The Bistro

Welcome to Our Restaurant!

The Bistro is a fully-equipped restaurant space where children experience all aspects of the food service industry.

From cooking in the kitchen to serving customers at tables, children learn about food preparation, hospitality, teamwork, and customer service in this engaging role-play environment.

Best For: Ages 5-11 | Duration: 20-30 minutes

What Children Learn

👨‍🍳

Culinary Basics

Food preparation, kitchen organization, and safety

🤝

Customer Service

Communication, hospitality, and professional service

👥

Teamwork

Working together in kitchen and dining areas

📝

Organization

Following orders, managing time, and multitasking

Explore The Bistro

Professional Kitchen

Our kitchen features:

  • Play stove and oven
  • Refrigerator and sink
  • Pots, pans, and utensils
  • Play food (Nigerian & international cuisine)
  • Chef hats and aprons
  • Prep stations

Dining Area

Our restaurant includes:

  • Tables and chairs
  • Menus and order pads
  • Plates, cups, and utensils
  • Serving trays
  • Napkins and table settings
  • Host station

Payment Counter

Complete the experience:

  • Cash register
  • Play money
  • Receipt maker
  • Credit card machine
  • Tip jar
  • To-go containers

Role Play Opportunities

👨‍🍳

Head Chef

Lead the kitchen, prepare meals, and manage cooking

🍽️

Server/Waiter

Take orders, serve food, and ensure customer satisfaction

👔

Host/Hostess

Greet guests, manage seating, and coordinate service

💰

Cashier

Process payments and handle money transactions

🥘

Sous Chef

Assist with cooking and food preparation

😊

Customer/Diner

Order meals, enjoy dining, and provide feedback

Diverse Menu Options

The Bistro features a diverse selection of play foods representing Nigerian and international cuisines.

Sample Menu Items
Nigerian Dishes:
  • Jollof rice
  • Pounded yam
  • Egusi soup
  • Suya
  • Moi moi
International:
  • Pizza and pasta
  • Burgers and fries
  • Sandwiches
  • Salads
  • Desserts

Life Skills Learned

  • Food safety and hygiene
  • Following recipes and instructions
  • Understanding nutrition
  • Professional communication
  • Money handling and math
  • Time management
  • Cultural appreciation through food

Tips for Parents

Enhance the Experience

  • Be a customer and order from the menu
  • Ask about daily specials
  • Encourage polite service language
  • Practice counting money for the bill
  • Discuss favorite foods and healthy eating

Questions to Ask

  • "What's your favorite dish to prepare?"
  • "How do you make sure customers are happy?"
  • "What ingredients do you need?"
  • "How much does this meal cost?"
  • "What makes a good restaurant?"
Extend Learning at Home
  • Let your child help with meal planning and grocery shopping
  • Involve them in age-appropriate cooking tasks
  • Set up a restaurant at home with play food or real snacks
  • Visit restaurants and discuss how they operate
  • Read books about food, cooking, and restaurants
  • Explore different cuisines and cultures through food

Continue Your Adventure

Balogun Market

Balogun Market

Continue learning about commerce and trade at our Nigerian market!

Visit Balogun Market

Ready to Cook & Serve?

Plan Your Visit