While date night is nice every now and again, quality time with the kiddos is equally important. Finding a family-friendly restaurant can be challenging though. You want somewhere to satisfy picky eaters, that is also a treat for you with an ambiance that won’t annoy other diners. But don’t book the babysitter just because these Beaumont restaurants are happy to have the whole crew in tow.
Neches River Wheelhouse
A beautiful patio overlooking the river, Neches River Wheelhouse goes above and beyond to appease the little ones. They provide free frisbees for kids to get their spilkies out while watching the boats come in and frequently have live music. The pistolettes and the seafood nachos are great sharables for the table, while the Cajun grilled cheese and po’boys are also fan favorites.
Willy Burger
A no-frills retro eatery known for its burgers, shakes and onion rings; Willy Burger’s vintage airstream is a delightful dive. With walls adorned with pool balls and pennies, the ambiance is as a part of the experience as the greasy finger food. Be sure to save room for funnel cake for dessert -- you won’t be disappointed.
Daddio’s Burgers
A more modern, gourmet take on the burger, mom and dad can indulge in bison or salmon burgers with parmesan truffle brussels sprouts, while the kids can get down on corn dogs and root beer floats. The ambiance is still casual and diner-like with counter service.
Carmela’s Mexican Restaurant
A family owned and operated eatery, Carmela’s colorful interior is always a fiesta. Share a sizzling plate of fajitas and one of the best quesos in Texas, which you’d never know, actually has vegetables ground up in the dip. It’s a sneaky way to get in some greens without them even tasting it (or whining).
Republic Chicken
Set in a reclaimed barn with plates designed to be shared, Republic Chicken claims to be southern dining just like your granny used to make. The sides are served all-you-can-eat family style so you can taste a bunch of different flavors without feeling too guilty. Just be sure to save room for the bread pudding.
Tacos La Bamba
Another colorfully festive interior with mosaic tables and murals, Tacos La Bamba is a meal the whole family can agree on. With crazy deals like 20 tacos for $20 every Sunday and $1 tacos the first Thursday of every month, it’s a great place to fill up without breaking the bank.
Tokyo Japanese Steak House and Sushi Bar
Hibachi is a great way to keep the kids entertained as it’s essentially dinner and a show. Watch the chef set the table on fire, flip the spatulas with masterful finesse, and make the onion train go choo choo. As an added bonus, if you’re into sushi, the dragon and caterpillar rolls are taken quite literally, designed to look like the creatures themselves. Who said you couldn’t play with your food?
Mellow Mushroom
As the new kid in town, it’s hard to go wrong with a mellow pizza night. A funky, artsy space, Mellow Mushroom is known for their specialty ‘zas like muffuletta pizza and shitake pies. And who knows, it just might be the way to get the kiddos to like mushrooms.