But like… can we talk about the weird social energy around this? Because it is not just logistics; it’s vibes. There is this weird stigma, like as soon as you turn 13, you are now never allowed to eat anything small, or that takes only a couple minutes to eat, or that is simple ever again.
There is this feeling of obligation to prove that you are a real adult, by ordering something that is complex and expensive. A piece of meat. Something with a “reduction.” Something that you don’t even secretly want, but you feel that you should want it. If you are like me, and you say, “Actually I just want the nuggets,” we all silently judge and remove points for dignity.
But really, I think – what are we doing here? Why is it acceptable to not eat half of your $24 entree than to just order the $7 thing you actually want and will eat? Is there a rule? You are too old for grilled cheese but not too old to take three bites of salmon and then just push it around your plate acting full?
Maybe there is an argument for middle ground (maybe).
Some restaurants are getting it – I guess? Like, I’ve seen menus that have “smaller plates,” or “light bites” – however you wanna say it – it just feels like a more socially acceptable euphemism for “we know some of you will want the kids’ meal option but don’t wanna say it.”
And a couple of places will even keep adult portion costs on the kids’ menu and let you just pay a little more – like a $2 up charge or something just to balance it somehow? Seems fair? I mean, they are a business and they have fixed costs. You want the grilled cheese and fries, they want to be in business and not go broke. Makes sense that everyone’s got a little incentive to compromise.
But you know, in all seriousness, maybe the real answer is just…. clarity. Like, you know don’t make it weird. Just say yes or no on the menu. And the menu could really chill just a little too. Let people eat how they want to eat. Especially if it’s beige and it’s shaped like a dinosaur.
Okay So, Anyway, That’s My Grilled Cheese Thing
I don’t know. This isn’t about sandwiches really. It’s about choice. And price. And comfort, And maybe, some little bit of control, And whatever weird combination of those things makes a person look at a laminated menu with colourful cartoon animals on it and think for a second, ” Yep. That one. That’s what I need today.”
So yeah – should adults be allowed to order off the kids’ menu? I mean, yeah? Sometimes the math is doable. If it messes up the kitchen or makes the place go bankrupt, who really cares?
And if it does, then maybe just say that? Post it? Make a rule. But don’t make people feel weird asking. Sometimes you don’t want truffle fries. Sometimes you want a meal that is served with crayons.
And if you want to go get nuggets and colour outside the lines – whatever, I will meet you there.
