Additional Coverage:
- 7 Family-Friendly Restaurants We’d Love to See Make a Comeback (momswhothink.com)
7 Family-Friendly Restaurants We’d Love to See Make a Comeback
Dining out with kids can be a challenge. While fancy establishments might not be ideal for toddlers, family restaurants offer a great opportunity for children to learn valuable skills like table manners and how to order their own food.
But finding the right spot can be tough. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some beloved family-friendly restaurants we wish would reappear on the culinary scene.
’90s Pizza Hut Buffet: Pizza Hut still exists, but many yearn for its ’90s heyday. Back then, it was the place for pizza, with frequent kid-eat-free deals, a relaxed atmosphere perfect for birthday parties or weeknight treats, and the glorious combination of a sit-down section and a buffet. Pure bliss.
Chi-Chi’s: This Tex-Mex chain, famous for its fried ice cream and salsa, was a staple in the ’80s and ’90s. While bigger competitors eventually led to its decline, rumors of a potential Chi-Chi’s revival have us dreaming of a comeback.
Bennigan’s: Known for its Monte Cristo sandwiches (described by one Reddit user as “food-coma-inducing deliciousness”), deep-fried everything (yes, even broccoli!), and two-for-one happy hour drinks, Bennigan’s was a casual dining haven for families. Their slogan, “bringing families together,” perfectly captured its welcoming vibe.
Don Pablo’s: This Tex-Mex restaurant emphasized fresh ingredients and made-from-scratch meals in a relaxed setting. The memory of watching tortillas being made fresh remains strong for many, making Don Pablo’s another restaurant we’d love to see return.
Sizzler: In the 1970s, Sizzler revolutionized dining with its innovative salad bar. Families could enjoy affordable meals like steak, ribs, and burgers in a comfortable, family-friendly environment.
Ponderosa: Ponderosa offered an affordable buffet experience with family deals and kid-eat-free days, making dining out accessible for families on a budget. While buffets have waned in popularity, a few Ponderosas still exist, keeping the dream alive.
Old Country Buffet: This buffet-style restaurant was a go-to for families wanting variety and value. For some, it was even considered a “fancy” dining experience – a testament to its enduring appeal.
Finding a truly family-friendly restaurant that ticks all the boxes – calm atmosphere, reasonable prices, and a kid-friendly menu – can be a challenge. These nostalgic favorites remind us of a simpler time and leave us hoping for their return.
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- 7 Family-Friendly Restaurants We’d Love to See Make a Comeback (momswhothink.com)