Haymarket Cafe

"Vegetarian & Vegan family friendly eatery + WiFi"

If you're anything like me, you've produced more than one child with a strong set of opinions about food: where shall we have it? What will you all be eating whilst I protest? WHY isn't everything on this menu covered in cheese? Ad nauseum.

There is hope. Especially for the vegetarian families in the audience (holla!). Take that angsty tween/teen and the rest of your brood to Haymarket in Northampton, MA. Situated in an interesting neighborhood (to say the least) full of retail establishments, wandering people, street musicians/performers, other eateries (including a chocolate HEAVEN I'll review immediately) and general points of interest (read: architecture) is this great little niche of deliciousness.

Bonus points for the public restroom.

Visit one: The adults nursed caffeine-withdrawals on the Haymarket's daily brews ... before scarfing down the (v) coconut macaroons. Dipped in dark chocolate and dusted with almonds, these were likely the best part of my day.
The 3 year old mingled with other toddlers and infants, some strapped to their respective parents in slings, baby bjorns or - the ultimate parental control device - strollers. :) Most adults were lost in their own quiet conversations, while the staff (knowledgeable and friendly) were busy brewing/foaming/juicing the fare.

There is a restaurant downstairs, which we tried on our second visit. This time in the party : 3 adults (28, 29 and 30) and one tween (11). Vegetarian options are abundant and tasty. Cafe mocha part II was even more delicious - and properly made - than I remember. The tween downed two chocolate covered coconut macaroons, a (v) wheat-free  peanut butter chocolate cup (think: elegant Reese's)  and a large chai before moving on to her meal of vegetarian delights.

The prices are reasonable, especially when considering the freshness of the product.

Atmosphere : Overall family-friendly. Somewhat difficult to navigate with side-by-side strollers (I observed this with great interest), conveniently located & fantastic ambiance.