in the Bay Area, and your kids will be running home from school begging for a cool, juicy snack. Instead of digging out the usual cherry popsicle from the back of the fridge, why not jazz things up with some super creative popsicle inventions that will not only excite the young ones, but satisfy your cravings as well. Thanks to our friends at 7×7, your excursion to find the best popsicle in town is sure to be a memorable one!
From a Truck
Twirl and Dip
You may know this colorful truck for its soft serve, but they also have seasonal fruitsicles in flavors like watermelon white pepper and cantaloupe gewurztraminer. Find them in Golden Gate Park from Wednesday through Sun (1 pm – 6:30 pm). Check their website for location specs and updates.
On a Tricycle
LickPops
The Family that owns LickPops also has an apple farm in Sebastopol, so you’re likely to find flavors like Pink Pearl apple on their menu. Also: veggie pops such as Sweet Corn and legume pops like Adzuki Bean. Follow Twitter to see where their tricycle is rolling —it’s often in the Mission—and know that LickPops caters private parties too.
In Markets
Bar Gelato
In May of this year, local scoop shop Gelateria Naia got into the game with Bar Gelato, a line of popsicles that uses the very same gelato they scoop at their 18 Northern California scoop shops. Many of their flavors are compilation projects with other local businesses. There’s TCHO Chocolate, St. George Spirits Single Malt, Numi Jasmine, and Blue Bottle Coffee. Find them at the Academy of Sciences, the TCHO Chocolate Beta Store, and the Whole Foods locations listed out here.
Ciao Bella
Another local gelateria-cum-popsicle maker, Ciao Bella sells its Blueberry Passion and Blood Orange Sorbet Bars at Whole Foods nationwide. For what it’s worth, the blueberry flavor, in particular, has been recognized by both Self and this month’s Health magazines as a good-tasting low calorie treat.
At a Stand
SF Pops
Marin’sRebecca Rouas founded SF Pops in May of this year with a focus on locally sourced, seasonal ice pops. Although her tangerine beet flavor is a personal favorite, creations like chocolate avocado and lavender lemonade are crowd-pleasers, too. Rouas goes into hibernation for the fall and winter, but will be back in action at the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market in May of next year. In the meantime, you can commission her for custom orders. Find information on her Facebook page.
Developing
Queen of Pops
Former Top Chef contestant Josie Malave has recently arrived on the local scene with plans to release a rock and roll themed seasonal popsicle line. Her totally natural, and slightly irreverent flavors like Stoned Habanero and Dirty Chocolate Pig should start showing up at music festivals and record release parties around spring of next year. She’s also working out the logistics of “Design-a-Pop,” allowing customers to create thier own popsicles at whim.
This is our weekly guest post from our friends at 7×7, a site that keeps you up on the best of SF. We’ve teamed up for an exciting partnership to bring you a fantastic Date Night idea each week. Be sure to check out their blog for hourly doses of the best of SF.
