ML Interest Tag: green-salads

Order Up: Veggies Dishes Kids Beg For

by Christina Montoya Fiedler

Oh, the joy of watching your kid scarf down a plate of something green! Between sneaking spinach into smoothies and counting french fries as veggies, it’s not easy to find something they like. So when we hear of great dishes at local restaurants where the veggies are the star instead of just a supporting role, we have to share. These dishes serve up vitamin packed veggies with a whole lot of flavor that little taste buds can’t resist.

photo credit: Aikawa Ke via flickr

Spinach Ravioli at Rosti Tuscan Kitchen
Skip the kids’ menu and go straight for the spinach and ricotta ravioli at Rosti. Little chefs in the making will love choosing from eight different sauces to complete their meal. Can’t decide? They’ve been known to split the plate with two different sauces to keep kids happy. So whether it’s pesto or marinara (or both), they’ll still be getting a hefty helping of savory spinach and creamy ricotta tucked into these fluffy pasta pockets. For parents, the chicken plates are the draw, but the roasted salmon is superb and you can sneak the kids bites of brain powered protein, too.

There are locations in Encino, Calabasas, and Santa Monica
Online: rostituscankitchen.com

photo credit: Shannon R. via yelp

Big Macro Burger at M Café
Hamburgers are a staple of any kid diet, but even the most finicky of beefeaters have been known to scarf down this veggie patty. Made from whole grain brown rice and vegetables, the patty is topped with lettuce, soy mozzarella, tomato, pickles, onion, and alfalfa sprouts on a toasted whole-wheat bun. For kids, we get everything but the soy cheese on the side and we don’t actually utter the word soy when the kids can hear. It’s a far cry from the standard diner burger, but no one will know the difference once they get a taste. Did we mention the burger is topped with beet ketchup? We wished they bottled the stuff.

There are locations in Mid-City, Beverly Hills and Brentwood
Online: mcafedechaya.com

Roasted Brussels Sprouts at Café Gratitude
If you’ve ever been to Café Gratitude, you know that all the menu items at this 100% organic plant based restaurant are named after emotions. And if you are what you eat, you’ll be grateful indeed for dishes like this oven roasted Brussels sprout plate. Aptly named, “Ecstatic,” these crispy, crunchy sprouts are tossed in a miso maple glaze for the perfect mix of sweet and sour that has kids nibbling and nibbling til the plate is empty.  Order two, because you’ll want your own.

There are locations in Venice, Downtown Los Angeles, and Larchmont
Online: cafegratitude.com

photo credit: Patty H. via yelp

Crispy Cauliflower at Veggie Grill
Cauliflower is super trendy right now and it’s showing up in things like pizza crust and rice. But we’re trying to get them to eat veggies you can recognize as such, and the crispy cauliflower at Veggie Grill is a clear winner. The bright white florets are dredged in panko breading, lightly fried, and served up with a finger licking sweet and sour sauce. Some kids like to sub the sauce for creamy ranch dressing because, well, everything tastes better with ranch. It’s just an appetizer, but it’s enough for two kids to share and still have full tummies.

There are locations through out Los Angeles.
Online: veggiegrill.com

photo credit: Jolie Loeb

The Greek Salad at Olio Pizzeria and Café
“This salad tastes just like pizza,” said one of our tiny taste testers. Moms, keep serving up this salad and nod your head yes, because you might not hear those words about any other salad on the planet. Maybe it’s the big chunks of feta cheese or the salty kalamata olives? Whatever it is, kids can’t get enough of this good-for-you green salad.

8075 W. 3rd St.
Mid-City LA
Online: oliowfp.com

Roots 3 at Pressed Juicery
The Roots 3 Juice at Pressed Juicery has four ingredients: apples, beets, ginger, and lemon. It’s a refreshing combo that’s a little bit spicy but so addictive. Kids love that the beets stain their tongues (and poop!) red, and if you’re lucky, drinking straight from the bottle may lead to a red juice mustache. It also doubles as a perfect on the go meal, because sometimes you just need to fill those bellies with something more nutritious than a drive through meal. And if the ginger spice is a bit much for them, try the Brazil Nut, which tastes like a vanilla milkshake, but is packed with kale and spinach. Side note: some locations now make homemade frozen yogurt with their juices. And if that’s not a reason to keep coming back, we don’t know what is.

There are locations throughout Los Angeles.
Online: pressedjuicery.com

photo credit: Jiamin A. via yelp

Edamame Hummus at Lyfe Kitchen
Hummus is great but if you can add a vitamin and protein packed veggie like edamame to the mix, it’s even better. The Edamame Hummus plate comes with a big bowl of the dip and tons of dippers like crunchy carrots, radishes, celery and gluten free Lyfe crackers. If there’s any hummus left over, you can spread it on whatever else you order; it’s that good. Second favorite on the menu? Grab a carrot zucchini walnut muffin to go. Warm it up with a little bit of butter and there’s another serving of scrumptious veggies in their tummies.

There are locations through out Los Angeles.
Online: lyfekitchen.com

What veggie dishes from your favorite restaurants did we miss? Tell us in the comments below.

—Christina Fiedler

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Now Open: Simmzy’s Serves Burgers and Brews in Burbank

by Meghan Rose

The gastropub just might be the new cupcake, and you won’t hear us complaining. Not when they’re like the new Simmzy’s in Burbank. Just opened in January, you now have a spectacular eating option for your post-Ikea shopping meal that doesn’t involve meatballs. Instead you get local, organic food, superbly sourced drinks, and a place where kids love to play (and then clean their plates).

Playtime For You and Them
They play outside, you relax with a drink—24 beers on tap, 10 wines, all rotating. And drinks that flirt with the divine offerings at the poshest of nightclubs, with everything from bitters to tonics made in house (as they told us, everything but booze, ketchup and mustard are made in the kitchen). It’s also local, organic, and sustainable—all the things you’re looking to feed your kids, in a casual and welcoming atmosphere.

We mentioned that while you’re sipping your tomatillo infused Bloody Simmzy or custom made Mule, the kids are busy playing, right? After ordering, the kids can duck out to the grassed patio to play bean bag toss, and bring their own hand crafted libation (lemonade) with them.  Or they can stay inside and play with the Wikki Stix that are brought to the table.  Move over Google glasses, Wikki glasses are about to be a thing.

Order Up
They’ll glance at the kids menu and bark their order before heading outside. The kids menu is short, but built for kids and parents alike. There’s a burger, cheese burger, “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). Pick from green salad, shoestring fries or sweet potato fries to accompany the entrée. Normally, we’re proponents of the sweet potato, but in this case we have to recommend the shoestring. They’re not too crispy, yet not at all soggy. The kids won’t share, so order your own.

Speaking of your own, you can choose from a salad (kale, ahi, shrimp, chicken and short rib are all stellar toppings), fish tacos, burgers or sammys. While the burger receives justifiable raves, we also wouldn’t miss the pulled pork panino, the juicy grilled chicken or the salmon sandwich. And if you’re looking for a veggie option, the black bean veggie burger will leave you more than satisfied.

If you’re here on the weekend, there are a few egg options that are served until 2:30 p.m. They’re all classics, and all delicious (though we confess a particular fondness for the Breakfast Sandwich).

Dessert Time
On this section of the menu, there are only 2 offerings, but that’s all you need. Mostly because you’re still so full from French fry stealing (parent tax). Their most popular dessert is the Apple Filled Donut (and with words like salted caramel, pistachio, and ice cream accompanying it, it’s no wonder), but since when do kids pay attention to what the masses like? They want what they want, and when your kids see the S’mores Chocolate Pudding, it’s game over. Sneak a bite of the warm marshmallow topping before they start fighting over who gets to lick the last smudge of pudding.

Oh, The Vibe?
It’s a little laid back beach and a little 70’s lodge with a hipster sporty vibe. That sounds like a hodge-podge, but it’s not, and the aesthetic is modern yet homey yet welcoming.  You can sit by the open doors that lead out to the enclosed patio, where the kids can run and play and it feels like a summer day by the beach. And the waiting area downstairs is cozy and chic but comfortable with relaxing chairs and friendly staff chatting you up while you wait.

Our favorite space is actually the private dining room and lounge upstairs that are perfect for parties (kids or parents). And if the beanbags on the patio lose their charms and there is no party upstairs, kids are welcome to wander up and play a game of chess or watch sports on TV with parents.

Family Knows Family
So, how’d a sports bar get so family friendly? It’s all in the family. Mike Simms, the owner, grew up running around the kitchen and under the tables at French Market in West Hollywood and The Kettle in Manhattan Beach; they’re his father’s and grandfather’s restaurants. Then he, his father and his 2 brothers opened Tin Roof Bistro, Simmzy’s Manhattan Beach, Manhattan Beach Post, and Fishing With Dynamite. Now with two girls of his own, he knows that parents want great food, even better booze, and the chance to share it with their kids in an atmosphere that keeps kids eating and entertained.

Parking is free in a giant lot (which for locals might be no biggie, but for those of us who crossed the 5 to get here, it feels like winning the lottery), and if this drive seems to far for this to become your weekend hang, don’t worry. The original outpost is still in Manhattan Beach, the Long Beach location is always hopping and ground has already broken on the planned spot in Venice Beach. The new Simmzy’s is open weekends for brunch and weekdays from 11 a.m. to midnight.

Simmzy’s Pub
3000 Olive Ave., Burbank
Phone: 818-962-91505
Online: simmzys.com

Got a favorite burgers and brews spot to let us know about? We’re always looking for great casual places where kids are welcome. Let us know your secret spot!

-Meghan Rose

All photos courtesy of Meghan Rose and Simmzy’s.

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Healthy Little Helpers: Fun, Easy Ways to Keep Your Resolutions Going Strong

by Erin Feher

For most of us, 30 days is the shelf life for our lofty New Year’s Resolutions, and right around now is when those commitments to hit the gym or bring more greens to the dining room table are starting to wane. Well, don’t give up yet! We have pulled together a list of local resolution boosters that can help you stick to your healthy commitments all year long, from pre made dinners packed with super foods to an app that encourages kids to make better food choices to a juice cleanse for those of us who would rather not give up eating. Click through for ideas on how to extend those resolutions just a little bit longer—you can do it!

The Cleanse for the Rest of Us: Can-Can Juice Cleanse

This San Francisco–based juice company has designed the ideal, doable cleanse perfect for parents. In addition to their delicious cold-pressed juices, the Ra-Ra! cleanse includes a warm soup for lunch and a leafy green salad from local favorite, Blue Barn, for dinner, so family meals won’t be interrupted (and you don’t risk hearing “why can’t I just drink juice for dinner, too?”). Let them deliver their cold-pressed juices, soups and salads straight to your door, and get ready to feel fantastic after your three-day eat-clean vacation.

cancancleanse.com

Do you have a secret weapon helping you stick to your resolutions? Tell us in the comments below! 

—Erin Feher

All images courtesy of the companies

 

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Where to Get Fit & Connect With Other Moms

by Abby Biernat

Between rearranging your life schedule for baby and taking care your new bundle of joy, fitness often gets kicked down low on your priority list…unless you’ve signed up for Fit4Mom. Started in 2012, this Marin fitness franchise works with moms (and families) who want to keep pre- and post-natal fitness on their fun radar. You can take your baby for a stroller jog, connect with other moms through Our Village and exchange sage advice, or just focus on building your strength and flexibility until it rivals your baby’s leg lifts. With Fit4Mom, working out just became hip, easy and fun again.

We sat down with Karin Collins, mompreneur of the Fit4Mom Marin franchise, to get an insider’s look on how she manages to stay fit all while being a full-time mom.

RT: What neighborhood/borough do you live in?

KC: Terra Linda

RT: What is your favorite “escape hatch” to get some “me” time and recharge?

KC: Years ago, I studied yoga and I try to sneak in a 30-minute session in the mornings before my 2 year old daughter wakes up. I also love to go on long runs or hikes by myself. It helps me clear my mind and I often come up with great ideas.

RT: What does the perfect Bay Area Sunday morning look like?

KC: Almost every Sunday is a perfect Sunday for me because I get to do what I love to do. Morning typically starts with morning snuggle with my family and then I teach a Stroller Strides class, which is a fitness class that moms can do with their Stroller aged children. Sundays is a special class for the whole family and so not only do I get to see my lovely mom’s but I also get to see many of the dad’s. Classes are twice the size and twice the fun! After class we walk over to the Civic Center farmer’s market to eat a yummy lunch and buy fresh fruits and veggies for the week.

RT: What is your latest obsession?

KC: On a recent trip to Sweden visiting my family and friends, I was connected with Sami Pharmacy. They offer a variety of organic super foods such as crowberries and wild blue berries. I am obsessed with their yummy products so much that now I’m going to be distributing their wonderful products here in the US.

RT: What’s your secret to balancing work and family life?

KC: The secret is that I have an amazing job, which allows me to integrate business, family, friends and fun all in one. I can bring my daughter when I teach my classes. She is my little workout buddy. My husband is also very supportive and appreciative of all the hard work I do in the home and for my company. Most importantly, I love what I do and so it really doesn’t feel like work.

RT: What is your proudest parenting moment so far?

KC: It is impossible to only mention one moment. There are so many little moments every day that make me so proud of my daughter. She shows a great deal of empathy towards other people, eats leafy green salads, helps me make lunches for her dad… the list goes on!

Have you checked out Fit4Mom? Follow them on Facebook for updates and Instagram for motivational pics!

Stroller Strides® is a stroller-based fitness program designed for moms with little ones. Each 60-minute, total body workout incorporates power walking, strength, toning, songs and activities. Certified fitness instructors offer a variety of fun class formats both indoors and outdoors. All locations also offer a free Plum Moms Club so moms can form lasting friendships with other moms through organized playdates, moms’ nights out, and activities for the whole family.

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Amy Graff (The Mommy Files) Shares Her Family Favorites

by Tuba Ugurulu

We’re big fans of the The Mommy Files, SFGate’s fun and always thought-provoking blog, written by Amy Graff. Amy also blogs at The SF K-Files, a lively forum for discussion of all educational topics in the Bay Area, and is a contributor blogger at Babycenter. Amy is one of the Bay Area’s favorite mom voices and here she shares her family favorites with us.

RT: What is your favorite family ritual?
AG: Most of our rituals happen in the evening as my husband and I both work full-time and the kids are in after-school together. We try to eat dinner together every night and take turns sharing news from our day. I like asking my kids to tell me about the silliest thing that happened during the day–it gets us all laughing. My son likes games and so we often play Sorry or Uno before he goes to bed. My daughter and I always take a walk after my son has gone to bed. We walk from our house near Dolores Park to Noe Valley’s 24th St. and sometimes we go to Bi-Rite for an ice cream cone. We both like the malted vanilla crunch best.

RT: Where do you and your husband like to go for date night?
AG: We just had a date night at Bar Tartine in the Mission, as the restaurant generously donated a gift certificate to our kids’ school auction and we won it. Everything–from the sparkling rose to the creamy nettle soup to the pan-fried trout–was delicious. We didn’t have a reservation but were able to get counter seating, which I like better anyway because it’s more intimate. But mostly a date for us is just a long walk through the city because it’s expensive to pay for both a babysitter and the price of a meal. I like walking through North Beach at night, up to Coit Tower, down the Telegraph Hill steps, and then onto the Embarcadero where you can stroll along the waterfront. Before kids, we used to spend entire Saturdays walking from neighborhood to neighborhood. We’d walk until our legs felt like rubber-bands and then park ourselves in a bar until it was time to meet friends for dinner. Those days are over!

RT: What are a few of your favorite parks & places to visit with kids around town?
AG: Right now our kids are into biking. We often ride in Golden Gate Park, along Ocean Beach, at Crissy Field, or on the bayfront path in Tiburon. They love riding their bikes during Sunday Streets events, and they first learned to ride without training wheels at the park next to Aptos Middle School, with a massive stretch of blacktop.

When our kids were little, they used to love checking out the honeybees at the Randall Museum, looking for turtles in the pond at the Botanical Garden in Golden Gate Park, and painting the windows at the Bay Area Discovery Museum. We also used to spend a lot of time at the SFMOMA and attended most of their family days with kid friendly gallery tours and art projects. But these days, my kids want to be outdoors on the trail, in the water, on the ski slopes.

RT: Where do you like to catch a bite with the little one in tow?
AG: We like going to Noe Valley Bakery for maple walnut scones; Arizmendi for pizza topped with veggies; A La Turka for creamy hummus served with fresh baked pita bread; Bodega Bistro for big bowls of steaming pho, Chloes for pancakes; Papalote for burritos, El Delfin for homemade guacamole; Xiao Loong for lemon chicken and sizzling rice soup; Little Star for thick-crusted pizza, and Gialina for thin crust. And my kids hands-down favorite restaurant in San Francisco is La Ciccia because the owners Lorella and Massimo greet children with open arms. They even let our kids go into the back and make their own pizzas once. But mostly we eat at home–and nothing fancy: quesadillas, chili, turkey burgers, green salads.

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