Going out to eat with kids doesn't mean you're stuck going to McDonald's or Chuck E. Cheese's. There are plenty of restaurants in San Antonio that have great food and distractions for the kids. The Cove (606 W. Cypress St., 210-227-2683) has a unique menu featuring bison, lamb and grass-fed beef dishes with plenty of beer for parents to enjoy as they watch the kids have fun on the playground. Parents in need of a barbecue fix can go to Two Bros BBQ Market (12656 West Ave., 210-496-0222). Enjoy the lauded brisket as the kids play in a giant sandbox and a Rainbow Play System, but get there early because the brisket goes quick and once they're out, they're out.
For those rambunctious kids who need a lot of space to run around, MoMak's Backyard Malts & Burgers (13838 Jones Maltsberger Road, 210-481-3600) has a 10,000-square-foot field to play on. Order a bucket of burgers for the kids to keep them occupied. Dave and Buster's is always a fun option for families with food and games along with booze for the adults. Visit the original location at 440 Crossroads Blvd. or the brand new location at 849 E. Commerce in Rivercenter Mall.
If families want some interaction with the restaurant staff then Magic Time Machine's (902 NE Loop 410, 210-828-1470) wait staff is happy to oblige. Dressed in silly outfits, including some Disney characters the kids will recognize, the staff will create a fun atmosphere that the kids will not have anywhere else.
Fans of great barbecue and chill patios who want to stay on the Broadway corridor will want to take the kiddos to The Pigpen (106 Pershing Ave., 210-267-9136). Here, you'll find owner Chris Conger of the Smoke Shack adding brisket to micheladas and bloody marys to fun and salty results.
Or take the wee ones to The Friendly Spot (943 S. Alamo St., 210-224-2337) where you can nosh on casual bar snacks while downing a cold craft brew, and they can frolic on Southtown's most kid-friendly patio.
