Child-friendly hangouts

Having a social life with young children in tow can be a daunting task. Luckily, Barcelona is home to lots of places that strive to keep their younger clients happy too. And, while the kids get toys, high-chairs and their own play space, you get a chance to sit back, eat some tasty food and relax.

FAMILY RESOURCES IN BARCELONA

• kidsinbarcelona.com (English)
• mammaproof.com (Spanish)
• facebook.com/MamAmigasBarcelona (English)
• Meetup.com has several groups for parents.

• Pudding

  You know this place is going to be fun as soon as you walk through the door. Upstairs, Pudding has a lovely fairground feel to it, with red-and-white striped ceiling fabric, twinkly lights and bright, comfy furniture. Venture down the stairs at the back and you’ll find giant painted mushrooms, a huge table, mismatched coloured chairs and dangling chandeliers. Settle in, order your coffee and let the kids run and play.

• Family Room

  Owner, Mar, wanted to create a space where every member of the family feels at home. And this lovely space, with its creative eye for pretty details, exudes a healthy, relaxed vibe. Kids get their own corner with a little playhouse, giant blackboard and lots of toys. The menu offers salads, torrades (Catalan toast with tasty toppings) and a few special dishes all made with quality local produce.

• Ideal Poblenou

  This narrow cafe with fresh, inviting decor is located on one of Poblenou’s most family-friendly streets. During the day, it’s popular with parents enjoying some downtime while the little ones play with toys or let off some steam in the patio at the back. Staff are friendly and they serve up organic food, with several gluten-free options available. The weekday €8 vegetarian menu is posted on their Facebook page.

• Bar del Convent

  This spacious, easygoing cafe is housed in the former Sant Agustí convent. The best thing about a stop here is the amount of space available for energetic children. There's a play corner inside and a huge, enclosed patio outside. Outdoor seating means you can have your coffee or lunch al fresco while keeping an eye on the little ones. The cafe is self-service and offers simple, healthy food.

• Cafè Godot

  Stylish but informal, this child-friendly bistrot on Sant Domenec serves brunch, lunch and dinner. Tuck into your eggs Benedict or jam and scones while the kids play in the cheerful children’s corner equipped with toys and a blackboard. Great service, quality produce and some original touches on the menu make this a family favourite.

• Contacacau

  A 'family concept store', Contacacau will let you eat in peace while the younger members of the family play in the well-equipped kids’ zone. Located near Plaça de Francesc Macià, this bright and spacious place offers healthy Catalan cuisine, plus not-so-healthy but downright delicious Italian ice-cream. Perfect for keeping mum and dad happy.