There are restaurants for kids, there are restaurants for adults, and then there’s the sweet spot — places that welcome children while also serving parent-friendly food. That means St. Petersburg’s emerging culinary scene also offers options for those of us skilled at strapping a wiggly toddler into a high chair.
January is National Sunday Supper Month, and as parents most of us are tethered to the typical family-style dinner of Uber Eats or fast food when taking a break from the kitchen. Why not spice things up a bit in 2019?
Here are some St. Pete establishments to try with your crew this January (and the year to come) where kids are greeted with a smile and the food is just as delightful.
Disclaimer: We are not professional food critics, just moms who like to occasionally eat out with our children.
2nd & Second
The 24-hour restaurant located on the corner of, you guessed it, 2nd and Second in DTSP serves up a fun breakfast menu all day in addition to some tasty takes on diner classics. With a dedicated menu just for your kiddos that comes with crayons to keep their hands busy, we love that our tiny gourmands have the choice of breakfast or lunch at anytime with healthy sides like cauliflower or applesauce. Plus, who doesn’t love a place where happy hour lasts around the clock? 2ndandsecond.com
Dr. BBQ
This new Edge District eatery is already making waves in the ‘Burg and while you’ve most likely heard about their meat-smoking process, what you haven’t heard about is how much they love kids. With plenty of child-friendly menu options — from hand-cut fries to their BBQ Spaghetti — it’s a delicious way to spend a night out. Take our word, you must try the Epic Peanut Butter Pie. drbbqs.com
FarmTable Cucina
Sure, FarmTable Cucina presents an eight-course culinary experience with its acclaimed chef and expert sommelier on select days, but the Italian-inspired restaurant also caters to families with savory sharing plates and a classic children’s menu including generous portions of favorites like cheese pizza and macaroni and cheese. Our favorite part? Kids get a free plate of Classic Spaghetti every Sunday evening at this casual gourmet dining spot located on the second floor of LOCALE Market at The Mall at Sundial. farmtablecucina.com
Hawkers
Say hello to the best happy hour in town! With $3-5 small plates and adult beverages ranging from wine to local craft beer, you can feed a family of 4 or more for less than the cost of a large pizza. No, seriously. The happy hour runs Monday through Friday, 3 to 6pm, which is the perfect family dinner time to avoid crowds and older patrons. Additionally, the incredibly friendly staff paired with the super cool atmosphere makes this the perfect offbeat family night out on Central Avenue. eathawkers.com
Pacific Counter
Roll it or bowl it at Pacific Counter, the fresh new kid on the 600 block of Central Avenue. We’ve been smitten with this poke bowl and sushi burrito hotspot since it opened in September, but only recently began to take advantage of its major kid appeal. Here, your little foodies can choose a kids’ burrito or bowl with noodles or rice topped with their pick of protein, sauce and fixings, including fresh fruit and veggies. Even desserts like Dole Whips and young coconuts are fast and guiltfree — or icy cold and full of alcohol if you’re over 21! (Frostee Kirin or Sake Slush, anyone?) pacificcounter.com
