ZIPS *Mt. Lookout*

My family and I are creatures of habit. We try to stray, but when our minds get lazy we always venture back to our favorites.
What are our favorites you ask?
Well, there are a couple, but one in particular is definitely Zips.
Zips has a reputation for one of the best burgers in Cincinnati. I say it is THE best burger in Cincinnati. Simple, well seasoned, and sloppy delicious if you get all of the fixins. The french fries rival any other place I have been.
This place is high on the kid friendly list.
It has a simple kid menu of burgers, hot dogs, mac and cheese, and grilled cheese. Milk and juice come in a box. It is my daughter's (Little Q) favorite place to go out.
There is a slot box on the wall that contains pieces of paper to color in. Above it are tin cups full of crayons.
Grab some entertainment and order up.
The service is super friendly and quick.
For Mom and Dad, they have great beer, great food (look here), and a neighborhood atmosphere.

Yes, it is dark in there. Even on your sunniest days.
Yes, it can get loud and crowded. I say that is better the drown out the sound of my child screaming if she chooses to do so.
Yes, you must go early or late because they don't take reservations, it's small, and there is really nowhere to wait for a table but in the doorway or outside.
The turnover is quick though, so don't leave if there is a wait. Believe me, we would never frequent a place so often if we spent more time waiting than eating.

Kids Menu: YES
Booster Seats and High Chairs: YES
Crayons and Paper: YES
Friendly to Children: YES
Average food bill for 2 adults, 1 child: $20-$25
Takes Reservations: NO
Order Out: YES


Zip's Cafe
1036 Delta Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45208
513-871-9876
www.zipscafe.com

Hello, There!

I love to eat out. I also love to cook. But let's be honest here, much of my inspiration comes from things that I have tried going out to eat.

I went to culinary school, so you might think I might be snobby about where or what I eat. The fact is, my love for food in all of it's forms trumps all.

I love exploring other people's love of food as well. That's why going out to eat is so fun!

My husband and I used to eat out ALL THE TIME when we got married. It was basically our date night. At one point in our marriage, I think it was the only thing we could agree on.

Now we have a child. And one on the way.

I didn't want to give up this activity, so I have been a pro at finding places that one adult can get a good meal while bringing their child along to eat well too.

Questions I have to ask about a place...

How formal is the place?

Do they have a kids menu?

Do they have crayons and paper?

Are people going to gasp when they see me sit my child down?

I am going to blog about establishments that hit the entire spectrum, from super-duper casual to a nicer restaurant that is welcoming to a child dining.

I hope you join me and my family on this journey to explore the family friendly dining in the greater Cincinnati area. We love to eat out, so we won't disappoint.