Eat & Run: 14 Playgrounds with Kid-Friendly Lunch Spots Nearby

With this handy guide, a visit to a new playground comes complete with a great bite to eat because after all of that running, swinging, sliding and climbing, your kid is sure to work up an appetite.

By Anna Knoebel August 27, 2014

New York City parents need playgrounds as much as they need air: to stave off the tedium of our apartments and give kids a chance to roam. But when your closest playground starts to feel like your backyard and your neighborhood starts to feel like your living room, its time to cross some borders. With this handy guide, a visit to a new playground comes complete with a great bite to eat because after all of that running, swinging, sliding and climbing, your kid is sure to work up an appetite.

Play at St. Vartans Park, Eat at Garlic Pizza Bar

St Vartans is another giant east side playground, with a huge sprinkler pit, carnival mirrors and miniature houses for pretend play. On a recent Saturday at noon, crowds were nil, making it a safe bet if you plan to meet up with other families. Garlic Pizza Bar is across the street on 2nd Avenue, serving specialty slices like ricotta and buffalo chicken.

Go: St. Vartans Playground, 1st Ave. at E. 36th St.; Garlic PIzza Bar, 629 2nd Ave., Midtown East