ML Interest Tag: coconut-water

Cheers to Good Health! The Best Juice Bars in San Diego

by Beth Shea

Starting the New Year off on a health kick? We’ve got your back with our list of the city’s best juice bars. The totally slurp-worthy selections at these local juice shops masterfully blend fruits and veggies into creative concoctions that will delight even the most discerning taste-buds. Scroll on to find a friendly neighborhood juice bar near you to order up nutrient-dense, sippable fixes your whole family will love.

OH! Juice Cafe

OH! Juice Cafe via Yelp

Whether you choose to belly up to the bar at the newish Oh! Juice Cafe' in Encinitas for a juice tasting or get your order delivered to your home (think: modern milk-man) Oh! Juice makes it uber-easy for you and yours to get your daily dose of organic, locally sourced, cold-pressed juice. The lush juice flavors rotate seasonally. Currently in the rotation are tasty, healthy elixirs including Cookies 'N Protein and Berry Exotic.

90 N Coast Hwy. 101, Ste. 212
Encinitas, CA 92024
760-487-1896
Online: ohjuicecleanse.com

Beaming Cafe

Beaming Cafe

Beaming Cafe's flagship location in Del Mar opened its doors in 2012. The long line of customers waiting to get inside was a surefire sign of things to come. The popular local hot-spot now has 8 locations throughout San Diego and Los Angeles. The self proclaimed “Organic Superfood Cafe” is raising the bar on the traditional juice cafe experience. In addition to their robust menu of healthy entrees, tasty salads and gluten and dairy free baked goods, they offer potent juices the likes of 'Get Preggy' and 'Knocked Up' geared specifically for expectant moms and women trying to conceive. All of this and they cater to the younger set with kid-friendly smoothie flavors including Berry Delish and Mint Chip. And before you leave, don't forget to try the Banana Chocolate Chip bread — the ultimate "healthy" treat. 

Multiple Locations
Online: beamingcafe.com

Choice Juicery

Choice Juicery

Aren't we always telling our kids to make smart choices? Well, choosing Choice Juicery is leading by example! The menu is full of organically awesome ingredients that also happen to be gluten-free, dairy free and 100% plant based. All of the smoothies come as a bowl as well, which means they can be topped with granola, fresh fruit or any number of "superfoods" like chia seeds, goji berries or coconut flakes. With flavors like Orange Dreamsicle, Superhero and PB&J your little health nut will soon be choosing smoothies over ice cream any day.

Multiple Locations: Carlsbad, Little Italy, Del Sur, Solana Beach
Online: choicejuicery.com

Greens Please

Ben T. via Yelp

The name says it all! Greens Please in Poway is all about the good stuff... or is it the stuff that's good for you? Either way, all of their blends include 6 types of powerfully healing, dark, leafy greens, chia seed, flax seed, kelp and alkalized water. We swear our immune system is getting stronger with each and every sip. The abundance of antioxidants and nutrients are transfixed into a delightfully yummy drink like the Green-Ya-Colada. We're not exactly sure how they do it - but we're so happy they do!

12202 Poway Rd. #100
​(Corner of Oak Knoll Rd.)
Poway, CA 92064
858-842-1001
Online: greensplease.com

Juice Wave

Juice Wave via Yelp

This fun-loving company started by Arleigh Rose is a local treasure. Their mission is to "refresh and nourish the soul by using the best quality ingredients fresh from local farms." Visit Juice Wave in Mission Beach for the bohemian vibe and to give your taste buds a real treat. Kids go crazy for the 'Strawberry Fields Forever' blend and you'll love the bursting with veggies 'Dirt Rich' concoction. If you need an extra jolt of caffeine with your fix, the Bump and Grind is for you! There's something for everyone at The Juice Wave.

3733 Mission Blvd.
San Diego, CA 92109
858-488-0800
Online: juicewavesd.com

Juice Alchemy

Juice Alchemy via Yelp

Juice Alchemy caters to both your desire to cleanse and your urge to satiate your sweet tooth. Run by San Diego natives who support local farmers and the community, you'll find a stellar collection of juices formulated to make you thrive on the menu from 'Sunshine' and 'Super Juice' to 'Hangover' and 'The Detox.' They'll even whip up a customized juice or smoothie for you if you have an idea of what you'd like. Additionally, they offer, "if you are feeling down or under the weather let us know because we have a juice for that!"

3156 5th Ave.
San Diego, CA 92103
619-546-6260
Online: www.thejuicealchemy.com

Northside Shack

Ashton Z. via Yelp

We love that the woman behind Northside Shack is a mom of three who followed her passion for food to open this quaint and welcoming cafe where kids and families can also get a healthy meal. In addition to serving up a vibrant seasonal menu of juices like 'Cactus' which includes cactus, organic aloe vera juice and mint in its ingredients, 'Green Candy' which combines organic apple juice with a host of healthy additions like parsley and turmeric and 'Cold/Flu Buster' with an impressive list of hydrating and immune boosting properties like ginger and coconut water, Northside Shack has also been proclaimed "home of the world's best acai bowls." Turn your juice bar outing into a meal by pairing your beverage with an antioxidant rich organic acai bowl. Be sure to order your little sidekick the 'Grom Blend' which boasts blueberries, grapes, kale, banana, almond milk and agave.

1255 Rosecrans St.
Point Loma, CA 92106
619-738-8233
Online: northsideshack.wordpress.com

––Aimee Della Bitta & Beth Shea

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Vegan Pizza Eats: Recently Opened Virtuous Pie

by Annette Benedetti

It’s been a long day and a slice of pie for dinner sounds delightful. You consider the local options that accommodate your family’s plant-based diet and feel disappointment descend. Then you remember a friend mentioning a new alternative pizza joint opening on SE Division this past summer and you feel a spark of hope. There’s a reason for vegetarian and vegan families to feel excited about the recently-opened Virtuous Pie. This family restaurant is serving up dinner options that will make you want to eat out (or delivery) every night. Read on to find out what’s on the menu tonight.

 photo: Mattheiu C. via Yelp

A Virtuous Vision

Virtuous Pie is a Vancouver, BC-based restaurant founded in 2015 with mission of promoting the plant-based diet by creating food options that are affordable, fast and delicious. The goal is to promote positive change with food that is both good for the body as well as the planet.

The dining experience focuses on pizza and ice cream, but you can also enjoy salads and a variety of sips. They even have weekend brunch menu that includes breakfast tacos, sandwiches, bowls and calzones. Delizioso!

The Atmosphere

Virtuous Pie goes out of its way to provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. The staff is exceptionally friendly and there is a family-style eating area in the middle of the diner, and bar and window seating as well. The building is spacious with high ceilings that help hide the noise littles with big voices often have. As we mentioned above, if your kids’ appetites won’t allow them to sit and wait, you can always call in for delivery and enjoy your favorite pie in the comfort of your own home.


photo: Lena H. Yelp

Dinner

The vast majority of the food served at Virtuous Pie is hand crafted and made in-house. The wide variety of pizza options offered is almost as shocking as how incredibly good they are. The Meatball + Chevre Pizza($14) tastes a whole lot like a traditional pie. The kids are sure to love it and you are bound to wonder if the cheese isn’t actually cheese made from dairy. The answer is, “no”! The cheese is nut-based and made in-house as is their three-day dough, which makes incredible crust—not too thick and not too thin.

Some additional slices you should consider giving a try are the tasty Margherita ($10) with it’s San Marzano tomato sauce, cashew mozzarella and fresh basil. This pizza is flavorful but mild-enough that young palates can enjoy it. Stranger Wings ($14), on the other hand, is flavorful, spicy and reminiscent of chicken buffalo wings with all of the buffalo in a crispy fried cauliflower topping—just what the parents needed.

Good news for the gluten intolerant, Virtuous has kept you in mind. You can order your pizzas with Gluten-free crust. Now that’s something to celebrate.

photo: by Annette Benedetti

Dessert

It’s hard to believe you can get full-flavored, creamy ice cream with out even a dash of milk in it, but Virtuous delivers in the frozen dessert department. Choose from a list of options that includes Pumpkin Pie + Pecan, Hawaiian Vanilla, Mint+ Dark Chocolate, Lavender + Lemon, Double Chocolate + Salted Caramel, and our favorite: Turmeric + Black Pepper. That’s right! Turmeric + Black pepper makes for a beautiful yellow scoop that is surprisingly sweet and sure to bring smiles.

If they all sound too good to pick just one, order up a flight ($8) and pick three scoops to enjoy. You may even want to splurge and take pint ($11) home. Another treat on deck is their Ice Cream Sandwich ($8). You’ll love the modern twist on this classic favorite.

Sips

Round out your meal with some local sips. Virtuous has Kombucha on tap ($4/Glass), Heart cold brew ($4), craft soda by Fentimans ($4), and coconut water ($3). On the boozy side they offer wine, beer and cider on tap as well as cans of beer.

Insider Tip: This is a big one…you don’t have to be vegan or vegetarian to enjoy this restaurant! Their pies will please foodies with all dietary leanings. Go ahead meat-eaters, give it a try. You’ll thank us.

Virtuous Pie
1126 SE Division St.,
Portland
503-334-2073
Online: virtuouspie.com

Have you been to Virtuous Pie? What’s your favorite slice? Share it with us in the comments below.

—Annette

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Summer Streets Are Coming (With a Giant Water Slide!)

by Mimi O'Connor

August is perhaps New York City’s most quiet month (thanks to many people escaping the heat and humidity with last hurrah vacations), and the streets actually seem less-crowded here when it rolls around. The city takes advantage of this relative seasonal hush with Summer Streets, an entirely free program that opens a seven-mile stretch of streets to pedestrians and bikes, with lots of chances to play, eat, dance and learn about healthy recreation and sustainable transportation along the way. And yes, this year there will be a mega water slide, too.

photo: Slide the City

Taking it to the Streets

A program of the Department of Transportation, Summer Streets makes the seven-mile stretch of Park Avenue at 72nd Street to Lafayette Street at Brooklyn Bridge vehicle-free for three consecutive Saturdays in August (the 1st, the 8th and the 15th) from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cyclists, runners, walkers, rollerbladers, etc. are encouraged to come out and enjoy as little or as much of the route as they like.

But it’s much more than just open streets with no cars to dodge. Five rest stops are along the way, each offering different free activities and entertainment. The list of things to do and see is extensive, including everything from parkour demonstrations and dance performances to free bike repair and a 165-foot long, 30-feet high zipline, but each one is anchored by a big attraction or entertainment option.

photo: Marcia P. via Yelp

The Rest Stop Rundown

The Uptown Rest Stop (at 52nd Street and Park Avenue) will host dance, music, and comedy performances on a stage, while also offering free face-painting, art projects, bike rentals and the chance to climb in a big rig for a “Truck’s Eye View” of the road.

The Midtown Rest Stop (at 25th Street and Park Avenue) is home to the Whole Foods Market City Picnic, where you’ll be able to pick up lots of free samples and see demonstrations of juggling and tai chi and dance performances. Plus, this stop features free bike and rollerblade rentals as well as free helmets and helmet fittings by the Department of Transportation. Also: free bike repair!

The main attraction at Astor Place Rest Stop (at Astor Place and Lafayette Street) will be the American Kennel Club Dog Park, equipped with a grassy knoll, pools to splash in, a space to play and an agility course. Owners can also get a photo with their pooch at the Wooftale Photo Booth. Other attractions include arts and crafts, the chance to try a hand-cycle and walking tours.

photo: Larry L. via Yelp

The SoHo Rest Stop (at Spring Street and Lafayette Street) is all about the hardbodies, thanks to classes from Crunch Gym. Classes include yoga, pilates, Retro-robics, Street Jazz and Boot Camp. You’ll also find free bike rental and Honest Tea samples here.

The Foley Square Rest Stop (at Duane Street and Centre Street) is where the intense action is happening. The big attraction is the Vita Coco Beach featuring Slide the City, the giant water slide (more on that later). You’ll also find the zipline, misting stations, lots of free Coco Vita Coconut water and a “virtual technology” beach experience.

Soccer will also be big at Foley Square, thanks to the NewYork-Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital Soccer Zone, where freestyle soccer players will do demonstrations and play, with regular folks joining in. And be on the lookout for Ben Franklin wandering around: an historical reenactor will be at Foley Square, ready to engage in a bit of living history.

photo: Slide the City

So, About that Waterslide

This humongous slide has been popping up all over the country this summer, thanks to a company known as Slide the City.  It will be located at Foley Square, at the intersection of Centre Street & Lafayette Street, and while it is free to ride (one time per person) online pre-registration is required to ride the slide. You must be five years old and 46 inches or taller to ride; all kids under 18 must get sign-off from parents. (Be sure to read all the specifics and rules on riding the slide on the Summer Streets web site.)

Registration for the slide on the first Summer Street Saturday on August 1 opened on July 23; registration for August 8 opens on August 3 and registration for August 15 opens on August 10. To register and for further information visit the Slide the City website.

Will you be headed to Summer Streets this year? Have you done Slide the City? Tell us in the comments below!

—Mimi O’Connor

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Pregnancy Sips: Healthy Juices, Smoothies & Mocktails You’ll Love

by Julie Seguss

You’re steering clear of beer and wine, cutting down on coffee and Frappuccinos and wouldn’t dream of indulging in a frozen margarita now that you’re pregnant. But a cool, sweet drink would taste amazing right about now in the heat of summer right? Read on for recipes and ideas for beverages that are safe plus packed with nutrients for a healthy baby.

Photo: Eat Live Run

Easy-Peasy Pregnancy Shake: Follow the recipe on Eat Live Run to make a perfect potion for pregnant mamas-to-be. Blend together banana, peanut butter, medjool date, cinnamon and whole milk. You’ll reap the benefits of potassium (for helping to prevent pregnancy leg cramps) and healthy fats that are good for baby. Plus, some studies suggest that eating dates during pregnancy can lead to an easier labor. We’ll drink to that!

An Omega-3 Rich Cup: This smoothie is jam-paced with omega-3’s that help build your baby’s brain. You can find the full recipe on Wholistic Beginnings, which includes almond milk, banana, flax, hemp seed nut, chia seeds, walnuts and more.

Organic Juices Made for Pregnant & New Moms: Bundle Organics prenatal juices are packed with folic acid, omega-3 and other good-for-your-bump nutrients. Choose from three flavors – dark berry which promises an energy and immunity boost; a lemon, ginger and kale blend that combats fatigue and nausea; and an orange mix filled with goods that help build Baby’s circulatory, respiratory and nervous systems. Grab a bottle the next time you’re stocking up on nursery necessities at Babies R Us or find the online at bundleorganics.com.

Mix Up a Mocktail: Love indulging in fruity cocktails at summer parties? Treat your pregnant self to a virgin concoction instead. Check out our list of 14 summer mocktails that the whole family will enjoy from a watermelon slush smoothie to a non-alcoholic sangria. Who wants a hangover anyway?

Photo: Everyday Roots

A Healthy Way to Hydrate: Staying hydrated is key during pregnancy, especially if you’re carrying a baby through the heat of summer. But most electrolyte “rehydration” drinks are filled with sugar, chemical colors and other ingredients that you don’t need to drink during pregnancy. Make your own with an easy recipe from Everyday Roots. All you need is coconut water, strawberries, water, ice, sea salt and honey. Bonus: It’ll taste more fresh and refreshing than any store bought version!

Your Sipping Savior for Morning Sickness: Feeling queasy and can’t stomach breakfast? Try this smoothie from Perfection is Happy. All you need is Greek yogurt, frozen strawberries, frozen peaches and a cup of vanilla almond milk. That’s easy enough to make even when you’re on the edge of running for the bathroom. Having some protein, dairy and fruits in your belly should help you feel better.

Read Up for More Yummy Blends: Consider the brand new book, Homemade Smoothies for Mother and Baby, your prenatal smoothie bible. There are 300 recipes for smoothies that are crafted to offer prenatal nutrition, optimize breastmilk production and even special blends your baby and toddler will love. Get it on amazon.com for $11.36, as of August 4.

What do you enjoy drinking during pregnancy? Share your recipes in a Comment.

–Julie Seguss

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5 New Summer Kids Menus You Can’t Miss

by Meghan Rose

It’s too hot to heat up the kitchen. You’re too tired to cook. You’ve been having too much action packed fun to plan ahead for dinner. Whatever the reason, summer is a great time to eat out. Ditch your usual dining spot in favor of one of our favorite new summer menus just for kids. Each restaurant is like a vacation in and of itself, plus there’s loads of tasty options for everyone in the family. Bon appétit!

photo credit: Meghan Rose

Sushi Roku Pasadena
Almost every kid raised in LA becomes a sushi connoisseur at a very young age. But that doesn’t mean that they’re great at the behavior required for sitting at your favorite omakase bar. Or that you’re into paying big bucks for the massive amount of cucumber rolls they can devour. That’s why we’re huge fans of the new Okosama Kids’ Menu at Pasadena’s Sushi Roku. These kid bento boxes feature protein—beef, chicken, or sushi—in addition to health sides like tempura sweet potato and broccoli, edamame, and applesauce. Every meal also comes with the chance to pick a toy from a big box of options that range from sticker puzzles to building blocks that keep kids entertained (and quiet) while they wait for their meals and you sip your sake.

Prices: The kids meals range from $8-$13.

Summer bonus: Roku has a beautiful patio for summer sipping and relaxing and listening to the Saturday night August & September concerts at One Colorado, or for dinner before the concerts a few blocks away at the Levitt Pavilion.

33 Miller Alley
Pasadena
626-683-3000
Online: innovativedining.com/restaurants/sushiroku

photo courtesy of Stir Market

Stir Market
Stir Market has been our go-to spot for picking up gourmet treats on the go since opening last November. We also have become devotees of the “Re-stocking Hour” where from 5 p.m.-6:30 p.m. you can get bar snacks (like Porchetta Chili Cheese Fries) and on tap beers and wines for less. Perfect for a light dinner on the way home from the park… But the one thing this gourmet market and food hall didn’t have was a dedicated kids menu. That’s no longer the case, and the new-for-summer Kid’s Menu is available all day, so you can have Meyer Lemon Pancakes for dinner, After School Cinnamon Toast for an after school snack and the chicken and brown rice bowl or cheesy flatbread anytime.

Prices: The kids meals range from $5.95-$8.95. The children’s menu also features a variety of specialty drinks ($1.95) such as Coconut Water, Organic Milk, and Housemade Lemonade.

Summer bonus: When it’s your turn to be snack parent for your kid’s summer soccer league, you can stock up on a variety of healthy delicious and unique packaged take-away snacks in the marketplace. Grape coconut water and granola snack bags get gobbled and are so much better than goldfish and juice boxes! And in addition to being right across the street from the park, you’re also walking distance to Pan Pacific Park Public Pool. (Did you know you can sign your kiddo up for a $10 summer pass that’s good at all citywide swimming pools? Good through September 7, so it’s still totally worth it for the dog days of summer.)

7475 Beverly Blvd.
Mid-City
323-879-8283
Online: stirmarket.com

photo credit: Ashley W. via yelp

Simmzy’s Venice
We fell hard for Simmzy’s when we first tasted the gastro pub’s kids menu at the Burbank location that opened in January of this year. (Yes, residents of Manhattan Beach, we were late to your party!) The new location still has everything we love about the other spots: local, sustainable, organic, craft beer selection,yummy food and laid back atmosphere. But the Venice location that just opened at the end of June has summer written all over it, being just steps from the beach and the Venice Pier. The kids menu is short, but built for kids and parents alike. There’s a burger, cheeseburger, “awesome” grilled cheese (it is) and plain chicken tenders (which are even more awesome, and you will sneak some, just so you can try one of the dips that comes with it: garlic aioli, avocado buttermilk, BBQ or blue cheese). Kids also get to pick from green salad, shoestring fries or sweet potato fries. The adult menu is also very solid, but in the summer, for us, it’s all about the beer, and they’ve got a great selection of frosty summer sipables.

Prices: The kid meals are a steal at $5.25.

Summer bonus: Hello, beach. Simmzy’s is at the end of Washington Blvd, which puts you practically on the sand and super convenient for a lunch or dinner stop on a beach day or before a concert or movie at the nearby Marina.

37 W Washington Blvd.
Venice
424-835-6580
Online: simmzys.com

photo courtesy of Mr. C Beverly Hills

Mr. C Beverly Hills
Nothing says summer like a little poolside dining, and the Mr. C Hotel in Beverly Hills has a new menu just for kids available poolside from The Restaurant at Mr. C. While pool use is reserved for guests, you can pretend you’re at the Mr C in Montecarlo or Ibiza while you dine by the sparkling blue pool on seared ahi salads and sip Shred cold pressed juices. The “Little C” menu features elegant but kid appealing dishes like Baked White Tagliolini Pasta with ham (a super fancy and to-die-for mac and cheese), Mini Margherita Pizza with Buffalo mozzarella and Spaghetti alla Bolognese. Kids also get a Little C coloring book to keep them busy.

Prices: The Little C menu items range from $5.95-$11.95, Little C drinks are all $4.95.

Summer bonus: While lovely for lunch (you can order poolside from 10 a.m.-5 :30 p.m.), our favorite meal here is a weekend lazy brunch, when kids can order Belgium waffles with Nutella and sip virgin Little C Bellinis. While you drink the real deal. And we do mean real deal: the Bellini was invented by Guiseppe Cipriani, founder of Harry’s Bar in Venice, great-grandfather of the owners of Mr C.

1224 Beverwil Dr.
Beverly Hills
310-277-2800
Online: mrchotels.com

photo courtesy of The Larchmont

The Larchmont
Speaking of brunch, there’s a new brunch in town this summer, and they’ve got a menu just for kids. The Larchmont (on Melrose by Larchmont Blvd.) began serving brunch in June, and it’s just where and how you want to eat in summer. The dining room is light and airy, the porch is sunny yet private and it feels like eating in someone’s charming Hamptons home. A home that serves straight from the farm veggies and where you don’t have to do the cooking or dishes. Kids items are basic but delicious: Pancakes with organic maple syrup and whipped cream, Scrambled Eggs with bacon, crispy potatoes, and toast or French Toast with berries and whipped cream. This sets the leisurely tone to a weekend, while they devour the food you didn’t feel like making and you nosh on anything from King Crab with Bearnaise, veggie hash or Peanut Butter Crunch French Toast with bacon, roasted banana and foie gras. Oh yeah. Those taste great with the house made brunch cocktails…

Prices: The kid’s brunch items are all $10.

Summer bonus: Sunday is the perfect day to visit Larchmont! The Farmer’s Market is open from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Sam’s Bagels stocks you up with east breakfasts for the rest of the week, and you can do a little back to school shopping at Bluebird or Flicka.

5750 Melrose Ave.
Mid-City
323-464-4277
Online: thelarchmont.com

Have you discovered a new kids menu this summer? We’d love to hear about it! Let us know in the comments!

—Meghan Rose

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Amazing Family Picnics You Don’t Have to Pack

by Judy Park

Lazy summer days in LA call for bringing the family to a Hollywood Bowl concert, Shakespeare in the park or a movie outdoors. Gather those blankets and picnic baskets and enjoy the balmy California sun with the kids in tow. We went all over the city to find the best picnics-to-go options that provide sustenance for your “selective” eaters while also giving you a romantic and delicious meal that you don’t have to pack!

photo credit: courtesy of Joan’s on Third

Joan’s on Third
Pick up a picnic box from Joan’s on Third filled with classic entrees that kids adore as much as you do, like buttermilk fried chicken or toasted pita triangles with housemade apple onion dip or hummus. Desserts are plenty and will keep your little one’s sweet-tooth more than happy throughout the evening from carrot cakes to bar cookies to cupcakes. Order 48 hours in advance from their picnic menu to ensure your picnic is ready or order online although certain selections may be limited. Or better yet, take a trip to the store and grab all the goodies that can fit into your basket, whether it’s the different varieties of cheeses or the fresh veggies and hot items they have available.

Joan’s on Third has locations in Mid-City and Studio City (and a new one coming soon to Santa Monica). Check the website for addresses and hours.
Online: joansonthird.com/marketplace-page/picnics/

photo credit: Vicky H via yelp

Lemonade
With over thirteen locations open (and counting), Lemonade is guaranteed to satisfy every picky-eater in the family. A salad for Mom, a braise for Dad and your mini concert-goer can choose from their endless choices of sandwiches, proteins and veggies on the side. Don’t forget macarons for everyone and their delicious variations of the classic lemonade. Every order comes in neat little to-go boxes; just make sure you grab all the plasticwares and napkins you’ll need. Pick something healthy that everyone adores (if you’re on the fence about what to get the kids, go for the mac and cheese: Lemonade’s version never fails to delight).

Lemonade has multiple locations throughout Southern California, check the website for specific spots, hours and menus.
Online: lemonadela.com

Marston’s Restaurant
Offering salads and complete meal options for foodies big and small, Marston’s Restaurant makes enjoying a picnic dinner at Pasadena Symphony and Pops as simple as making the order before 9 a.m. on Saturday and picking it up when you arrive for the show. Of course, if your mini picnicker loves their regular menu, they can pack those as well for you for an additional charge. And it’s not just for Pasadena Symphony and Pops patrons; these meals are great for evenings at the Levitt Pavilion (one of our favorite outdoor concerts in town) or an afternoon in the park. All the meals come with a choice of fudge brownie or chocolate chip cookie—the perfect ending to a perfect meal.

Marston’s Restaurant
151 East Walnut St.
Pasadena
626-796-2459
Online: marstonsrestaurant.com

photo credit: Bess B via yelp

Alcove Cafe & Bakery
Alcove Cafe & Bakery offers a special theatre picnic menu with packages ranging from $38 for 2 people to $75 for 4 people. (When ordering for kids, we get the dinner for 2, with an extra order of hummus and another dessert or two!) Select the It’s All Greek to Me picnic package, which comes with a panini or wrap, salad, dessert and lemonade for a perfect light summer dinner or make it an extra special night with the Sweet Things package, enough sweets and delights for the whole family to share. And don’t forget to come back again for the Wine and Cheese Lovers Picnic to share with your sweetheart on a date night while the kids are at home with the babysitter. Call ahead to order or to customize your own basket.

Alcove Cafe & Bakery
1929 Hillhurst Avenue
Los Feliz
323-644-0100
Online: alcovecafe.com

photo credit: courtesy of Thyme Cafe & Market

Thyme Cafe & Market
For a gourmet dinner that feels like home cooking, order 24-48 hours in advance from Thyme Cafe & Market where they offer an extensive menu to choose from including refreshing kid-favorites like the Provencal potato salad or heirloom watermelon and tomato salad. Make it a party with a crudites platter added to dinner for 2, and the kids will sneak bites of your meal and you’ll all get your veggies. All meals are packaged in a plastic bag or cardboard traveler with utensils, salt and pepper. Don’t forget to grab the cold beverages for everyone in the refrigerated section of the store. Complete meals range from $20 to $24 per person.

Thyme Cafe & Market
1630 Ocean Park Blvd.
Santa Monica
310-399-8800
Online: thymecafeandmarket.com

photo credit: courtesy of Hotel Bel-Air

Hotel Bel-Air
The Bel-Air Picnics are year-round for non-guests as well as those staying at this historic spot. It’s our favorite elegant picnic that makes it special for grownups, but offers kid-friendly treats as well. Select a la carte items from the special picnic menu or upon request, the full restaurant menus as well. Grab a gourmet version of the grilled cheese sandwich featuring two kinds of cheeses and smoked caramelized onions on rye bread or house-made soft Bavarian pretzels while you chomp down on an assorted charcuterie and salumi platter. Finish off with some chocolate-dipped strawberries for the entire family. Individual items range from $8 to $34 with all to-go packaging and disposables provided. All orders can be picked up at the hotel’s front desk, restaurant hostess stand or even brought out to the valet area—it doesn’t get easier than that.

Hotel Bel-Air
701 Stone Canyon Road
Bel Air
310-472-1211
Online: dorchestercollection.com/en/los-angeles/hotel-bel-air/belairpicnic

photo credit: Danny N via yelp

The Albright
With a completely different menu from their regular restaurant menu, The Albright offers a Summer Harvest Picnic and a Pier Provisions Basket, both of which include children’s add-on options. Grub on Mary’s farm fried chicken or a BLT while pleasing those young taste buds with lightly-breaded chicken tenders or homemade fig jam sandwich. Children’s add-ons include baby carrots with homemade Ranch dressing, s’mores cookie and organic milk. Make your orders 48 hours in advance. Prices are $45/adult and $7/child, all disposables are provided. For both convenience and taste, this is our favorite spot to pick up a beach picnic or dinner to devour while catching a concert on the pier with the kids.

The Albright
258 Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica
310-394-9683
Online: thealbright.com

photo credit: courtesy of Stir Market

Stir Market
If you forgot to order dinner ahead of time for a movie night at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery (or any other Hollywood adjacent outing), Stir Market requires only a 4-hour notice and all picnic orders can be made online. Their summer picnic menu are great for sharing and they prepare vegetables in the most delightful way for your pint-sized foodies, like the golden apricot summer salad. Grab their cool grape coconut water and tuck in some of their amazing packaged desserts (words do not do justice to their marshmallow krispy bars) in the picnic basket to keep the kids happy. Prices range from $42 to $60.

Stir Market
7475 Beverly Blvd.
Mid-City
323-879-8283
Online: stirmarket.com

photo credit: courtesy of GC Marketplace

Hollywood Bowl To-Go

In a kid-friendly pre-packaged “bento box,” the American Concerto from GC Marketplace offers Picnic Style Fried Chicken, Orichetti Pasta with Sweet Peppers and Basil Pesto, Cole Slaw Vinaigrette and Summer Fruit Salad, sure to make you wish there were leftovers. All disposables are provided, just make sure you order by 2 p.m. on the day of the event. Bento boxes range from $15 to $45.

GC Marketplace
3315 Cahuenga Boulevard West
Hollywood
323-645-5269
Online: gcmarketplace.com

The Patina Restaurant Group restaurants at the Hollywood Bowl also offer picnic baskets for all patrons and will deliver to your box if you have a box seat. Just order by 4 p.m. the day before your concert. For growing gourmands, they will have specially-themed items throughout the season to coincide with special events including the “Hills are Alive” Bavarian pretzels, the Bugs Bunny carrot cake or a moon pie for E.T.’s evening.

The Patina Restaurant Group
2301 North Highland Avenue
Hollywood
323-850-1885
Online: hollywoodbowl.smartertakeout.net

What’s your go-to spot for food to-go for your summer picnics?

— Judy Park

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A New Juice & Smoothie Bar Your Kids Will Love

by Kelly Aiglon

If you love kid-friendly cafes that are focused on all things healthy, get ready because you’re about to have a new main squeeze. Real Good Juice Co. just opened in Old Town. The locally owned spot will be your new favorite place to pop in for a sandwich and cold-pressed juice, and treat the kids to a special smoothie. Sometimes there’s even a farm stand out front! Here what you need to know before you go.

What Kids Will Love
Real Good Juice Co. does a real good job of keeping kids happy. Walk in (or wheel in — it’s completely stroller friendly) to the sun-filled space and make yourself at home at a communal table. You’ll want to sit down and relax with a smoothie from the kids’ menu. Choices include “yum yum in your tum tum” (a mix of banana, cacao, almond butter, almond milk and honey) or “mom i want that one” (strawberries, bananas and fresh coconut water). They also offer 10-ounce cold-pressed juices which littles may have a taste for; ingredients include greens, carrots, beets, apples, lemon ginger and coconut water.

For a snack there is dehydrated fruit and granola. But for those really rumbling tummies, try a fun take on toast: It comes topped with homemade almond butter, strawberry-ginger jelly and honey. Or, be adventurous and try the superfood balls (healthy treats of coconut cacao chia dates and sea salt).

Gourmet Fun for Grownups
This spot has you covered for breakfast, lunch or dinner — or just juice, a smoothie or coffee (from Gaslight Roasters!) in between. Reading the menu is a treat in itself because juices have their own “personalities” (try the Juice Springsteen, a “glorious anthem” of celery, apple, kale, swiss chard, dandelion greens, parsley, ginger and lemon). You’ll also get your fill of salads, sandwiches and some fun surprises, like ceviche made with coconut meat instead of seafood.

The chef, Gabe Lara, has foodie cred: He used to be the sous chef at Lula Cafe and a line cook at Nico Osteria. Along with owners Jon Schiff and Gordy Sang, he believes in supporting local farms and uses ingredients from them whenever possible. So berries come from Mick Klug Farm in St. Joseph, Mich., and produce comes from Spence Farm in Fairbury. Green City Market is just up the street, too, and gets tapped whenever possible.

Other Neat-o Perks
You already know that Real Good Juice Co. does more than just juice. It’s also — surprise, surprise — a shop. One wall is like a modern apothecary, where you can buy little luxuries like candles, beach blankets, moisturizer, face wash, water bottles and more. On certain days (check the Facebook page for updates), you might even spot a farm stand out front. (Already, City Farms has been there, selling all sorts of greens.) Another bonus of this family-minded place is that there is a mini potty seat in the bathroom.

While You’re in the Area
Old Town is full of attractions that kids love. Duck into Old Town Aquarium to gaze at tank after tank of colorful fish that come from the oceans of Bali, Japan and beyond. If your sweet tooth gets the better of you, The Fudge Pot is there with homemade truffles, toffee, caramel apples and other goodies. Also make a stop at Chicago History Museum to soak up facts about the Great Chicago Fire, Comiskey Park and popular landmarks. And don’t forget that The Second City is right at the corner of Wells Street and North Avenue, offering kids’ classes and occasional family shows.

Real Good Juice Co.
1647 N. Wells St.
Old Town
312-846-1897
Online: realgoodjuiceco.com

Will you try this exciting new juice bar? Let us know in the Comments!

— Kelly Aiglon

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Pumpkin Coconut Soup

by writerredtri

Pumpkin is sautéed with fresh thyme, oregano, parsley and cilantro, then pureed with coconut water in this sweet soup from the Caribbean. Kids can have fun dotting each serving with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkling of chives. This recipe is great for the fall when there’s a plethora of pumpkins and squash at the store.

Serves 4

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons canola oil
2 cups pumpkin, peeled and chopped into cubes or 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and chopped into cubes
1 small onion, minced
3 cloves garlic, crushed
4 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable stock
1 bay leaf
1 sprig fresh thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
1 cup light coconut water
1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce*
Greek yogurt, for garnish*
chives, chopped for garnish

*Optional.

Method:
Adult: Place the oil into a 4 quart saucepan over medium heat. Add the squash and toss to coat in the oil. Add the onion and garlic. Cover, turn heat down to medium-low and let the vegetables sweat for about 3 minutes.

Kid: Add the stock, bay leaf, thyme, oregano, parsley, cilantro and salt to the pot. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender when pierced with a fork.

Adult: Remove the bay leaf and discard. Remove the vegetables carefully using a slotted spoon. Transfer to a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. Return the pureed veggies to the pot, add the sugar and coconut water. Stir to mix.

Together: Allow the soup to simmer for about 5 more minutes, or until it reduces by 1/4. Season with the pepper sauce, if using, stir and simmer for about 2 minutes more. Divide between 4 bowls.

Kid: Garnish each bowl with a spoonful of Greek yogurt, if using. Sprinkle some chopped chives over each servings and enjoy!

After you make this soup, let us know if you have any suggestions for other parents attempting this soup at home. 

Source: This recipe comes to us, with permissions, from the novel Stir It Up by Ramin Ganeshram. Photo credit Jean Paul Vellotti

We’ve teamed up with the Kids Cook Monday initiative to bring you a weekly recipe that encourages families to set aside the first night of every week for cooking and eating together as a family. Be sure to check out their website for more great ideas on how to empower your kids in the kitchen!

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