Red Tricycle Recommends: 5 Family-Friendly Restaurants for Dining Alfresco

By Katie Kavulla August 31, 2011

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If the sun is shining in Seattle, you must take advantage of it! Ditch the stovetop in your stuffy kitchen and head out to one of these family restaurants in Seattle that have outdoor dining options.

Blue Moon Burgers
Located just on the north side of the Fremont Bridge, Blue Moon Burgers has a great outdoor patio that’s perfect for little ones who get squirmy while they wait for lunch or dinner – there’s lots of room to explore without disturbing the other diners. We also love Blue Moon for their delicious menu and gluten-free options. Parking in Fremont can be tricky – try going to the lot just east of Blue Moon, under the Aurora Bridge – there’s usually some free parking down by the lake. 703 North 34th Street or online at www.bluemoonburgers.com

Greenlake Bar & Grill
Just finished up a bike around the lake and looking for somewhere to refuel with the kids? Give Greenlake Bar & Grill a try! You can leave your car parked at the lake and walk across the street to this great family-friendly restaurant. There is a great outdoor dining area on the side of the restaurant where the people watching will keep the kids distracted while waiting for lunch or dinner. Greenlake is also well known for its Happy Hour food specials, priced from $2-5. 7200 East Green Lake Drive North or online at www.greenlakebarandgrill.com

Agua Verde Café & Paddle Club
Eating outdoors can’t get much cooler than this – at Agua Verde, you can eat on their large outdoor deck that overlooks the kayak rental area. So, as you and the kids dine on some yummy Mexican food, you can watch kayakers coming in and out of the dock. Don’t miss the mangodillas on the menu – they are quesadillas with fresh mango inside and are a hit with diners of all ages! 1303 Northeast Boat Street or online at www.aguaverde.com

Maggie Bluff’s Marina Grill
Tucked underneath one of Seattle’s best known upscale restaurants, Palisades, Maggie Bluff’s is one of the best outdoor dining spots in the city. The patio is right on the marina, so you have a prime view of all the gorgeous boats as you enjoy your meal. Be prepared – there can be quite a wait at Maggie’s on a nice day. The saving grace is that there is plenty of room for little ones to explore while you wait for your table. Hint for mom and dad – you can order off of Palisade’s swanky wine and beer menu from upstairs! 2601 West Marina Place or online at www.maggiebluffs.com

Red Mill Burgers
Somewhat of a Seattle food icon, Red Mill Burgers has been featured on Oprah and the Food Network. But to Seattle locals, it’s just a great place to grab a delicious burger and some onion rings with the family! Red Mill is known for its huge stack of bacon, hand-blended fresh milkshakes (try banana or peanut butter!) and the wonderful outdoor picnic tables for eating in the sun. Be warned – Red Mill only takes cash or check and they have a strict no cell phone policy! Two locations: 312 North 67th Street in Phinney Ridge and 1613 West Dravus Street in Interbay or online at www.redmillburgers.com

Got your own favorite spot to grab a bite outside? Let us know in the comments below!

– Katie Kavulla, www.redtri.com

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