Stomping Grounds: One of my favorite toddler-friendly restaurant spaces in Houston
Imagine arriving at a place that has an enclosed green space with multiple dining options that offer indoor and outdoor seating. That place exists!
Enclosed green space with various dining options
Imagine arriving at a place that has an enclosed green space with multiple dining options that offer indoor and outdoor seating. That place exists!
A few months ago Diego and I were invited to hang out with some friends at Stomping Grounds and it has become my recent favorite spot for family outings. Located in Garden Oaks, Stomping Grounds, this enclosed green space offers multiple dining options and is a haven for parents seeking to have a meal while their little ones run wild.
Spacious Seating
With an array of seating options such as picnic tables, lounge areas, benches, and patio furniture, Stomping Grounds ensures there's a perfect spot for every family. The diverse seating choices cater to various preferences, making it easy for parents to find a comfortable dining setting.
Play Area or Outdoor Space
The big green play area is a highlight, where children can get the wiggles out within the enclosed space. Parents can relax knowing the area is gated with pretty heavy steel doors but, it's advisable to keep an eye on the kiddos, especially during busier times when older kids join the fun. They are ruthless.
Kid-Friendly Menu
Every restaurant in the area boasts a kid-friendly menu, ranging from pizza to Mexican food. Our personal favorite, Luloos, offers a delightful small burger and fries combo for the little one and various burgers, sandwiches, salads and side dishes perfect for both kids and adults.
Cleanliness
The space is well-maintained space with strategically placed trash cans ensuring a clean and inviting environment for families. Outdoor seating areas are routinely cleaned, making it a comfortable space for families to enjoy a meal.
Quick Service
Restaurants at Stomping Grounds offer counter service and let you place your orders at the restaurant of your choice and will either bring your food out, text you when your order is ready, or announce your order through the loudspeaker. The speedy service allows parents to savor their meals without a lengthy wait, making it a win-win for everyone. It also means you don't have to wait for your meal in the restaurant.
Noise Level
While the noise level depends on the number of kids running around, the overall atmosphere tends to be pretty chill. Evenings, especially on weekends, might get a bit lively, but the kiddos running around laughing and playing tell you it's a family-friendly ambiance. We usually take our kiddo here after school and he gets 1-2 hours of chill play before older kids start arriving.
Restrooms
Toddler parents know how important access to clean restrooms is. Luckily, Stomping Grounds has a few options for you. I've personally used the restrooms at Luloos and Fat Cat Creamery and have been good enough for our toddler. I really wish there were family restrooms equipped to handle... families, but we haven't come across those.
Take a look for yourself!
My favorites
- LuLoo's Day & Night has some of the best fries and options for everyone. If we want my kiddo to eat, we go here
- Fat Cat Creamery has some awesome ice cream flavors. Most times it's our ticket home, though we have been suckered into an ice cream before the meal a few times. While delicious, don't get your toddler the pops. They will melt, stain, and get everywhere except your kid's mouth.
- Bollo Woodfired Pizza is a safe bet if you want some pizza to share with your family and friends!
Final thoughts
Stomping Grounds has proven to be a haven for families seeking a perfect blend of delicious dining and toddler-friendly fun. As parents, we appreciate the amenities, diverse seating options, and overall warm atmosphere that make it an ideal spot for kids to run around and for parents to get a meal in.