Best Valentine's Day For Parents (no sitter needed)

208 Concord Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138 (map)

The atmosphere is warm and cozy. The bread basket is perfect for sharing. The kids can sit by the window and watch the buses go by. If they really start to get antsy they can always watch the action in the open bakery. Enjoy a Krazy Kap with a jam filled brioche to share with your loved one and sit and chat a while.

1 Bennett St (The Charles Hotel), Cambridge, MA 02138 (map)

This is a favourite spot for breakfast. I love the breads that are served and they have a great kid's menu. It doesn't matter how grey the weather is outside, this place always feels sunny and bright. The children can color while you dine. The service is a bit slower than some breakfast places, but you feel well taken care of. If you really want some more time to enjoy one another's company, have the children choose a candy stick from the front shop and that should keep them busy for a little while. A little sugar on Valentine's day can go a long way! After breakfast you can stroll around Harvard Square or enjoy some ice time as a family at the Charles Square rink just outside.

52 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA 02138 (map)

This place is usually packed with students and professors in the evening, but it is a perfectly elegant place to go for a romantic family breakfast. They open at 8 a.m. so slip right into a seat, treat the kids to a fabulous hot chocolate and start your day with a great cup of tea or coffee. On the breakfast front, it isn't all chocolate and rich pastries, and if you just sit hand in hand with your loved ones and enjoy a great chocolate drink and a rich morning treat that's okay. It's Valentine's Day after all.

647 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02118 (map)

Between being asked to wear Pajamas for brunch at Tremont 647's pajama brunch and the house-made pop-tart the kids will be easily satisfied. The place is totally hip and the menu has lots of yummy dishes from breakfast classics (eggs benedict) to brunch dishes with a twist (Bananas Foster Nutella Pancakes).

1 Belmont St, Cambridge, MA 02138 (map)

91 Winthrop St, Cambridge, MA 02138 (map)

You'll actually be headed downstairs to The Monday Club. If you're lucky you can snag a spot by the fireplace. The kids will enjoy the decor and the place just makes you feel special. Then peruse the menu and you'll find some of the most mouth-watering options. I dream about the tomato soup and grilled cheddar cheese sandwich. Doesn't that just scream, "I love you!" ? This is a great place to encourage the kids to try something new.

149 Alewife Brook Pkwy, Cambridge, MA 02140 (map)

"Seafood Shack" is not exactly romantic, but then again Summer Shack isn't your typical seafood shack. With the motto "Food is love." you're off to a good start. This is another great romantic spot if you want to bring back some summer lovin' memories. It will take you back the picnic tables and the fresh seafood of your last (don't worry that it might have been years ago) seaside vacation.

1 Kendall Sq, Cambridge, MA 02139 (map)

The Blue Room is a step above your usual breakfast/brunch spot. Their brunch menu is extraordinary with both breakfast and more lunch-like items. The brunch is only $12 for 12 and younger and you can toast to your love for one another with a $6 mimosa.

439 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116 (map)

Another spot for an atypical brunch experience, but with breakfast tacos and chocolate chip pancakes on the menu the kids will be easy to please. There are great brunch drinks as well as breakfast tapas and a variety of sweet and savory main dishes as well.

50 Dalton Street, Boston, MA 02115 (map)

I know you're thinking. Oh yes, wearing other people's shoes and throwing large heavy balls, yeah that's romantic. King's is a great romantic family outing though. The bowling is fun and brings out the kid in everyone and the setting is not your grandparents' bowling alley. There is even a sexy billiard lounge where you can hit some balls while the kids play video games or chill on the couches. On the menu, is anything but the usual bowling alley food. The salads are great and the lettuce wraps are a personal favourite. The menu includes burgers, scallops, mac 'n cheese and so much more.

190 Newbury St, Boston, MA 02116 (map)

I especially love Stephanie's on Newbury in the winter. It feels stylish and hip and it is cozy too. Take the T in with the kids. Stroll Newbury Street and buy each other a little something. Then gather around the table for a nice cozy lunch with a menu big enough to satisfy even the pickiest eaters (the kids or the husband).

853 Main St, Cambridge, MA 02139 (map)

If you go early enough, and you think your children can handle an upscale restaurant, then Craigie on Main is a great place to try. The open kitchen is enticing for young kids and the staff are so attentive they will do their best to keep the evening running along smoothly. I suggest making a really early reservation and give it a try.