Should Adults Be Able To Order Off The Kids’ Menu? Let’s Settle The Debate

3. It’s a Perk Meant for Kids

Some believe the kids’ menu is a rare benefit exclusively for children—one of the few places they’re given special treatment. Allowing adults to take that space could diminish that little joy for families dining out.

Compromise: Is There a Middle Ground?

Many restaurants have already found a happy medium by offering:

• “Small Plates” or “Lite Bites” sections that cater to adults wanting smaller portions.
• Senior menus with reduced portions and prices for older adults.
• Unwritten flexibility where servers quietly allow an adult to order from the kids’ menu, especially if it’s not during a rush.

Some establishments charge a small “adult fee” to accommodate kids’ menu orders for grownups, which might be a reasonable compromise. Others simply enforce a rule: 12 and under only.

Verdict: Let’s Stop Shaming and Start Being Practical

Here’s the truth: food choices are personal. If someone wants to eat a child-sized meal, for whatever reason—health, budget, taste—why make it awkward?

Restaurants should be transparent about their policies, and customers should respect them. But when possible, a little flexibility goes a long way. In an age where customization is king and food waste is a real issue, letting adults order kids’ meals doesn’t seem like the societal downfall some make it out to be.

So next time you’re eyeing that $5 grilled cheese with a side of applesauce, just remember: you’re not alone—and maybe it’s time more menus recognized that.

What do you think? Should adults be able to order off the kids’ menu? Share your take—just no fighting over the last chicken nugget.

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