One of the things we romanticize most about our pre-baby life is the joy of eating out – kid-free. Now with little ones in tow, resto dining is more adventure than ambiance, and often about speed versus savour. So we love spots like Toronto’s Dr. Generosity, where arriving with stroller simply makes you a typical diner.

Now we’ve talked about Dr. G’s before, but we felt their focus on making parents and kids alike happy and satiated deserved special mention. Located in family-friendly Bloor West Village, Dr. G’s (as it’s known to locals) is all about casual dining. Which is exactly what most families with little ones need if they’re going to brave the resto experience. They have plenty of high chairs, a family washroom on the main level, and they’ll lock up your stroller outside when you arrive (this is basically mandatory to ensure enough space between tables, so come prepared to leave your stroller). The tables are covered in brown kraft paper, perfect for your budding artist who has a tendency to spill his lunch, and servers quickly bring out crayons to keep little fingers entertained. And kids’ food arrives first, which is one of the things we appreciate most – because we all know what it’s like to managing a hungry toddler!

There’s also a special kid’s menu, which is limited but tasty. You’ll find kiddo faves like homemade macaroni & cheese and chicken fingers, which come with a side of fresh cut veggies versus the more typical French fries. For the weekend brunch, kids can partake in kid-sized cinnamon French toast and Belgium waffles, and enjoy their beverage of choice in a spill-proof cup. And wait staff are patient and attentive, something we learned first-hand after our darling toddler spilled her Daddy’s massive glass of fresh squeezed OJ all over the table and floor.

The one downside to the good food and great service combo is Dr. G’s popularity. If you’re hoping to catch weekend brunch, don’t dawdle (but really, aren’t we all up at the crack of dawn anyway?); there is typically a line by 11 am, which is never a good way to start your day. Dr. G’s also offers take-out and bring your own wine service, two bonuses for the grown ups.

So while eating out with kiddos can be a nightmare challenge, sometimes a visit to the doctor is all you need …

Dr. Generosity
2197 Bloor Street West, Toronto
416.604.0704