Moe’s Kids Menu: Nutrition, Value, and Hidden Gems for Parents

Dining out with children is a balancing act. You want them to eat something (anything!), but you also don’t want to pump them full of sugar and grease. Moe’s Southwest Grill is a family favorite because the atmosphere is loud (kids noise blends in!) and the food is customizable.

The “Moe’s Mini Me” menu offers smaller portions of the adult classics. But are they healthy? Let’s investigate.

The Menu Offerings

All kids’ meals typically include a main entree, a drink (juice/milk/soda), and a side (cookie + chips).

1. Moo Moo Mr. Cow (Kids Burrito)

   • What it is: A small flour tortilla with a choice of protein, beans, and cheese.
   • Nutrition: ~300-450 calories (depending on fillings).
   • Verdict: Excellent. It’s a balanced meal with protein and fiber (if you include beans).

2. Power Wagon (Kids Taco)

   • What it is: One hard or soft taco.
   • Nutrition: ~200-300 calories.
   • Verdict: A bit light for older kids, but great for toddlers. The hard shell can be messy.

3. Mini Masterpiece (Kids Cheese Quesadilla)

   • What it is: A small folded tortilla with melted cheese.
   • Nutrition: ~300-400 calories.
   • Verdict: The “Picky Eater Safety Net.” It’s mostly carbs and fat (cheese + bread), so it lacks the iron/protein of the meat options, but it’s universally loved.

The Sugar Trap: The Sides

Here is where the nutrition number skew. Every kids’ meal comes with:

• Chips: High sodium/fat.
• Cookie: Sugar.
• Drink: Often a juice box (sugar) or soda.

The “Healthy Parent” Swap:

• Drink: Ask for a water cup or Milk instead of the juice box/soda.
• Side: Ask if you can swap the cookie for a small cup of apple sauce (if available) or just extra black beans. Most locations are flexible.

Hidden Gem: Sunday Deals

Many Moe’s locations participate in “Kids Eat Free on Sundays” (or similar promotions like Tuesday nights).

• The Deal: Usually one free kids meal per paying adult entree.
• The Value: This saves you $6-$8. For a family of four (2 adults, 2 kids), this cuts the bill by 30-40%.
• Note: Check your local store policy before going. It varies by franchise.

Best Order for…

The Picky Eater

• Order: Mini Masterpiece (Cheese Quesadilla).
• Modification: Ask for “chicken on the side.” Sometimes kids refuse to eat meat inside the quesadilla but will pick at chicken cubes with their fingers.

The Growing Athlete

• Order: Moo Moo Mr. Cow (Burrito).
• Modification: Add Black Beans and Rice. The fiber and carbs provide sustained energy. Go for Steak or Chicken.

The Toddler

• Order: Power Wagon (Soft Taco).
• Modification: Deconstruct it. Open the tortilla and let them eat the components separately. It’s less messy than them trying to bite a taco.

Nutrition Comparison Table

Conclusion

Moe’s is one of the better fast-casual options for families. The ingredients are fresh, not frozen/processed nuggets. By managing the sides (maybe hide the cookie until they finish the protein?), you can ensure your child gets a nutritious meal that they actually enjoy.