Wilmington’s Family-Friendly Restaurant Guide
I’ll be the first to admit—I’m not your go-to expert on fancy date-night spots or the hottest nightlife destinations. As a father of three young children, those are places I don’t see the inside of very often. What I can tell you, though, is where to go for a meal the whole family will enjoy. I’ll highlight what we love about these restaurants, as well as any children’s specials they offer. Read on to discover family-friendly dining options that help you keep your sanity—and your wallet—intact!
Island’s Fresh Mex Grill – Ogden
Island’s is a local favorite with a fun atmosphere, offering an affordable menu with fresh, quality ingredients at six different area locations. It’s hard to beat their dollar taco special, available seven days a week after 5:00 PM. What makes the Ogden location stand out is the indoor pirate ship play area. The playset is visible from almost anywhere in the restaurant, allowing parents to keep an eye on their kids while enjoying a little adult conversation. I recommend getting there at 5:00 PM if you want to avoid waiting in line, as it tends to get crowded quickly. If you’re looking for a quiet place to eat, this isn’t the best choice once families start rolling in for dollar tacos.
Texas Roadhouse
The atmosphere at Texas Roadhouse is always lively and loud, making it a great option for families. Many kids can sometimes have difficulty using their inside voices. Here, any loud outburst is easily lost in the background chatter and country music, allowing parents to be more relaxed about noise levels. On Tuesday nights, kids’ meals are just $1.99 with the purchase of an adult entrée. Be sure to join the waitlist early to get seated more quickly and avoid the challenge of keeping kids entertained while waiting for a table.
Whiskey Trail Pub and Grill
Whiskey Trail is one of my favorites for its amazing burgers! Embracing Wilmington’s local flair, many menu items are named after areas around town—including my favorite, the Cape Fear Burger. The restaurant also features pool tables and games, providing extra entertainment for the whole family. Kids eat free every night from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, making it a win-win for your taste buds and your wallet. With a fun, lively environment and great food, this is the perfect spot for a family dinner.
Carolina Ale House
Carolina Ale House is another excellent restaurant with a boisterous atmosphere and a diverse menu to satisfy every family member’s tastes. With $0.99 kids’ meals on Tuesdays, it’s a great mid-week dinner spot that won’t break the bank. Whether you want to catch a game or just enjoy a meal together, this is a fantastic option. Ale House also offers plenty of indoor and outdoor seating to suit your preference.
Ogden Tap Room
One of the first restaurants I visited after moving to Wilmington, this local spot has expanded significantly over the years! Some of those changes include a large outdoor space as well as a wiffle ball field. Live music is featured every weekend, and during the season, you can catch dinner and a game on their wiffle ball field! They offer a great menu, and I personally recommend Emma’s Chicken and Waffles. Ogden Tap Room is a fantastic spot to enjoy Wilmington’s beautiful weather while you eat and let the kids run around afterwards.
Slice of Life Pizzeria & Pub
Slice of Life has multiple locations around town, so you’re never too far from a great slice of pizza! With a casual atmosphere and delicious menu, it’s a great spot for a relaxed family lunch or dinner. You can order a whole pie or by the slice to satisfy your appetite. With the option to build your perfect pizza, this is a winner for everyone in the family. If someone isn’t in the mood for pizza, there are plenty of other menu options available.
Boombalatti’s Homemade Ice Cream
What better way to cap off a meal than with homemade ice cream? Boombalatti’s is a local favorite with multiple locations around town, making it easy to find a delicious dessert spot. With a large assortment of flavors and toppings, there’s something for everyone. My personal favorites are Banana Pudding and Coffee Cookies & Cream. Whether you prefer a cup or a cone, Boombalatti’s is the place to go!
These family-friendly restaurants around Wilmington offer great food, fun atmospheres, and budget-conscious deals that make dining out with kids a breeze. Whether you’re looking for play areas, kid-friendly specials, or just a lively environment where noise isn’t an issue, these spots have you covered!