Keep the little ones entertained with a range of activities while you kick back with good food, drinks and a fun-loving atmosphere. Our top 7 picks could be about to become your absolute favourite family hangouts.
1. Enjoy a gourmet meal with the kids
It’s not often that you get to enjoy cuisine from a Michelin star chef in a family-centric restaurant – but that’s exactly why foodie parents flock to Pots, Pans and Boards. Well-known for being one of the most kid-friendly dining destinations in Dubai, your little ones can spend the afternoon having fun in the dedicated soft play area while you enjoy some of its famous lobster – a winning combo!
2. Share your favourite bites (and books!)
One of our favourite spots for arranging playdates, if you and your kids have a passion for reading (and delicious light bites!), you can’t do any better than BookMunch Café and Bookshop. With cases full of books for children and adults, this colourful space even has an afternoon tea designed just for kids – it’s brilliantly fun!
3. Experience picnic and pub vibes
There aren’t many places in the city that offer a play park for the kids and happy hour for the adults, but that’s exactly why Reform Social & Grill is filled with families every weekend. Located in the heart of the Lakes community, head down for one of the most traditional British breakfast menus in Dubai while enjoying a picnic-style brunch – they really know how to make playtime a family affair.
4. Have fun with your junior chef
Got a mini culinary wizard in the making? Enjoy all the perks of hands-free parenting at Puff Baker Cafe and sign the kids up to a cooking master class while you take advantage of the all-day breakfast menu. Watch as littles ones whip up everything from pizza to dessert with kiddie-sized kitchen utensils (so cute!) – it really is one of our favourite experiences for children.
5. Discover the “art” of dining
Want to keep the kids busy with some cool creative activities? Café Céramique showcases a really clever combination of ‘arts & crafts’ and hearty eats; not only do children get to sample everything from pizza and pasta to burgers, but they can also show off their artistic side with ceramic painting and more (they’ll even get to take home their masterpieces.) We think it’s one of the best spots in town for kids’ birthday parties!
6. Plan a kid-friendly brunch
Head down to Fümé in Dubai Marina where you’ll find one of the most kid-friendly brunches in the city. Transforming a whole restaurant into one giant indoor play area, this joint is decked out with child-centric delights that your little ones are going to flip over.
7. Enter an Italian pizza-making zone
If your kids are REALLY determined to play with their food, then look no further than Sapori di BiCE. Home to a pint-sized pizza making zone where kids are free to prepare everything from cookies to pizzas, this gourmet joint also has a dedicated play zone packed with toys.