Best of 20 family restaurants in Houston
"Family Restaurants in Houston" are establishments that cater to the dining needs of families, offering a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menus to suit all ages. These restaurants prioritize comfort and affordability, ensuring a great dining experience for parents and kids alike. They reflect the city's rich cultural diversity, showcasing an array of cuisines, from classic American to Tex-Mex and beyond. Perfect for both casual and special occasions, "family restaurants in Houston" create lasting memories through quality food and exceptional service.
- 1. Little Matt's
- 2. Mia's Table
- 3. Maggiano's Little Italy
- 4. Aquarium Restaurant
- 5. The Breakfast Klub
- 6. Grace's
- 7. Crisp
- 8. Hobbit Cafe
- 9. Barnaby's Cafe
- 10. Barnaby's Cafe
- 11. The Backyard Grill
- 12. Barnaby's Cafe
- 13. Hungry's
- 14. BB's Tex-Orleans
- 15. Good Dog Houston
- 16. Hungry's
- 17. Nonno's
- 18. Lake House
- 19. La Dolce Vita Cafe
- 20. Cooking With Love
1. Little Matt's
Hosts events and fundraisers, supports local schools

Little Matt's is a great destination for families with children. The staff is known for their friendliness and approachability, making it an welcoming environment for both kids and adults. The arcade games are a big hit with the children, providing endless entertainment throughout the visit.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Lunch
- Dinner
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2. Mia's Table
Homemade pasta, authentic Italian dishes, extensive wine list

Mia's Table offers delicious and well-priced meals for quality food, making it a frequent dining destination. The Texas location, in particular, has a welcoming atmosphere and a variety of tasty dishes such as chicken fried steak, chicken, chicken tenders, fish and shrimp tacos, burgers, and fries. The Bison Burger is juicy, cooked perfectly, and the pork chops are flavorful, although they have more seasoning than usual. The fish tacos are tender and plentiful, making for a satisfying meal.
Before visiting the Houston Zoo Lights, we stopped at Mia's Table for dinner and had an enjoyable dining experience. The Bison Burger and pork chops were cooked just right, and the fish tacos were abundant and tender. Despite the generous seasoning on the dishes, we plan to ask for less next time, which we believe the restaurant will accommodate. The ice cream, offered for free in a cup or cone, was a delightful treat for both kids and adults. Overall, Mia's Table provides a good meal at a reasonable price, making it a great spot for families and individuals alike.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Hidden Gems
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3. Maggiano's Little Italy
Made-from-scratch Italian-American cuisine, Warm & inviting ambiance, Large portions

Maggiano's is a great restaurant for family dinners, offering generous portions and accommodating staff. It's a popular choice for family celebrations, as the food is consistently delicious and the family-style options cater to everyone's preferences.
The family-friendly atmosphere and accommodating staff make Maggiano's an ideal spot for families with kids. Whether it's a casual dinner or a special occasion, the consistently good food and family-style options ensure a satisfying dining experience for all.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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4. Aquarium Restaurant
Dine among sharks, stingrays, and tropical fish in a 50,000-gallon aquarium

The Aquarium Restaurant provides a distinctive dining experience, combining a breathtaking view of an aquarium with a menu of delicious dishes, making it an ideal location for special events or an alternative way to enjoy the aquarium. The restaurant is known for its exquisite fish tacos and a slightly elevated price point. The staff are commendable for their friendliness, attentiveness, and knowledge, creating a warm and welcoming ambiance for all diners.
Tonight's dinner was a delight! The restaurant offers an impressive atmosphere, perfect for a family gathering. The menu features an array of delicious seafood options, with our table ordering coconut shrimp, fried shrimp, shrimp kabob, fish, and grilled shrimp. Each dish was skillfully prepared and presented, satisfying our appetite for both taste and quality.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Waterfront
- Vegetarian Options
5. The Breakfast Klub
Known for their southern breakfast and brunch options

The Breakfast Klub is a popular restaurant destination for various groups, ranging from families on Sunday brunch outings to couples enjoying breakfast dates and solo diners having unique meal combinations. As a family-friendly establishment, it offers a welcoming atmosphere for parents with children. Our personal experience with our kids was enjoyable, as the staff was friendly and attentive to our needs.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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6. Grace's
Live music on weekends, happy hour specials, dog-friendly patio

Grace's is an ideal restaurant for family meals, offering exceptional service and top-quality food. The staff is highly accommodating, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for all. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a great place for family gatherings. The food served is delicious, certainly worth returning for.
I highly recommend Grace's for anyone looking for a family restaurant. Not only is the food delicious, but the service is also excellent, adding to the overall positive dining experience. Whether it's for a family dinner or a special occasion, Grace's is a great choice.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
7. Crisp
Offers a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options

The local neighborhood atmosphere and live music at this establishment created an enjoyable experience. While they offer a full bar service, the wine selection was somewhat limited. The outside patio appeared inviting, but it was completely full. Our waitress, Devin, provided excellent service throughout our visit. Unfortunately, the pizza was just average and the crab cakes lacked substantial crab meat, with toppings that did not meet expectations.
My wife and I tried this place for brunch and were pleasantly surprised. Devin, our waiter, recommended the Loaded Shorty Hash, which turned out to be a fantastic choice. The dish offered a delightful combination of flavors that satisfied our taste buds. It's worth noting that the parking lot is spacious and free of charge, adding to the convenience of the location.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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8. Hobbit Cafe
Unique Lord of the Rings theme, extensive vegetarian options, and homemade bread

The Hobbit Cafe is a beloved restaurant for my family and has been a part of our history for over 40 years. The original Hobbit Hole was a popular spot for my parents and their friends before I was born, and we still visit the new location on Richmond to this day. The atmosphere of the cafe is both indoors and outdoors is delightful and fitting for hobbits, with a cozy and unique ambiance that fans of Lord of the Rings will appreciate.
The Hobbit Cafe offers a variety of menu options, including vegan sandwiches like the Gamdalf and the Shire, as well as shrimp enchiladas and salads. The portions are generous, and the mead flights are a popular choice for those who want to try a variety of options. Additionally, the cafe is kid-friendly, providing a menu for children and a fun atmosphere that they will enjoy. The beer and wine list is extensive, adding to the hobbit-like experience. Overall, the Hobbit Cafe is a must-visit for fans of Lord of the Rings and those who appreciate a cozy and delicious dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
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9. Barnaby's Cafe
Colorful decor, friendly staff, great brunch spot

Barnaby's Cafe is a popular dining establishment in Houston, known for its consistently good food and generous portions. The restaurant has a friendly and attentive staff, although there have been occasional issues with accommodating customization requests for to-go orders. Barnaby's Cafe is an excellent option for families, as it boasts a welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for bringing children.
The menu at Barnaby's Cafe features a variety of delicious offerings, and customers rave about the sweet potato fries in particular. Whether you're dining in or taking food to go, you can count on receiving high-quality dishes and ample portion sizes. If you're looking for a family-friendly restaurant in Houston that serves up delicious food, Barnaby's Cafe is an excellent choice.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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10. Barnaby's Cafe
Cozy atmosphere with local art displays

Barnaby's restaurants are a popular choice in town, known for their large portions, high-quality ingredients, and delicious food. The French dip sandwich is a standout menu item, highly recommended by frequent customers. In addition to their satisfying sandwiches, Barnaby's also offers a range of dinner entrees and huge salads, making it a great option for those looking for a filling meal without the need for cooking at home.
For over two decades, Barnaby's has been a go-to choice for many, known for its consistent good quality food, friendly wait staff, and happy atmosphere. Vegetarian options are available, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. One of the best features of Barnaby's is their environmentally conscious take-home boxes, which are perfect for dog owners who want to bring leftovers home for their furry friends. The newer Barnaby's locations continue to uphold the excellent reputation established by the original restaurant.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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11. The Backyard Grill
Live music on weekends, outdoor seating with a playground

The family dinner experience at this location was wonderful. The staff provided excellent and attentive service, making sure that everyone's needs were met. The kids were particularly delighted with the play area, which was a great addition to the family-friendly atmosphere.
This establishment is an ideal choice for family dinners. The menu offers a variety of options to cater to everyone's preferences, and the service is consistently friendly and accommodating. Overall, it's a great place for families to enjoy a meal together in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
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12. Barnaby's Cafe
Serves brunch on weekends and features a full bar.

Barnaby's Cafe is an excellent choice for a family dinner. The menu offers a wide variety of options, ensuring that everyone can find something they enjoy. The service is top-notch, making for a pleasant dining experience. It is highly recommended for family outings, providing a perfect spot for a meal together.
The food at Barnaby's Cafe is delicious, and the environment is particularly kid-friendly. Kids are sure to feel welcome and comfortable here. With such tasty food and a positive atmosphere, this restaurant is a great place for families to enjoy a meal together. The intention is to return, reinforcing the positive experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Social Gatherings
- Dinner
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13. Hungry's
Offers catering and delivery services, happy hour deals

Hungry's is a wonderful family restaurant that offers a welcoming and inviting ambiance to its patrons. The food served at the restaurant is consistently fresh and delicious, providing a range of options to cater to different dietary preferences, including vegetarians and meat lovers.
The restaurant is a great spot for families, with a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. It's the perfect place to enjoy a family meal, with offerings that are sure to please everyone's palate. The high-quality food and inviting ambiance make Hungry's a standout choice for families looking for a great dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
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14. BB's Tex-Orleans
Live music on weekends, happy hour specials, extensive cocktail menu

Our family recently dined at a remarkable restaurant, where we enjoyed a wide variety of delicious dishes. The food stood out for its exceptional taste and quality, with each dish being more satisfying than the last. The menu offered a range of options, allowing each family member to select a dish that appealed to them personally.
The restaurant's staff contributed significantly to our positive experience. They were not only friendly but also attentive and helpful, ensuring that we enjoyed our meal to the fullest. The restaurant featured a full bar, making it an ideal spot for families or groups seeking a place to relax and enjoy a meal together. Overall, the exceptional food and outstanding service made for a truly memorable dining experience.
In summary, our family had an amazing time at this restaurant, thanks to the delicious food and fantastic staff. We would highly recommend it to anyone seeking a great place to eat.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
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15. Good Dog Houston
Known for creative and high-quality hot dogs

Summary:
Good Dog is a great restaurant for families with young kids. The menu features child-friendly options like hot dogs and grilled cheese served in buns that are easy for little hands to hold. After dinner, kids can enjoy a rocky road milkshake while playing board games on the patio.
Personal Experience:
I had been wanting to try Good Dog for some time, and I was thrilled that we finally got to eat there over the weekend. My boys especially loved the restaurant because they had a selection of board games to choose from to play while we were there. The food was a hit with both of them as well. They loved the hot dogs and grilled cheese served in buns, which fit perfectly in their small hands. To finish off the night, they indulged in a delicious rocky road milkshake.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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16. Hungry's
Free parking, Wheelchair accessible, Outdoor seating

For families, Hungry's is an ideal dining spot. The kids especially enjoy the mini chicken quesadillas. The restaurant offers outdoor seating, which has been a popular feature among families.
Hungry's has been a preferred family restaurant for many, including myself, for weekend brunches. The shrimp and guacamole dip is highly recommended. It is a place that has been visited regularly over the years, and it continues to be a go-to option for families seeking a enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Italian Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
17. Nonno's
Family-owned since 1975, using authentic Italian recipes

Nonno's is a delightful family restaurant that offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for families looking for a casual dining experience. The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, making it easy for guests to feel at home. The service at Nonno's is top-notch, with staff going above and beyond to ensure guests have a great time.
The food at Nonno's is authentic and delicious, with the pizza being a particular favorite among children. Whether you're in the mood for a classic margherita or something more adventurous, Nonno's has got you covered. The restaurant comes highly recommended for families seeking a delicious and relaxing meal together.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
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18. Lake House
Features a rooftop bar, locally-sourced ingredients, and live music on weekends.

The food served at the establishment received a range of reviews, with some customers finding it average and others considering it good value for money, typically less than $10. However, there were also negative comments about the quality and taste of the food.
During a recent conference, I had the opportunity to eat lunch at the establishment multiple times. I did not encounter any problems with my orders and found the food to be flavorful and reasonably priced, in comparison to other options in the area.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Lunch
19. La Dolce Vita Cafe
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Holiday Celebrations
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20. Cooking With Love

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Social Gatherings
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