How much is a Happy Meal ®?  Is the cost of one more than you anticipated? Parents everywhere are noticing how pricey even quick fast-food options have become. In turn, this is leaving families searching for more value without sacrificing convenience. Once celebrated for its affordability and appeal, the iconic Happy Meal® has changed over the years.

Now, imagine an alternative. In this image, your kids are enjoying delicious meals at a family-friendly restaurant while still staying within your budget. Enter Mario’s Pizza Kids’ Meals. They are the ideal solution for parents seeking fresh ingredients, generous portions, and quality family time. Currently, all kids’ meals at Mario’s Pizza are $5 or less!

Let’s explore why Mario’s could be your new favorite dining option for your little ones.

How Much is a Happy Meal®?

Fast-food options like the Happy Meal® have long been a go-to choice for families. Primarily, this is due to their convenience and wide availability. However, have you recently stopped to ask, “How much is a Happy Meal ® these days?” If you’re on a budget, the answer might surprise you.

Current Pricing Is Climbing

The average price of a Happy Meal® ranges from $5 to $7, depending on your location. Over the years, inflation, rising ingredient costs, and branding have caused price increases across major fast-food chains. This often makes what was once considered a low-cost treat feel like an unexpectedly expensive outing for families.

What’s Included:

A Happy Meal® typically includes:

• Main item, such as a burger, chicken nuggets, or cheeseburger.
• Small fry (or apple slices as a healthier substitute).
• Gimmicky toy designed for short-term fun.
• Small drink, often a soda or water.

While convenient, the portions are small and often leave kids hungry after just a few bites. Consequently, while the flashy toy may provide a bit of excitement, it’s the food quality that ultimately matters most.

Convenience vs. Value

Sure, the speed of a Happy Meal® is appealing for busy parents. But are the portions and quality worth the price long-term? Families looking to maximize every dollar find themselves questioning whether they’re truly getting the best value for what they’re spending.

Why Mario’s Pizza Kids’ Meals Are the Better Alternative

So, do you want a meal that offers real satisfaction and full value? Mario’s Pizza Kids’ Meals are redefining what a kid-friendly dining experience should look like. Here’s why Mario’s is the ultimate alternative to the standard Happy Meal®.

Delicious Options with Variety

At Mario’s Pizza, we’ve created eight delectable Kids’ Meal options, ensuring there’s something for every picky eater or adventurous kid. Choose from:

• Kid-sized pizzas made with our famous house-made dough and real cheese.
• Mini pasta bowls loaded with our vitamin-rich tomato sauce.
• Small subs that are just the right size for little hands.

No matter their choice, every meal is paired with a kid-sized drink to round out their dining experience.

Budget-Friendly Pricing

One of the most appealing features of Mario’s Kids’ Meals is the pricing. Every Kids’ Meal is $5 or less, making it an affordable option without sacrificing quality or satisfaction.

For the same price (or often less) than a Happy Meal®, your child gets a more filling, freshly crafted meal. In turn, this leaves them nourished and happy and parents not stressing about the impact on their wallet.

Dine-In Only for Quality Time

While a Happy Meal® is designed to be consumed on-the-go, Mario’s is all about creating memories. Our Kids’ Meals are available dine-in only. This encourages families to slow down and enjoy meaningful moments together. There’s no drive-thru quick bite here. Instead, you’ll find yourself at the table enjoying laughs and conversations with the people who matter most.

Wholesome Ingredients, Wholesome Living

At Mario’s, we take pride in using fresh, premium ingredients. Think:

• Real mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
• Scratch-made dough that’s baked to perfection.
• Iconic tomato sauce filled with natural nutrients.

Plus, by skipping unnecessary additions (like plastic toys), we focus on providing food that delivers real value. The result? Happy kids and happy parents.

Generous Portions, Real Satisfaction

Unlike fast-food options, Mario’s portions are generous enough to satisfy growing appetites. You won’t find your kids asking for another snack shortly after leaving. Our meals are designed to provide both energy and enjoyment.

What Makes the Mario’s Experience Special

Dining out at Mario’s is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. From our welcoming atmosphere to kid-focused menus, here’s why families keep coming back.

Family-Friendly, Always

Mario’s is built on the idea that families deserve both quality food and quality time. From spacious seating to a range of menu options for parents and kids alike. We make dining out simple, enjoyable, and delicious.

Made-to-Order Meals

Every meal at Mario’s is made fresh on-site. Unlike fast food that sits under a heat lamp, you’ll taste the difference in every bite.

Growing With Your Kid’s Tastes

Our menu isn’t just about younger kids. In fact, we offer plenty of options for older children or teens who are looking for heartier meals. This ensures Mario’s grows alongside your family’s tastes and preferences.

Value is in the Whole Experience

At the end of the day, you’re getting so much more at Mario’s Pizza. From the fresh ingredients to the hearty portions to the meaningful time spent at a family-friendly establishment. Therefore, the benefits far outweigh what you might get at a fast-food drive-thru.

FAQs About Mario’s Pizza

We hope you are convinced to give us a try now. But if you have more questions about us keep reading our FAQ section below.

Where is Mario’s Pizza Located?

Mario’s Pizza has 9 locations across the Piedmont Triad, including Winston-Salem, High Point, Greensboro, and Clemmons. Find your nearest location here on our website at the top or on Google Maps.

What Kind of Food Does Mario’s Pizza Serve?

Mario’s specializes in New York-style pizza, pasta, subs, wings, and delicious Italian entrees the whole family will love.

Does Mario’s Pizza offer any daily specials or deals?

Yes! We frequently offer daily specials, lunch combos, and family meal deals. Check your local menu or ask in-store for current promotions.

The Takeaway? Mario’s Makes Family Dining Better

A Happy Meal® might appeal as a quick solution for busy days. However, Mario’s Pizza Kids’ Meals offer an unparalleled experience for families. With wholesome ingredients, hearty portions, and plenty of variety, it’s more than just food on the table. It’s time well spent together.

Your local Mario’s is ready to welcome you with open arms. Our Kids’ Meals are affordable, satisfying, and always made fresh. Stop by your nearest location and discover why dining in is the better choice for your family.

Hungry yet? Make your next outing count at Mario’s Pizza. Dine-in only and build memories bite by bite.

Want to learn more about us before your trip? Find us on Facebook and Instagram!

Life often gets incredibly busy. Moreover, the demands and stresses of daily routines make preparing home-cooked meals difficult. Thus, for many families, fast food quickly becomes a way of life. However, even the most devoted fast-food enthusiasts often tire of the same hamburgers and chicken nuggets after a while. When you find yourself searching for cheap kids’ meals near me, head to Mario’s Pizza! We offer delicious and affordable alternatives that will please both parents and children.

How Mario’s Pizza Stacks Up Against the Competition for Kids’ Meals

Between demanding jobs, the constant need for shuttling children to various activities, and the never-ending list of household chores, most parents simply find they have no time left for cooking. While many parents deeply dislike its negative impact on health and nutritional value, fast food restaurants remain appealing for several reasons. Speed and convenience are paramount. Usually, you get your meal 10 minutes or less. Plus, there’s absolutely no meal preparation involved. Best of all, there are no pots and pans to wash after the meal is over.

Surprisingly, fast food choices aren’t always the cheapest option available. For example, McDonald’s® offers Happy Meals® for kids. This meal typically includes a main course – choices like a hamburger, cheeseburger, or chicken nuggets – along with french fries or apple slices, and a drink. While prices can vary significantly according to the specific region, you can generally expect to pay somewhere between $6 to $7 for a Happy Meal® in North Carolina. Eventually, this cost adds up. Especially, this is true for families with multiple children.

A popular and often more balanced alternative to a fast food meal is Italian cuisine. Notably, one of the best places to find yummy Italian AND cheap kids’ meals near you is Mario’s Pizza. For dine-in customers, we offer kids’ meals at the incredibly affordable price of $5 or less. Unlike some other restaurants that restrict their special offers to certain days or times, our deals on kids’ meals are good every single day of the week. Plus, each kids’ menu item includes a drink served in a fun and reusable plastic cup that your children can take home with them as a bonus. Finally, your children have several appealing and tasty meal options to choose from at our restaurant:

Kids’ Meals

1. A slice of Cheese or Pepperoni pizza
2. A Meatball sub served with French fries
3. A Ham and cheese sub also served with French fries
4. Battered and fried cheese sticks, a crispy and cheesy treat
5. Spaghetti with our delicious marinara sauce
6. Ravioli filled with cheese
7. Chicken tenders, a classic kid favorite, served with fries

Similarly, if you’re planning a kid’s birthday party, Mario’s is a great place to celebrate!

We Offer More Than Just Cheap Kids’ Meals

Understandably, many people focus primarily on pricing when deciding on a takeout or dine-in meal option for their families. However, it’s crucial to remember that not all restaurants provide the same amount of food for the same price. This difference in portion sizes can significantly impact the overall value of your meal. So, if you’re looking for cheap kids’ meals near you, consider this experiment.

In one particularly interesting and revealing analysis, reporters visited some popular fast-food establishments to purchase a small cheeseburger and a small order of French fries. They then meticulously weighed these food items to determine precisely which restaurant gives you the most food for the best overall price. This experiment shed light on some surprising discrepancies.

The results of their experiment clearly revealed that food proportions are often relative to that specific restaurant. For example, a “small” hamburger may weigh a substantial 6.6 ounces at Five Guys, known for their generous portions, but only a relatively meager 4.1 ounces at Burger King. Likewise, the weight of a “small” order of French fries can vary dramatically, ranging from a light 1.9 ounces to a much more satisfying 8 ounces. Moreover, if you have teenage children to feed, you know all too well that these “small” sizes will almost certainly never adequately fill their growing appetites.

Get Pizza for the Family!

Instead of relying solely on fast food, consider choosing a popular and family-friendly alternative: pizza. Depending on your family’s appetite, you can order either a 17-inch or a 19-inch pie to feed a family of 4. At Mario’s Pizza, this will typically cost you under $20, providing a substantial and satisfying meal for everyone. However, feeding a similar-sized family at McDonald’s® with individual regular hamburger meals could easily total $30 or even more, based on an average regular hamburger meal price of around $7.50 per person. This price comparison highlights the economic advantages of choosing pizza for a family meal.

Explore Your Menu Options at Mario’s Pizza

Although pizza is undoubtedly a popular and crowd-pleasing meal choice, Americans also love and appreciate a wide variety of other Italian dishes. Mario’s Pizza proudly serves these other favorite and classic entrees:

• Lasagna, a rich and layered pasta dish
• Eggplant parmigiana, a flavorful vegetarian option
• Chicken parmigiana, a hearty and satisfying meal
• Ziti, a baked pasta with tomato sauce and cheese
• Spaghetti with fresh tomato sauce, a simple yet elegant dish
• Ravioli, pasta pillows filled with yumminess

We serve each of our generously sized entrees with a side salad to start your meal and toasty garlic knots as a delicious accompaniment. But, don’t worry if you find that you can’t finish your entire meal in one sitting. Our Italian dishes also taste incredibly delicious and satisfying the next day, making for excellent leftovers. Or, we also hear they make a great midnight snack. Okay, we haven’t JUST heard that – some of us partake in that delicious midnight snack on occasion!

Perhaps, you’re in the mood for another type of Italian meal? Mario’s Pizza also has an extensive menu with a tempting selection of appetizers. Choose from Italian sausage, savory meatballs, crispy toasted ravioli, fries, and other delicious options. Plus, we offer a variety of satisfying sub sandwiches, flavorful calzones, and hearty strombolis.

Looking for something a little lighter? We also toss several different kinds of fresh and crisp salads. You can order these salads as a side dish to complement your main course or as a full meal for a lighter option. Finally, our dessert menu provides a sweet ending to your meal. Choose from classic Italian treats like cannoli and tiramisu, as well as New York-style cheesecake and refreshing limoncello mascarpone cake.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mario’s Pizza

Are you unfamiliar with our Italian restaurants or have more questions about cheap kids meals near you? Below, we answer a few of the most commonly asked questions that people have about our establishments. We want to ensure that you have all the information you need to make an informed decision and enjoy a pleasant dining experience.

Is Mario’s Pizza a Family-Friendly Restaurant?

Most definitely! We strive to create a welcoming and comfortable environment where you can enjoy our delicious food in a relaxed atmosphere with your entire family. In addition to offering a dedicated and affordably priced kids’ menu, we also provide these family-friendly conveniences:

• A relaxed and casual dining atmosphere, perfect for families with children
• Comfortable and easy-to-clean surfaces, making mealtime less stressful
• High chairs and booster seats, ensuring that even the youngest diners are comfortable
• A friendly and attentive staff trained to meet the special needs of families

Does Mario’s Pizza Offer Any Specials or Deals?

Yes, we do! Our menu includes both daily specials and luncheon specials designed to help you stretch your budget and enjoy a delicious meal at a more affordable price. You can order any of our luncheon specials any day of the week until 4 pm, making them a great option for a weekday lunch. Comparatively, our daily specials change each day, offering a variety of options throughout the week.

You can easily view our current specials by clicking on the 3 green bars located in the top right-hand corner of our website and then selecting the “menu” option. After choosing your preferred restaurant location, simply click on the red “Choose a category” button to see a complete list of our current specials and promotions.

Moreover, sign up for our loyalty club for a free slice of pizza!

Please be aware that some specials and pricing may vary slightly by location, so make sure you select the specific restaurant nearest you to ensure you have the most updated and accurate pricing information. We want to provide you with the best possible value and dining experience.

How Popular Is Mario’s Pizza?

Of course, the flavor and quality of the food are paramount when choosing a restaurant for your family. While we could talk all day about how great our food tastes and how much we value our customers, we believe that our customers’ opinions speak volumes. Here’s what a few of them have to say about their experiences at Mario’s Pizza:

“Mario’s is an excellent pizza spot right near my house which makes for an awesome quick fix when I’m craving pizza! I’ve had 3 different pizzas here and each one is consistent and delicious. The service is fast and efficient. I have only ever done take out so I cannot speak to the quality of service on the inside but everyone on the phone has been so friendly. The pizzas are HUGE so if you’re entertaining, this would be a great option. The slices are just so impressive. My favorite pizza right now is the pepperoni/mushroom. Order some marinara for dipping and, oh! They have really good ranch. Overall, a really solid choice in Winston for a good pizza.” – Lindsay B.

“For the price and convenience the food is a great value. Pizza is always good. And don’t skip the cannolis- they are delicious. The people are friendly too.” – Mary K.

“I go here all the time for lunch, the menu has many options (i.e. salads, pizza, subs, Stromboli etc). The facility is very nice inside and the staff are very friendly. I would say that the prices are comparable to other places with the same type of food and this is much better.” – Adam G.

Get Your Kid’s Meal Today!

When you find yourself searching for cheap kids’ meals near me that don’t compromise on quality or flavor, we invite you to visit us at Mario’s Pizza. We’re confident that we’ll prepare a meal that your whole family will enjoy, from the youngest children to the oldest adults. We look forward to serving you!

Dining out with children can be challenging. Some restaurants lack high chairs or kids’ menus, while others discourage young patrons. Fast-food establishments often cater to families but offer limited menu options. If you’re looking online for the best kids meals near me, consider Mario’s Pizza.

Qualities of Exceptional Family-Friendly Restaurants

Children often prefer fast-food venues because they serve favorites like chicken nuggets, hamburgers, pizza, and French fries. These places also provide a relaxed environment where kids can be themselves. Parents appreciate the speed, convenience, and affordability of such establishments.

However, fast-food menus can be repetitive. While children might enjoy the same meal repeatedly, adults usually seek variety. This repetition can make dining out less enjoyable for parents.

Family-friendly restaurants like Mario’s Pizza bridge this gap by offering:

• A dedicated kids’ menu
• A relaxed atmosphere
• Comfortable, easy-to-clean seating
• Availability of high chairs and booster seats

At Mario’s Pizza, families can enjoy a meal where both children and adults find satisfying options. Our diverse menu ensures everyone leaves happy.

Find Some Of The Best Kids Meals Near Me At Mario’s

Mario’s Pizza offers some of the finest kids’ meals in the area. While popular fast-food chains like Chick-fil-A feature a children’s menu with meals priced around $6.85, Mario’s Pizza provides more affordable options. Our kids’ meals are priced at $5 or less, with some as low as $3.75.

The kids’ menu at Mario’s Pizza includes:

• Slice of cheese or pepperoni pizza
• Meatball or Ham & Cheese sub accompanied by fries
• Cheese sticks
• Spaghetti
• Ravioli
• Chicken tenders paired with fries

Each meal also comes with a kid-sized drink.

Choosing a less expensive option like McDonald’s might seem appealing. However, their Happy Meal offers limited variety. Moreover, many fast-food items contain frozen ingredients high in sugar, salt, and fat. In contrast, Mario’s Pizza provides a diverse selection of meals, ensuring both quality and affordability. This makes us a top choice for families seeking nutritious and budget-friendly dining options for their children.

Mario’s Pizza: A Family-Friendly Dining Experience

Moreover, Mario’s Pizza stands out as a family-friendly restaurant, offering a welcoming atmosphere for guests of all ages. Our commitment to accommodating families makes dining out enjoyable and stress-free.

Extensive Menu Options

Beyond our dedicated kids’ menu, we provide an extensive selection of Italian dishes. From New York-style pizzas to calzones, strombolis, subs, salads, and various appetizers, there’s something for everyone. This variety ensures that both children and adults can find meals they love. This also makes Mario’s a great place for kids’ birthday parties!

Comfortable and Inviting Atmosphere

The relaxed ambiance at Mario’s Pizza allows families to dine without feeling rushed or out of place. The staff’s friendly demeanor and the restaurant’s comfortable seating arrangements contribute to a pleasant dining experience. This environment encourages families to enjoy their meals and create lasting memories together.

Convenient Locations

With multiple locations across North Carolina, including Winston-Salem, Greensboro, High Point, and Clemmons, Mario’s Pizza offers convenience for families seeking a nearby dining option. Each location maintains the same family-friendly standards, ensuring a consistent experience no matter which restaurant you visit.

Positive Customer Feedback

Customers frequently praise Mario’s Pizza for its delicious food and accommodating environment. Reviews highlight the quality of the pizza, the friendliness of the staff, and the overall family-friendly atmosphere. These positive testimonials reflect the restaurant’s dedication to providing an exceptional dining experience for families. Here, check out what our customers have to say.

Mario’s Pizza: Authentic NY-Style Pizza and More

Similarly, if you’re dining with your family, you may also want a family meal that everyone can share. Pizza is perfect! Best of all, if your group has varied preferences, we can prepare half-and-half pizzas. For smaller, kid-friendly portions, request double-cut slices.

At Mario’s Pizza, we pride ourselves on delivering authentic New York-style pizza, characterized by a thin, crispy, yet foldable crust. Our skilled chefs hand-toss the dough to achieve this perfect texture. We use a family recipe for our tomato sauce, balancing sweetness and tanginess. Topped with low-moisture mozzarella, our pizzas offer a genuine taste of New York.

Diverse Topping Selections

To customize your pizza experience, we offer a wide array of toppings:

• Pepperoni
• Sausage
• Mushrooms
• Black olives
• Pineapple
• Bell peppers
• Anchovies
• Artichoke hearts
• Onions
• Banana peppers
• Bacon
• Basil
• Beef
• Beef roni
• Broccoli
• Canadian bacon
• Chorizo
• Crispy chicken
• Feta
• Tomatoes
• Grilled chicken
• Green olives
• Ham
• Jalapeños
• Kalamata olives
• Meatballs
• Roasted red peppers
• Salami
• Steak
• Spinach
• Sun-dried tomatoes

If you’re uncertain about topping combinations, consider our specialty pies:

1. Greenhouse: Tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, black olives, spinach, and mushrooms.
2. 5 Boroughs: Bacon, beef, ham, pepperoni, and sausage.
3. The Worx: Pepperoni, sausage, beef, Canadian bacon, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, and black olives.
4. Pizza Bianco: Ricotta cheese, fresh garlic, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Spicy Buffalo Chicken: Chicken, bacon, onions, and cheese with our special spicy sauce.

Beyond Pizza: Our Extensive Menu

While our New York-style pizza is a highlight, Mario’s Pizza offers a diverse menu to satisfy various cravings. Adults and kids enjoy these options.

Hot and Cold Subs:

• Hot Subs:
  • Steak
  • Grilled chicken
  • Chick-o-Philly
  • Meatball, eggplant, sausage, or chicken parmigiana
  • Sausage, peppers, and onions
• Cold Subs:
  • Italian
  • Turkey
  • Vegetable

Authentic Italian Entrées:

• Baked ziti
• Chicken or eggplant parmigiana
• Meat lasagna
• Ravioli
• Spaghetti with fresh tomato sauce

Delectable Sides:

• Traditional or boneless wings
• Plain or cheesy garlic bread
• Garlic knots
• Toasted ravioli
• Onion rings
• Mozzarella sticks
• Jalapeño poppers
• Meatballs
• French fries
• Hot homemade chips
• Fried mushrooms or zucchini

Please note that menu items may vary by location. Check the specific menu of your nearest Mario’s Pizza for the most up-to-date offerings.

FAQs About Mario’s and Family Dining

Still have some questions about your search for kid’s meals near me? Luckily, we may have answers! Below, we’ve listed a few questions our customers commonly ask.

Where is Mario’s Pizza?

Mario’s Pizza has multiple locations to serve you better: Here are the locations of Mario’s Pizza, along with their phone numbers:

Winston-Salem:

• Cloverdale: 2205 Cloverdale Avenue Northwest – Phone: 336-602-1410
• Hanes Mall: 1066 Hanes Mall Blvd – Phone: 336-768-0057
• Stratford: 266 Harvey St. (off Stratford) – Phone: 336-701-5550

Clemmons:

• Clemmons: 1469 River Ridge Dr – Phone: 336-778-2002

High Point:

• North Main: 2645 N Main St. – Phone: 336-841-0051
• Palladium: 5824 Samet Dr. (Palladium) – Phone: 336-883-0813

Greensboro:

• Wendover: 4215 W Wendover Ave. – Phone: 336-632-0072
• New Garden: 1575 New Garden Rd. – Phone: 336-316-1119
• Friendly Center: 3354 W. Friendly Ave. Suite 142 – Phone: 336-303-1999

What Dining Options Do You Provide?

We offer dine-in, pickup, and delivery at all our locations. Order online, through our app, or by calling your nearest Mario’s. For pickup, select your preferred time, and we’ll have your food fresh and ready. If you prefer delivery, choose one of our trusted transportation partners to bring your meal to your home or office. If you’d rather dine in, we welcome you to enjoy a great meal in our restaurant. Please note that kids’ meals are only available for dine-in.

Do You Offer Gluten-Free Pizza?

Yes, we serve gluten-free pizza with either a rice-based or cauliflower crust. However, since we prepare all food in the same kitchen, we cannot guarantee that cross-contamination won’t occur.

Looking for a Delicious Kids’ Meal Alternative to Fast Food?

If you’re tired of the usual fast food but want something your kids will love, stop by Mario’s Pizza. We offer tasty, high-quality meals the whole family can enjoy! Also, be sure to follow us on social media for updates on specials!