Eating out alone with toddler

[Flightlessbird17]

Hi, so I have to go to the city tomorrow for a hospital appointment and taking my two year old. I was wanting to take him for lunch ( I have never done this by myself) but I don't want to feel awkward on my own in restaurant especially if he has a tantrum.
Is it a bad idea? Dose anyone else take there young kids out by themselves?

i have done it several times. I printed off some colouring pages and brought a pack of wax crayons with me, as well as a small sheet of stickers (these could all fit in my handbag). These basically kept them entertained while we waited for the food x

Done it loads of times. Take crayons or those magic water painting books. Go somewhere that you can get food really fast like wagamamas or a buffet type thing

Thanks I will take some of the things with me. Still feels weird going by myself I always see other mums together.

Yes, I do it frequently with a 2 and 3 yr old because frankly they drive me crackers if we stay in all day!! Go to the right place, somewhere with quick service, and crayons. Take a couple of small toys or books. Even, given that it's new to both of you, sone small snacks to distract with (I like those fruity bear claw things)

I quite often go out for lunch with my one year old, slightly younger I know.
Usually pick something quick or somewhere I know other children will be. Wagamamas, yo sushi and pizza express are firm favorites!

I really like going for lunch with my younger one, now 3, but I was taking him along since he was a baby, as well as his older brother. Just choose a child friendly place (e.g. pizza express is my safe place), most places have crayons and activities paper, also helpful to have a few small toys and books. I am seeing that as a "special date", and my boys love it as well, especially if it is 1:1, as it doesn't often happen. You'll be fine! Try to enjoy it!

Thanks everyone. We made it, no tantrums and a good mood all day. Think I'm going to have to do this more often.

Reading this brought back some great memories for me ❤️ I used to go out with my DD when she was 3yrs old to restaurants, just us two. I loved it. She's 11 now