It’s hard to find a good restaurant that appeals to the entire family, with good food choices, a casual atmosphere and speedy enough service to keep the kids from getting bored, but we’ve rounded up a list of our favorite family-friendly restaurants in Arlington. Some of these are new, and some are old favorites, but we still love them. Most are family owned, with a few local chains included, as well as a few tips on things to do while you’re in the area.
1. The Flying Fish 300 E. Abram St. I love their hot boiled shrimp, but just about everything is delicious! Located on Abram’s Alley, it’s close enough to walk to Levitt’s Pavilion or the Arlington Central Library.
What’s good for kids? Kids will enjoy the Billy Bass Wall of Fame, covered in those singing fish! The cute little kids meals are fun, too!
2. Mariano’s Hacienda 2614 Majesty Dr., Arlington This large restaurant with plenty of space for families, a well-rounded menu and lively atmosphere is the perfect family dining destination. A great location at I-30 and Hwy. 360, right across from Six Flags! Mariano’s is part of the La Hacienda Ranch family, which has 5 other locations across the DFW Metroplex.
What’s good for kids? A good kid’s menu with fun mini Tex-Mex Tacos, and the hot apple pie with cinnamon ice cream is the BEST!
3. The Tipsy Oak, 301 E. Front St., Arlington
A fairly new-comer to the Arlington restaurant scene, despite the name, craft beer and full bar, the restaurant has a fun patio with games such as cornhole and cozy firepits perfect for chilly days with the whole family. The smoked brisket grilled cheese is a favorite, especially with the local Division Brewing’s BBQ sauce.
What’s good for kids? A $6 Kid’s Menu offers some basics, such as burgers and cheese quesadillas, served with hand-cut fries.
Click HERE to visit their website.
4. El Ranchito, 3517 S. Cooper, Arlington
Long time favorites in Dallas’ Oak Cliff Neighborhood, the Sanchez family, owners of La Calle Doce and El Ranchito opened an Arlington location and it’s just as much fun as the original! We love the big family-style Parrillada Mexicana and their grilled cabrito!
What’s good for kids? My kids love the singing mariachi band, as well as the complementary rice pudding!
Click HERE to visit their website.
5. TJ’s Catfish and Wings, 4261 Green Oaks Blvd. suite 506, Arlington
This fun and casual sports-themed restaurant offers some great catfish! It’s great for a grabbing a quick bite to eat on your way to Lake Arlington, or spending an afternoon watching a game.
What’s good for kids? They’ll love piling into the stadium seating to eat!
6. The Grease Monkey Burger Shop and Social Club, 200 N. Mesquite St., Arlington
While the Grease Monkey isn’t the most kid-friendly restaurant, it’s great during the day after a visit to the new George W. Hawkes Downtown Library, just across the street! The M-F Lunch Special burgers and fries, just $5.25 are worth the walk over!
What’s good for kids? Situated in an old garage, hence the name, kids will love the automotive motif!
Click HERE to visit their website.
7. Babe’s Chicken Dinner House, 230 N. Center St., Arlington
Also in Downtown, if you’re not already familiar with this North Texas restaurant, you’ll want to be. Known for their homestyle meals and fun decor, it’s a regular gathering spot for family meals and celebrations! Located just a short walk to Levitt Pavilion, it’s a great place to grab a meal before a show!
What’s good for kids? Kids will love seeing the restaurant’s current batch of baby “rattlers”.
Click HERE to visit their website.
8. El Gabacho Tex-Mex Grill, 2408 W. Abrams St., Arlington
We love the old John Wayne/Western Movie Theme in this fun Tex-Mex restaurant! We never get any farther than the beef fajitas and enchiladas, but we always leave happy!
Walk off that meal at nearby Village Creek Historical Area, with a hike and bike trail along the creek, named for the Native American villages that once lined the creek.
What’s good for kids? In keeping with the Western theme, our waiter suggested a Roy Rogers for the kids, a non-alcoholic drink of Coke and Grenadine, topped with a cherry. The kids don’t know who Roy Rogers was, but my son loved the sweet drink.
9. Free Play Arcade 400 E. South Street, Arlington
While technically not a restaurant, it’s where my kids ask to go eat in Arlington most often. The concept is simple; pay admission at the front and play all the old school video games, over 130, for free. They also have good food and a full bar. We like the pulled pork street tacos and cheese flatbread pizza.
What’s good for kids? The games, of course.
Click HERE to visit their website.
10. Ventana Grille at Tierra Verde Golf Course
Owned by the City of Arlington, the Ventana Grill offers a beautiful view of the golf course while dining, and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Designed to compliment the golf course, it’s not just for golfers. I really like their Sunday brunch, especially Napoleon’s Last Meal, a buttermilk battered fried chicken breast served atop bourbon french toast.
What’s good for kids? A big patio with a great view.
Keep Having Fun in the Texas Sun!
Michelle
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