Sick of bribing your kids to eat their broccoli at home? Flower Child is a hip new eatery that recently blossomed on the Del Mar scene, and it’s sure to become a fave for grabbing fast-casual, healthy food that your kids will gobble up. The cheerful, bohemian vibe, mix ‘n’ match meals, quick counter service and laid back ambiance add up to a serene (yes, we said serene) dining experience with little sprouts in tow. Read on for more details.
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The Vibe
Flower Child lives up to its name in that it’s dripping with bright, colorful blossoms and floral motifs inside and out. Kids will love the flower boxes that line the restaurant’s exterior, some of which also house purple bunches of kale and the flower wallpaper and peace and love inspired murals inside, which add to the whimsical, welcoming vibe. There’s even a basket for “yoga mat parking” in the event you’re headed to or from one of the neighboring yoga studios with your little Zen masters.
Feast for the Eyes & the Tummies
Flower Child makes it easy to plant the seeds of healthy eating in your little buds. Kids eat first with their eyes and the food is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat. Boasting a plentitude of organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options, as well as sustainable salmon, grass-fed meat and all natural chicken, the mix ‘n’ match style of the menu makes it a cinch to customize meals your kids are sure to gobble up.
You can order a wide variety of food options: a meal-sized salad chock-ful of fruits, veggies and flavorful dressings, create a meal by ordering from an abundant list of vegetable and grain side dishes, opt for a whole grain wrap, or dive into a big bowl of goodness from Thai Cashew Quinoa to Madras Curry. Our fave is the ‘Mother Earth’ bowl of ancient grains, sweet potato, portobello mushrooms, avocado, cucumber, broccoli pesto, leafy greens, red pepper miso vinaigrette and hemp seed. You can savor this while your sidekick noshes on…
…an elevated take on the kid’s meal. Kids 12 and under can pick a protein (steak, chicken or tofu) plus two sides ranging from organic smashed potatoes or sweet corn and quinoa to broccoli with parmesan to our FAVE: the gluten-free mac & cheese. (You may want to order a side of this for yourself!)
Your crew will also want to hydrate with a rotating array of seasonal house made lemonades and teas in yummy flavors like organic apple cider ginger lemonade. Flower Child also serves local beer, organic wine and kombucha on tap.
Save room for plenty of dessert options if your littles eat all their veggies. The gluten-free chocolate chip cookies, brownies, chocolate pudding and lemon & olive oil cakes are sure to please that sweet tooth… and no one will miss the gluten either.
Stretch those Petals & Soak up the Sun on the Patios
Kids love being outdoors, so we dig that Flower Child has two patios for dining: one in the front of the restaurant and one in the back (pictured above). Toddlers can meander in the fresh air or lounge on the comfy bench seating while you eat. There’s also a large indoor dining area that will accommodate big groups.
Time is of the Essence
Every parent knows that dining out with kids needs to be as streamlined as possible. Flower Child’s quick, convenient counter service lets parents order the meals and then select a table where their food will be delivered. This system also makes it easy to grab grub to-go, to enjoy at the beach or a picnic at the park.
Insider’s Tip: Flower Child serves breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays only from 8-11 a.m. Opt for the standout Quinoa Breakfast Burrito. The $5 kids breakfast includes scrambled eggs, seasonal fruit and whole grain toast with local honey. A total bargain.
Flower Child
2690 Via De La Valle
Del Mar, CA 92014
858-314-6818
Hours: Open daily from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.; also open for breakfast Sat. & Sun. from 8-11 a.m.
online:Â iamaflowerchild.com
Have you tried Flower Child yet? What’s your favorite item on their menu?
–– Beth Shea
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