With Kids: Five family-friendly spots to dine this summer with your crew
Photo courtesy of Kat Kapell
Kids — typically while dining out, they’re either throwing a tantrum (hello, toddlers,) or wishing they had their own table (hello, tweens and teens.) But since summer is here and we’re all only about ease we have your back with the rundown on five spots — some mainstays, some new, some you may not have considered — sure to make you one happy family at mealtime.
1400 Silvermere Rd., Greenport
Whether you’re actually on vacation or just pretending to be, dining at Eddie’s with the whole crew in tow makes you feel like you’ve traveled far away leaving all your worries behind. This relaxed dining establishment where you’re literally on the beach of Pipe’s Cove in Greenport serves up wood oven-fired pizza, seafood, and local produce, along with oysters, of course, and it’s kid-friendly to boot! There’s no going wrong here as your kids play in the sand while you enjoy a stellar North Fork meal. Summer hours are Wednesday and Thursday serving dinner from 5 to 8 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from noon until 8 p.m. serving lunch and dinner.
628 Main Rd., Aquebogue
Don’t let the name fool you, there’s nothing modern about this spot and that’s a good thing! From the Wiki Stix to the casual American food, your kids will feel the comforts of home. Also, MILKSHAKES. No one is on bad behavior when bribed (yes, bribed) with one of these. And, make sure to order one for yourself too, you more than deserve it. Best of all, watch as neighboring patrons lovingly gaze at your children from afar remembering the days when their crew was that age. “Don’t blink,” they’ll tell you! Surely, they’ve forgotten what the trenches feel like. You’ll forget one day too. Promise. Open Wednesday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. until 8 p.m. and on Sunday from noon until 8 p.m.
428 E Main St., Riverhead
Looking for a spot to dine post-aquarium visit? Well, you don’t have to go far. Head directly across the street to the brand-new Myles on Main, and best of all, kids eat free! This family-friendly eatery located at the Preston Hotel serves casual fare of sandwiches, burgers, salads, larger entrees, and more all made to order. There’s also a kids’ menu loaded with five classic kid favorites. Current hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 2 to 9 p.m.
37 Front St., Greenport (kind of)
Dilemma! You’re in the mood for a fun and social setting where you can nosh on oysters BUT you’ve got your groupies (AKA kids) with you. Little Creek Oysters can solve that with its no-frills yet cool vibes where kids are welcome to slurp down oysters right alongside you. And if your kids aren’t yet oyster people there are also damn delicious hot dogs at this Greenport oyster shack. Summer hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from noon until 8 p.m.
240 Love Ln., Mattituck
I’m not sure exactly when or how it started but our family often refers to LLK as “the loveliest kitchen,” and it’s for good reason. Not only is the food consistently great, but the atmosphere welcomes you right in and leaves its mark. There’s something for everyone on the menu including dedicated kids’ meals. And, let the record show that Love Lane Kitchen has the world’s best grilled cheese sandwich, so convince your kid to order it so you can snag a bite. During lunchtime be prepared to wait but hey, it’s summer on the North Fork and we’re just lucky to be here.