Family Friendly

Broders' Pasta Bar
A southwest Minneapolis favorite for fresh, homemade pasta and casual cucina atmosphere. Many tables have both wine glasses and sippy cups, especially on Mondays, when kids eat free until 6:00 p.m. 5000 Penn Ave. S., Mpls., 612-925-9202, broders.com

Convention Grill
This reliable institution-complete with traditional fountain and booth service-is fun for both boomers and babies. A simple menu consists of malts, fries, burgers, chicken soup, caesar salad, and a few sandwiches.

California Pizza Kitchen
Families flock to this mall-based chain where strollers are as prominent as the famed pizzas. The noise level is high, but who cares when you've got all the picky eaters' choices covered-everything from plain cheese to a Thai chicken salad. The kids' menu will occupy the little ones for a solid half hour. 1690 Southdale Ctr., Edina, 952-924-3000; 12489 Elm Creek Blvd., Maple Grove, 763-424-4890, cpk.com 

Highland Grill
This Highland hangout is famous for inventive breakfasts, but re-imagined diner fare is served all day. The bright, colorful room gives the tots a lot to look at, and the grill has siblings in Edina and Minneapolis. 771 Cleveland Ave. S., St. Paul, 651-690-1173, highlandgrill.com

Tejas
When the whole family wants to step out, this Southwestern spot is a good pick. Its warm environment and sophisticated cuisine suit grown-ups, there's a separate children's menu, and the under-twelve set eats free before 6 p.m. 3910 W. 50th St., Edina, 952-926-0800, tejasrestaurant.com

Zumbro
This little Linden Hills café is family central all weekend. Adults dig the breakfast and lunch specialties as well as the tolerant clientele, while kids get extra attention from the indulgent servers. 2803 W. 43rd St., Mpls., 612-920-3606