bethesda with kids?

[elegantelliot]

whats a good kid friendly place in bethesda for an early dinner on a saturday? i was thinking mias. any other ideas would be greatly appreciated!

[Pappy]

Kids are no problem in Bethesda. In fact, they're expected.

You might consider Jaleo for tapas, Raku for sushi and soup, Redwood for upscale american, Mon Ami Gabi for french bistro, Levante's for middle eastern, or even Pines of Rome for red sauce italian or the Bethesda Crab house for crabs (call ahead to reserve).

[Marty L.]

All due respect, but many of the places recommended here, although certainly fun for kids, do not offer very good food, or very good value, anyway. I have in mind Redwood, Mon Ami Gabi, the Crab House, L. Taverna, Austin Grill, Levante's, Pines of Rome, and the execrable BD's. Rio Grande has seen better days. Mia's is ok. Unimpressed by Raku last we tried it a few years ago, but have heard more encouraging things lately. (Haven't yet been to Organic to Go -- looking forward to it.) We're constantly looking for places in Bethesda that both we and the kids would enjoy. Right now, that list isn't much longer than Jaleo, Guardado's, Moby Dick, Ren's Ramen and Chicken-a-la-Brasa/Don Pollo. Passage to India and other Indian places are good if your kids are into that. Tried Nest the other night -- it's got some promise, but I'm not holding my breath.

[Steve]

How about Daruma? I hear there is a new operator in there. Noodles, breaded cutlet, things kids like. Counter seating inside a Japanese Market.

[MartyL]

Steve: Alas, the Daruma counter is gone . . . but it's replaced by Ren's Ramen, so all is not lost!

[con carne]

Although I haven't been since the late '70s, I hear Pines of Rome is virtually unchanged. Back then as a kid I loved the white pizza, crusty waitresses and dim lighting.

[DanielK]

Agree with you 90% - me and the kids are fans of Mia's. And my kids love love love Passage to India.

[chicken kabob]

Love Moby Dick, too!!! Please let us know what you think of Organic To Go if you try it. From my post, it is obvious I am a big fan. Also, I want to add Rice Paddies Grill for excellent Vietnamese food. It is across from the women's market next to Starbucks. It is fast, casual, fresh, tasty, good value. Corner Slice and Norky's peruvian chicken are very good, too. Oh yeah, I cannot forget Burger Joint for excellent burgers, lobster rolls, grilled corn on cob and sweet potato fries.

[Mister Big]

Corner Slice maintains limited hours, and may not be open on Saturday evening.

[chicken kabob]

I am quite sure Corner Slice is open on Sat until 8:00.

[elegantelliot]

I went to organic to go. not quite what i was looking for, but it was very good none the less. i had the brooklyn sandwich which was tasty and the pizzas looked surprisingly good. my wife goes there once a week now at least. its a little pricey for a sandwich spot though. thanks for the other recs!!

[Pappy]

Sorry Marty. It never occured to me that someone might look for value in Bethesda. More less find it.

[gyozagirl]

I agree with the Rio Grande suggestion, or Austin Grill (along the same lines cuisine-wise). I've seen flyers at Lebanese Taverna for Children's events there (guest performers etc.) so I feel like they must be kid-friendly to a certain degree. Mia's, like you said, always seems to have kids there so that's always a good option.

[dining with doc]

Rio Grande cafe on corner of Bethesda Ave and Arlington Road

[Sean D]

Kids seem to get a kick out of BDs Mongolian BBQ. It's kind of fun to create your own stirfry and watch them cook it on a big griddle. It also allows you to address both the picky and less picky eaters. They serve both rice and flour tortillas with your meal, so you can eat from a bowl, or make little roll-ups.

[elegantelliot]

was hoping for something with better food. but not a bad idea :)

[Sean D]

Do you think they are mature enough for some good Mediterranean sitdown food? If so, Levante is kinda fun.

[chicken kabob]

I absolutely love the new Organic To Go in Bethesda. In fact, I wrote a post about it the other day. They have fresh pizzas, calzones w/ gourmet fillings and incredible salads. Good for an early Saturday dinner. Seating outside, too. And,of course, afterwards for dessert, you could go to the surrounding icecream/gelato places. Enjoy!

[chicken kabob]

By the way, Organic To Go in Bethesda is located where Marvelous Market was before it closed....