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With so much amazing food, Charleston's dining options can be overwhelming. For families with children, the task can seem even more formidable.
Here's a short list of family-friendly spots to consider.
Take your pick, then enjoy a fun and delicious dining experience the whole family will appreciate.
What it's known for: Breakfasts for the whole family - with solid coffee and cocktail programs - are the specialty of the house at DAPS. Comfy with a neighborhood vibe, tuck into hearty hashes, two-fisted sammies, classic breakfast plates, and a fan favorite of the young and young-at-heart: Fruity Pebble pancakes and Cinnamon Toast Crunch sticky buns.
Style: Casual, grab-and-go or dine in, outdoor patio dining, quality ingredients
Address: 280 Ashley Avenue, Charleston
Phone: 843.718.1098
What it's known for: Best sandwich in the Charleston area? Check. Both locations of the Tattooed Moose are home to Mike's Famous Duck Club, a sandwich that is in a league of its own. It was even featured on the Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives." There are great choices for kids, too, like the Basket 'o' Corn Dogs, the Super Melty Grilled Cheese, soft serve ice cream and the bouncy house that makes appearances during oyster roasts and other events.
Style: Diner, late-night, lunch, brunch, sandwich, family-friendly
Addresses: 3328 Maybank Highway, Johns Island
Phone: 843.952.7591
4845 Chateau Ave., North Charleston (Park Circle)
Phone: 843.277.2990
What it's known for: Fleet Landing is one of the only places in Charleston to dine on the water. It's just a short walk from Waterfront Park and has unparalleled views of Charleston harbor and the Ravenel bridge.
Seafood lovers will appreciate the recently added raw bar and fresh seafood-centric menu. For the kids, there's a menu filled with things to please younger palates: grilled cheese, fried shrimp, pasta with butter or marinara, fried flounder, and chicken fingers all served with fries.
Make sure you make a reservation though, as this restaurant stays pretty busy.
Style: Seafood, Family-friendly, waterfront, lunch, dinner
Address: 186 Concord St., Charleston
Phone: 843.722.8100
What it's known for: Pitmaster John Lewis channels an El Paso vibe at Rancho Lewis. Grown-ups will love the menu featuring fresh-from-the-press tortillas and house-made red and green chile sauces.
The Los Ninos menu hits all the right notes for the kiddie crowd: burritos, quesadillas, chicken tenders, chips, corn dogs, rice, beans, and a Cowpoke Sundae. There's plenty of room for the little ones to run around, too, just outside on the lawn.
Style: Tex-Mex, tacos, enchiladas, burritos, cocktails and a fun kids' menu
Address: 1503 King St., Charleston
Phone: 843.996.4500
What it’s known for: A relaxed environment, fantastic service and classically delicious menu make The Washout on Folly Beach the ultimate crowd-pleaser for families in need of a bite.
Vacationers and locals rave about everything from the burgers and fries, to the fried flounder and the crab dip. Walk up from the beach for a quick bite and a cold drink and stay awhile. The live music is a great opportunity for kids to bust some moves and expend pent-up energy.
Style: Family-friendly, Beach Eats, Outdoor Dining, Sports Bar, Casual
Address: 41 Center Street Folly Beach, SC 29439
Phone: 843.633.0143
What it's known for: All four Charleston-area Home Team BBQ locations are equipped with kid-friendly features for stress-free family dining.
A fenced-in chalkboard garden in Downtown, cornhole games in West Ashley, a kids' menu with quesadillas, chicken fingers, PB&J, and crayons with coloring sheets for aspiring artists all add up to a fun dining experience for families.
Adults will go ga-ga over the expertly smoked meats, Southern sides, and comprehensive beverage menu, too.
Style: Southern, barbecue, casual, family-friendly, lively
Addresses: 126 Williman St. Charleston
3563 Hwy. 17, Mount Pleasant
1205 Ashley River Road, West Ashley
2209 Middle St., Sullivan's Island
Phone: 843.225.7427 (Choose location extention when prompted)
