Eating out in Darwin (with three unruly children)
With so many amazing restaurants in the greater Darwin area it can be hard to choose just one for that special family meal!
For us there are three deciding factors:
Is there something to entertain the kids?
Toys, playground, animals, a beach (ANYTHING that avoids whipping out the dreaded iPad and inviting the inevitable disapproving stares and mum guilt!)
Fast and efficient service!
Because no one wants to be THAT family when the hanger kicks in!
Delicious meals and drinks for the parents.
It might not be a date night but it’s pretty close!
After 14 years of research (6 of which with unruly children) I have compiled my top 4 family friendly restaurants.
Enjoy!……..
La Beach Fish & Chips,
Cullen Bay
This place has to be seen to be believed. Picture this, a Fish and Chip restaurant with manicured lawns, palm trees, views of the ocean and beach access. What’s not to love! This pick is more of a casual one. Take a picnic rug, pack an esky with drinks for the grown ups and take in the view while the kids run wild!
Eat in or takeaway (byo for take away, licensed for eat in)
Oyster Bar,
Darwin Waterfront
There are so many good restaurants at Darwin Waterfront so make sure you have a wander and find your ideal cuisine. Ours can be found at the Oyster Bar. Greg loves the oysters and I love the grazing platter which changes every month. Arrive early and let the kids run around on the nearby playground before you sit down to order. While waiting for your meal the kids can explore the beautiful parklands and beach
Darwin Trailer Boat Club, Fannie Bay
A playground, a pool, beach access, views to die for and a salad bar! I must have died and gone to heaven! This is the go to place for most local families for any special occasion. Every time I go I feel like I’m on holiday. Now the food is your typical pub dinner type food (think parmies, steaks, fish etc.) But I can definitely live with that for the ultimate stress free family dinner!
Berry Springs Tavern,
Berry Springs
Oh our favourite rural pub! Only 15 minutes drive from our garden is this absolute beauty of a tavern. The food is great, massive portions and speedy service. The kids love the outdoor playground and there’s even a toy corner inside for the little ones. Kids eat free on Monday’s and they do a terrific roast on a Sunday with live music on the veranda. And if that wasn’t enough, they have an array of animals. Geese, Emu’s, Goats, A deer (random) and of course where would a rural pub be without a Saltwater Crocodile!
