What better way to enjoy the rising temps than with a family meal by the water? But where in the DMV can you take your kiddos without interrupting other diners or breaking the bank? We’ve done the sleuthing for you and found four family-friendly places for a meal with a view.
Photo: Farmers Fishers Bakers via Facebook
Best for Brunch: Farmers Fishers Bakers
Farm-to-table dining is now a mainstay on the Georgetown Waterfront at Farmers Fishers Bakers, a restaurant known for its classic American fare and sustainable dining practices. The best bet for your brood is their all-you-can eat brunch buffet. From breakfast standards like waffles and scrambled eggs to sushi and jambalaya (we recommend the bruleed pink grapefruit), you’ll find plenty of options for young gourmands and picky eaters alike. Plus, kids under six eat free!
3000 K St., NW (Georgetown)
202-298-8783
Online: farmersfishersbakers.com
Photo: The Waterfront Market via Facebook
Best for a Quick Bite: The Waterfront Market
Snack attacks in Old Town can be fulfilled with a nosh at The Waterfront Market. A new addition to the Alexandria dining scene, this cafe/market hybrid offers quick food service alongside fabulous views of the Potomac. Enjoy soups, salads, sandwiches and even sushi either inside or outside on the dock. The market also offers great “to-go” options (local craft beer, anyone?) that you can enjoy at home.
7 King St. (Alexandria, Va)
571-970-0552
Online: thewaterfrontmarket.com
Photo: The Walrus Oyster and Ale House via Facebook
Best for Seafood Lovers: The Walrus Oyster & Ale House
Named for a Lewis Carroll poem, this National Harbor seafood spot offers views of the Potomac to go along with its beach-themed fare. A “Shucking Bar” features 15 varieties of oysters with fun names like Maryland’s Sweet Jesus and Royal Miyagis from California. While you chow down on chowder or fried seafood samplers, young foodies will enjoy a veritable feast off the kids menu. Each option, available for $10.50, includes fruit or salad, fries, entree and dessert
152 Waterfront St. (Oxon Hill, Md)
301- 567-6100
Online: walrusoysterandale.com
Photo: Sam’s On the Waterfront via Facebook
Best for Bargain Hunters: Sam’s On The Waterfront
Annapolis is known for crabs and Chesapeake Bay views. You can enjoy both with family in tow at Sam’s. Get a table for your brood at the outdoor patio and enjoy Maryland favorites like crab cakes and locally-raised oysters while you watch the boats sail by. The restaurant’s got great happy hour specials every day of the week, but we’re a fan of their family-friendly twist on Thirsty Thursday: kids under 12 eat free!
2020 Chesapeake Harbour Dr. (Annapolis, Md)
410-263-3600
Online: samsonthewaterfront.com
What’s your family’s favorite waterfront dining destination? Let us know in the comments below!
—Sarah Vogel
