Top 6 Restaurants in Houston Where You Can Take the Little Ones

When was the last time you dined out with your family? While at-home meals are inexpensive and easy-to-make, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to treat yourself every once in a while. Luckily for you, Houston offers a wide selection of family-friendly restaurants. On non-date nights when you’re dining out with the whole family, it can sometimes be difficult to find a restaurant that everyone likes. That’s why we’re offering a full guide to the top 6 family friendly restaurants in Houston. 

Looking for a fun present to surprise your loved one with? Purchase a virtual GiftYa card for them! Within seconds, you can send a virtual GiftYa card to your loved one for their favorite restaurant in the city. You can purchase GiftYa cards for a number of different restaurants in Houston, including the ones we featured below. Check them out now!

1. Little Matt's

Popular family-friendly restaurant located in West University

6203 Edloe St. | West University | littlemattscafe.com

Located in West University Place, Little Matt’s Cafe is a special restaurant with a poignant backstory. For years, the restaurant has donated part of its proceeds to Texas Children’s Hospital. Restaurant owner Jim Reid wanted to honor the memory of his late son by giving back to the community that supported his family through the hardest time of their lives. 

Inside, you’ll find a relaxed, rustic interior. Classic American dishes like the Bacon Cheeseburger and Southampton Salad can be found on the restaurant’s extensive menu. A full kids section is also offered. It features popular dishes such as hamburgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, hot dogs, and more. 

“If I could give 10 stars I would. The friendliest staff I have ever encountered and the food was delicious, too. Very family-friendly. There was ice cream and candy for kids to buy, a small arcade and even tablets to use (but sadly, they were not available due to COVID). We look forward to going back again soon.” - Yelp Review 

Purchase a GiftYa card for Little Matt's.

2. Mia's Table

Casual counter-serve restaurant offering an appetizing selection of Southern dishes

3131 Argonne St. | Upper Kirby | miastable.com

Mia’s Table is a popular restaurant among families for its eclectic menu and friendly service. Families can either eat inside the restaurant’s cozy indoor dining space or outside on the patio. Umbrellas are available for shade on sunny, warm days. 

Mia’s serves a wide selection of soups, salads, tacos, burgers, sandwiches, and meat platters. If your family members don’t share a lot of the same tastes, everyone will love Mia’s Table for its diverse menu offerings. Sodas, wines, and cocktails are available to enjoy alongside your dish.

“I ordered the fried chicken. And y'all omg it was so freaking good I was so happy I found this place after my boyfriend became frustrated at my hunger and begged I find a fix and Mia’s fixed my attitude for sure. They have outside sitting so it made eating out feel a bit normal with covid around. It's kid friendly and friend gathering friendly. I would even suggest it as a date night place before the movies or something I will be back for sure.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Mia's Table.

3. Barnaby's Cafe

Kid-friendly breakfast and brunch spot in Montrose

1701 S Shepherd Dr. Suite A | Montrose | barnabyscafe.com 

Barnaby’s Cafe is the ultimate destination for families. This adorable dog-themed cafe offers an inventive menu filled with classic Southern and Tex-Mex dishes. If any of your family members are vegetarians, they can order a special vegetarian-friendly dish like the chipotle black bean burger or falafel salad. Families can stop by at almost any time, as the cafe is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

Have a four-legged friend you don’t want to leave at home? Then bring them along! Just make sure you follow all of the patio rules for canine guests before leaving. 

“I ordered the chipotle black bean burger with sweet potato fries. I have discovered my second favorite black bean burger- absolutely delicious! The food was fresh and it tasted delicious. Prepare to receive a huge serving of fries, I ended up with a small to-go box full. The service was great, my water glass remained full and the green tea I ordered did the trick.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Barnaby's Cafe.

4. Cedar Creek Cafe

Rustic and laid back restaurant boasting some unique decor and art

1034 W 20th St. | The Heights | cedarcreekcafe.com 

The Cedar Creek Cafe offers a little respite from the busy city life of Houston. As you sit inside the restaurant’s cozy, wooden dining room, you can really take your mind off any stressors you’re dealing with and focus on enjoying a nice meal with your family. 

You can find classic American and Tex-Mex dishes on the cafe’s brunch, lunch, and dinner menus. Our favorite meals include the Ranchero Cobb Salad and Spinach Mushroom Quesadilla. House cocktails like the frozen mimosa and frio mojito are also available for your enjoyment. 

“We love this place! Great place to grab a drink and some really good food...The best part about this place is the outdoor patio it is so large spread out clean and the service isn't bad either... It's also an easy place to take kids or they can run around and you can enjoy the weather... If it's a good day in Houston. They have a slushy beer that my husband likes to go... And I really enjoy their tea. Can't wait to go back!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Cedar Creek Cafe.

5. Hobbit Cafe

Charming and unique cafe located under a giant oak tree

2243 Richmond Ave. | Upper Kirby | hobbitcafehtx.com

In 1972, a quaint and charming cafe that was designed to honor J. R. R. Tolkien’s famous hobbits opened in Upper Kirby. Since its opening, the Hobbit Cafe has welcomed an interesting assortment of guests including Mama Cass, Neil Young, and Lynyrd Skynyrd. If you want to try a restaurant that is a little different than your typical chain spot, you’ll want to check out this unique cafe.

Some of their sandwiches are inspired by Tolkien’s hobbit lore, such as the Withy Windle Sandwich and the Bilbo Magnificent. The former is filled with chicken salad while the latter comes with guacamole and alfalfa sprouts. A full wine and beer menu is also offered. 

“The Hobbit Cafe does not disappoint! We went here for a last minute girls brunch, and sat outside on the patio on a nice Sunday. They are doing a great job with social distancing and all staff were wearing masks. We only waited for about 15 minutes for a table for 2. I love the avocado omelette served here, it's just superb, I am also a fan of their bloody Mary's which hit the spot.” - Yelp Review 

Purchase a GiftYa card for Hobbit Cafe.

6. Jenni’s Noodle House

Laid back Vietnamese restaurant offering a wide selection of savory and authentic dishes

3111 S Shepherd Dr. | Montrose | noodlesrule.com

If your family is a big fan of Vietnamese food, you need to visit Jenni’s Noodle House. This popular Vietnamese restaurant is perfect for casual, laid back meals with the family. To start your meal off on the right foot, we recommend ordering a glass of flavored boba tea. Popping bubbles are optional, but encouraged. 

If people are feeling a bit peckish, you can share some Disco Dumplings or Teaser Vietnamese Egg Rolls. For the main meal, you have savory dishes like the Buddha Soba Shrimp and Shrimply Curry at your disposal. Some of the dishes can be spicy, so keep that in mind when you order your meal. The restaurant actually charges a “wuss fee” for customers who need a dish re-cooked because of its spice level. 

“I've had about 5 dishes here and they're consistently good. The fried rice, curry, udon noodle bowl, shrimp noodle bowl are all good. The fresh spring rolls are good too. Staff is always friendly and courteous. I will continue to come back. Try it!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Jenni’s Noodle House.

Dining out with the family can be a fun and exciting endeavor. What restaurant do you plan on taking your family to next? Let us know in the comments!