Where’s the best kid-friendly restaurant?
We have a winner!
In fact, we have two winners. Your Picks shows the outcome of how you voted. For another take, Our Picks offers some guidance from our staff experts.
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Comments
By Bob
July 21, 2008 8:03 AM | Link to this
http://www.ajc.com/health/content/shared-blogs/ajc/parenting/entries/2006/01/31/whatarethe_be.html
By JJ
July 21, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this
Based on earlier blogs about this topic, it’s gonna get nasty up in here today……
By GirlAfraid
July 21, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this
My out of the norm choice:
Agave - A higher end place for Southwestern mexican food but they have a kids menu with tasty choices, a kid themed plastic cup with choice of beverage, a patio, booster seats and servers who are kid friendly. I applaud the owner (who has kids) with offering these choices in what is typically an adult environment.
By MountainDawg
July 21, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this
Out of courtesy, we try not to take our kids to any medium-scale places or ones that are obviously adult oriented. Beyond fast food joints & Chuckie Cheese, I’d say Chili’s is fairly kids oriented with crayons & coloring books. Same with Buffalo’s. It’s rare that we ever take the kids to places more “up-scale” than Chili’s, Buffalos, etc.
By Kim
July 21, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this
Mimi’s Cafe has a great kids’ menu. My kids (11, 8, & 4) love to eat at the Saigon Cafe—usually the Pleasant Hill/Satellite Blvd. location. The food is served quickly and the servers are always nice to the kids. An obvious favorite for kids is Golden Corral.
By heather
July 21, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this
Shane’s Rib Shack and Moe’s Southwest Grill are great. Blue Moon Pizza gives kids their own dough to play with at the table! Great idea.
By TheKidHatersWillCome
July 21, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this
JJ is right. It won’t be long before all the kid haters start posting about how they will use the suggestions to avoid the restaurants. They will also talk about all the misbehaved children they see and how their children (if they have any) are perfect. It’s the same thing every time this topic comes up.
Can we avoid it all by establishing the following:
(1) you are free to avoid restaurants where you think kids will be (just as parents with children are free to avoid restaurants where drunk, obnoxious adults are cursing very loudly) (2) some parents allow their children to misbehave in restaurants and it annoys others (including families with children because mom and dad have to explain to their children why they can’t run around the restaurant too)
By elizabeth
July 21, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this
Our kids love to go the Old Spaghetti Factory on Ponce.
By Jess
July 21, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this
Mimis is great, lots of cool decorations for the kids to observe, my son calls it the mickey mouse pancake restaurant. There is an italian restaurant in Hamilton Mill (gwinnett co.) called Caprese which is great as well.
By Stacey
July 21, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this
My son loves to go to Kegon Japanese Restaurant in Douglasville. They cook your food table side and the chefs put on quite a show. On top of that, the food is loaded with fresh vegetables. My son is already a veggie lover but I think even picky kids might be willing to try them after they see the fun way they are prepared.
By mike
July 21, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this
most if not all asians rarely use baby sitters and frequently bring their kids to restaurants whether upscale or slumming it at Golden Corral. I would recommend kids to any authentic Korean, chinese, thai, or vietnamese restaurant since most other asians bring their kids along almost all the time. BTW, authentic means at least 50% of the patrons are of asian decent.
By Yvonne
July 21, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this
Quiznos Sub has healthy, affordable “Kidz” Menus. Here’s a sample:
Kidz Subs: Toasty Turkey and Cheese Toasty Ham and Cheese Cheesy Toasty Cheese
Kidz Sammies: Tasty Turkey Ham Melt Just Cheese
Kidz Soups: Broccoli Cheese Chili
Kidz Salad: With choice of Ranch, Honey
Mustard or Italian Dressing
All Quiz Kidz meals are served with a small fountain drink and choice of chips or cookie.
The Conyers Quiznos stores (Sigman Road and Highway 20/138) is always friendly to children.
By Jason
July 21, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this
We have a few staples that our kids (age 3 and 7) enjoy and the atmosphere is appropriate kiddos. Ted’s Montana Grill is great. They have a great kids menu and the adults like it too. Also, just about any Mexican restaurant - we like Los Hermanos in Tucker. Cresent Moon at Northlake is very kid friendly.
Another favorite for the kids is Bacchanalia… the kids love to run around the restaurant and peek in on what other diners are eating… Calm down, I’m only kidding
By DB
July 21, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this
Sometimes, it’s not the restaurant, it’s the waitperson who can make all the difference (and kudos to the restaurant for hiring the right person!) Once, when we were on our way back home from a long weekend in Chattanooga, we stopped for dinner in north Atlanta at Carrabba’s. I was a little skeptical, because the kids were young, tired and it was late — all a recipe for disaster — and was trying to opt for a drive-thru. But my husband was wanting a break from driving, so in we went.
The staff was amazing. The hostess seated us with a view of the kitchen/ovens, so the kids had somethin to watch. Our waiter was amazing. Of course, we had the typical crayons, etc. But the waiter brought some dough to play with, and then later offered to “bake” the creation. He stopped by and made a swan out of one of the kid’s napkins. Everytime he came by, he had a little something — maybe a fresh crayon, a silly knock-knock joke … something that kept the kids on their toes.
Finally, toward the end of dinner, I asked the waiter to please bring the manager over. The waiter was stunned: “Is there something wrong?”, but brought the manager immediately, who also looked concerned. I proceeded to tell him that Carrabba’s was our new favorite restaurant and why, thanks to our waiter, and went on to praise the waiter for his above-and-beyond service.
And yes, he he got a 40% tip!
By mike
July 21, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this
yyvonne: you work 4 Quizzonos?, their food is crap, i thought the article said restaurants, fast food chains are nothing but microwave grease pits and cheap sh*t for the uneducated doesn’t count.
By mike
July 21, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this
please parents, when brining kids to a restaurant, one should tip a minimum of 20% since your kids make an extra mess and need more service and attention than adults. so, you cheap rednecks need to stay home or take your inbreeded kids to burger hell if you can’t figure out or afford a 20% tip.
By parentof4
July 21, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this
I like the Macaroni Grill, they have paper table cloths and leave the crayons for the kids to draw “creations” on. I LOVE and my kids LOVE Pasta Bella in Marietta (I think that part is Marietta). The owner LOVES his customers and the kids. He is known to give out the big cookies for a child that is upset. It really does depend on the waiter and manager.
So out of the 2 choices, I have to say PASTA BELLA.
By HHH
July 21, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this
We love La Parilla on Howell Mill. We have twin toddlers and the staff at La Parilla is always very accomodating to us. It’s loud enough in the restaurant that if our children let out a loud noise, it is not disruptive to the other patrons. We see lots of kids in there on a regular basis. And - they always give the kids a balloon (if the parents ok it)!
By Dave
July 21, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this
Mike - I probably should just let your post go, but I can’t. Your rant about tipping and inbreed kids and cheap rednecks is the reason why AJC blogs often veer off topic and end up being nothing more than idiotic name calling. Maybe writing that crap is a theraputic for you, but it’s just a waste of time for everybody else.
Have a good day.
By diana
July 21, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
Happy Sumo in Perimeter is awesome for kids. They cook tempanyaki (on a hibachi) and the kids love the show.
By DavidT
July 21, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
Try Pig ‘N Chick on Peachtree Road, near the intersection of Clairmont Road by PDK Airport. The original location on Roswell Road in the Fountain Oaks Shopping Center is good too. And on Mon-Tue-Wed night kids eat half price! Bonus round: When a local sports team plays, like the Braves, Falcons, UGA, Tech etc., there are special prices on ribs, chicken wings and beer for the adults……..
By Ingle
July 21, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this
My father is a member of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce so he gets access to their awesome (and upscale) restaraunt, the 1818 club. Well it is normally not a place I’d bring my toddler. Mother’s Day however is a different story. They have an amazing buffet and open the gates to families. The patient and wonderful wait staff caters to every need, spilled drink or smeared whipped cream. It’s a total madhouse but something my whole family now looks forward to with toddlers in tow. My Dad gets to show off his grandkids and we all get to enjoy amazing food from an assortment of fancy salads and an omelet station to a chocolate fountain!
By rerservoirDAWG
July 21, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this
Inbreeded? Really?
By macca
July 21, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this
Thanks for this. No Really! Now I know where NOT to go!!
By GatorGuy
July 21, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this
Roasters is a great kid friendly place. We go to the one on Roswell Rd. In Sandy Springs.
By Marietta Dad
July 21, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this
Outback Steak House. Best and largest kids menu/activity books. The kids never finish the book before the food arrives. Great food and lots of choices for the kids.
By Punkiesmama
July 21, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this
The DeKalb Farmers Market is great for toddlers up…it is cheap and easy and lots of veggies.
Our 4 year old loves the RuSan’s at Edgewood, Moe’s, Figo, Melton App & Tap, Fellini’s, etc.
If they learn how to behave with grown folks when they are small, I think they have better results later.
By Lisa
July 21, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this
Cresent Moon in Tucker. Great kids menu and fun atmosphere.
By April
July 21, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
We enjoy taking out our 11 year old daughter to The Melting Pot in Roswell. We always go early and the staff are great. They make sure that she has a great time and they take the time to show her how to cook her food in the fondue pot. This has become her favorite “fancy” restaurant.
By AlliP
July 21, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
Bugaboo Creek Steak House. Kids Menus, great food for the adults as well and the animals keep everyone entertained.
By pat smith
July 21, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this
Here are some tried and true favorites: Pyng Ho, Taqueria el Vecino, Taqueria del Sol, Ted’s, Murphy’s (early though, waiting is tough later in the evening), R. Thomas, Sweet Melissa’s, The Grove, Crescent Moon, Shorty’s, Mai Li, Sala, Doc Chey’s.
The problem with kids in restaurants, is not only the kid but the parent. I understand full well that parents want a night off from cooking and cleaning up the kitchen. I get it. I totally support that. Goodness knows that I have been there! We have taken our kids to many, many restaurants, some of which are not as kid-friendly as we had hoped. But kid-friendly or not, it does not give our kids the right to be a pest. Discipline and preparedness and a tiny bit of planning go a long way. Our kids cannot yell or run about. We have a bag of goodies (toys, snacks, stuff the kids normally do not play with) and we venture out to the restaurant of choice early, before any meltdown’s occur and hopefully before the we-hate-kids-in-restaurants-crowd shows. My kids are no angels (FAR from it) but they know how to behave in public. We have had to get our food to go because of bad behavior. Once. Kids need to learn the consequences of their actions. If they do not behave, we leave. Every restaurant has a box. But that said, I have received compliments on how well behaved my kids are (they are 2 and 4 by the way) and once a neighboring table didn’t even know that we had kids until we left. Come parents! We can change the kids-in-restaurant-haters!!
By z
July 21, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this
Kudos to MountainDawg for acknowledging that sometimes adults want to go to a place with no children around (whether they have kids or not). I agree mid-upscale restaurants are no place for children. Also, sports bars and mexican restaurants that are known more for their bar atmosphere than their food. Look at the area you are in. For instance any non-chain places in Buckhead, Midtown, or Va-Highlands please avoid. No one goes to Rio Grande on Roswell for the food. Young people are there to drink and be seen on the patio so please keep your kid from spilling their drink and running around the tables. If you want to take your children to any of these places please be gone by 8:30 before those of us who don’t have kids go out. Kids don’t need to eat at 9 or 10 at night anyway.
By CWC
July 21, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this
I continue to be impressed with Chick-fil-A. For example, at the one on Austell Road near the East-West Connector, even free containers of cereal and diapers are provided. Their prizes with the children’s meals always are character building and educational. Special children’s programs are featured at some of the restaurants with clowns and magicians. At Chick-fil-A (for whom I am NOT employed), you always receive the best value from caring employees.
By Jeremy
July 21, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this
Red Robin in Cumming is great for kids. Opened a few months back in the Avenue Forsyth.
By Mel
July 21, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this
The Albert on Lake Ave. at Elizabeth in Inman Park is WONDERFUL. It’s a family owned restaurant and the owner is a sweetheart; she is in often with her young son. They have an excellent kids menu with healthful fare, and there is a separate seating area on the other side of the bar, so if there are loud bar patrons, families can sit on the other side. We tend to go on the earlier side, as most families do, and it’s always very pleasant and calm there. Waitstaff is friendly. Just an all-around NICE neighborhood atmosphere!
By AxelRy
July 21, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this
We have found that Macaroni Grill, and O’Charleys to be good places to go with our kids. They always eat and are pretty well behaved there.
By Michelle
July 21, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this
The one and only “JOES CRAB SHACK”…the BEST kids menu, not to mention fun and exciting for the whole family. They play fun music, have a play ground for the kids, and have cool T-shirts to remember your greatest most relaxing night out with the kids!! By far the best place to take the kids!!
By WhoCares
July 21, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this
CiCi’s Pizza because only a Kid would want to eat there.
By CT
July 21, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
No Mas! Cantina is a great place to have kids - outdoors. They have a great kids menu and the chips and salsa along with the outdoor distractions keeps kids entertained. The naturally loud atmosphere dulls out any kid noise.
By Pepe
July 21, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this
Any decent Mexican spot works for me and my family (including 4 boys). They’re normally loud enough to drown out the kids, you get chips and salsa as soon as you sit down, and it’s affordable. If I have to pick one spot, I’ll go with Monterrey’s in Snellville/Loganville, GA.
By Your Kids Suck
July 21, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this
I really dont care if people bring their kids to a “high class” restaurant— as long as your kid represents the type of class that SHOULD be at that restaurant.
If I am there— and your kid is whining, running around and basically ruining my meal— there will be payback. Boy is it funny to watch a little rug-rat eat carpet when you stick your foot out and trip them while they are running around the restaurant like its a MCD’s play place.
By Bethany
July 21, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
I am the eldest child of 5, I am 18, and I have two brothers 16 and 8, and two sisters 3, and 6. I understand how difficult it is to take kids out to eat. But people can not get mad. Kids will be kids; that’s just the way it is. They can be ignored if it is that bother some to you but just remember you were and kid once to. And even the best of kids can have their moments. I see how embarrassed my parents get when one of my siblings is making a commotion. Parents should be able to enjoy themselves to when going out to dinner and not have to worry so much about offending or bothering anyone around them. And for anyone who says kids should stick to eating fast food…why do you think the amount of obese children has increased so much. I agree there are certainly places where kids should not be; bars style places and nighttime hangouts, but I really do not believe that many parents are taking there anyways. So, don’t automatically assume that a child is bad or loud because most of the time they aren’t. Great Places my family of 7 loves to go are Japanese Hibachi, Mexican, of course Applebee’s and Chill’s, Marconi Grill, Red Lobster they love the fish tanks, and the Cheesecake Factory.
By QweenB
July 21, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this
I agree with Michelle, Joe’s Crab Shack is very kid friendly. They not only allow kids to run around and have fun, it is encouraged by the family friendly environment. When I go to Joe’s I know what to expect from the kids. But when I go to Fogo De Chao, I don’t want to see and hear your kids all over the restaurant.
As the mother of 3 children (2 grown now) I enjoy going to places that are kid friendly for my 13 year old, however, when I’m out with my husband without kids, I don’t want to be subject to someone else’s kids who are running around with no supervision. Parents who take their kids to upper scale adult oriented restaurants should keep their kids under control and not subject the other patrons to all the noise and uncontrolled behavior that some parents allow from their kids in public places.
I always kept my kids in their seats and quietly occupied by bringing along objects of interest for them that they could enjoy while waiting for the meal. This taught them how to behave in restaurants from an early age and now as adults, they know how to go to a fine dining restaurant and behave accordingly.
Just remember your child’s future behavior depends on what you teach them now. Public manners and etiquette begins in the home.
QweenB
By Phil
July 21, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this
Hey there posters! Thanks to all of you who are staying on topic and making good suggestions about restaurants. I understand that sometimes people get upset about this topic, but the AJC blogs have provided many opportunities to vent about it on other occasions.
By sayitbrother
July 21, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this
I am confused about this topic. My daughter is now 19. For the past 19 years I have been able to take her to any resturant or other venu without worry of her “acting up”. When asked how I did it. The answer is always the same. “She never had a choice!” I will always blame the parents for the way their freaks behave in public places.
By Howie
July 21, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this
Barnacles off of Medlock Bridge (HWY 141). It’s huge with TV’s and game room. Plus it’s not smokey like some other sports bars.
Little Azios have great pizza and spegetti for the kids.
By Roswell
July 21, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this
Superior Wok at Northpoint Mall. Great food, great service, and always very kind to kids.
By SJ
July 21, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this
Romano’s Macaroni Grill - They have white linen tablecloth’s covered with white paper - kids are given crayons to draw ( either on the table or on the activity sheet). Staff are kid friendly, kids menu is pretty diverse and well priced. My kids love it!
By KimmyP
July 21, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this
Muss and Turners in One Ivy Walk in Smyrna. The food rivals fine dining but the atmosphere is family/kid friendly. It totally beats the cheesy family friendly chain restaurants.
By Smyrna Pizza
July 21, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this
Bella’s Pizzeria in Smyrna. Great for kids of all ages. Waitstaff is very patient and if you make a mess, its easy to clean up!
By Evelyn Golden
July 21, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this
Olive Garden, Red Lobster and Applebees are all Kid friendly with the crayons and coloring menus. I particularly like Red Lobster because of its sensitivity to my granddaugters dairy allergy (they bring her raw veggies, which she loves, instead of the cheese biscuits that everyone else is eating before our meal. I love Olive Garden and Red Lobster for the healthy selections on the kid’s menu.
By Renee
July 21, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this
My 7yr loves Shogun at Town Center Mall. The chefs are super entertaining with cool tricks for the young children are at the table. The food is healthy and fresh and priced great for lunch!
By GirlsMom
July 21, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this
I second the suggestion for Pig n Chick, we go to the one on Roswell Road often, and their half priced kids meals M-W can’t be beat. Plus the kids love the food.
Also, high on our list are Willy’s and Pasta Figo.
Of course, my kids know the rules, that they do NOT leave their seats without permission!
By Stacey
July 21, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this
I forgot about Joe’s Crab Shack. My son loves when the wait staff dances. Even if we have paid, we have to hang around when if the make the “The Shack will be shaking in 5 minutes” announcement. When he was younger, he loved to dance with them (which is encouraged) but now that he is 7, he is much too mature for that. :-) He also LOVES any kind of seafood so he will eat as much as I do.
By K
July 21, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
Jalisco’s in the Peachtree Battle Shopping center is a standard for the Buckhead moms - loud and tasty. Plus, there’s a Baskin Robbins next door for after dinner.
Random, but the restaurant in IKEA is awesome - they have kids dishes, sell baby food, have kids utinsils and cups, and lots of high chairs. Plus, its really inexpensive.
Salsa on Howell Mill is great - they have crayons for the kids and white butcher paper covering the tables to draw on.
By Sanders Mom
July 21, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
We like to go places where staff are friendly with the kids, know to bring the kid stuff out first for example. Our current faves to take our toddler are Golden Buddha on Clairemont, and Sangrias in Tucker. Both places have great food, reasonable prices, and very kid friendly staff.
By swolf4810
July 21, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
I have no problem with kids in resturants…IF their parents have bothered to teach them some semblance of how to act in public. Too bad that’s not the case in so many instances.
By JJ
July 21, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
Jalisco’s in the Peachtree Battle Shopping center
OMG I had no idea they were still open. I used to eat lunch there, back in 1979 when I worked on Peachtree, across from the Coach & Six. That was probably the very first place I ever ate Mexican food here in Atlanta.
By FCM
July 21, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
Who ever said most any Mexican food place is the best is correct….I have found the Latinos are the best for accomodating children, in fact they love for the kids to be there….I had this discussion this weekend. The truth of it is that Latino’s have figured out the work/home life balance…Most of them are really into family, and just want an honest wage for a days work…steady days/steady pay….they are not trying to figure out the next 10 steps to get face time with CEO/CFO …
By Stacey
July 21, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
The Mimi’s Cafe at Perimeter is great. One night we took our daughter there after a Georgia Tech football game. she was already exhausted from being in the sun and we were all starving. Before we even sat down, the staff brought her a plate with crackers and cheerios to snack on while we looked at the menus. It was awesome! We also love OCharley’s for their variety and let’s face it…the bread.
By Kristi
July 21, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this
Doc Chey’s - yummy on all accounts!
By s
July 21, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
Sweet Melissa’s in Decatur
By FCM
July 21, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this
My kids had this to say:
Breakfast: IHOP Cracker Barrel J Christophers
Lunch or Dinner: Sweet Tomatoes Wild Wing El Terro
Snack: Cold Stone Dunkin Donuts Publix Bakery
Best idea for kids food: Young Chefs Academy
By Kat
July 21, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this
My favorite for kids is Hooter’s. For real, the waitresses are ALWAYS super nice to kids. Come to think of it, they are super nice to me too. And to my husband…
By John
July 21, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this
We have two boys under 5 years of age and have found that Doc Chey’s Noodle House is a kid-friendly restaurant with healthy and delicious food. There are a few locations but we typically visit the one in Va-Highland at N. Highland and Lanier Blvd.
By Robert
July 21, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this
Jason’s Deli has a great kids menu with a price range of $1.99 to $3.00. The price includes a unlimited drinks, unlimited ice cream, crayons and coloring book and a lolipop. The variety is also good, ranging from cheese or pepperoni pizza to mac and cheese.
By Chuck
July 21, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this
Los Bravos - South Cobb Dr. and East West Connector. Favorite place for our family of three to dine.
By Mark
July 21, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this
Who cares? Just take your snotty nosed little spawns to places geared for children. Keep them out of my life!
By mac
July 21, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this
The Blue Rooster in downtown Lilburn and Crescent Moon. We’re also huge fans of Eagle’s Landing in Lilburn.
By Davos
July 21, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this
Children don’t get beaten nearly as much as they need to. A knuckle sandwich will give them something to cry about.
By Melissa
July 21, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this
Fuji Hana in East Cobb- My son loves the food and the entertainment! They also get “special chopsticks” for their Birthday & your picture on the Birthday wall, we have celebrated many of his friends Birthdays there.
By slawson
July 21, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this
Capers on Main Street (kids meal $3)in Kennesaw and Old Mill Restaurant ($4.95) in Acworth. Both are owned by the same person; food is absolutely AWESOME. Their kids menu includes meal, drink, and dessert. Their meals are adult size portions and YUMMY!!!
By ANNE G.
July 21, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this
Presuming that by kid you mean anyone under 65, Chick-Fil-A is always a crowd pleaser.
By Tony
July 21, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this
My kids love to go to Pasquales in Gainesville and I think Rome. Also Jillians in Discover Mills Mall in Duluth>
By Gracie
July 21, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this
This conversation must include THE WAFFLE HOUSE!!! Nice waitresses, “interesting” clientele, the jukebox, the food….perfect for kids. Noise is not a problem here!
By el martin
July 21, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this
Hooters! Kids NEVER disbehave there!!
And the food is great!
By J. Holmes
July 21, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this
I like to take my kids to the Pink Pony. With the blaring music, the kids can be as loud as they want to be. The food is good and the kids love the dancers…it keeps them entertained while waiting for their food. And I always give the kids a few singles for the dancers…if you want them to behave, get them in the game! Oh, and we always go for a table dance instead of dessert…less expensive AND less filling.
By bizzezgrrrrl
July 21, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
Melton’s App & Tap near Decatur at Clairemont and North Decatur … great kids menu, kids eat free on Tuesday, great staff and an excellent, excellent beer selection for Mom and Dad! (Grown-up food is great, too.)
By katie
July 21, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this
i am a waitress. I normally hate it when kids come in but its part of the territory, unfortunately often times their parents are cheapos. aside from that don’t come to the restaurant I work at..its not kid friendly although we do have a kids menu and their drinks are not free, nowhere does it say they are so don’t get mad when I charge you for it. Don’t order your fat kid a kids meal and then get mad when we don’t give seconds (its happened). Dont let your kid skate around the restaurant in those little shoes that have skates on them (also happened ..smart ..it’s not like we are carrying trays of food and drinks or anything), don’t let them sit under the table on the nasty floor and crawl around the restaurant (happens). And take them outside if they are screaming and crying, nobody wants to hear it. Oh and tip better. The end. :)
By Steve
July 21, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this
If looking for a nice dinner out with the kids, look no further than JCT Kitchen in Midtown West. Although primarily an adult restaurant, early arrivals have plenty of kids enjoying popcorn chicken served on what else popcorn, along with their famous fries. Advice order the popcorn chicken and snack on the fries as an appitizer, there’s plenty to go around. For an upscale restaurant they only charge about $4-$5 for kids a meal.
By Jenn
July 21, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this
The Olive Garden in Kennesaw is great for kids. The salad and breadsticks come out quickly, which gives them something to munch on, and both my girls (7 &4) love the kid’s menu—spaghetti, mac & cheese and fettucini alfredo are their favorites. Plus, they love doing the activities on the kid’s menu itself.
By atlmom
July 21, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this
Osteria in virginia highlands. Dark Horse tavern - no joke, they have a play area, and kid’s menu, etc.
Doc Green’s is good, one reason being that the kid’s menu has the option of oranges rather than fries.
Fellini’s / Camelli’s any pizza place.
By tony
July 21, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this
By far- Dakota Blue in Grant Park, they have a great kids menu, games for kids, you never feel uncomfortable when tons of kids are their, plus great sidewalk walk chalk art!!!
By jay t.
July 21, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
absolutely hate them. the american mother is lazy and completely wimps out when feeding the children. recent trips to mexico and argentina had the 4 and 5 year old children eating ceviche and veal kidneys respectively. no grilled cheese or running around. come to think of it, the american mom would prefer a grilled cheese to the above. you eat what your parents eat and here we opt for convenience and volume. quality is not important.
By Kathie
July 21, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this
Cresent Moon in Tucker. Fancy the face painter is WONDERFUL on Monday nights and my kids adore seeing her happy face!!
By Tucker
July 21, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
Sangria’s in Tucker has a huge families with kids clientele, and one visit will tell you why…kid friendly staff, kid friendly Mexican menu, and kid prizes. Friday nights are the busiest. Saturdays and Sundays are generally easy in and out. Crescent Moon at Northlake and Golden Bhudda on Clairemont are other winners for kids as noted by other bloggers in the Northeastern DeKalb area.
By Lisa
July 21, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
Los Rancheros in Dunwoody is the best place for kids!
By Jonathan
July 21, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this
Ted’s Montana Grill
By Debbie
July 21, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this
Without a doubt - Partners Pizza in Peachtree City!! It is great for every age kid! They have three rooms, video games, GREAT FOOD, affordable prices, a big tree just outside the restaurant that every kid has climbed at one time in their life, outdoor patio seating for the parents so they can watch their kids climb that tree. Every baseball, football, soccer and la crosse team has had their end of year parties there. And, once these kids reach age 16, they all work there! This place is an icon in Fayette County! It’s been here forever, and will always be here because it’s great! And the way it’s situated, even if you don’t have kids, it’s not an intrusion on your lunch or dinner to join the ranks of those who do! Come on down to Peachtree City and give it a try. You won’t be sorry!!! (My kids are grown and my husband and I still eat there at least twice a week.)
By Northern Gwinnett
July 21, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this
I have 2 kids 4 and 12 - we don’t eat out much because of the expense. If we do go to the trouble - we go to Tanner’s in Suwanee or Five Guys - many locales. I love eating out and my kids are good in restaurants - but I love going to places where we feel like our entire family is comfortable and welcomed. I am grateful for these suggestions - they offer places I can meet my family for birthdays and celebrations where we can all eat great food and enjoy the kids and adults. THANK YOU AJC!!
By atllady
July 21, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
My eight year old really loves the Marietta Diner. They do have the standard mac & cheese, hot dog, etc., but they also have breakfast 24 hrs. There’s plenty of more grown up fare in junior sizes like roast turkey and my son’s favorite, the chicken parmigiana. The wait staff really dotes on kids. That makes all the difference.
By Jennifer
July 21, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
When asked where he wanted to eat for his 6th birthday, my son was deciding between Outback Steakhouse and Maggiano’s. We ended up at Maggiano’s because he was bringing friends and therefore we dined family style. It is a wonderful place for children because it has what they love - pasta, cheese, marinara sauce (or not), free refills and even delicious lemon cookies! Unfortunately my 6 year old likes the tiramisu and I always feel guilty eating it all by myself and not sharing it with him. Hey, he does not need the extra boost of energy from the espresso! My vote is Maggiano’s and of course Outback Steakhouse (again, cheese and pasta!) It’s always hilarious to hear him order Walahalla pasta (from Outback) at other restaurants. We had to teach him that it’s really fettuccine alfredo!
By Laura
July 21, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this
I have to disagree about Red Robin in Cumming the servers are disorganized, and the front desk cannot figure out how long it will be to seat you - there is a big difference between 20 minutes and 45 minutes.
Atkins Park in Vickery Village in Cumming is wonderful. The food is lovely, and when my husband took our 7 year old daughter before the father-daughter dance, she was treated like a little lady. She was just thrilled to be treated that way. Most Japanese-style hibachi restaurants are good as well. Ted’s Montana Grill also gets my vote.
We have been taking the kids (now 7 and 11) out to various restaurants since they were very small and we have very strict rules. We tend to be pretty strict anyway, but children cannot be permitted to run about, jump up and down and disturb others. I have all the sympathy in the world for those with difficult children, and since my son has disabilities, I am likely more tolerant than most. But seriously, the secret is to take children out early enough so they are not exhausted and starving by the time you sit down. Go over the ground rules and start early. But those who do not concern themselves with the feelings and experiences of others are beyond help. But just because they are kids does not mean they cannot appreciate a good meal.
By Laura
July 21, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this
I have to disagree about Red Robin in Cumming the servers are disorganized, and the front desk cannot figure out how long it will be to seat you - there is a big difference between 20 minutes and 45 minutes.
Atkins Park in Vickery Village in Cumming is wonderful. The food is lovely, and when my husband took our 7 year old daughter before the father-daughter dance, she was treated like a little lady. She was just thrilled to be treated that way. Most Japanese-style hibachi restaurants are good as well. Ted’s Montana Grill also gets my vote.
We have been taking the kids (now 7 and 11) out to various restaurants since they were very small and we have very strict rules. We tend to be pretty strict anyway, but children cannot be permitted to run about, jump up and down and disturb others. I have all the sympathy in the world for those with difficult children, and since my son has disabilities, I am likely more tolerant than most. But seriously, the secret is to take children out early enough so they are not exhausted and starving by the time you sit down. Go over the ground rules and start early. But those who do not concern themselves with the feelings and experiences of others are beyond help. But just because they are kids does not mean they cannot appreciate a good meal.
By Adult with Kids
July 22, 2008 5:08 AM | Link to this
Here are a couple of recommendations for parents that like to go out and eat where they have ‘good food’ and a place that doesn’t always need to have a kids menu. Either the setting, the decor, the food or the atmosphere has enough to keeps kids entertained throughout the meal and parents don’t feel like they have to rush to get out the door. Six Feet Under—good tasting chicken fingers, decent prices, and a nice place to take the kids afterwards (Oakland Cemetary) to walk off the food. Agnes & Muriel—what kid, young and old, doesn’t enjoy the decor there. Birdi’s— some of the best chicken fingers for $2.99 and great martinis. Nakato—every kid should experience a hibachi table and one of the few places where you can get calamari that’s not fried. Eclipse de Luna— or many of the tapa restaurants. My kids also like Pura Vida. Brick Store Pub— kids love the burgers, dads love the been selection. Sun Dial— not a place to take the kids out for everyday dining, but something that younger kids will really enjoy for a special dinner…don’t go on the weekend. Tesaro—kids like the tacos and parents like the margaritas. Many might say Taqueiro del Sol, but younger kids can’t wait in line that long.
By bizzymom
July 22, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this
Lornhorn’s in Tucker. The staff is very kid friendly and the atmosphere is family oriented. My kids have always behaved when we go out, it’s what is always expected by my husband and I and they all know that.
By 1st TIme Mom
July 22, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this
Crescent Moon in Tucker! Great wait staff and a large menu for children and all. Food is wonderful and they have a great beer selection for mom and dad.
By Check The Inspection
July 22, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this
If I were you, I would avoid a certain Mexican restaurant in Tucker that was mentioned earlier - they only got a 40 on their latest health inspection and were immediately closed until they cleaned it up. We take our kids to Twain’s - they even have one of those stuffed-animal-grabbing-device-thingies and plenty of room for them to run around. I hear that all the single drinking adults have been driven away to other bars in Decatur since Twain’s became kid-friendly.
By Sabrina
July 22, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this
Daruma Japanese Restaurant in Conyers is a great place for kids!!!! Like most Japanese restaurants they cook in front of you, but really the cooks tailor the “show” according to the kids. They catch eggs in their chef hats, pretend to squirt ketchup on the child using a bottle with red string attached, and most importantly they ask if your child is afraid of “the fire” before burning it up at the table. They also make Mickey Mouse faces out of the rice, a onion volcano, and sometimes have a “catch the shrimp in your mouth” contest around the table. It is very entertaining, and the food is awesome. Not only does my 8 year old love it, my 1 year old loves the food and is entertained the whole time, taking a little pressure off me to enjoy my meal as well.
By Nick Bazin
July 22, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this
TGI Friday’s has kids eat free nights, check it out!
By Cheaper than a Sitter
July 22, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this
Do I need to accompany my kids to TGI Friday’s or can I just drop them off there and pick them up later?
By rerservoirDAWG
July 22, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this
To all the people that can’t stand children: Your parents must have sucked. My child doesn’t act out because it has been taugth to be unacceptable. If she behaves badly we leave. It is not the child’s fault, it is the parent. I hope none of you ever have kids.
By Ted Knight
July 22, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this
St. Angelo’s Pizza in Smyrna…book it!
By Kelly
July 22, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
Food 101 in Morningside and Atkins Park in Virgina Highland are both very kid friendly and have great menu options for children.
By Bill
July 22, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
La Parillia in Woodstock is great if you have kids.
By teelin B
July 22, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this
Dakota Blue in Grant Park Grant Central in Grant Park Jalisco in Peatchree Battle shopping ctr
By Becky
July 22, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this
My 6 year old grandchildren love in order..Any place that serves crab legs, Longhorn, The Varsity, Olive Garden..They are very well behaved & I don’t mind taking them anywhere to eat..If they act up, they know they can’t go back to that restaurant for a while…As for the parents that don’t clean up after their children, it’s not the servers job to clean up after them..My grandchildren know to put their silverwear & napkin on their plate after eating when they are through.
By Ginger
July 22, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this
Pappasito’s has good prices on kid’s items, great brownie ice cream dessert for $2 that my kids share, and you can sit near the machine that cranks out fresh tortillas and helps keep the kids occupied. And if you ask, the person making the tortillas will give your kids dough to play with.
By Big Dad
July 22, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this
My wife and i have found Roasters, Buffalo Wild Wings, Taco Mac, and Willie’s are very kid friendly. They have great food and good atmosphere. You and your family can watch a game while spending time together.
By Big Dad
July 22, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
My wife and i have found Roasters, Buffalo Wild Wings, Taco Mac, and Willie’s are very kid friendly. They have great food and good atmosphere. You and your family can watch a game while spending time together.
By Big Dad
July 22, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
My wife and i have found Roasters, Buffalo Wild Wings, Taco Mac, and Willie’s are very kid friendly. They have great food and good atmosphere. You and your family can watch a game while spending time together.
By Erin Fielding
July 22, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this
Crescent Moon in downtown Decatur
They have such great kid friendly food, and the kids love to go look at the HUGE cakes in the glass. Great wait staff and a pretty low-key environment.
By Lulline
July 22, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this
If anyone is in the mood for some good old fashion NY style pizza and family dining then Capozzi’s in Marietta is it. They have children’s tables with their own spoon/forks and toys for the little ones to play with. Their kids menu is pretty standard and very kid friendly and the food is oh soooooo good!
By Jewels
July 22, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this
Buffalo’s Southwest Cafe! They have kids eat free nights. Check them out at www.buffaloscafe.com .
By JC
July 22, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this
Rib’s Etc. is a VERY kid friendly place!!!! They have a wonderful kids menu and the restaurant itself is a great place for kids to make a mess and enjoy themselves. Very laid back and fun! Plus there are video games for older kids to play and pictures to color with crayons for the younger kids!!!! The food is great and the atmosphere is fun!!!!
By Emily
July 22, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this
My daughter is only 15 months old but she really loved Longhorn’s. I was suprised how much food came on her plate! Other places it’s the meat and the side and that’s it. Thanks to everyone who gave “real” reviews, I will keep them in mind when she gets older. I made sure to introduce her to restaurants early so that she will always know how to behave. I can’t tell you how many times we’re eating and I say, my daughter will not be allowed to do/act like that one over there! I was a waitress for 2 years and it is nice if you tip more if your children make a huge mess or if the staff is extra nice.
By Sara
July 22, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this
Fabiano’s in Douglasville. When my husband and I are desperate to go out and have some good food, and an ever so slightly cool atmosphere we go here. My son can go from sweet to tyrant very quickly. The staff are great. They’re so friendly and very patient and tolerant. They understand the need to get my son’s food out as quickly as possible and they don’t freak out when he throws spaghetti all over the floor. We also always tip very very good when we go out to restaurants, because my son can be messy. It’s hard to go out with a 2 year old, but it is a sanity saver.
Also, took my kid to Joe’s Crab Shack for the first time on Chapell Hill Rd and he loved it. Loved the boats and fish and the dancing waiters and playground. The menu also had healthy options, not just chicken fingers.
By JJ
July 22, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this
I have a better idea than tipping extra when your kids make a mess. Why not clean the mess before you leave? I always do this out of respect for the servers.
By momof2
July 22, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this
We love I HOP as the kids eat free from 4-9 everyday. My little ones love the smiley face platter. Its fun and we always have friendly service.
By Michael
July 22, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this
At what age do you believe that children no longer need to eat out only at kid-friendly restaurants?
By Miss Chu
July 22, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this
Vintage Pizzaria in Chamblee! The restaurant is divided up into two spaces, one kid friendly and the other an adult section. Everyone can be happy and the pizza is oh so good!
By WAJ
July 22, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this
=Sandy Springs - Mellow Mushroom & El Azteca!
By Mom of 4
July 22, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this
This is to (sayitbrother) who do you think you are calling the kids “freaks” to me that word related to something more adult like… mmm
besides from my experience children whom are only child who go to resturants usually behave.. they have noone else to misbehave with….so that really is not saying much about your daughter now is it…..
By motherjanegoose
July 22, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this
I am in Tennessee and Arkansas on business and have not checked in for quite a while!
I do want to know where everyone is taking their kids because these are the restaurants I will avoid. I LOVE kids. I AM Mother Goose and this is not just a blog name. I work with kids all the time and am training teachers to work with students in their classrooms.
I have one favor to ask, it has been asked before. Please take your kids out to eat and teach them manners …they need to see this. Please DO NOT take them out at 9:00 p.m., when they are cranky and tired and need to be in bed. The rest of us would like to enjoy a quiet dinner without crying and yelling.
Also, please be mindful of the pricing of the restaurant…if it is upscale then kindly refrain from bringing your children…others may want to celebrate a special event or take a client to dinner sans children.
Again, I love children…it’s their parents who make me crazy…
I was with my sister ( on vacation) and we were at Chili’s ( good restaurant for families) at 10:00 p.m.( not a family time). The parents across from us where kicking back Margaritas with a 3 year old asleep in the booth ( bottle in mouth…do not get me started) and an infant in a car seat. HELLO????
I took mine out to eat all the time but we had an 8:00 rule…we were out of the restaurant by 8:00 p.m. Yes, we did have times where we had to take them out of the restaurant for a chat to remind them of the good behavior we expected so they could accompany us again.
Off to Arkansas!
By Becky
July 22, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this
JJ, I usually do clean up after my grandchildren (see my post @11:34..But how do you handle it when you get rude service from servers based on the fact that you have children with you? They love Joe’s (Douglasville), but a few of the servers only come back after I flag them down & we always clean up our table & leave a good tip..I even had one of them tell me that most of the servers don’t like to deal with kids…
By DH
July 22, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this
My kids love Mo Mo Ya (the Japanese steak house side). It’s great entertainment and great food (for them and for us).
By Ron C.
July 22, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this
THE SOCIAL HOUSE on howell mill…my kids love their blueberry pankcakes (the best in atlanta) and to sit under the old bike , then draw on the chaulk board…go figure…
By War Eagle
July 22, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
Chuck E Cheese is great for kids to run out of energy. They play themselves tired. Stevi B’s is another good place-not as many games but at $4-$5 depending on kid age-you can’t beat it. Overall- MELF’s is the best! Great food all under $12-a little more if you get the larger sirloin. Excellent games. they have healthy foods too. Nice portions and they don’t over starch the meal. Broccoli/Spinach/ Carrots/Cabbage/Cuc’s etc. Love the Veggie plate for under $8-loads of veggies. I would say MELF’s was the best.
By Allison
July 22, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
The new Red Robin they built at the Avenues, off 141 in Forsyth County. While its not particularly unique food, they have a HUGE kids menu that is not the standard burgers or chicken nuggets. (you can get them of course) Staff is very kid friendly, and lots for the kids to look at and see. Wait is long sometimes, but they even have a TV built into the floor with cartoons ( yes, you can “walk” on the TV screen. My son is 4, he loves it there.
By Girlree
July 22, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
I don’t have kids, but Jason’s Deli seems very kid friendly. They have a lot of kids menu choices and free ice cream.
By Christina
July 22, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
To say that children should never be taken anywhere “nice” or “upscale” is a HUGE parenting mistake. I take my children (one-on-one) to fine dining establishments at least once a month. How else are they to learn etiquette and table manners? Have any of you ever seen Pretty Woman? Do you want your children to grow up and completely embarrass themselves in restaurants because it is the first time they have ever seen a bread plate or multiple forks?
A few tips for fine dining - take the kids one at a time so you can give them your undivided attention and coach them along the way, order something they have never heard of before (kids LOVE sushi, escargot, lobster)
By Christina
July 22, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this
The last tip - praise them for their awesome “grown-up” behavior, and they will be proud to show it off any time you take them out!
By raise hell
July 22, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
I agree. I’ve been to MELF’s a few times and the kids have a great time. They eat their healthy meal and then go play. And I don’t have to pay a fortune to ear and play there. MELF’s Rule.
By hot dog
July 22, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
One of the best places I’ve been to is MELF’s. Love the salads and they serve great tasting Hot Dogs that you can get with your favorite toppings-just like the burgers. Cole Slaw,Potato Salad and the pie ala mode is great. Haven’t tried the sherbet yet. The kids love playing the games. MELF’s is Great.
By LR
July 22, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
Really at this point the only comment I have is a question. Why is the 9 or 10 year old child in the picture drinking a Red Bull?
By Why Red Bull?
July 22, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this
Because they were all out of Mike’s Hard Lemonade!
By Jason J.
July 22, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
My son loves to go to Moes! he says “Welcome To Moes” whenever we sit down to eat…even at home. He also is big on the edamame at Zyng Asian Kitchen at The Avenues At West Cobb.
By AlpoBreath
July 22, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this
Hands down - Velvet Room.
By Leslie Ann
July 22, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
I have a couple of nominations -
First - Joe’s Crab Shack. Why? Because they have a playground!
Second - The Mad Italian. Why? Decent play room and kids eat FREE all the time! Food is good too.
Third - IHOP. Need I say more?
By mikie
July 22, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
I wholeheartedly recommend any of the places that are Japanese grills such as Nakato on Cheshire Bridge in Atlanta. It’s not like the food is anything special, but seeing the chefs flip and toss the food around is pretty good entertainment for the young ones. And the prices aren’t bad — about $10 for the chicken dinner with all the veggies and fixings.
By mikie
July 22, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
I’d agree with an earlier comment — any of the Japanese grill places. The food isn’t anything special, but the sight of all those shrimp and veggies flying through the air is bound to keep the little ones entertained
By Voiceofreason
July 22, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
We have a rule when it comes to taking our child out to dinner. If they restaurant doesn’t have a kids meal they obviously don’t want you there and they don’t deserve your money. So just do both you and the business a favor, and skip it.
By Abner
July 22, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
Took my kids to of them Japernese places once - next day at home they commenced to throwing all their food up in the air and across the table into each other’s mouths. Had to threaten ‘em with a cleaver to get ‘em to stop. The dog loved it - he got to eat all the misses. Now we don’t go nowhere except to the Waffle House. The kids learnt how to yell out their food orders to the wife just like they do at Waffle House.
By Sxzscorpia
July 22, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
1) Joe’s Crab Shack- just fun all the way around!
2) Applebees
3) Outback
By E B
July 22, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this
BRIO
By Becky
July 22, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
Emily, why would you order anything off the menu at Longhorn for a 15 month old child?
By JC
July 22, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this
My daughter and her friends enjoy Boston’s in Morrow. There’s a nice variety to the menu for both children and adults and the servers are very friendly.
By Techie
July 22, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
Blue Moon Pizza - kids get pizza dough to play with.
Moe’s Shane’s BBQ Bella’s Pizza in Smyrna O’Charley’s has great kid’s menu
Little Azio is always fun of kids who can share the huge portions of pasta or pizza
By Techie
July 22, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
Blue Moon Pizza - kids get pizza dough to play with.
Moe’s Shane’s BBQ Bella’s Pizza in Smyrna O’Charley’s has great kid’s menu
Little Azio is always full of kids who can share the huge portions of pasta or pizza
By jt
July 22, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
I relaly like MELF’s. They have a lot for the kids to do -place settings can be colred in and the games are great. Love the food and good prices. Not your typical pizza or kids place. Family friendly and not fo rthe stuffed shirts. MELF’s is great!
By Big T
July 22, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
Marcello’s Pizza on Roswell Road. Incredibly family friendly, even when your child does something like knock over their drink, the staff is very patient and understanding. The train that runs around on tracks hanging off the ceiling with Darth Vader and Sponge Bob riding it has always been a hit with my little ones
By HLJackson
July 22, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this
Chili’s would be my first choice by far…they have a great kid’s menu and always our first choice if we’re dining out with the kids. My son knows the menu.
By babies father
July 22, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this
I agree with RIBS ETC on roswell road. If you want you child to enjoy themselves, and you enjoy yourself, this is the place!! Teach you children to eat good prepared food not process fast food. That should be your first criteria, not a jugle gym or playground, you should be ashmed of yourself if that is your criteria. Learn to be a better parent.
By Mikki
July 22, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this
Eatza Pizza Buffet (also has food like chicken, potatos and veggies for parents who don’t want pizza)
Stevi B’s (has the best potato pizza and BLT pizza)
Sweet Tomatoes (their favorite by far, lots of soups like Shrimp Bisque and Vegetable soup. Several different kinds of breads such as chocolate corn bread muffins…awesome!)
By Kat
July 22, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this
OMG! I am so glad the first comment was that Agave is kid friendly! YES, it is, as long as you go fairly early in the evening before it gets too crowded (my kids just do better without the crowd). My girls LOVE the flavorful food! Why some people shy away from sharing really well spiced food with their kids is beyond me!
I would also add that if you went to the Carraba’s I think you did, then the manager there also has young children and he knows how to teach his staff to take care of families!
I’ll add to the list that Jalisco’s in Peachtree Battle Shopping Center is very kid friendly! The staff knows how to do little extra for the kids (like bringing cut fruit right away and drawing cute designs on the standard styrofoam cups). And the cheese dip will mesmerize any kid!
By Mark
July 22, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this
Houston’s, hands down. In and out in an hour. Something for everyone.
By motherjanegoose
July 22, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this
Just back from dinner at a Steak house in Arkansas…yes everyone was wearing shoes. The family next to me had a 18 month year old and knew exactly what to do. He had a goody bag full of things to keep him busy …GEEZ what a concept for parents to plan ahead!
Regarding upscale restaurants…it is fine to take your children there if you are planning to be a teacher but if you are simply letting them tag along as you are to lazy to find a babysitter, then the rest of us do NOT want to be the babysitter unless you are picking up our tab. We want to enjoy our dinner and this is why we are not eating at Ryan’s. Chili’s at Discover Mills this past week….my 16 year old daughter and I are out to lunch. A Mother/Daughter team with a toddler sit next to us. It is 1:00 p.m…..nap time? He is cranky and making a big scene. The lady behind us fishes out a tennis ball ( from her purse) and hands it across the aisle to him. He begins to throw it around the restaurant…HELLO? Thank goodness I am not a waitress….I would lose my job.
By meanpeoplesuck
July 22, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
You self-righteous kid haters kill me!! I’m just so sure that when you were little that you NEVER acted up in public. I bet the majority of you are gay men!
By John Mc5
July 23, 2008 7:43 AM | Link to this
I’d say MELF’s is a great place for kids. Lots of games and creative things for the kids. Adults can enjoy a good meal for less and the kids eat healthy too. Good wait staff and the food comes out looking fresh and not over cooked. Melf’s is the place.
By amy
July 23, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this
Hands down it is Chick-fil-a! I have 2 young children, so my hands are always full. The employees carry my tray, pull up high chairs, and offer refills. At some of the Chick-fil-a’s they even give out the plastic placemat that ensures a clean eating space for my kids. They even have shorter, bendable straws for children. When I’m having one of those tough stay-at-home mommy days…I know I can go to Chick-fil-a and be welcomed with a very positive experience from service, to safety, to food.
By jmitch
July 23, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this
This blog is full of idiot drunks who only care about how fast their waiter can get them their next drink and having an unimpeded path to the bathroom or to the next unlucky victim they will be hitting on.
Places to eat are just that, a place to eat, not a place to discriminate. If you don’t want to be bothered by children, stay home losers!!!
By Rachel
July 23, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
One of the best restaurants to take children is The Italian Oven. This is not your ordinary pizza joint!! There are three locations in austell, peachtree city, and stockbridge. If your kids have trouble sitting still, this restaurant has tons of things to keep them entertained. For starters, the kitchen with real fire oven has a glass panel so that kids can look in on the cooks preparing the meal. The tables are covered with paper and crayons are provided to doodle at the table. Kids are also provided with a baggy with fun pasta shapes to create a neat necklace or bracelet. Very friendly staff and great pizza! They even have a PB&J pizza that kids will enjoy.
By Jon
July 23, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this
Dante’s Down The Hatch in Buckhead, is my vote for something unique to Atlanta and lots of fun for kids. We recently took our boys there to celebrate a birthday. The decor is very entertaining to the kids — with a pirate ship inside the restaurant, real crocodiles in the water around the boat, and the walls decorated to resemble a small village. The food is fondue, which is interactive and the kids really enjoy. But you obviously need to be mindful of little ones, given there are burners to melt the cheese and keep the oil hot. But with our oversight, our three- and six-year-old boys did just fine. It was a fun experience, something different for sure — and the owner is very likely to stop by and tell great stories about his interesting life and adventures (as he did in our case).
By Martie
July 23, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
Our kids enjoy the Spaghetti Factory and then we walk down to watch donuts being made and eat fresh, hot donuts from Krisy Creams..yummmm!
By Jennifer
July 23, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
Johnny’s Pizza
By Greg
July 23, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
Foster’s Grille in Milton has the best burgers and fries ever. It’s such a great family environment!
By Hartford Whaler
July 23, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this
MELF’s is the place my kids love to go to. Healthy food choices at a great price and the kids love the games area. they love to draw and color and do the activity sheet that is provided with the menu. Melf’s offers a variety of choices and they have a “weight watcher’s” part of the menu so athat you have a few things to choose from there. MELF’s is great.
By Sandra
July 23, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this
A great place for kids and adults is a bagel shop in Roswell at the corner of Hardscrabble and Hwy 92/Woodstock Road. It is called Broadway Bagels. They have a huge menu with sandwiches, wraps, paninis, salads and a kids menu that includes chips or applesauce, a M & M or chocolate chip cookie AND a drink. They have 24 different flavors of bagels and 7 or 8 different flavors of cream cheese. It is worth a try.
By Phill
July 23, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
I love going to Chepe’s Mexican Grill with my kids. They love the kids menu and the food
By motherjanegoose
July 23, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this
I am not a kid hater. I love kids. I work with 100 at a time…I challenge you to do the same. The parents are the ones who make us crazy….if you cannot control a toddler…good luck when he is 16 and driving your car….
When I was little folks did not take the troups out to restaurants to eat as there was less disposable income and they respected the fact that 2 year olds may not have the manners for an upscale restaurant yet.
The metro Atlantans that pull in the big bucks are too busy earning it, then feel guilty about not being home so they take their children out to eat, without instruction in proper table manners and respect for others.The rest of us get to endure our dinner with whining and crying.
To get a REAL picture, we should just ask the wait staff if they prefer to wait on families with unruly children or simply adults.
Wondering about Cracker Barrel…our kids liked that when they were small!
By Jim
July 24, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this
Carraba’s
By Kayson's Grill
July 24, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
Kayson’s Grill in Hickory Flat, Cherokee County is wonderful for kids. They have a very kid friendly menu, the wait staff is wonderful with the kids and they have small flat screen T.V’s on each table to keep the kids occupied while everyone eats. Parents are able to change the channel to what their child will watch. This keeps your children from running around as well after they have finished eating.
By maly
July 24, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this
I have a 4 year old daughter and I would not dream of taking her to a nice place to eat. She is too young and doesn’t understand the need to be quit and to be still. You, as parents should not expect your little ones to act like adults. If you are going out to some of these places use your heads and leave your little ones at home where they can play and romp there and not in the business!
By Nick Bazin
July 24, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
Mickey D’s!!
Bwahahaha! I keeeeed.
By Linda
July 24, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this
Mellow Mushroom Pizza in Dunwoody!! I love all of the MM Pizza locations but the MM Pizza in Dunwoody went the extra mile when they added StepnWash to their restrooms so I don’t have to lift up my kids to wash their hands. The kids love the food and all of the games to play.
By motherjanegoose
July 24, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this
We thank you Maly….when she is 7 or 8, you may want to give it a shot!
By cyndi
July 25, 2008 2:05 AM | Link to this
ROADHOUSE STEAKHOUSE in morrow. Wait staff excellent to kids and kids LOVE to throw the peanuts on the floor. They love the mess.
By vida Moultrie
July 26, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
I’ll have to agree with someone who said Macaroni Grill, I’ve taken my nephew out (he’s 2) and some places are a definite never again.
By Mike
July 27, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this
Johnny’s New York Style Pizza is a great place for the whole family.They have a good kids menu, but come on kids love pizza. Mom and Dad can pick from their dinners, subs or the delicious calzones if they want. Our local Johnny’s will even put cartoons or Disney on the TV’s.
By Mike
July 27, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this
Johnny’s New York Style Pizza is a great place for the whole family.They have a good kids menu, but come on kids love pizza. Mom and Dad can pick from their dinners, subs or the delicious calzones if they want. Our local Johnny’s will even put cartoons or Disney on the TV’s.
By Jackson5
July 27, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this
The kids love St. Angelo’s Pizza. They get a kid slice, dough to play with and gelato when they are done. Perfect for the 5 of us.
By Hungryin Atlanta
July 28, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this
I think that Doc Chey’s is a wonderful place for the whole family. Not only are the prices reasonable, but it is such a great environment to bring my kids. All around good choice!
By Rachel & Family
July 28, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this
Osteria 832 in Virginia-Highlands is a fantastic family-friendly local restaurant with a well-balanced and affordable menu for both kids and parents.
Our kids also LOVE Doc Chey’s Noodle House!
By Sondra Brown
July 28, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
I have taken my son to Carrabba’s and they are a kid friendly they give kids crayons, coloring books, toys, and dough to play with.
By JD
July 28, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
Joe’s Crab Shack has a cool play area, Ryan’s Family Steakhouse always has plenty of kids and choices for fussy eaters, Chick-Fil-A is always a good choice too.
By Lisa
July 28, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this
O’Charley’s gets my vote. Great food, good service, and WONDERFUL rolls! Our daughter loves O’Charley’s. She often goes there with her Daddy on their “dates nights,” and suggests it when we’re trying to decide where to eat. The O’Charley’s in Cumming has been fantastic for us.
By Carol
July 29, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this
I agree with those that mentioned Ted’s Montana Grill. The kid’s menu offers the traditional chicken fingers and mac n’ cheese for picky eaters, as well as choices like salmon and meatloaf. Plus all the food is fresh with nothing artificial.
By DYANG
July 29, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this
I really like Family Night at Chick Fil-A. They have these nights throughout the state. :)
By SHUN
July 29, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
The best kid friendly place is Monkey Joes and Red Lobster on Camp Creek.
By Joyce
July 30, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this
As all kids usually love pizza, we have found a relaxed, fun, friendly, delicious pizza restaurant — STEVI B’S — in Canton, GA, it is the BEST. Buffet style, any kind of pizza you want and great dessert pizzas also. They even have a patio for private parties. We love it!!
By Joyce
July 30, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
As all kids usually love pizza, we have found a relaxed, fun, friendly, delicious pizza restaurant — STEVI B’S — in Canton, GA, it is the BEST. Buffet style, any kind of pizza you want and great dessert pizzas also. They even have a patio for private parties. We love it!!
By Kennesaw Knight
July 31, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this
Melf’s is the place we take our kids for healthy food and good fun. I would recommend Melf’s. Good wait staff and theprices are reasonable.
By what?
July 31, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this
say it brother must be talking about the kids that act like savages in the jungles of down town Atlanta/Africa.
By Matt
July 31, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this
Ted’s, Our kids love the Sliders (little buffalo patties) and Chicken Tenders. Great mix of burgers and other things for the adults. Also good beers on tap. Kids love the buffalo head on the wall. The waiters bring our food quick, and give the kids little packs of toys to play with while waiting for food.
By twj
July 31, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
Mimi’s Cafe
By besters
August 1, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
MELF’S serves great food at low prices and it is very healthy. Salads are fresh. Good kids menu with lots of veggies. They have a veggie plate and a great, Soup, salad and veggies combo for $8. Love the choices. they have a game area for the kids and have an activity/coloring book for them. MELF’S is great!
By Laura
August 2, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
This is a good time to remind parents with kids, THERE ARE OTHER PEOPLE in the restaurant besides your bratty kids. Please tend to them, and teach them to be respectful, and not so disruptive.
My choice is McDonalds, please take them there.
By indoor dog
August 2, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
Does MELF’s serve Spam?
By Kelly
August 4, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this
Our all time favorite, kid friendly restaurant, would have to be Paradise Grill, located in Marietta. Everything on the menu is delicious and fresh and on Wednesdays, kids eat free. The place is loud and noisy and the friendly staff is used to the children running around to the small game room to play the quarter “claw game”. During softball and baseball seasons, it is not unusual to see whole teams meeting there after games and practices. This is a place we frequest as often as 4-5 per month! In this present economy, it is still that affordable.
By Mike
August 4, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this
The Victorians had it right: Children should be seen and not heard.
By besters
August 5, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this
Indoor dog-NO! MELF’s is a respectable place that serves healthy food. They don’t serve spam, or chitlin’s or pickled pigs feet or collard greens or food like that. Best of all , they do have a dress code-no tank tops or flip flops. So no looking like you just came out of a rap concert or off the street from a Jesse Jackson/Al Sharpton protest march. MELF’s is great!
By sondra shipley
August 7, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this
O’Charleys. They always treat you right and are friently & helpful to children.
By ron reed
August 10, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
Piedmnont park
By DennisRS
August 11, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
Our kids beg to go to Osteria 832 Pasta & Pizza, an affordable Italian restaurant in Virginia Highlands neighborhood of ATL.
By Phil Kloer
August 11, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this
OK, I give up. Can someone tell me what and where MELFs restaurant is. I can’t find it using the Net, and I think perhaps a prank is being pulled that is a bit obscure. Please educate your ignorant blog moderator. Thanks.
By Phil Kloer
August 14, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
OK, I’ve tried twice to give away our prizes, CDs of “Camp Rock” and Vanessa Hudgens, to people I drew at random, and both times they did not respond to my email. I have to give them away. So the first person who emails me that they want them, and includes name and address for mailing, will be declared the winner. pkloer@ajc.com
By Kiki
August 14, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this
Dave and Busters
By Toaster
August 15, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this
There is a small pizza shop on Hwy 9 between Alpharetta and Cumming called CALABRIA PIZZA AND WINGS that serves up the BEST pizza and wings in the Atlanta area. Many families show up there to savor the fine food they prepare, and from what I see, the kids love it there. It is in the Midway Shopping Center at Post Rd. and Hwy 9
By Connie
August 18, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this
Penang on Barret Pkwy! The food was great, and the waiter played with our four little ones and even told them if they didn’t finish their dinner, no special treat! And to our surprise, they actually did and got lollipops. And when we got our check they gave each of our girls a little packet of fish food to feed the giant koi outside in their pond, the girls had a really great time. The staff and food there are extraordinary, I recommend this place to all of our friends.
By Warrior Woman
August 19, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this
My kids’ favorite restaurant is Fuji Hana. They love the sushi bar! The wait staff and sushi chefs go the extra mile in service and in a broad variety of cooked and raw sushi options.
By Warrior Woman
August 19, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this
Z,
I will take my kids, who - although not perfect - are better behaved than many adult diners I see, to the restaurant of my choice at the time of my choice. I will not limit our family to chain restaurants because you have a problem with children.
Beyond that, drunk young adults are more likely to spill their own drinks than my children are to spill theirs!
By Carl Barosa
August 20, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this
Doc Chey’s Noodle House - one of the few places in town the kids enjoy because the staff is so great to them. That and they just love the noodles!
By Raquel
August 22, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
My son loves American Roadhouse in the Virginia Highlands area of Atlanta. Super delicious and healthy food, an exciting by not overwhelming menu (to include the one for children), and who can have enough of the wooden nickels?!
By yum
August 26, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this
Doc Chey’s, Radial, Vickerys in Glenwood Park.
By Garey
August 27, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this
I would like to nominate Boneheads Grilled Fish & Piri Piri Chicken for this category, because their food is more than what you would get at the average restaurant. It is reasonably priced, yet you don’t have to talk into a clown’s mouth to get it…
By Drew
August 28, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
Village Tavern in Alpharetta. Great childrens menu and price.
By Carrie
September 2, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
Shane’s Rib Shack… yum! And great for the kids!
By Janet
September 3, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
I went to No Mas with my nephews because it was recommended here as being kid friendly and having a good kid’s menu. I’d eaten there with adults and liked it, but never before with kids. I cannot see how this is a kid friendly restaurant. The kid’s menu is choice of chicken fingers, cheese quasidilla or burrito, which is pretty limited in my opinion. My kids wanted tacos, which could not be gotten but on a combination plate for $11.95, even after I asked if we could get two tacos a la carte. Also, while I like the salsa, with its smokey flavor, the kids thought it was “weird.”
I ended up paying too much for food the kids didn’t really like.
By GRAMMIE
September 3, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this
I can’t believe no one has mentioned Jocks and Jills. Kids eat free on Tuesday not only meal but also drink and ice cream sundae. The one in Canton has a room just for kids to eat and watch movies aoubt a zillion sreens around the room. Great menu items for both adults and children. Two children per one paying adult…
By Mark
September 5, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this
En Casa
By Food
September 12, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this
Sweet Tomatoes is great for kids
By gwinnettmom
November 18, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this
Phil- did anyone ever reply to your question about MELF’s? I’ve never heard of it either until I started reading this blog.
Mothergoose - thanks for ALL of your comments! You rock!
I agree that children under the age of 14 should EVER be in a restaurant AFTER 8. Good rule, whoever mentioned that one. The sad thing is NO one ever gives new parents these guidelines and some of them obviously don’t have a clue!And if you all will notice, NO restaurants have Kids eat free nights on Friday nights. That’s a pretty traditional date night where I come from so keep the kids at home. Restaurants are WAY too busy then to enjoy with children. I’ve never been a waitress (and wouldn’t do it on a bet) but I sure don’t expect them to clean up after my kids. and good tips are for good or great service (NOT for cleaning up after your kids!)
By manicmom
December 11, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this
Bold: Fox Bros Bar-B-Q is a great kid friendly place!!!!
By msormewood
December 18, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this
I second the vote for Dakota Blue, especially on Friday nights before 8. Crabby kid-haters know to stay away at that time, most of the kids there are well-behaved, and parents can enjoy a fresh, non-chain meal.
By sunny
January 6, 2009 12:46 PM | Link to this
My kids love to go to the Boston Market at marietta