When the Census released its findings of the 29 American cities with the highest number of children, four cities within the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex appeared on the list. In other words, Dallas has a lot of kids, and plenty of parents who wouldn’t mind dining out now and then.
While there is surely a stereotype that “kids” and “restaurants” don’t mix, there are lots of restaurants in town that make the experience enjoyable for all. When in need of a break from cutting off crusts, cleaning up spills, and whipping up recipes that appeal to everyone between the ages of three and 50, Dallas has you covered. The restaurants on this list aim to entertain, so that the whole family can enjoy a break from the home kitchen.
Birdie’s Eastside
This neighborhood bar and grill has a 7,000 square-foot patio with a dedicated section where children can let out their wiggles and meet some new playmates. The menu is approachable and has something for everyone. Think starters like spinach-artichoke dip ($12) and deviled eggs ($12); handhelds including birria sliders ($16) and a Texas patty melt ($15); plus sides like macaroni and cheese ($8) and sweet potatoes ($8). Kids can order from their own menu with choices like butter and parm pasta ($9) and cheese quesadillas ($10) with fruit or fries. If you want to enjoy Birdie’s kid-free, the adults-only lounge offers a nice escape. 6221 E. Mockingbird Ln., Dallas, birdieseastside.com
Nico’s Cocina
Nico’s draws in families for its menu of Tex-Mex classics, including nachos, tacos, chimichangas, and fajitas, and best of all, its playground. Grab a seat on the covered patio, and sip margaritas as the little ones run, climb, and slide in full view. Treat them to warm churros ($6) and extend the leisurely al fresco experience. 3065 N. Josey Ln. #24 Carrollton, nicoscocina.com
The Magic Time Machine
If there’s one restaurant geared towards kiddos in Dallas, it’s the Magic Time Machine. Since 1979, this Addison staple has lived up to its name, with a salad bar situated in a vintage car, balloon makers, caricature artists, and servers who double as costumed characters from movies and books. The over-the-top décor, including a table fitted in an old refrigerator, is boredom-proof. The menu of comfort eats like burgers, crispy chicken tenders ($14), and steaks galore, offers something for everyone. 5003 Beltline Rd., Dallas, magictimemachine.squarespace.com
Vector
Breweries famously provide fun for the whole family, and in Dallas, Vector in Lake Highlands is among the best. There’s space to run around outside, plenty of patio seating, a stash of board games, a fish tank, and little mannequins hidden in the ceiling that kids love to hunt for. Grownups love the made-from-scratch sour-dough pizzas and ever-rotating selection of beers brewed in-house, while the under-age crowd can toast with Italian sodas or hot chocolate. A kids menu showcases a variety of pizzas and spaghetti with sauce, or not. As a bonus, Vector is open early, serving coffee and breakfast beginning at 7 a.m. 9850 Walnut Hill Ln. Ste. 405, Dallas, vectorbrewing.com
Tokyo Harbor
When it comes to dining out with little ones, hibachi is a no-brainer. Squirmy, impatient children have no time to fuss, as the whole family gets an up close view of the meal preparations. At Tokyo Harbor, chefs put on a show and ignite laughter while giving kids a show as they grill veggies and proteins, toss rice into the mouths of diners, or flip shrimp into their chef hats. Some restaurants that provide entertainment may pay less attention to the food, but Tokyo Harbor delivers consistently good eats. Multiple locations, tokyoharbor.com
The Stix Ice House
If you’re looking for a restaurant that doubles as a giant playground, head to McKinney to hang out at the Stix Ice House. The 14-acre venue offers endless entertainment for kids and adults alike, including live music, cornhole, volleyball, ping-pong, wiffle ball, and lively outdoor dining. A dedicated kids menu lets children pick from dishes like chicken strips, ($8) corn dog ($8), and quesadillas ($8) — all served with a Rice Krispies treat. Adults can satisfy their inner child cravings too, with dishes like Frito pie ($13) and all-beef quarter-pound hot dogs ($10). 301 Eldorado Pkwy. #100, McKinney, thestixicehouse.com
