With Kids: Five family-friendly spots to dine this fall with your crew
Little Fish in Southold serves coastal cuisine and fun vibes.
Kids—typically, while dining out, they’re either throwing a tantrum (hello, toddlers) or wishing they had their own table (hello, tweens and teens). To help take some of the stress out of dining with the whole crew, we’re highlighting our five restaurant picks — some mainstays, some new, some you may not have considered— sure to make you one happy family at mealtime.
50 N. Sea Dr., Southold
Summer forever at this vibrant, beachy spot with food that never misses and a robust kids’ menu for your petite crew, including local grilled fish. Kids will dig the fun coastal decor and you’ll dig the plentiful cocktail list, creative cuisine (from one of our favorite chefs), and laid-back vibe. Suggested tip, go early for a more kid-friendly experience. Don’t forget to snap a pic in the restaurant’s Jaw’s-themed vestibule. Current hours are 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday through Tuesday, closed Wednesday. Reservations are suggested.
240 Love Ln., Mattituck
Mainstay and for a reason, this sweet spot welcomes all (yep, even kids) like a warm hug. Cozy in for the fall season and dine on an eclectic menu offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A classic kids’ menu, including the world’s best grilled cheese, is available for lunch and dinner. Pro tip: always save room for LLK dessert, you’re welcome. Love Lane Kitchen is currently open seven days a week for breakfast and lunch from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. and for dinner on Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Reservations are available for dinner only.
50 Griffing St., Cutchogue
This recently expanded Cutchogue cafe serves breakfast and lunch and has quickly become a favorite. With a menu of toasts, stuffed croissants, and sandwiches, it’s easy to find something for everyone including the pickiest eaters. Current hours are Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.
First and South Restaurant and Bar
100 South St., Greenport
The spot to go if you’re in the mood for elevated pub food, the Fork’s best French fries (yeah, we said it,) and lively atmosphere. The kids’ menu offers classics but also standouts like fried shrimp. Dine inside or on the heated patio for a real treat. Lunch and dinner are served on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Monday, and Tuesday, from noon until 9 p.m., and brunch on Sundays from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Reservations are suggested.
428 E. Main St., Riverhead
Newest on our list, this Riverhead restaurant sits conveniently across the street from the Long Island Aquarium at The Preston House and Hotel. This family-friendly, affordably-priced restaurant has a substantial menu including burgers, sandwiches, and entrees with a comfort-food vibe, plus a kids’ menu with all items priced under $10. Check their Facebook page for frequent specials and discounts. Currently serving lunch and dinner Thursday through Sunday from noon until 9 p.m. and dinner from 4 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday.