Ever dream of a quick date night with your spouse after becoming parents, but then reality hits – toddler in tow? Or maybe you’re just craving a cup of coffee with your partner, but the thought of having to jump up every five seconds to stop your kid’s tantrums or cater to their every whim makes you want to cancel the plan altogether?
We’ve all been there, caught between wanting some much-needed “we” time and feeling the guilt of not having the perfect family outing. But guess what? You don’t have to choose! No more woes about leaving the kids behind or stressing over the endless demands. Take them along for the ride! Here are 5 places in Dubai where you can actually enjoy a peaceful meal and finish your conversation (yes, it’s possible) while the kids embark on their own little adventures.
Also read: This Place Has A Ball Pit, Slide, & Playground In The Middle Of Its Restaurant
Lime Tree Cafe
A classic cafe that has been serving up nothing but wholesomeness since 2001, Lime Tree Café is the kind of place that makes you and your kid feel at home. While they have multiple branches, the Sheikh Zayed Road (opposite Gold and Diamond Park) and Jumeirah 1 locations are the most kid-friendly. The Lime Tree Cafe has a free play area for kids featuring a mini kitchen, stuffed toys, motor skill-enhancing games, kid-sized furniture, and toddler-friendly books – basically, a mini wonderland for your little one.
Pro Tip: If you’re heading to the Jumeirah branch, plan for breakfast, lunch, or tea, as they close by 6 PM. The Sheikh Zayed Road location, however, stays open for dinner.
Also read: The Top 5 Most Unique Activities For Kids To Enjoy At Times Square Center!
Osteria Mario & Shvili
Located in Dubai Festival City, Hills Mall, and Dubai Marina, Osteria Mario & Shvili restaurant is a dream spot for parents who want to indulge in authentic Italian and Georgian cuisine while their kids are off having the time of their lives. What’s even better? You don’t have to pick between the two cuisines—you can order from both menus! Now, let’s talk about the free play area—a whimsical, eco-friendly space designed to keep kids entertained. With face painting, supervised activities, and even cooking masterclasses (think pizza-making and cookie-baking), this place keeps them busy while you enjoy your meal in peace.
And for the mildly paranoid parents? There’s a window outlet from the dining area where you can sneak a peek at your little one – just in case!
Also read: 7 Deals To Celebrate International Mother’s Day In Dubai
Ribambelle
Dubbed as ‘the world’s only premium restaurant with high-quality kid-friendly entertainment’, Ribambelle, situated on The Wharf at Bluewaters Island, offers your kids a fabulous indoor play area featuring slides, ball pits and interactive role-play nooks. While your tiny human is off playing shopkeeper, sliding into ball pits, or dressing up in costumes, you and your partner can sit back, relax, and actually savor a beef gyoza (one of their top menu recommendations!). If your little one loves getting hands-on, there are art and cooking workshops where they can create coconut candles, paint T-shirts or even bake volcano cakes. The play area entry is AED 100 on weekdays and AED 150 on weekends for kids aged one and up.
Sketch and Art Cafe
Parents of little Picassos – this one’s for you! Located in a vibrant setting at Boxpark Jumeirah, Sketch and Art Café lets kids unlock their creativity with all things artsy – yes, we’re talking watercolors, oil pastels and crayons!
Meanwhile, parents can wind down with a perfectly brewed coffee or join in and paint alongside the budding artist (or each other – cute date idea, amirite?). I mean, go ahead and give it a try because you might just create the next masterpiece worthy of a spot in your living room, right next to your kid’s stick figure drawings.
Also read: Dubai: 5 Sip & Paint Workshops You Must Experience This Summer
The Irish Village
Let’s face it – parenting is not a cakewalk and at times you just want to hit a pub, grab some good grub, and enjoy a drink with your partner. If you’ve been contemplating this but need a kid-friendly pub, then The Irish Village in Garhoud is your best bet. This iconic spot brings a little piece of Ireland to Dubai, complete with a bouncy castle and an open play area for kids to burn off their energy (perfect for this weather!) while you dig into their authentic fish and chips, Shepherd’s Pie, and a well-poured pint.
Now that you have your ‘Mumma and Dadda dine in peace while bubba has fun’ restaurant list sorted, why not finally plan that long-pending date and make it a reality?
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