Sarita's Grill

Today I had a big day of fun planned for the kids.  We had planned to go to the zoo for the day, followed by a stop at our favorite ice cream shoppe.  Unfortunately, mother nature had another idea.  As we were sitting watching the sea lions, loud, ominous thunder claps started rolling closer and closer (a few of which made me jump out of my skin).  The kids were bummed that I was pushing them to leave because we had only been at the zoo for a short time, but as the rain grew stronger, they were thankful for the shelter of the car!  I don't think that I've ever loaded up that quickly before!  

Well, crap.  Now what!?  There's no way I'm headed home before nap time.  Sitting at home always ends in them plugged into the TV or the iPad.  Wait! I have this wonderful new blog!  So, I called a friend and asked about that Mexican restaurant she had told me she loved so much!  Sarita's Grill on Freret. Thanks Kelly!

Initially, I was a bit apprehensive about bringing my kids here - I didn't know what to expect with all the construction in the area, and I didn't really want to walk a mile to get there for lack of parking. Luckily I found parking after a few loops around the block, right by the restaurant's front door.  I struggled a bit to get through the door with the stroller, but within seconds, there was an employee helping me in.  I looked around and didn't see any kids. Uh-oh! I wondered momentarily if this was kid friendly. The restaurant was painted very vibrantly (good sign), with cute New Orleans-esque murals.  The kids were instantly commenting on the paintings and were very comfortable in the casual environment. As I turned behind me, there was a giant stack of high chairs!  Phew, they do like kids!

The staff was friendly and accommodating.  They asked where would be easiest for us to sit and provided a high chair promptly, before my one-year-old even had a chance to protest the presence of the seat (majorly helpful in our world). Then, something rare: a server listened to my four-year-old and tried to engage in conversation with him!  He asked my son what he would like to drink, then asked me for approval! I think my heart almost melted because my son gets so upset when people don't listen to him.

I was pleasantly surprised when they brought out FREE chips and QUESO with the drinks.  I'm a huge queso fan and so are the kids.  It wasn't bad!  Perhaps a bit too spicy for the kids, but nobody cried. ;) The meals were very fresh and tasty, seasoned well and not greasy at all.  I ordered a Mexi bowl in haste trying to get the order in before the kids had a chance to melt down, however, they also have things like fish tacos and fried plantains with guacamole!  There is only one kids meal, but it was perfect.  A simple plate of grilled chicken with rice, black beans and a fresh tortilla. It was a nice change of pace from the standard cheese pizza or mac n cheese with fries.  They actually ate it too!  My older son remarked, "ooh mama, this is soo good.  Like really yummy!" (Yes, he talks like a teenage valley girl.  I have, like, no clue where he gets that from....)

Our waiter was also happy to settle my bill while we were still eating, at my request.  This was a precautionary move in the event of a kid-tastrophy that required prompt action. All together, we had a successful meal, friendly service and I made it through my first solo meal in public with both kids!  This blog is pushing me to do things I would never normally do! I hope it does you too!