VIBE: The hustle of the grocery section paired with the bustle of the market make for a potentially overwhelming experience. The extensive selection of their groceries may be Central Market’s bread and butter, but they don’t neglect the food-to-go.
WHY IT’S TOT FRIENDLY: It’s a run-in, run-out kinda place, meaning it’s perfect for the impatient tot you’re toting with you. There’s also a plethora of dishes, pre-packaged or packaged personally for you, for you and your picky eater (or eaters) to choose from.
BE SURE TO TRY: Don’t leave without trying the spinach and feta couscous. If your little ones like rice and cheese, they’ll love this Mediterranean dish (the spinach-taste is well hidden to make it go down easier for the kids). Another gem for the kids to try is the fantastic (and over-sized) egg roll — vegetable or pork. There are also pre-packaged kid-sized meals ready to go.
GOOD TO KNOW: Rush hour is around dinnertime, so for a slightly less chaotic experience, go right after you pick up the kids from school or on your way home from work to avoid the hungry crowd that ensues upon the eating hours.
BEST TIME TO GO WITH KIDS: After dinner, take the little ones for a gelato treat at the Pacuigo’s stand in the meals-to-go section. Known for being ever so slightly healthier than regular ice cream, this Italian treat comes in a flavor for everyone (even mom and dad).