But when you're traveling, there's often no alternative. Even if you're staying at a condo or camping, you don't want to prepare every meal. That's no vacation. One Pennsylvania-based chain, The Italian Oven, invites kids to make their own pizzas, while T.G.I.Friday's is introducing an activity book with postcards traveling kids can punch out and send home to their friends. That's especially true as record numbers of families travel.
People are spending more time with their kids and restaurant-going is a reflection of that.
That doesn't necessarily mean fast food places, these days. Banakis notes that some of kids have extremely sophisticated palates, ordering up Greek lamb and barbecued shrimp along with plenty of burgers, pizzas and grilled cheese sandwiches. These junior gourmets are shaping up to be some of the most important guests at the table, too. Call first and, to be safe, stay away from quiet, dimly lit places, especially on weekend nights. Ethnic eateries, on the other hand, are always good bets wherever you're traveling.