Where can you go with a toddler in tow....

to eat? I just wanted to let everyone know about some non-traditional kid friendly places to go eat Downtown. You CAN take your kiddo somewhere other than Max and Erma's. I will say if you're child wants to run around darting in and out of tables screaming at the top of their lungs these wouldn't be the options for you. Our kiddo is tolerable at restaurants. He occasionally throws a crayon off the table, asks to get up, or shrieks once or twice, but he is a toddler folks! They're people, and they're allowed to eat at good restaurants too.

Six Penn Kitchen is one of our favorites for a family night out. It's not terribly quiet, so you don't feel awful if your kid lets out an occasional shriek. Their kids menu has all the kiddo favorites, and I must say their grilled cheese is adult worthy! Unfortunately, if your kid only likes the yellow cheese food you're out of luck - this is the real deal. The kids cups are so sturdy you'll want to take them home! The waitstaff is really good with kids too, and they're very tolerant of spilled water and lots of crumbs. All in all, fabulous.

Although Tonic doesn't have a traditional kids menu, they will make your kiddo grilled cheese or chicken tenders with fries. Granted, the grilled cheese is cheddar on rye, but they'll still do it. They have a very diverse menu, and they also have "small plates" so if your kid likes hummus it works out well. I'm sure you could also get some plain pasta too. It's a little quieter atmosphere, so if you have a screamer be warned. The waitstaff is always great here too, and doesn't make you feel like an ass if your kid is a little loud. Always a plus!

August Henry's and Grille on Seventh is typical American fare, so if your kiddo likes straight up American grilled cheese on white buttery toast this is the place to be. Unfortunately, August Henry's only has one highchair - boo! I recently tried to have lunch there with two friends and their kids but we had to go elsewhere due to the highchair shortage. Grille on Seventh you'll be sitting in their "downstairs" dining room... aka the basement. Once the weather breaks, watch out! Grille on Seventh has outdoor seating on Katz Plaza which is awesome!

Palomino is a little more upscale, great food, and kid friendly! We've only been there once so far, but they had a great kids menu, and crayons. They also brought some sliced grapes and crackers for the kiddo as an appetizer, without being asked, free of charge. Sold!

Sonoma Grille is good for kids too. Unfortunately my kiddo broke out in hives after eating there so we'll be steering clear for awhile. I have other friends with kids who go there often and LOVE it! Definitely a good option.

So, if you're living downtown with your kiddo, or are just trying to figure out where to eat Downtown with your kiddo, consider some of these options. You'll be glad you did.

What's up with the weather?

Not much more to say other than that. Spring, come NOW!!!!!!

va va Verve!

While I enjoy all the amazing food within blocks of the loft, my waistline is ultimately paying the price. I used to avidly work out, but with some postpartum back issues I scaled back to practically nothing. With the weather breaking, I plan on getting out and walking more with the kiddo. I also decided to join Verve Wellness - A W E S O M E! I've been taking yoga and pilates for a few weeks now. Not as often as I'd like, but getting back into it nonetheless. Lynsey and Joanna know their stuff! Just figured I'd share. I'm confident pilates is going to whip me back into shape... if I lay off the pierogies and french fry laden salads. Mmm...

St. Patricks Day - Pittsburgh Style!

The concept of being able to walk out your door, walk two blocks, and be part of a major event never gets old. There were droves of people decked out in green St. Paddy's Day garb, lining Grant and Boulevard of the Allies just waiting to catch a glimpse of the action. I managed to stand on a traffic light base with the kiddo strapped to my back and got an adequate view. In my opinion (although, isn't' this ALL my opinion?) it was a little chilly for stationary standing. We made it about 45 minutes before we decided to head home. No worries though, a stop at Crazy Mocha completed our quick trip. I had to run some errands anyway, and briefly met a friend and her kiddo on the tail end of the parade. By then the crowd was a little more diffuse and the stationary chill in the air was gone. Note to self - next year, go later and stand at Boulevard of the Allies! Either way, the freedom of being able to experience this event around where you live is so incredibly convenient... as always!

Spring is in the air... hopefully!

The anticipation of Spring is almost electrifying! I feel I'm pretty tolerant to the cold and gray, but the amazingly beautiful weather this past weekend just made me crave more! For the first time in MONTHS I was truly able to experience a typical day of my former spring life as a Pittsburgher. The simple pleasure of sending husband and kiddo off to the park while I indulged in a much needed pilates class was enough to make my day. Meeting them at the park afterwards, heading over to MixStirs in Market Square for a late breakfast and then to Crazy Mocha for coffee and biscotti was sheer bliss! Our experience at MixStirs on this morning was phenomenal - peaceful atmosphere, yummy food, and family friendly! As always, Crazy Mocha was upbeat and fun. It always puts me in a great mood.

It's days like these that I cannot imagine living anywhere else in the city. It's comfortable, it's walkable, it's friendly, and it's a true community. There's so many fabulous things on the horizon here, and I cannot wait to be a part of it all!