When Montrose bar dwellers fall in love and inevitably start a family, they move to Oak Forest. Owner Ben Fullelove opened Petrol Station several years ago, perhaps sensing the oncoming migration of folks needing a quality beer and a place to chill with their kids. The Northside spot has a large back area with a house-party vibe, occasional live music on the weekends, and movies projected on an outdoor screen. Menu standouts include Rancor Burger with fried egg yolk, bacon, pesto, and cheddar cheese served with parmesan fries. Consider this the mecca for beer-nerd parents searching for a selection of top-notch IPAs and thick stouts in a laid-back child-friendly atmosphere.

Jenni’s been slinging noodles since the 90s and many a Houstonian has their die-hard favorite. The Art Car Curry with udon noodles and a splash of Disco Dumpling sauce is a solid go-to choice. Jenni has always kept it pro-kid in her establishments, but the Heights location is a must for family nights. There’s an enclosed space out back with a simple but massive concrete tube for kids to play in and around, and the kids menu is filled with noodle and rice options, a great alternative to another another night of chicken nuggets.

The rotating assortment of Melange’s best crepes along with inventive seasonal varieties will entice even the pickiest of eaters. As an added bonus, minions eat for free. That’s right, with every purchase of a full-size crepe, Melange throws in free kiddie crepe too. Indulge in a rose-flavored latte and adult-worthy crepe while junior inhales a ham and cheese, then walk across the street to one of Houston’s most-loved playgrounds, Donovan Park.

Perched above Buffalo Bayou is the chandelier-filled stunner from Clark Cooper Concepts. Don’t let the crystal hanging above give the wrong impression, this restaurant is very pro-kid with communal seating and a stellar menu that has a cult-like following on Instagram. The best part is the direct access to one of Houston’s most beautiful outdoor green spaces, Buffalo Bayou. Kids can grab a smoothie pre-bike ride, while mommies who lunch chow down on avocado tartines or a porchetta sandwiches.

There’s just something about the Original Ninfa’s that feels like home. It’s loud, there’s always a crowd, and with plenty of space in the restaurant, Ninfa’s is a must for children and adults. Operating since the 1970s, Ninfa’s boasts some of the best Tex-Mex in the city with classics like carnitas, tacos al carbon, fresh ceviches, plus newer options like conejo en mole rojo — oven-roasted rabbit drenched in their red mole sauce which is topped with fresh herbs, pistachios, and toasted sesame seeds. Children have their pick of quesadillas, tacos, rice and beans, and a variety of other options as long as they don’t fill up on chips and queso beforehand.

Barbecue, picnic tables, corn hole, and a giant beaver — there’s much for kids to love about Beaver’s on Westheimer. Kids can enjoy the camp-like vibe of the enclosed back space, while parents can dive into fried oyster po’ boys and one (or two) of their Red Palomas with serrano-piquin-infused Lunazul tequila with ancho reyes, blood orange, lime, lemon basil micro greens, and lemon grass syrup.

Nearby Levy Park has been a child’s dream since opening, the only thing missing was a latte on hand...or a craft on tap. Thankfully, the playground gods have answered our prayers, and now directly across from the entrance to the park is wine, beer, and a fully stocked espresso bar courtesy of Slowpokes. The newly opened spot has a PB&J panini for the small ones and gorgonzola and salami offerings for adults. It also has an assortment of treats on hand from Bare Bakery — desserts that are free of gluten, grains, and refined sugar — along with cookies from the local baker Michael’s Cookie Jar.

Named for the beloved sheepdog that once belonged to the restaurant’s owner, Barnaby’s easily has some of the best comfort food in the city and the portions are massive. The children’s menu is extensive with options like roadside sliders, mini corn dogs, and grilled cheese with fruit and fries. Out of the eight locations, the most kid-friendly of them is in the Museum District which is walking distance to the Children’s Museum. This location has a huge enclosed front and side patio with plenty of outdoor games and comfy spots to place a tot.