With Kids: Five family-friendly spots to dine this spring with your crew
Kids — typically while dining out, they’re either throwing a tantrum (hello, toddlers,) or wishing they had their own table (hello, tweens and teens.) Before we officially make it to full-on al fresco season where dining out always just seems a bit more enjoyable, we have your back with the rundown on five spots — some mainstays, some new, some you may not have considered — that are sure to make you one happy family at mealtime.
Barrow Food House
452 Main Road, Riverhead
Not only does it serve up some of our favorite food on the Fork, but this Aquebogue eatery is also kid-friendly, especially on its outside patio! Park in the back lot and walk right over to the west side of the restaurant where you’ll find a walk-up window to order from and plentiful picnic tables to dine at. If needed, inside is where you’ll find a high chair. While they do offer a kids’ menu, we suggest encouraging your kiddo to explore a bit and try something new. Spring hours are Tuesday through Thursday 11:30 a.m. until 8:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. until 9 p.m., and on Sundays from 11:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Visit Barrow Food House’s website for the complete menu.
8 Hands Café at 8 Hands Farm
4735 Cox Lane, Cutchogue
Exciting news: Fyr & Salt has recently taken over the café at 8 Hands Farm and now offers a rotating menu of prepared foods Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. While the menu is certainly geared towards an adult pallet, the sourdough pizzette, which changes daily, is a quick no-brainer lunch for kids. However, we don’t judge if they choose banana bread as their meal instead — it’s divine. Get on the newsletter mailing list at 8 Hands Farm for their weekly menus. And while you’re there, don’t forget to check out the farm’s animals including this season’s lambs.
The North Fork Shack
41150 County Road 48, Southold
Quick, casual, affordable, and features an off-the-road grassy area for kids to run around — this Southold spot checks the box of convenience. The menu mostly consists of burgers, sandwiches, fries, and apps, with specials offered each day. It’s nothing out of the ordinary but it’s there in a pinch and the perfect place to grab a bite to eat with the kids in tow. Spring hours are Wednesday and Thursday from noon to 3 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday from noon to 9 p.m., and on Sundays from noon to 7 p.m. Visit The North Fork Shack’s website to view the menu.
Turkuaz Grill
40 McDermott Avenue, Riverhead
Planning to visit the Long Island Aquarium for the day and looking for a spot to eat? Make Turkuaz Grill your dining destination while in downtown Riverhead. Sit outside for views of the Peconic River while you and your kids nosh on top-notch Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. In addition to the typical kids’ menu offerings, we love that Turkuaz Grill also offers Mediterranean specialties like doner, kofte, and lamb in kid-appropriate portions. Spring hours are Wednesday through Sunday from noon until 9 p.m. Visit Turkuaz Grill’s website to view the complete menu.
Billy’s by the Bay
2530 Manhanset Avenue, Greenport
For a taste of summer, head to Billy’s by the Bay in Greenport for seafood, live music, and good vibes. This off-the-beaten-path restaurant features a covered patio and daily live music in a casual setting. No dedicated kid’s menu here, but plenty on the menu for your North Fork kid to choose from including chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks, and mini crab cakes. Spring hours are Thursdays and Sundays from noon until 7 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from noon until 8 p.m. Visit Billy’s by the Bay’s website to view the menu and live music lineup.