Hankering for a grown-up meal even though your kiddos are dining with you? Want the little ones to be inspired to try something outside their comfort zone? Happily, there are plenty of family dining options in the area that take it up a notch from fast food. Here are a few that get a thumbs-up from kids, parents and grandparents.
Bayou Bakery, Coffee Bar & Eatery
Chef David Guas’ kids have always been regulars at this neighborhoody cafe in Courthouse, which serves New Orleans favorites (gumbo, shrimp and grits, po’ boys), along with salads and sammies, plus all-beef hot dogs and a weekend brunch with booze. Bayou closes by 7 p.m. during the week and even earlier on the weekends, but it’s an ideal breakfast or lunch stop. You’ll find plenty of espresso drinks for the parents, a soundtrack of Big Easy tunes and piles of powdered-sugar beignets for all. Coming over with a minivan full of people? No problem. The restaurant validates parking at the garage on 15th Street, and there are usually plenty of on-street spots, too.
1515 N. Courthouse Road, Arlington