Category: Eats

Okay, moms—let’s talk pizza. It’s one of those meals that’s basically a guaranteed win for the entire family. I mean, whether you’re feeding picky eaters or a gang of bottomless pits, pizza is the savior. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve ordered a pizza when I’m too tired to cook, and it’s like everyone’s in a better mood just by the smell of melted cheese. And don’t even get me started on how easy it is to grab and go when you’re in a rush (hello, busy mom life!).

So, if you’re in Phoenix and on the hunt for a family-friendly pizza place that has great food and the kind of atmosphere where you can let your kids be kids, I’ve got you covered. These spots are perfect for when you need to get out of the house and treat yourself (and the fam) to some pizza.

First up on my list has to be Barro’s Pizza. This one’s a local favorite. It’s one of those places where the pizza is always fresh, and they’ve got a solid selection of options. The best part? The kids’ menu. I swear, my three—Jenny, Lincoln, and Molly—never get bored here. Whether it’s the classic cheese pizza, something a little more adventurous, or even the garlic breadsticks, it’s hard to go wrong. Plus, they’re always so welcoming to families. The vibe is laid-back, which, as a mom, I appreciate. I’m not worried about my little ones spilling their drinks or being too loud because everyone is just there for a good time. It’s the kind of place where you can let the kids run around a bit (without feeling like the entire restaurant is judging you).

Then there’s Peter Piper Pizza—it’s like the ultimate pizza playdate spot. I don’t know what magic they put in their dough, but I’m pretty sure it’s made for kids. The pizza is cheesy and delicious (trust me, Jenny would live on just the pepperoni pizza if she could), and their arcade? It’s basically a mom’s secret weapon. I mean, Molly and Lincoln can spend HOURS playing games while I grab a slice and pretend to have a peaceful moment. And can we talk about their salad bar? I feel like I’m kind of making good choices by loading up on veggies before devouring that slice of pepperoni pizza. We all know it’s not a “mom win” unless you sneak in a few extra veggies, right?

I won’t lie, when we’re in a pizza mood, we’re typically there for the food, but that extra dose of fun from the arcade at Peter Piper makes it that much better. The kids stay entertained, which means less whining about being hungry (they’re busy playing) and more time for me to enjoy my meal. This is key when you’re trying to make a pizza night feel like a treat for you too, and not just a survival tactic for the kids.

Honestly, whether you’re in the mood for a cozy sit-down experience or you just need a quick pick-up pizza for the family, both Barro’s and Peter Piper deliver in the most delicious way possible. I’m all for a place that knows how to keep both parents and kids happy. So, next time you’re craving pizza, give these places a go—you won’t regret it, and neither will your kids.

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As a mom, finding a cafe where I can get my much-needed caffeine fix while keeping the kids entertained is no easy feat. Between Jenny’s requests for the perfect avocado toast, Lincoln’s snack attacks, and Molly’s picky demands for fruit, I’m always on the lookout for cafes that make both kids and coffee lovers happy. So, here’s a roundup of my top picks for kid-friendly cafes in Phoenix that also serve up a decent cup of coffee—because we all know that’s non-negotiable.

1. First Watch
Okay, First Watch takes the top spot, and here’s why: their coffee is amazing. If you haven’t tried their Mint Mocha, get ready for a game-changer. It’s like a cozy hug in a cup, with just the right amount of mint and chocolate, and plenty of caffeine to keep you awake through those morning madness moments. Plus, the menu is perfect for the whole family. Jenny loves their avocado toast, Lincoln’s all about the pancakes (and yes, he can finish an entire stack), and Molly’s happy with their fruit and mini pancakes. It’s a place that makes me feel like I’ve got it together for about 30 minutes, and that’s a win.

2. The Coffee Shop
This one is perfect for when you need a relaxed vibe but don’t want to sacrifice the quality of your coffee. The Coffee Shop, located in central Phoenix, has that laid-back vibe that makes it easy to chat with other moms while the kiddos play at the little corner play area. Their flat whites are my go-to (strong enough to get me through the day), and they’ve got a kid-friendly menu with items like mini pancakes, scrambled eggs, and sandwiches. The kids are happy, and I’m sipping on a coffee that doesn’t taste like burnt beans—win-win!

3. The Henry
Now, The Henry isn’t exactly a “cafe” in the traditional sense, but it’s one of those places that feels like a café, with great coffee and a menu everyone can enjoy. It’s got that stylish, trendy vibe that makes me feel like I’ve stepped into a chic spot—but without the stress of worrying about Molly spilling her juice or Lincoln loudly announcing that he’s hungry again. Their coffee? Delicious. Jenny’s obsessed with their breakfast burrito, Lincoln usually goes for the pancakes (we’ve got a theme here), and Molly always finds something on the kids’ menu she’ll love.

So, there you have it—three of the best kid-friendly spots where you can get your caffeine fix and actually enjoy a few minutes of peace while the little ones are happy. Whether you’re after a Mint Mocha at First Watch or a good old-fashioned flat white at The Coffee Shop, these places make sure both you and your kids are well taken care of. Now, go ahead, treat yourself to a coffee you can actually enjoy, and let the kiddos enjoy their breakfast too!

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Alright, if you’re like me and your family can’t get enough of Mexican food, then you’ll totally get how important it is to find a place that pleases everyone’s taste buds—especially when you’ve got kids who have opinions. Jenny’s a little more “adventurous” with her food choices (she’s the one who orders extra spicy salsa and acts like it’s no big deal), while Lincoln? He’s all about quesadillas, no questions asked. Molly, well, she’s just here for the chips and guac, but that’s neither here nor there.

So, where do we go when we’re craving the best Mexican food in Phoenix that the whole family will enjoy? Let me tell you, Valle Luna on Bell Road is a game changer. The place has been a family favorite for a while now, and there’s a reason why it’s always packed—great food, cozy vibe, and they know how to make everyone feel at home.

We usually start off with their famous chips and salsa—so good, you’ll almost forget there’s a whole meal coming. And I mean, who can resist salsa that has just the right amount of kick without setting your mouth on fire? Definitely not me.

Then, there’s the menu. Oh boy. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty like a chimichanga or just want a simple taco (Lincoln’s go-to), Valle Luna has it all. Molly usually orders something off the kids’ menu, but Jenny and I are all about the carne asada, which always hits the spot. And let’s not forget their margaritas. A little something for mom while the kids stuff their faces with burritos? Yes, please.

The best part? It’s one of those places where everyone gets exactly what they want without any complaints. You know, like that rare moment where no one’s asking for a “taste” of someone else’s meal and everyone is too busy devouring their own plate. It’s magical.

Next time you’re in Phoenix and craving some top-notch Mexican food for the family, definitely swing by Valle Luna on Bell Road. Trust me, your stomach (and your kids) will thank you.

School lunches. The daily grind of figuring out what to pack so your kids will actually eat it, and not just trade it for someone else’s mystery sandwich. And let’s be honest—every morning feels like a race against the clock while you’re juggling breakfast, getting everyone dressed, making sure they haven’t forgotten their homework (again), and praying that your coffee actually stays warm long enough for you to drink it. Packing lunches is a whole other ballgame that requires serious strategy.

I have three kiddos—Jenny (15), Lincoln (11), and Molly (8)—and I’ve learned a few things over the years. Like, I can’t just throw a sad sandwich in there with a sad apple and expect it to go down without a complaint. So here are my top tips for packing school lunches that are actually going to get eaten—and won’t make you want to pull your hair out by noon.

1. Keep it Simple, but Make It Fun
Let’s get real: your kids are never going to eat a salad with quinoa and kale (unless they’re some sort of magical child). But they will eat food that’s fun and easy to handle. Think mini sandwiches, bite-sized fruits, and simple dips. Jenny is all about wraps, so I’ll throw in some turkey and cheese in a tortilla, maybe with a little ranch dressing to dip. Lincoln’s more of a snack guy, so I give him a mix of crackers, cheese cubes, and veggies. And Molly? She’s just happy with anything that’s colorful and doesn’t require too much effort to eat.

2. Use Containers to Your Advantage
I don’t know what magical powers lunch containers hold, but they make my life so much easier. I love having a set of reusable bento-style boxes. You know, the ones with multiple sections so I can separate everything without worrying about it getting soggy or mixed up. If I have to pack leftovers, I’ll use a thermos. It keeps things warm, like pasta or soup, which is a nice change from the usual cold sandwiches. Plus, it makes me feel like I’m winning at lunch packing, even though my kids are probably still trading their grapes for cookies in the cafeteria.

3. Get Your Kids Involved
My kids are way more likely to eat something they had a hand in making. So, every once in a while, I’ll ask them to help out in the lunch prep process. I let Molly spread the peanut butter on her sandwich (with only a little mess), Lincoln assembles his snack packs, and Jenny occasionally takes charge of choosing the fruit. It gets them engaged and gives them a sense of control, which—surprisingly—actually works in my favor. And when they have some say in it, I get fewer complaints. Win-win!

4. Plan Ahead (If You Can)
I’m not always the best at this (hey, we’re all human), but when I do take a few minutes the night before to prep, the mornings go so much smoother. I’ll chop up veggies, portion out snacks, or even assemble sandwiches the night before. The less I have to do when I’m running around trying to get everyone out the door, the better. And if I’ve planned ahead, there’s a better chance that the kids will get something that’s actually good for them, instead of me just throwing whatever’s in the fridge into a lunchbox.

5. Keep Things Interesting
Nobody wants to eat the same thing every day. I try to mix it up and throw in some new ideas now and then. One day it’s taco salad with the dressing on the side; the next, it’s a DIY sandwich kit with deli meat, cheese, and bread to assemble at lunch. If I’m feeling fancy (which, let’s be real, isn’t every day), I might throw in a homemade muffin or a little dessert treat. Jenny loves it when I sneak in a tiny piece of chocolate—small, but it keeps the mood light!

Packing school lunches doesn’t have to be this monumental, stressful task. With a little prep, creativity, and maybe some help from your little ones, you can get the lunch routine down without losing your mind. And while I can’t promise that everyone will eat everything you pack (because let’s face it, kids are unpredictable), at least you can say you tried—and that, my friend, is something to be proud of.

If you’re like me, family meals are sometimes the ultimate battle. Jenny wants sushi, Lincoln is all about pizza, and Molly’s firmly in the “let’s just have chicken nuggets” camp. But don’t worry, Phoenix (and Tempe) have some great spots that can satisfy all the picky eaters in the family. Here are a few of my go-to places when no one can agree on what to eat.

Rainforest Cafe (Arizona Mills Mall, Tempe)
First up, we’ve got the Rainforest Cafe in Tempe, tucked inside the Arizona Mills Mall. The kids absolutely love the jungle vibes—think animatronic animals, tropical sounds, and the occasional “thunderstorm” that gets them squealing with excitement (and me praying for the storm to be over before I have a meltdown). The menu? It’s a little bit of everything: burgers, pasta, seafood, and salads. There’s something for every picky eater in your bunch. Plus, it’s an adventure just stepping foot inside!

Oregano’s (Various Locations)
Oregano’s is a great option when you want to stuff your face with delicious Italian food, and the kids get a kick out of the oversized portions. Their pizza is huge, and let’s not forget their famous “Big Rig” pasta that will fill up even the hungriest teenager. If your family can’t agree on pasta or pizza, this is a spot where both will feel like winners. And hey, it’s a pretty casual place, so no need to stress about spills and messes.

The Cheesecake Factory (Scottsdale or Tempe)
When in doubt, head to The Cheesecake Factory. There’s literally something for everyone. From healthy salads to decadent pastas, and don’t even get me started on the dessert menu. The Cheesecake Factory is like the Switzerland of restaurants—it’s neutral ground for when the kids can’t decide. Plus, their cheesecakes are out of this world. Can’t go wrong with a slice of Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake, trust me.

Great Wolf Lodge (Scottsdale)
Yes, this is a hotel, but it’s got one of the most family-friendly dining spots around: the Wolf’s Den. With everything from pizza to burgers to an extensive salad bar, there’s no shortage of options to please the whole crew. Plus, after dinner, your kids can enjoy the indoor water park. Talk about a win-win.

Chompie’s (Phoenix and Scottsdale)
Chompie’s is a go-to deli and bakery, serving up Jewish comfort food that’s perfect for a big family meal. From sandwiches piled high with deli meat to hearty matzo ball soup, there’s something for everyone, and you can guarantee that leftovers will fill your fridge for days (score). This is a great spot when you want a laid-back meal that feels like home, even if you’re out on the town.

P.F. Chang’s (Scottsdale)
If you’re looking for something a little different but still safe for the kids, P.F. Chang’s is a great bet. I love the family-style Chinese food here. Sweet and sour chicken, dumplings, noodles, and the kids’ favorite: crispy green beans. The ambiance is a little fancier, but it’s still laid-back enough that you won’t be stressing over spills. Bonus: P.F. Chang’s is a great choice if you need to accommodate a vegetarian or gluten-free family member.

Rubio’s Coastal Grill (Various Locations)
For something a little lighter, Rubio’s Coastal Grill has a casual vibe with tons of fresh fish options, tacos, and salads. Molly’s always down for some kid-friendly fish tacos, and Lincoln is pretty happy with a chicken burrito. Their outdoor seating makes it perfect for a sunny afternoon meal while the kids run around. It’s a quick and easy way to keep everyone happy without making a huge deal about dinner.

The Keg Steakhouse + Bar (Scottsdale and Phoenix)
Sometimes, you just need a hearty steak, and The Keg is the place to get it. They’ve got a great kid’s menu with options like chicken tenders and grilled cheese for the littles, while the adults can indulge in perfectly cooked steaks and seafood. The Keg has a cozy, upscale atmosphere that still feels welcoming to families. It’s the perfect spot for when you want to treat yourself (and everyone else) to a meal that’s a little more elevated.

The Original ChopShop (Phoenix and Scottsdale)
If you’ve got a group of kids who are all about healthier options, The Original ChopShop is a refreshing change of pace. Their menu is packed with fresh salads, sandwiches, and smoothies, and everything is made to order. Jenny loves the acai bowls, Lincoln’s all about the chicken wraps, and I feel good knowing they’re getting something wholesome in their bellies.

T.C. Eggington’s (Mesa)
Sometimes, the best meals are the ones that feel like home, and T.C. Eggington’s is one of those spots. This breakfast-and-brunch spot is great for any time of day, offering comfort food like pancakes, omelets, and French toast. The kids get their fill of bacon and eggs, and I can sip on a cup of coffee without being interrupted every two minutes. Heaven.

Phoenix and Tempe are full of family-friendly restaurants that can meet all your picky eater needs. Whether you’re in the mood for a jungle adventure, a hearty steak, or a sweet slice of cheesecake, these spots are great options to keep everyone happy when it’s a struggle to pick where to eat. After all, the goal is to get out of the house, fill up bellies, and maybe—just maybe—have a peaceful meal. Fingers crossed.

Look, feeding three kids is basically like being a short-order cook, except no one tips you and the complaints are endless. Jenny’s a teenager, so she’s basically living off sarcasm and vibes. Lincoln thinks anything green is “suspicious,” and Molly… well, Molly once ate a crayon and said it was “kind of good,” so that’s where we’re at.

But I’ve been dabbling in keto dinners lately because, honestly, carbs and I have a complicated relationship. Plus, the idea of cooking one meal that works for me and the kids feels like winning the mom lottery. Spoiler: it’s not always a win, but when it works, it’s glorious.

Here are a few keto dinners that actually passed the kid test (or at least didn’t cause a full-blown revolt):

1. Cheeseburger Casserole – Ground beef, cheddar cheese, and a bunch of other delicious things baked together in one dish. No bun, no problem. Lincoln called it “weird spaghetti,” but he ate it, so I’m counting that as a win.
2. Zucchini Pizza Boats – Scoop out some zucchinis, fill them with pizza sauce, cheese, and pepperoni, and bake until bubbly. Jenny rolled her eyes but still ate two, so there’s that.
3. Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs – Simple, juicy, and loaded with flavor. Molly declared, “It tastes like chicken,” which I’ll take as a glowing endorsement.

Cooking keto for the whole family is kind of like trying to herd cats — messy, unpredictable, and occasionally rewarding. But hey, if I can find something that works for everyone (or at least two out of three), I’m calling it a win.

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My boys love jerky, so I’ve teamed up with Golden Island Jerky for an awesome giveaway!

I love that each handcrafted piece of Golden Island Jerky is individually sliced and marinated, a unique industry process, and is made from high-quality premium cuts of beef and pork. Also, Golden Island is created from proprietary spice blends authentic to the brand’s Asian heritage and small-batch cooking methods. Pork jerky is fire-grilled and beef jerky is kettle-cooked to maximize intense flavors and to create a moist, tender texture.

For those of you with food sensitivities or those eating healthy – Golden Island Jerky is all natural, gluten-free, made with no artificial ingredients and no added nitrates or nitrites of any kind.

These grab and go packages are perfect for summer road trips! Whenever I’m traveling I just want to snack. Well you don’t need to feel guilty about snacking on Golden Island Jerky because it is high in protein and has no artificial ingredients!

Here’s where you can find Golden Island Jerky:

Golden Island Jerky is available at Costco Club stores on the west coast, Ralph’s grocery stores in Los Angeles, Safeway and Albertson’s in Portland and at Amazon.com. Golden Island is also available in West Coast Target stores.
Disclaimer: This giveaway was facilitated by Golden Island Jerky. I was not compensated for this post but did receive free product samples, all opinions are my own.

Now for the giveaway! Here is what you can win:

Prize:

Two packages of each variety of Golden Island Jerky ($65)
Four popular brand name, highly insulated Rambler 18 oz. bottles ($160)
$100 Visa gift card for gas
Hiking Backpack ($40)
Giveaway value – approx.: $365

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I try and eat healthy but sometimes it’s difficult. Especially during sports season when my boys have practice or games everyday of the week. There are ways to eat healthy on the go and the new Fresca Bowls from Facebook are a great option!

The Fresca Bowls are offered in there different varieties and served on a bed of fresca lime rice and seasoned black beans.

Southwest Grilled Chicken and Veggie Bowl – fresh grilled chicken with fire roasted veggies, red and green bell peppers, caramelized onions and poblano peppers.
Pollo Asado Grilled Chicken Bowl – marinated fresh grilled chicken, hand chopped pico de gallo salsa, onions and cilantro.
Fire Roasted Veggie Bowl – tangy green chile sauce, fresh pico de gallo salsa and roasted veggies.

I enjoyed the fire roasted veggie bowl and it was only 450 calories! Another huge bonus was the price. At only $4, the fresco bowls are not only waistline friendly but wallet friendly! I know you’re curious about the calorie count for the other bowls, the Southwest Grilled Chicken and Veggie Bowl is 530 calories and the Pollo Asado Grilled Chicken Bowl is only 500 calories.

Be sure to stay connected with Del Taco on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Also, be sure to play the game at Del Tacos website to win a free drink!

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Have you guys heard about these Pink Lemonade Cupcakes? I had heard from several people how delish they are but I had never tried them so this weekend I decided to try them out! I found a recipe on Pinterest (of course! ha). I sent Hubby to the store for the frozen pink lemonade and the cake mix. He came home and had gotten the right cake mix but got regular lemonade instead of pink lemonade…ok, I can deal with that we will just mix it up a little and it won’t quite be the same as the recipe on the blog I found.

Once I had made the cupcakes I left the rest of the frozen lemonade concentrate sitting in the sink since I still needed some to use in the icing I didn’t want to put it away quite yet. Well, hubby was helping me by taking the cupcakes out of the tin and setting them on the counter. He decided to be even more helpful and poured all the rest of the lemonade down the drain and threw away the container! AH!!!!!! When it finally registered that he had poured something down the drain I turned around and he was standing there with the empty container in his hand. I said, ‘did you just dump out my lemonade that I needed for the icing?’ and he looked at me and said ‘oh crap I did didn’t I’. lol

Recipe:
white boxed cake mix
3/4 cup lemonade concentrate

Icing:
3 cups powdered sugar
1 stick butter
2 tbsp lemonade (or 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp sugar and water)
food color

Really simple and soo good! What a great treat for the spring or summer time!

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