We can all think back to a time we were told to sit quietly at the table while our parents conversed with family and friends. With a rumbling belly and an overactive, impatient mind that was itching to do something, what we now know as a short five or ten minutes felt like it was surely hours and hours.
Luckily, dining out doesn’t have to be torturous, for the child or the parents! From decades-old favourites to exciting new businesses opening their doors, the Tablelands offers plenty of kid-friendly venues with entertainment such as colouring in, painting, tasty treats, gardens to explore, and playgrounds close by. With plenty to keep them occupied, you won’t have to stress about mischief or disturbing other customers. What is likely to be a memorable treat for them can also be a relaxing and enjoyable outing for you.
Below is a tried-and-trusted list of kid-friendly places to dine, compiled for your convenience (and sanity). There are likely some that we’ve missed, so if you have a great experience with your child at a local café or restaurant, be sure to leave a positive review to let others know. There’s delicious food, friendly service, and lots of fun to be had out and about on the Tablelands, and with the peace of mind that comes with happy, busy kids, you can bring the whole family along to enjoy it!
Atherton
Carrington Hotel: recieved several votes, with a big new playroom indoors & kids eat free on Mondays
RSL: lawn, fence, swing & kids’ food
Gallo Dairyland: animal petting zoo, chocolate & ice-cream
Station Café: parents can see the park from the balcony & there is a model railway where you can drive trains around the track
Slotted Spoon: kids’ menu
Petals and Pinecones: play area & creation jars
The Strawberry Farm: strawberry picking, ice-cream
Mareeba
Hungry Pug: super-friendly owners, very welcoming for families
Gateway Hotel: kids’ food and two play areas
Graham Hotel: kids’ food with free ice-cream and activity packs
Yungaburra
Our Place: super-friendly owners, very welcoming for families
Coffee & Clay: kids’ pottery painting & play area
Whistlestop Cafe: kids’ table & chairs with colouring-in
The Lakes
Frond Café: cool outdoor garden
Lake Barrine Teahouse: cosy kids’ section with books to read
Malanda
Malanda Hotel: kid-friendly environment
The Closet Hippy: selection of healthier treats
The Top Rail: kid-friendly environment
Herberton
Herberton Hotel: kids under 12 eat free on Fridays
Ravenshoe
Essene Café: grassy open area
Kuranda
Petit Café: delicious crepés
Café Azur: kid-friendly menu & playspace
(article printed in the September 2021 Issue of What’s On & Where to Go)
