As half term approaches, thoughts turn to how to keep the kids entertained and hungry tummies full up with their favourite meals and snacks. New research by Thai restaurant Giggling Squid has revealed that the UK’s tiniest tastebuds might be more adventurous than we’ve been led to think, with almost half (47%) surveyed claiming stir fry is amongst their liked dishes, and almost a quarter (24%) saying sushi is.

Whilst the stereotype might suggest little ones prefer to opt for ‘bland and beige’ options, after the traditional salt & pepper, curry spice topped the list (49%) of ‘enjoyed flavours’ that they like to enjoy in their foods followed by mint (36%), coconut (34%) and lime (33%). An additional third (33%) said they like ‘spicy chilli’ in their meals.

Mini foodies across the country also showed they have a great knowledge of exotic flavours and ingredients, with almost half (55%) surveyed able to identify tofu, 78% correctly recognising ginger and 86% knowing what a mango was.

When it comes to their sacred ‘snack time’ children surveyed are happy to opt for exotic options like prawn crackers (59%), a poppadom (53%), naan bread (64%) and spring rolls (50%), with most kids saying they enjoy these options.

The research by Giggling Squid identified children surveyed in Plymouth as being the most adventurous, with all children opting for a diverse range of cuisines, followed closely by Glasgow (94%) and Nottingham (85%).

Top 5 most adventurous* by city:
Plymouth (100%)
Glasgow (94%)
Nottingham (85%)
Leeds (84%)
Southampton (84%)
Giggling Squid Culinary Director, Agnelo Pereira said, “The food scene in the UK has become so exciting, with the nation embracing a variety of cultures and cuisines, and it is brilliant to see this rubbing off on our little ones. Our research showed that UK kids have tried all sorts of exotic ingredients these days from bamboo shoots, to lychees and pak choi. It is wonderful to hear that they are open to experimenting with different tastes and flavours, and based on this we’re sure they’d enjoy tucking into our Kids Little Tapas menu at Giggling Squid this half term”.

The Kids Little Tapas menu at Giggling Squid allows your little ones to mix and match small plates including Chicken Satay, Pad Thai Noodles. Choose 2 dishes for £7.99, add Jasmine or Sticky rice for free.

Throughout the October half term, Giggling Squid will be running a colouring competition for kids, for the chance to win tickets to Sea Life London Aquarium for a family of four.