Houston, we have hungry kids! And parents who need a break. Finding a restaurant that pleases everyone in the family can feel like launching a rocket into space. Fear not, fellow travelers! We've compiled a list of Houston's most stellar family-friendly eateries. Prepare for liftoff... into flavor town!
Pizza My Heart: Coltivare Pizza & Garden
Imagine a place where the pizza is amazing and the kids can roam (sort of) free. That's Coltivare in a nutshell. They have a fantastic garden where kids can explore, while you sip a well-deserved glass of wine.
It's basically dinner and entertainment all rolled into one (delicious) package. Just try to keep them from eating all the basil!
Don't let the "grocery" part fool you. Lankford Grocery & Market serves up some seriously amazing burgers. The atmosphere is super casual, and the prices are right. It's a little slice of old-school Houston charm.
Pro tip: Order extra napkins. Things can get messy (in the best way possible).
Why It's Great for Families:
The burgers are legendary. There's plenty of space (indoor and outdoor). It's a no-frills, all-thrills kind of place.
Tex-Mex Fiesta: Ninfa's on Navigation
No Houston restaurant list is complete without some Tex-Mex. And Ninfa's on Navigation is a classic for a reason. The fajitas are sizzling, the margaritas are flowing (for the adults, of course!), and the atmosphere is always festive.
Just be prepared for a little wait, especially on weekends. But trust us, it's worth it for those legendary tacos.
Why It's Great for Families:
Fajitas are fun to share. The atmosphere is lively and entertaining. They have high chairs and booster seats aplenty.
18 of the Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in Houston - The Family
BBQ Bliss: Goode Co. Barbeque
Houston and BBQ go together like peanut butter and jelly. And Goode Co. Barbeque is a local favorite. Their brisket is melt-in-your-mouth tender. Their sides are classic comfort food. What's not to love?
Bonus points: They have multiple locations, so you're never too far from BBQ goodness.
Why It's Great for Families:
Everyone loves BBQ. The portions are generous. It's a casual and family-friendly environment.
Seafood Sensations: Gilhooley's Restaurant & Oyster Bar
Okay, Gilhooley's might not be the first place you think of for a family outing. But hear us out! This no-frills oyster bar has a certain… charm. Kids will be fascinated by the oyster shuckers. And the grilled oysters are surprisingly kid-friendly (especially with a little butter and cheese).
Just maybe steer clear of the "No Minors" sign (yes, really!).
Why It's Great for Families (Hear us Out!):
It's a unique and memorable experience. The oysters are surprisingly delicious. It's a great way to introduce kids to new foods.
Brunch Bunch: Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
Brunch is a weekend staple, and Snooze does it right. Their menu is packed with creative and delicious breakfast options. From pancake flights to breakfast tacos, there's something for everyone. Prepare for a sugar rush!
Be prepared for a wait! Snooze is popular for a reason, but it's worth the wait.
Great Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Houston - Houston
Why It's Great for Families:
The menu is extensive and kid-friendly. The atmosphere is fun and energetic. It's a perfect way to start the weekend.
Ice Cream Dreams: Amy's Ice Creams
Okay, it's not a full meal, but no family-friendly food list is complete without ice cream. Amy's Ice Creams is a Houston institution. They have a rotating menu of creative and delicious flavors. Plus, the "Mexican Vanilla" is a must-try.
Warning: May cause extreme happiness and sticky fingers.
Why It's Great for Families:
It's ice cream! Need we say more? They have unique and fun flavors. It's a perfect way to end any meal (or day!).
Park & Play: The Flying Saucer Pie Company (Nearby Hermann Park)
Let's face it, sometimes you need a treat and a park to let the kids burn off some energy. Grab a delicious pie from The Flying Saucer Pie Company and head over to Hermann Park. The perfect combination of sugar and sunshine!
The best part? The kids will be tired enough for a nap afterwards.
Why It's Great for Families:
Pie! Park! What's not to love? A delicious way to fuel a fun afternoon. A great way to get the kids moving.
Best of Houston ® 2023: Best Family Friendly Restaurant | Houston Press
Casual Comfort: Feges BBQ (Multiple Locations)
Another BBQ joint? Yes! Feges BBQ offers a modern take on classic barbecue. This is a more casual, cafeteria style dining experience. Great for bigger parties or a quick lunch.
They usually have creative sides that kids will enjoy, too, like mac and cheese or creamed corn.
Why It's Great for Families:
Fast service and excellent barbecue. Cafeteria style makes it easy to get food quickly. Kid-friendly side options.
Kid-Centric Fun: Sweet Paris Crêperie & Café
Who doesn't love a crepe? Sweet Paris offers a wide variety of sweet and savory crepes. The atmosphere is charming and whimsical, making it a fun spot for kids. It's like a mini-vacation to Paris, without the jet lag!
Bonus: they have great coffee for the parents!
Why It's Great for Families:
Delicious crepes for everyone. Charming and fun atmosphere. Great coffee for the grown-ups.
A Touch of Italy: Giacomo's Cibo e Vino
Craving Italian? Giacomo's Cibo e Vino offers a cozy and authentic Italian experience. The pasta is homemade, the service is friendly, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Your little ones can feel like they are actually at an Italian family dinner!
Try the gnocchi, it's a crowd pleaser.
18 of the Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in Houston - The Family
Why It's Great for Families:
Authentic Italian food. Cozy and relaxed atmosphere. Kid-friendly pasta dishes.
For the Adventurous: Pondicheri
Want to introduce your kids to Indian food? Pondicheri is a great place to start. The menu features flavorful and approachable Indian dishes. The atmosphere is colorful and vibrant, making it a fun and engaging experience. It's also known for its kid-friendly items like the "paratha pizza."
Don't be afraid to try something new!
Why It's Great for Families:
Delicious and approachable Indian food. Colorful and vibrant atmosphere. Kid-friendly options available.
Bonus: Food Trucks!
Don't forget about Houston's amazing food truck scene! Many food trucks are parked in family-friendly areas. And they offer a wide variety of cuisines.
Check out local events and parks for food truck gatherings. It's a fun and casual way to try new things.
Why They're Great for Families:
Variety of options. Casual and convenient. Great for trying new things.
So there you have it! A delicious tour of Houston's most family-friendly restaurants. Now go forth and conquer those hunger pangs... and maybe bring a bib!
