Eating out with kids can be about as much fun as pulling teeth. Getting little ones to sit still long enough is challenging enough, let alone leaving time for parents to enjoy their meal.
Thankfully these Newcastle eateries are putting the fun back into eating out with kids.
36 Scott Street, Newcastle East
This iconic East End eatery with its cosy restaurant space and alfresco eating under marquee lights has long been a local favourite.
The biggest drawcard for families is undoubtedly the busy hole in the wall take away and adjoining grassy patch - perfect for throwing out a picnic rug and eating in the fresh salty air. Families can order fish and (hand cut) chips, fish burritos and burgers.
Mum and dad can enjoy a glass of wine or beer while the kids explore the local surrounds.
11 Steel St, Newcastle West
If there’s one cuisine adults and kids seem to agree on, it’s Mexican. And this family friendly eatery doesn’t just serve up authentic Mexican street food – everything on the menu is made from scratch – it offers a fun caravan cubby house for kids too.
Expect all the Mexican classics: burritos, mulitas, nachos and tacos but with a contemporary twist served in an airy warehouse in Newcastle West’s burgeoning west end.
188 Union St, The Junction
Open 6am-5pm
If the kids are old enough to sit still for more than 10 minutes, they’ll love the retro inspired Hood. Grab a cosy booth and order dishes like corn fritters or fried chicken burgers from the all-day menu.
It’s the desserts however which are the standout here. Order a milkshake, waffles or a decadent sundae. You can also grab a house made gelato for kids on the move.
*Speaking of gelato, check out where to get your hands on Newcastle’s best icy treats
8 Beaumont St, Hamilton
A pub with a play room? Need we say more.
This Beaumont Street watering hole near Hamilton Train Station has had a revamp and now offers a cool beer garden, undercover kid’s play area and family friendly menu.
All kids’ meals are $10 and include a free ice cream. Better yet, visit between Tuesday - Thursday and kids eat free.
Grab a pint and let the kids loose!
42 Shortland Esp, Newcastle East
Beach vistas and miles of sandy playground make The Kiosk an ideal family lunch or (early) dinner spot.
While there’s little in the way of official seating here, order the takeaway family fish and chip pack and nab a picnic table overlooking the waves. The delicious Pure Pops make a great dessert.
Or if you’re up early, grab a coffee (babycino for the rug rats) and watch the kids play from the tiered steps overlooking the sand.
98a Dawson St, Cooks Hill
Neighbouring the brilliant Centennial Park playground, with a large viewing window from the restaurant, Lowlands is a firm family favourite.
Food is by Little Castro, known for serving up delicious Caribbean dishes (try the lamb rice bowl) as well as great burgers.
If you have young kids that can’t sit still why not order takeaway, grab a picnic table beside the playground and they’ll buzz you when your order is ready.
It’s a win-win for families.
40/54 Clyde St, Hamilton North
Nestled amongst a residential area and alongside some of the City's best second hand furniture stores, Elmas is a kid, dog & human hot spot, serving up local bevies, specialty coffee, worldly dishes & killer vibes.
1 Morgan Street, Merewether
The kids will not want to leave when you take them for out for a meal to The Prince of Merewether. Complete with a book wall, cubby house, TV and wooden cafe, the kids room at the Prince gives the them a place to stay entertained whilst the adults can relax.
20 Merewether Street, Merewether
Whilst the parents are tucking into the Mexican-inspired elevated pub fair and enjoying one of the 36 frosty taps pouring brewery-fresh beers. The kids are close by hanging out in the huge secure kids play area, surrounded by sheltered outdoor and indoor space.
99 Frederick St, Merewether
Every Thursday from 5pm, the kids eat free from the kids menu, when any main meal is purchased. So bring the family for dinner and hopefully you can catch the live show by the local pod of dolphins frolicking off Merewether Beach below.
132 Young Street, Carrington
Featuring an outdoors kids haven - slides, cubby house and play shop. Plus its fully fenced to keep the adults relaxed.
Oh and did we mention they host kids birthday parties! All you need to do is book and show up - they do the rest (including take home lolly bags for the kids).
