Family Dining Guide - October 2009
Updated by S.C. Torrington
Looking for a family-friendly place that everyone can enjoy? These restaurants
are ready to serve you and are happy to welcome your children. |
Just keep in mind that prices and hours may change—call ahead for
details. (Updated Oct. 2009.)
BALTIMORE CITY
Boog’s BBQ
Oriole Park at Camden Yards, 333 West
Camden St., 410-332-4633, www.aramark.com
(click on Ballparks).
The next time you take the family to an Orioles’ home game, be sure to meet
Boog Powell, legendary Orioles’ first baseman and All-Star, at his BBQ stand. And,
while you’re here, savor some delicious pit beef or pork or turkey BBQ. For
about $10, you get a sandwich, baked beans, and coleslaw.
Café Hon
1002 W. 36th St. in Hampden, 410-243-1230,
www.cafehon.com.
Order up homespun diner, eclectic, and vegetarian selections in a retro
setting. Weekend brunch is 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Children’s menus are available for
breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Children’s books and activities are also available.
And shop the Hon Store before you leave. Open daily.
Dukem Restaurant
1100 Maryland Ave., 410-385-0318, www.dukemrestaurant.com.
Kids love any meal that doesn’t require utensils. Instead of forks, Ethiopian
cuisine uses pieces of injera (sourdough flatbread) to scoop up the entrees and
side dishes served on centerpiece platters. The traditional menu incorporates
beef, chicken, and lamb with an abundant use of vegetables. For families with
young children, combination samplers (meat or vegetarian) are a good
introduction to this adventurous cuisine. Then, everybody can have a slice of
baklava for a sweet dessert.
Egyptian Pizza Cafe of Belvedere Square
542 E. Belvedere Ave., Baltimore,
410-323-7060, www.egyptianpizza.com
Offers a selection of 30-plus gourmet pizzas baked in wood-fired, brick-ovens,
as well as other Egyptian specialties. All pizzas are made to order, with or
without cheese and Soya cheese. For The Kids dining-in menu (under $5) includes
a cheese pizza or mini burger with a drink. Coupons online for carryout,
delivery, or restaurant dining.
Gertrude's
10 Art Museum Dr., 410-889-9688, www.gertrudesbaltimore.com.
Located in the Baltimore Museum of Art, Gertrude’s features a regional menu of
traditional Chesapeake fare, including crab imperial, single-fry oysters,
rockfish, pan-fried chicken, corn fritters, and crab soup as well as summer
produce from the Eastern Shore. Kids’ meals include quesadillas, chicken
fingers, hot dogs, and cheeseburgers. Paper and crayons are available for
creativity, and, if you’re seated outside, children are free to get up to look
at sculptures and fountain.
Jimmy’s Restaurant
801 S. Broadway, Baltimore, 410-327-3273.
If you visit Fells Point, you’ve got to go to Jimmy’s. Nothing fancy, but
everything is dependably good. And the coffee’s always hot. A full but easy
menu most children can read: eggs, ham, soup, burger, fries, ice cream, and
pie. Come in for breakfast with a few kids and a $20 bill and you can leave
with change…but you’ll want to leave a tip.
La Tasca
201 E. Pratt St., Inner Harbor,
410-209-2562, www.latascausa.com.
Sample a combination of more than 45 tapas dishes, delicious menu specials,
paellas, and a wide range of Spanish wines and beers. Get to this Spanish
cuisine restaurant before 6 p.m., order an adult entrée, and your child eats
for free from the kids’ menu. Try a tortilla or stick with grilled cheese.
Matthew’s Pizza
3131 Eastern Ave., Highlandtown,
410-276-8755, www.matthewspizza.com.
Baltimore’s first pizzeria, established in 1943, voted Baltimore’s Best. Pizza,
pasta, salads, subs, and desserts in casual setting. Their crab pie is made
with 100-percent lump backfin crabmeat and cheeses, topped with caramelized
onions and seasoned with Old Bay, hon.
North Pole Ice Cream Company
3713 Eastern Ave., Baltimore,
410-534-2700, www.northpoleicecream.com.
A great family atmosphere with retro spinning stools in front of a long chrome
bar makes the North Pole a cool place to enjoy ice cream flavors from Almond
Joy to Very Cherry Chunk. Or try a 21st century craze—Frozen
Hot Chocolate. Host a birthday party or corporate meeting over a sundae bar. A
Highlandtown favorite!
Papermoon Diner
227 W. 29th St. near Johns Hopkins University,
410-889-4444, www.papermoondiner24.com.
Enjoy an eclectic menu served amid funky décor. There are plenty of vegetarian
specialties, and breakfast is served at all times. Kids’ menu includes a popular
personal pita pizza. Open daily, 7 a.m.-midnight; and Thursdays through Saturdays,
open 24 hours.
Spoons Coffee Café and Roastery
24 E. Cross St., Federal Hill,
410-539-6751.
The coffee is roasted on site, and the shop features an extensive breakfast menu,
brunch, and light fare for lunch. Open daily, 7 a.m.-5 p.m.
Soup’s On
11 W. Preston St., Mount Vernon,
410-528-1003, www.soupsonbalto.com.
A family-owned business that offers more than 200 all-natural soup varieties
using no additives, preservatives, or anything artificial. Vegan soups
(with no dairy or meat products) include Red Lentil with Apricot and Cardamom
Sweet Green Pea. Vegetarians might want to try the Spinach, Italian Parsley, or
Lemon soups or a hearty Hungarian Mushroom. For the $8 Combo, choose either a
slice of frittata, a half-salad, or a half-sandwich with a bowl of soup.
The Yabba Pot
2431 St. Paul St., 410-662-tofu (8638), www.theyabbapotcafe.com.
According to the website, a Yabba Pot is a
clay pot used by Rastafarians to cook “Ital” cuisine over a three-stone fire,
with the word origin of “Yabba” linked to West Afrika
for “Grandmother.”
This international vegan cuisine restaurant is full of good vibes and whole
foods. For a reasonable set price, families can feast on a never-ending buffet and
from bottomless soup bowls. Concoct your own drink from fresh roots and fruits
at the Juice Bar. What kid can resist drinking Nzingha's Green Blood, made of
kale, cucumber, and celery with some optional sweet apple?
ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY
b.b. Bistro
112A Annapolis St., Annapolis,
410-990-4646, www.bbbistroannapolis.com.
This family-friendly coffee shop and bistro features local ingredients on its
menu. Quiche of the Day and other egg dishes come from locally raised,
free-range chickens. Kids Eats include Chicken Dippers—free-range,
hormone-free chicken baked with olive oil, salt, and pepper served with ketchup
or other dipping sauce and fresh fruit.
Every Friday at 10 a.m. is storytime at the Bistro. Parents can mingle and
relax with a cup of coffee and a healthy snack while their children enjoy a
story and face painting.
Double T Diner
1 Mountain Rd., Pasadena, 410-766-9669; and
12 Defense St., Annapolis, 410-571-9070.
Open daily, 24 hours a day. (For more information, see listing under Baltimore
County.)
El Salto
5513 Ritchie Hwy., Glen Burnie, 410-789-1621.
Open daily. (For more information, see listing under Baltimore County.)
Famous Dave’s
Seven locations in Central Maryland,
including Annapolis 410-224-2207, Columbia 410-290-0091, and Owings Mills
410-998-9577, www.famousdaves.com.
For kids 10 and younger, Lil’ Wilbur Meals features kid-sized portions of all
the BBQ favorites—hickory-smoked ribs, country-roasted chicken, and
Georgia-chopped pork plus a choice of any one side or carrots and celery with
Oreo cookies. The All-American BBQ Feast includes sides and cornbread muffins
served family-style for four to six people—and sells for less than $60.
House of Hunan
2311-E Forest Dr., Giant Riva Festival
Shopping Center, Annapolis, 410-266-1680, www.houseofhunan.ucraa.com.
The chef takes requests for special dishes, including lobster, duck, or goose. Vegetarians
in the family can choose among the menu selections that are cholesterol-free,
but still high in protein. For instance, the vegetarian “beef” is made from
Chinese mushroom stems. And even General Tso would enjoy the soybean “chicken.”
Open until 10 p.m.
Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament
7000 Arundel Mills Circle, Hanover,
866-543-9637, www.medievaltimes.com/findcastles/baltimore.
Welcome to the 11th century. Noble guests feast on garlic bread, tomato bisque
soup, roasted chicken, spare ribs, herb-basted potatoes, pastries of the
Castle, coffee, and two rounds of select beverages. Vegetarian meals are
available upon request and there’s a full-service bar for adults. Check the
website for lighter fare matinees, specials, and upgrades. Also, join the
King’s Court email list for promotions, discounts, and special event
announcements.
Roy’s Kwik Korner
1002 Crain Hwy. SW at Quarterfield Rd.,
Glen Burnie, 410-768-3369, www.royskwikkorner.com.
Winner of the Maryland Seafood Festival’s Best Maryland Crab and Cream of Crab
soups, at Roy’s you can eat in, take out, or even take home a quart or two. The
homemade soup options also include traditional favorites such as Bean and Bacon.
During the “R” months (October 1 through April 1) try the Oyster Stew. Each of
the seven Children’s Platters (entrée and a side) cost $4. Add a cup of good
ol’ Chicken Noodle soup for $2.
Storm Bros. Ice Cream Factory
130 Dock St., Annapolis, 410-263-3376, www.stormbros.com.
One of the 46 flavors in a cone, shake, float, sundae, malt, or soda is bound
to appeal to your taste buds. And, to take home, the ice cream is hand-packed
in pints, quarts, or half-gallons. This neighborhood-favorite store was
reopened in 13 days after being destroyed by flooding from Hurricane Isabel in
2003.
BALTIMORE COUNTY
Akbar Palace Restaurant
3541 Brenbrook Dr., Randallstown,
410-655-1600, www.akbarpalace.com.
When you think of Indian food, don’t just think curry. The entrees, including
tandoori chicken marinated in yogurt, malai khasa with coconut, and South
Indian dosas (or rice crepes), offer much broader flavors than most kids will
enjoy. Sample the fare at the lunch buffet or weekend brunch. Then, cool off
your palate with a bowl of kulfi, the traditional Indian ice cream with a
topping of almonds and pistachio and a touch of rose water.
Amer’s Café
7624 Belair Rd., Belair Beltway Plaza,
410-668-5100, www.amerscafe.com.
American, Mediterranean, and Egyptian cuisines are featured on the
menu. The gourmet pizzas are baked in wood-burning oven. Voted Baltimore's
Best Kids Friendly Restaurant 2002-2008, one selection on the kids’ menu invites
children to get up and make their own 10-in. pizza. Also, the kids can dress-up
and dance with the belly dancers on Friday and Saturday nights from 7 to 9 p.m.
Closed Mondays.
An Poitin Stil
2323 York Rd., Timonium, 410-560-7900, www.thestill.net.
Although this Irish pub may be too crowded for the kids on St. Patrick’s Day,
families will find its castle-like entrance and various styles of rooms,
including the Monk’s Cell and the Victorian Parlor, a warm and welcoming dining
experience with live music on Tuesday-Saturday evenings. Irish selections
include Shepherd’s Pie and Bangers and Mash (sausages and mashed potatoes). The
Sunday Brunch Buffet, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., is less than $10 for children under 12.
Andy Nelson’s Barbecue
11007 York Rd., Cockeysville,
410-527-1226, www.andynelsonsbbq.com.
The meat is smoked for hours and hours over hickory logs until it falls off the
bone and then simmered in Andy’s own heirloom sauce. Kids “Q” Meals include sandwich,
chips, a small drink, and a special prize for less than $5. Organizations or
schools can choose any Tuesday, 5-8 p.m., for a special fundraising night by
dining in, picking up, or driving through.
Join the Swine Social Club for coupons, chances to win free stuff, and mailings
tailored to your family’s special days.
Ashland Café
10810 York Rd., Cockeysville, 410-666-3838,
ashlandcaferestaurant.com/index.php.
Open Monday to Thursday, 5 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 a.m.-10 p.m.;
and Sunday, 6 a.m.-3 p.m. Here, the specialty is fried chicken along with a
menu of Greek specialties. The train motif features a scale model train that
runs around dining room on a track suspended from the ceiling.
Baskin-Robbins
1504 York Rd., Lutherville, 410-828-5511, www.baskinrobbins.com
With over 100 locations in Central Maryland, 31 monthly, classic, seasonal,
regional, and BRight Choices™ ice cream flavors now including soft-serve, this
popular franchise offers a dependable sweet fix. From July 13-July 17th,
participating shops are giving all Do Something teen members a free Soft Serve
cone (www.dosomething.org/serve/home) along with deals and gift checks all
summer. Baskin-Robbins also has a Birthday Club for ice cream lovers of all
ages.
The Candle Light Inn
1835 Frederick Rd., Catonsville, 410-788-6076, www.thecandlelightinn.com.
This American-fare country inn, with its long history in the Catonsville
community, offers Early Dinner Specials suited for families with early
bedtimes. Mondays through Saturdays, 4:30-6 p.m., and Sundays, 1-3 p.m., all
dinner specials, such as Maryland crab cake or poached salmon, range from $17
to $21 and include a choice of appetizer, entrée, coffee or tea, and dessert.
Or, clip the online coupon on the Candle Light’s website and get 10 percent off
your check.
The Corner Stable
9942 York Rd., Cockeysville, 410-666-8722,
www.cornerstable.com.
A local favorite since 1972, The Corner Stable uses only the finest baby back
ribs imported from Denmark. The House Specialty Barbeque Pork sandwich and Stable
fries is less than $8. Six kids’ meals, such as Fried Macaroni & Cheese
Wedges, come with Stable fries and choice of soda, juice, or milk for under $6.
Take home genuine Corner Stable ribs that you can heat up in just 10 minutes or
have some shipped to rib-lovin’ friends anywhere in the U.S.
David Chu's China Bistro
7105 Reisterstown Rd., Baltimore,
410-602-5008, 4106025008, www.ucraa.org.
Rated best the Kosher restaurant in the 2008 Baltimore Area Kosher Community
Survey (www.kosher-community-surveys.com), this location serves authentic
chicken, beef, veal, duck, and vegetarian dishes. Lunch Specials and Dinner
Combos include a vegetable egg roll and fried rice. Kids not in the mood for
chow mein can order chicken nuggets with fries. Treat yourself to cappuccino
apricot cake for dessert.
Double T Diner
6300 Baltimore National Pike, Catonsville, 410-744-4151; 4140 E. Joppa Rd.,
Perry Hall, 410-248-0160; and 10741 Pulaski Hwy., White Marsh, 410-344-1020.
The menu is so long, you’ll find yourself asking the waitress for “just another
minute” before placing your order. You’ll find a large variety of menu items,
featuring steak, seafood, and Greek specialties…and a huge fresh-baked dessert
case. There’s a kids’ menu, too. Prices are reasonable, but the real bargain
comes with the large portions and take-home containers. Breakfast is served all
day. The Catonsville location is open daily, 24 hours a day.
El Salto
8816 Waltham Woods Rd., North Plaza Mall,
Parkville, 410-668-3980.
Enjoy Mexican food in a casual setting. The children’s menu includes
enchiladas, tacos, and hamburgers.
Famous Dave’s
10500 Owings Mills Blvd., Owings Mills,
for orders to go 410-998-9577, catering 410-998-9577, and fax 410-998-9937, www.famousdaves.com.
Open daily for lunch and dinner. (For more information, see listing under Anne
Arundel County.)
Friendly Farm Restaurant
17434 Foreston Rd., Upperco, 410-239-7400,
www.friendlyfarm.net.
Enjoy home-style cooking in a farm setting along with sweeping views of the countryside.
Dining is family-style. Fresh-baked goods are sold in the lobby, gift shop, and
country store. Child entrees (3-10 years) are $6.95 and toddler entrees (1-2
years) are $2.50 and include a beverage and ice cream.
Great Fortune Buffet Restaurant
10026 York Rd., Cockeysville,
410-683-6200.
Help yourself at this Chinese food buffet. And the kids can help
themselves to self-serve soft ice cream for dessert.
IKEA Baltimore
Honeygo Blvd., White Marsh Mall, White
Marsh, 410-931-5400, www.ikea.com/us/en/store/baltimore/restaurant.
Bargain-hunters already know that IKEA isn’t just for furniture. The free
coffee before the store opens and the 99-cent breakfast of scrambled eggs, two bacon
strips, and potatoes can’t be beat. The new, healthier children's menu—including
organic pasta with organic marinara sauce—offers 13 options for 99 cents
each or three for $2.49. And, of course, there’s always the Swedish meatball
plate for $4.99.
Jennings Cafe
808 Frederick Rd., Catonsville,
410-744-3824, www.jenningscafe.com.
If you didn’t know it was there, you could walk right pass this small, casual
dining restaurant that was voted as a "Top Ten" All-American
Restaurant in Maryland by the Baltimore Sun paper (6/30/2009). The children’s menu only
offers four choices, but all go for less than $5. For bigger appetites, there’s
a Kosher hot dog—a quarter-lb. all-beef dog wrapped in bologna or a
grilled cheese sandwich for about the same price.
Kosher Bite/KB Szechuan
6309 Reisterstown Rd., Baltimore,
410-358-6349, www.kosher-bite.com.
Also listed among the Kosher restaurants in the 2008 Baltimore Area Kosher Community
Survey (www.kosher-community-surveys.com), customers praise the good deals that
this restaurant has to offer—and they highly recommend the shwarma and
burgers. The menu features American, Israeli, Szechuan, and Russian cuisine.
Sushi, too!
Opie’s
1603 Edmondson Ave., Catonsville, www.opiesicecream.com.
Soft serve ice cream in cup, cone or cookies, sundaes, banana splits, shakes,
snowballs and snowcreams. Their new Brownie Sundae ($4.50) is big enough to share.
Coaches—bring your team for a treat after a ballgame and receive
20-percent off your entire order. Ask for your Sizzlin’ Summer Savings Card and
after spending $20 at Opie's, you’ll receive $2 off your next purchase.
Pizza John's
113 Back River Neck Rd., Essex,
410-687-7733, www.pizzajohns.com
Just look for the large Pizza Man statue in front of the restaurant. Carry out
includes a bake-at-home tomato cheese pie with toppings available on the side.
Tours for church groups, schools, and organizations are conducted by
experienced members of their staff and are a great learning experience for
children.
Red Robin
4 Restaurant Park Dr., Owings Mills,
443-394-0999; 1238 Putty Hill Ave., Towson, 410-823-4224, www.redrobin.com.
A self-described gourmet burger maker, the menu features dozens of variations,
including chicken, turkey, salmon, and garden burgers. Additional entrees,
soups, and salads are also on menu. And don’t forget the onion rings. Kids will
enjoy the souvenir cups, crayons, balloons, and a video game room.
Silver Spring Mining Company
8634 Belair Rd., Perry Hall, 410-256-6809;
1110 York Rd., Hunt Valley, 410-527-0500, www.silverspringminingcompany.com.
This family restaurant serves seafood, burgers, steak, and chicken. Sour
beef and dumplings is the specialty. There are balloons and coloring contests
for kids as well as the Little Miners menu.
Thai Heaven
6413 Frederick Ave., Catonsville,
410-455-9239.
Thai dishes are a fragrant combination of fresh ingredients such as mint,
coriander, nutmeg, ginger, and tropical fruit. And, with a three-star spicy
rating on its menu, family members can pick their own comfort level at this
small but popular restaurant and carry out in the Paradise Shopping Center. On
the entire menu, only one Chef’s Special seafood dish costs more than $12.
Lunch specials range $6 to $8, including vegetarian fare for under $7.
Weber’s Cider Mill Farm
2526 Proctor Lane, Baltimore,
410-668-4488, www.webersfarm.com.
Their old-fashioned ice cream parlor promises all the hand-dipped traditional
ice cream flavors, as well as a few new ones, plus milkshakes, brownie sundaes,
and pie a la mode.
Take home some sweet and creamy fudge made in-store. By mid-month, fresh-picked
peaches will make for the perfect summer sundae.
Zia’s Cafe
13 Allegheny Ave., Towson, 410-296-0799, www.ziascafe.com.
With a mission to provide a healthy, delicious, quick choice for breakfast,
lunch, and dinner, Chef Daniela Troia uses organic, antibiotic-free, and
hormone-free meats, poultry, and dairy. The food served contains no white flour
or refined sugar and includes organic produce and locally produced ingredients
when available. For $3, kids can enjoy an OPBJ: Organic peanut butter and grape
jelly on white spelt (a grain with a nutty flavor and a high protein and
nutrition content).
CARROLL COUNTY
Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar
634 Baltimore Blvd., Westminster,
410-871-0755, www.applebees.com.
Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere with eclectic décor and a varied menu featuring
everything from salads to steaks to seafood. There’s a kids’ menu, and drinks are served in a special Applebee's kid's cup with lid.
For Family Tuesday, children under 12 eat for $3 (three children per paying
adult).
There are several Applebee’s locations throughout the Baltimore area, all of
which are listed on the website.
Baugher’s Family Restaurant
289 W. Main St., Westminster,
410-848-7413, www.baughers.com.
Celebrating more than 100 years in Carroll County, the Baugher family has built
its small orchard into a thriving farm, market, and restaurant. The weekday
Luncheon Special (11 a.m.-2 p.m.) of an entrée, two sides, and rolls and butter
is less than $6. The selection varies, but includes chicken a la king,
Salisbury steak, or ham and potato casserole. Make sure to visit the market on
your way out.
The Buttersburg Inn
9 North Main St., Union Bridge, 866-920-5608,
www.thebuttersburginn.com.
The fare here is best described as Pennsylvania Dutch with an Italian flair.
The home-cooked food is made fresh to order, non-processed, and prepared with
local, seasonal produce. This family-style inn participated in Carroll County’s
2008 Buy Local Challenge designed to highlight the benefits of local produce
from farms, bakeries, wineries, and restaurants. A current online coupon offers
10 percent off your total bill on Mondays and Tuesdays, dine-in only and
excluding holidays.
Forbidden City Chinese Restaurant
12 Carroll Plaza Shopping Center,
Westminster, 410-848-8989, www.forbiddencitychinese.com.
Depending on your appetite and pocketbook, you can order small or large
portions of most dishes and take home the leftovers. Lunch specials range from less
than $5 to the Scallop and Shrimp in Hot Sauce for less than $8. Kids may want
to split the Appetizer Platter for Two, which includes fried dumplings, shrimp
balls, spring rolls, spare ribs, and crabmeat wontons.
Frisco Family Pub
Carroll Plaza Shopping Center,
Westminster, 410-876-3550, www.friscofamilypub.com
The home of Westminster’s original pizzeria. Their pizzeria style pizza is made
with fresh dough, hand tossed, and baked in a traditional brick oven and
available in both Sicilian and thin crust style. Check out their Chesapeake Bay
pizza. Pizza Party Room for groups of 15 or more that include plain pizzas,
pepperoni pizzas, fries, and soda.
Hoffman’s Home Made Ice Cream & Deli
934 Washington Rd., Westminster,
410-857-0824, www.hoffmansicecream.com.
A family-owned landmark in Carroll County with high quality homemade ice cream
since 1947. Over 50 flavors, including seasonal specials like summer
dreamsicle, fall apple pie, and winter raisin rum. No sugar/no fat ice cream,
ice cream cakes, and by-the-tub available. Open seven days a week, from 9 a.m.
to 10 p.m., so you can have ice cream for any meal.
Maggie’s Restaurant
310 E. Green St., Westminster,
410-876-6868, 410-848-1441, www.maggieswestminster.com.
For some people, reading that Maggie’s is an Internet wireless hot spot may be
the best deal in town. But for the rest of us, it’s the fresh, varied menu and
the Daily Specials that makes this a Westminster favorite. Everything on the
children’s menu is $3.99 and is served with choice of beverage. And, for a “big
kid’s meal” for yourself, Tuesdays are half-price Burger Night, 6 to 11 p.m.
Parks Landing Seafood Restaurant
330-140 Village Rd., Fairground Village
Shopping Center (behind 140 Village Shopping Center), Westminster,
410-840-2240, www.parkslandingseafood.com.
A friendly, family-style restaurant atmosphere with a nautical charm, the menu
here features a full range of appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, dinners,
and kids’ menu. And it was named "Best Crabs, Crab Cakes, and Seafood
Restaurant in Carroll County" by popular vote.
Serra Brothers Italian Deli
2021 Liberty Rd., Monroe Center,
Eldersburg, 410-795-5600, www.serrabrothersitaliandeli.com.
You’ll find an array of Italian specialties among the appetizers, salads, sandwiches,
submarines, pizza, and homemade Italian dishes. Kids’ meals such as chicken
nuggets or pita pizza come with French fries and a soda for less than $4. There
are coupons good for carry out, delivery, or eat in—including one for a
large one-topping pizza and 10 wings for less than $15. For a family with a few
young children, that’s a dinner deal.
Taneytown Tavern
5525 Taneytown Pike (Rte. 140),
410-756-4949, www.taneytowntavern.com.
This tavern has a family-friendly dining area, and all entrees on the
children’s menu are $5 or less. Daily Specials, including Thursday’s Burger
Night with fries for $5, give kids with a bigger appetite a great deal, too.
Make plans to dine in on Monday through Wednesday when children eat for free
with an adult. Also, ask about the seasonal dessert specials.
CECIL COUNTY
Baker’s Restaurant
1075 St. Augustine Hwy. (Rt. 213), Elkton,
410-398-2435, www.bakersrestaurant.net.
A “Local Legend Since 1958,” this third generation, family-owned landmark
offers a wide selection of children’s meals with a souvenir cup for less than
$5.50. Also, for just under $7, let the kids move up to a Pulled BBQ Pork
sandwich with Mom’s homemade BBQ sauce and French fries.
Don’t forget to ask about Baker’s new heat-and-serve Family Meals-To-Go for
four to six people.
Kilby Cream
129 Strohmaier Lane, Rising Sun,
410-658-8874, www.kilbycream.com.
Producing farm fresh homemade ice cream since 2005, the Kilby Cream family
brings your family ice cream that goes from the cow to the cone in two
days. They’re always dipping 24 flavors that vary monthly including
Holstein Cream, Udderly Chocolate, and Cowconut plus sugar free options. Or
have their cow-spotted Moo Mobile mosey over your private party or corporate
event.
Woody's Crab House
29 S. Main St., North East, 410-287-3541, www.woodyscrabhouse.com.
Nothing says “local” to a Marylander like steamed crabs. And, while it might be
hard to consider them a bargain, for parents, making the crab-pickin’ mess at
somebody’s place is worth paying market prices. If crabs aren’t your thing,
there are other seafood, chicken, and beef entrees, and a kids' menu that is
a bargain. Plus, you can throw your roasted peanut shells on the floor and
nobody will yell.
HARFORD COUNTY
Broom’s Bloom Ice Cream and Dairy Store
1700 S. Fountain Green Rd. (MD 543), Bel
Air, 410-399-COWS, www.bbdairy.com.
Old-fashioned hand dipped ice cream made right on the farm. Weekly flavors and
specials. Plus artisan cheese and pork sausage, locally produced lamb, beef,
free-range eggs, seasonal vegetables, and cut flowers. Light fare lunch and
dinner menu also available. Enjoy your ice cream while listening to live
acoustic guitar on Saturdays, 7-9 p.m. and Sundays, 3-6 p.m.
Double T Diner
543 Market Place Dr., Bel Air,
410-836-5591.
(For more information, see listing under Baltimore County.)
Giovanni's Restaurant
2101 Pulaski Hwy. (Rt. 40), Edgewood,
410-676-8100, www.giovannis-rest.com.
A family-owned and -run Italian restaurant since 1980, the large dining room
includes a dance floor when there’s live entertainment. (Mom and Dad can boogie
down and embarrass the kids!) The 10 items on kids’ menu include
spaghetti, lasagna, chicken scampi, and manicotti with salad, each for under
$7. A crab cake with steak fries is $12. Use the online coupon to take 10
percent off of your check (with a $30 maximum per party).
Gus's Pizza & Grill
1928B Pulaski Hwy., Edgewood,
410-676-0060, www.gusspizza.com
Over a dozen toppings from sweet pineapple to stinky anchovies are available to
create specialty gourmet pizzas, including a Crab Imperial and Crab Dip. Sign
up for membership discount cards and birthday gift certificates. Order online
for additional discounts. Ask about Gus’s Famous Ironclad, You-Can’t-Lose-Money-Back
Guarantee.
Japan House
984 Beards Hill Rd., Aberdeen,
410-575-7878.
Seated around a hibachi grill, kids love to watch chefs slice, dice, and grill
the Japanese cuisine. There’s also a sushi bar. Chinese dinner selections
include chicken, shrimp, beef, or scallop dishes with rice, or Japanese entrees
served with onion soup and salad.
Main Street Tower
29 S. Main St., Bel Air, 410-838-8007, www.mainstreettower.com.
The menu features steak, seafood, and Italian-American cuisine. There
are daily specials, too. In good weather, enjoy outdoor, rooftop dining. Every Wednesday,
get 99-cent kids’ meals for children under 12. Open Monday through Saturday, 11
a.m. to 2 a.m.; and a Sunday champagne brunch buffet, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Red Robin
602 Belair Rd., Ste. 19, Bel Air, 410-420-1993.
(For more information, see listing under Baltimore County.)
Silver Spring Mining Company
705 Belair Rd., Bel Air, 410-803-1040.
(For more information, see listing under Baltimore County.)
HOWARD COUNTY
Double T Diner
10055 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott
City, 410-750-3300.
(For more information, see listing under Baltimore County.)
Eggspectation
6010 University Blvd., Ellicott City,
410-750-3115, www.eggspectation.com.
The specialty, Eggs Benedict, is offered here in more than a dozen different
ways. Extensive assortment of high-end egg and crepe dishes are available all
day. Lunch and dinner menus feature filet mignon and crab cakes. Kids’ menu
includes chocolate chip pancakes, and children can watch the chefs at work. Also,
the restaurant and bar areas are Internet-accessible. Open daily at 7 a.m.
Famous Dave’s
6201 Columbia Crossing Circle, Columbia, for
carry out 410-290-0091, catering 410-290-0091, and fax 410-872-1122, www.famousdaves.com.
Open daily for lunch and dinner. (For more information, see listing under Anne
Arundel County.)
Kelsey’s
8480 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott
City, 410-418-9076, www.kelseyrestaurant.com.
Irish food, beverages, and hospitality have been served up here since 1994. Ask
about the Frequent Diner card. If your kids love breakfast food, try the Sunday
Brunch—$5.99 for children under 10, and kids under 3 eat for free. There’s
live jazz music, too.
Mangia Italian Grill & Sports Café
10795 Birmingham Way #15, Woodstock,
410-461-2900, www.mangiaitaliangrill.com.
Enjoy Italian food and pizza served in a casual setting. And fine wines, too.
Wednesday is Family Pizza Night with Jester Man the Balloon Guy. Open Sunday
through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday till 11 p.m.
Old Fashioned Ice Cream Shoppe
9150-17 Baltimore National Pike, St.
John's Plaza (Rt. 40 and St. John's Lane),
Ellicott City, 410-480-2856, www.oldfashionedicecreamshoppe.com.
For almost 10 years, this shoppe has been scooping and serving up ice cream
cones,
sundaes, old-fashioned floats, milkshakes, desserts, flavored coffees, and
exotic frozen drinks. One of the Internet coupons offers $2 off any custom-made
ice cream cake, made to order on premise, with hundreds of designs available.
Red Robin
8640 Snowden River Pkwy. at Columbia
Crossing, 410-312-0214.
(For more information, see listing under Baltimore County.)
Shannon’s Saloon & Restaurant
9338 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott
City, 410-461-4588, www.shannonssaloon.com.
Started as a bar with a small kitchen more than 25 years ago, Shannon’s has
expanded to a restaurant with Daily Lunch and Dinner Specials. Soups include
traditional Maryland Crab and Cream of Crab, along with a Baked French Onion
and prepared fresh daily soups. The Soup & Sandwich Special offers a half-sandwich
of chicken or tuna salad or ham and cheese with a cup of soup for under $8; add
a buck for Cream of Crab.
Toby's Dinner Theatre
5900 Symphony Woods Rd., Columbia,
410-995-1969; and 5625 O'Donnell St., Best Western Hotel and Conference Center,
Baltimore, 410-649-1660;
866-99TOBYS, www.tobysdinnertheatre.com.
Two locations present award-winning Broadway and original musicals with an
exceptional buffet-style dinner. There’s also a full-service bar, a 25-item
salad bar, evening buffet or Sunday Matinee Brunch, desserts, and a make-your-own-sundae
bar. Added attractions are specialty drinks in Toby's glasses and commemorative
tee shirts. Subscription packages and group rates are available.
THROUGHOUT MARYLAND
Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar
www.applebees.com.
(For more information, see listing under Carroll County.)
Chuck E. Cheese
www.chuckecheese.com/locations/results.php?state=MD.
Provide games, rides, prizes, food, and entertainment for families with children
of all ages. The menus have expanded from pizza and hot dogs to include
oven-roasted Ciabatta sandwiches, Buffalo wings, a garden salad bar, even an
apple dessert pizza. On its website, sign up for the Chuck E. Club for discount
coupons, birthday specials, and promotions. (You’ll also find all of the nutritional
and food allergy information online.)
Have your child bring in his or her most recent report card and receive free
tokens for good grades.
The Wineries of Maryland
www.marylandwine.com
This website links you to the more than two dozen Maryland wineries offering more
than 300 different wines, including soon-to-open businesses, by name or region.
Most locations offer tours and host tastings, concerts, picnics, and seasonal
events, many of which are appropriate for the entire family. A day at a
vineyard is the perfect opportunity to follow your favorite beverage from grape
to bottle to your table.
Even if you don’t visit a local winery, regional liquor stores and restaurants
sell and serve Maryland wines. Plus, the Maryland wine industry brings millions
of dollars to the State through taxes, tourism, and jobs. BC
Got a favorite restaurant you’d like to see added to the Family Dining Guide?
Write to Susan Davis, Susan2@BaltimoresChild.com.
Also, be sure to check out What’s On the Menu, our monthly column, for more
family-friendly restaurant ideas.
©Baltimore’s Child Inc. October 2009
