All this month, we’ll be introducing 50 picks for some of the best family-friendly restaurants in Beijing. These reviews originally appeared in the January/February 2013 issue of beijingkids (see end of post).
Type of cuisine: American
English menu? Yes
General kid-friendliness of menu: An assortment of American classics, including pizzas, Tex Mex and all-day breakfast offer plenty for kids from. Portions are just about right; they are substantial without leaving patrons overstuffed
Best dishes for adults: The huge beans and rice burrito (RMB 40) – best with a side of salsa (RMB 5), Ross’ Mum’s Wrap (RMB 45 with chicken, RMB 55 with shrimp), Veggie Lovers Hero (RMB 49) – grilled eggplant, hummus, mint and feta cheese on a buttered baguette
Kids’ menu? No
Best dishes for kids: Grilled cheese (RMB 20, bacon or ham extra RMB 10), a chicken quesadilla (RMB 39), chicken parmesan (RMB 50)
Kids’ play area? No
Play areas nearby: Across the street is VIVA Mall, which has UME Cinemaplex
Kid-friendly staff? Yes. The staff is somewhat attentive and speaks decent English, and sometimes founders Joe and Lily are on hand for a nice chat or to address any questions. However, electronic tablet menus have reduced face time with staff.
Bathroom: Clean and sit-down, but very small, a parent plus a young kid would be a tight squeeze; no changing tables
Seating: The small interior has booths, tables, and a few high counter chairs. Booster seats available.
Price: RMB 200
Accepts credit cards? Yes, but Chinese only
Must-order item: Joe’s pulled pork sandwich (RMB 58) features slow-cooked pork and special barbecue sauce
In a nutshell: Lily’s pulls ahead of most of Beijing’s diners. They have consistent quality and do a bang-up job replicating the taste of home for a very decent price. The clean interior is a nice place to linger for a weekend brunch, and their fast delivery makes for an easy weeknight dinner.
Also try: Grandma’s Kitchen,
Element Fresh
Photo Courtesy of Sui and Lova