Bring the Family
Does the word "kid-friendly" immediately conjure images of plastic toys, bad food, and ear-splitting chaos? In other words, stuff that parents might tolerate because kids love it? Well, the term is being redefined by Babyeats, a parent- and child-friendly playspace and café modelled on European family cafes. Translation: organic food for all, fair trade coffee and tea (or maybe a glass of wine) for Mom and Dad, and a 1,000-square-foot play area for the wee ones, stocked with toys that stimulate kids' imaginations.

The Kids Are All Right
You might sense Babyeats is different, even before you step through the convenient child-proof gate. The space is bright and airy. Upbeat music plays on the stereo. And surrounding the play area, with its ever-changing slide show, wooden toys and colourful dress-up clothes, are sleek tables and chairs where parents can relax, knowing no one will stare if someone screams. Babyeats often holds special events such as movie nights and craft sessions, giving grown-ups the chance to socialize over a nice meal while the kids act like kids.

Fun, Healthy Food
Babyeats' menu emphasizes the fresh, seasonal, and organic - and fun, too. Kids seem to love the Japanese-style rice balls, quesadillas, and pasta with turkey quinoa meatballs, perhaps washed down with "gorilla milk" that's flavoured with bananas and vanillla syrup. Organic veggie and fruit purees are offered for babies. Grown-up fare includes daily soups like sweet pea and mint, seasonal salads such as pear and blue cheese with spring greens, and paninis. Almost everything can be made to go - perfect for picnics or lazy suppers.