Need a break from cooking and looking for a restaurant that isn’t too starchy and can be enjoyed by the whole family?
I have seen this question asked a few times on local mums’ groups so I decided to do some looking on my own. These are the family friendly restaurants I have tried in the Sutherland Shire and my humble take on each one.
Taren Point Hotel is a local favourite with a large sports bar, bistro and beer garden. It even has a fabulous outdoor area for the kids to play while you eat. It is uncovered so not suitable for wet weather but when the sun is shining, remember to pack your ping pong balls for a game of table tennis. They often hold special events like face painting and reptile parks.
Sealing the deal on becoming one of the most popular family friendly restaurants in the Shire, Bangor Tavern have installed an adventure tower. The Adventure Tower (climb and slide area designed for children between the ages of 3 to 12) is open from 10am till sundown daily. Surrounded by banquette seating in the beer garden, it provides for the perfect spot for mum and dad to relax whilst keeping an eye on playing children.
The Kids Play Area at Club on East in a dedicated place for kids & their families to have fun together. There is lots for the kids to do at this family club, along with Big TV screens, great food & drinks @ club prices for the adults. There are only a few family tables in the Kids Play Area so remember to plan ahead and reserve a table to avoid disappointment
The Cubby House, an adorable room suitable for children between the ages of 4 and 12, is open from Thursday to Sunday nights for two sessions a night (5:00pm – 7:00pm or 7:15pm – 9:15pm) It costs $10 and is the perfect space for little ones to enjoy some fun after dinner while you unwind with a glass of wine. It is a separate room and parents are not permitted to enter. Out of sight, out of mind?
An important part of the Sutherland shire’s heritage, The Como Hotel is one of the oldest buildings in the Sutherland Shire. The Hotel caters to all ages and has all the usual suspects – bistro, sports bar, TAB and Keno facilities, a lounge area, function space and an outdoor eating area with a kids play area for the little ones. Not suitable for wet weather but perfect for a group of small children wanting to climb and slide after dinner.
Oli’s café in Miranda is a beautiful little community breakfast spot. It has relaxed, neutral décor and a wonderfully inviting feel. They have fabulous food and a wonderful little play area for the kiddos outside. Definitely a brilliant alternative to Rubyniks if you are in the Westfield shopping mood
Enjoy a meal overlooking South Cronulla beach while the kids enjoy the playroom at Cronulla RSL. Small but with plenty to do, the play area will give the little ones a break from sitting at the dining table. Their isn’t a large number of seating with a view of the play room so you will often see a number of parents hanging around the door, keeping an eye on their little ones. Either that or be willing to make frequent check ins to make sure everyone is playing nicely. It is also a good to keep in mind the parking which can be a little costly if you are not a member.
I learnt about this gem from a client who hosted her son’s 2nd birthday here. They refer to themselves as ‘Engadine’s home of modern Australian cuisine, tapas, cocktails, craft beer, & wine’ They have a lovely, large outdoor deck that overlooks their kids’ play area so you can enjoy a glass of wine while the little ones have a play.
The Prince is located in Kirrawee and has become a local favourite. Their modern Australian menu can be enjoyed in comfortable booths or while watching their large number of sports screens. They also have small kids area, located in the dining hall and can get a little busy with some older unsupervised children so best to get a table close bay so you can keep an eye on your kiddos.
Enjoy a delicious meal at the Cronulla golf club while watching your little one play. Cronulla Golf Club have a self-managed play area across from the main Brasserie. Make sure to ask to be seated there so you
It is important to note that Cronulla Golf Club has a dress code. Read them beforehand so you don’t get caught with your thongs on
Like with many things with little ones, dining out takes practice. I hope these ideas help you find a restaurant that suits you and your family. And please comment with your favourite family-friendly restaurants, we are always on the hunt for new places to try.
