The latest play kitchen from Step2 toys turns back the clock to Happy Days and rockin’ diners. But will kids think its hip or hooky?
Any parent worth their salt knows that a play kitchen is an all but essential toy. The Step2 50's Diner ($162.58) serves its purpose: It keeps kids away from sharp knives during dinner prep and is a savior for rainy day play sessions.
For years, Step2 has been designing kitchens that appeal to budding Rachel Rays and Bobby Flays. These toys come with all the trendy gadgets and make cooking the joyful experience it was meant to be. The latest model, the 50's Diner, has all the retro touches you’d expect of this era—there is even a jukebox built in! Boys won’t hesitate to get involved in the make-believe scenarios inspired by this toy. Perhaps that’s why it has garnered so many awards.
Unlike the competition, this model offers a place to sit down (called the “patron side”) and savor the fruits of all that labor--in this case a delicious greasy burger and fries. Sadly, like all Step2 kitchens you’ll be visiting Target on a regular basis to stock up batteries (this requires six). And don’t even think about trying to assemble this at midnight on the 24th.
Pros: Racy colors and fun food options, appeal to boys and girls alike.
Cons: Not all families will appreciate the retro cool design.
Best for: Kids who like to flip burgers and slurp shakes.
LifeStyle Grand Walk-In Kitchen: The McMansion kitchen of the preschool crowd. ($241.11)
Pros: The eat-in setting. Plus, the 103 pieces included provide limitless menu planning.
Cons: This expensive model is a space hog (36.25"L x 46"W x 47"H).
Best for: Families with a playroom.
LifeStyle Party Time Kitchen: The sweet and homey kitchen of simpler times. ($152.67)
Pros: Three-sided play allows for more than two kids to get involved.
Cons: Stingy storage space.
Best for: Gender neutral play (e.g. no pink, no ponies, no cupcakes).
LifeStyle Deluxe Kitchen: The Italianate kitchen chef Giada De Laurentiis would pick were she six. ($258.35)
Pros: Kids can grow into advanced play scenarios.
Cons: Cooking area is small, with scant food options.
Best for: Parents who want an investment that won’t look tired in a year.
LifeStyle Dream Kitchen: A compact kitchen with a suburban feel. ($186.52)
Pros: Durable and compact (measures approximately 35.5" x 15.25" x 44.75").
Cons: Electronic sounds can be grating. Assembly requires an electric screwdriver and a couple hours.
Best for: Traditional kitchen role-play.
