images: The Backyard of Kalamazoo
The Backyard of Kalamazoo Opens Family Friendly Dining on July 18
Dining out with kids can be a gamble.
Although my husband and I tried to scope out the best kids menus in Kalamazoo and family friendly places, sometimes, we guessed wrong.
Those miscalculations in culinary choices left unhappy kids and exhausted parents.
It’s not always evident when a restaurant is truly kid friendly- that is, until The Backyard of Kalamazoo started construction.
From its inception, this new spot in Texas Township has promised a welcoming vibe for families including its mega outdoor space, “the backyard.”
| The Backyard of Kalamazoo 10441 Stadium Dr, Kalamazoo MI 49009  |
What is “The Backyard?”
The Backyard of this restaurant is what differentiates it from any other restaurant in Southwest Michigan.
With 10 acres of fenced outdoor space, this property off Stadium Drive provides a colossal space for friends and families to gather with games and activities.
What you’ll find: Corn hole, ping pong tables, outdoor pool tables, a neighborhood of outdoor playhouses, and hundreds of toys are all planned for this space.
Cost: Accessing the yard costs $12 per adult and $6 per child (there is no admission charge for the restaurant building or patio).
The Backyard Owners
It should be no surprise that the owners are parents.
Chris and Kelly Sandmeyer were inspired to open The Backyard by their children, ages three and five.
This community space is important to the SWMI area natives, who both grew up in Kalamazoo County.
The Food
The menu, shared recently in a Facebook post, features high-end pub fare.
As a kid-friendly spot, you’ll find some fan favorites on the children’s menu including macaroni and cheese, hot dogs, and chicken tenders.
Executive Chef Mark Ray created the menu for The Backyard of Kalamazoo.
Adult Beverages
Crafted cocktails are also on the menu for the 21 and older crowd plus craft beer and wine.
The “Refresh” is an anticipated favorite, made with gin, house-made simple syrup, mint and cucumber-infused water.
Many of these beverages are also available as mocktails, without alcohol.
Smashburgers and Sandwiches
With the opening on the horizon, the team is perfecting some of their sandwiches and burgers.
All burgers and sandwiches are served with a side of fries.
Gluten free buns are available for an additional charge. Diners can also add pulled pork or bacon.
Special Events Planned at The Backyard
The team at The Backyard of Kalamazoo is planning Easter Egg hunts, live music, Mother’s Day events and more special get togethers in the future.
They also anticipate using the outdoor space in the winter, offering ice skating or curling along with Christmas events.
Are you Excited about The Backyard of Kalamazoo’s Opening?
Leave us a comment if you’re planning to try this new restaurant soon!
More SWMI Food to Explore
