One of the many perks of raising our daughter in the very town we grew up in, is the ease with which we can share our favorite childhood memories with her.

Yes, my husband and I both grew up here in Connecticut. We even attended the same elementary school, though several {sorry, babe} years apart. And so we share so many memories of the same people, places, and activities that molded our youth; and are happy to be able to share them with Madeline in our daily lives. 

So, of course, we love taking her to some of the restaurants we grew up loving as kids. And while some of our favorites now go by different names, or the menus have changed; and some are long gone or brand spanking new; we love taking her out to experience this little town of our as much as we can as a family. And what better way than through food? 

Here are a few of my favorite local kid-friendly eateries, in no particular order:

Sweet Peas (Old Greenwich, CT)

A new establishment since my childhood, but a fast favorite. A great place to grab a coffee with the grown ups or a weekend brunch with the family. The food is delicious, including dangerously yummy gluten-free baked goods. And the kid's menu includes generous servings of children's favorites including scrambled eggs, grilled cheese and silver dollar pancakes, served with a drink and cookie all for under $9.  

Old Greenwich Social Club (Old Greenwich, CT)

Old Greenwich Social Club (OGSC) is a former local watering hole turned family friendly restaurant. Don't worry, you can still grab a delicious cocktail; but the welcoming wall of kid-games and yummy children's menu make it just friendly enough to bring the little ones. And the brunch is a crowd pleaser for adults and kiddos alike. 

Pomodoro (Riverside, CT)

A childhood favorite. I'm a sucker for booths; and their are  big and comfy, with lots of space for the little ones to move. Delicious pizza, yummy pastas and salads; and the kid's meal brings you one hearty meal for under $11. 

Méli-Mélo (Greenwich, CT)

Growing up, Méli-Mélo was the coolest little eatery serving up crêpes and delicious gelato. And in the past decade they've expanded their space to include many more tables and much more yummy food. We love taking MM on weekends to enjoy a crêpe {or two} and their juices and salads always hit the spot for mom.

Pizza Post (Cos Cob, CT)

Even now I can't go to Pizza Post without thinking of lacrosse practice or a field hockey game, as so many sports events ended with a celebratory cheese pizza and infamous Pizza Post Salad. To this day, every time we dine in its packed with kiddos enjoying some of our town's finest Italian. And now that I'm a mama, the fact that its BYOB just warms my heart.

Sundown Saloon (Greenwich, CT)

One of my very favorite restaurants as a kid- their fried chicken holds a special place in my heart- and interestingly enough, the establishment where I would meet my future husband many years later. The dining room is super kid-friendly, down to the kraft paper "tablecloths" and bucket of crayons. And the menu includes tried and true favorites including chicken tenders and fries, kids ribs, and mac and cheese. All served with a drink and ice cream for under $10.