An Escape 'Fore' The Whole Family!

A simple five minute drive down Foothill Blvd. just west of Lowell Ave., is a great little place to "escape" called Golf 'n Grill. This establishment is home to a nine hole mini golf course, Mongolian barbeque restaurant, espresso bar, party hall, and even a free Wi-Fi hot spot! Located at 6500 Foothill Blvd. in Tujunga, Golf 'n Grill opened its doors in 2009 with a mission statement to "concentrate on wholesome family entertainment with a relaxing mountain cafe atmosphere."

The scenic Verdugo mountains are a lovely backdrop for a game of mini golf. Koi-filled streams meander through the nine holes. From a mother's perspective, this is a great, safe venue for a family outing because there is only one entrance and exit (that is located upstairs) and a tall fence runs the entire perimeter so the children can enjoy some freedom without parents having to be nervous about losing them. A wide size range of putters are on hand and six different colors of golf balls make the game enjoyable for everyone.

Upstairs, overlooking the golf course, is the Mongolian barbeque restaurant, frozen yogurt and espresso bar area. The Mongolian Grill menu option ($7.99) offers creative meal making for the whole family. Different types of meats, noodles, vegetables and sauces allow each person to custom tailor their meal to their individual liking. A large, round griddle is clearly visible so you can watch your meal sizzle away as the chef prepares it. If you are in the mood for something a little different, Golf 'n Grill also offers burgers, Mediterranean dinners, shish kabobs, boneless chicken breast, vegetarian entrees, and even a $4.99 kids meal. Enjoy a frozen yogurt or a freshly brewed coffee from the espresso bar for dessert.

Few things in life are worse than hosting a birthday party at your home so I am always on the lookout for a good place to have a party without it being too expensive. Golf 'n Grill offers a large party hall downstairs perfect for any gathering and they offer several packages to help customize a party to your child's individual preferences. The "Hole in One" package features invitations, unlimited mini golf, a party coordinator (that's right moms- a party coordinator!), two slices of pizza per child, unlimited soft drinks, two hours in the party hall, all paper goods, balloons, set up and clean up, a bounce house, and ceramic figurine painting for just $17 per child. They also offer professional face painting, petting zoos, and magicians for an additional fee.

Our family just loves to escape to Golf 'n Grill because it is close, fun, beautiful and has very reasonable prices for all of their activities. Mini golf for adults is $5.50 and children ages 5-12 are $4.50. Kids under five are free. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.