Five Family-Friendly Restaurants in New Canaan

It's not always easy pleasing mom, dad and the kids, but these five restaurants sure help out when it comes to dining with the family. Whether you're in the mood for a burger, a pizza, or even pancakes for dinner, these family-friendly venues have got a little something for everyone.

For a bite of New Canaan's fastest food, stop by the Filling Station- a watering hole for burger, fry, and milkshake enthusiasts. While junk food is most definitely on the menu, the burger joint boasts organically raised beef and antibiotic, hormone, preservative and MSG-free food. So even if you're watching your son down a hot dog, you'll at least be comforted knowing it's nitrate free. Choose from a variety of burgers, hot dogs, or sloppy joes and watch as your order is cooked in front of your eyes. Select any combination of toppings to create your own fast food perfection.

After years of success in neighboring Ridgefield, Fifty Coins opened its' second location on Locust St. in 2008. The menu aims at pleasing everyone, with dishes that could be categorized as barbecue, American, Mexican, and Italian. The vast menu bodes well with kids and adults alike who are seeking a casual meal. The outdoor patio on the front-side of the building is perfect for an early dinner or Sunday brunch, while parents seeking some time away from the kids can relax at the bar, well-equiped with flatscreen TVs for watching a game with friends.

It's safe to say that it would be impossible not to find something you or your kids like on the menu of New Canaan Diner. The 1950's-style diner has been a welcome addition to town since it opened in late 2009, serving up everything from classic fountain drinks and homemade pies to Greek specialties and vegetarian meals. An entire page of their menu is even devoted solely to sandwiches (choose from deli sandwiches, club sandwiches, classic sandwiches, fancy sandwiches, and grinders). In true diner fashion, breakfast is served from open to close, 6 a.m.-10 p.m.

Some New Canaanites might have fond memories of Reid's dating back to the late 80's, when owner Reid Iannazzo first opened up the kitchen. Serving up breakfast favorites like french toast and omelettes all day, the unique, locally owned business attracts a regular and loyal crowd. Take a turn down the alley between Harvest Supper and The Linen Shop and grab a seat at one of the many outdoor tables, or opt for a barstool behind the counter. The homestyle kitchen is open from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. daily.

Whether you're looking for take-out or a night out, Vicolo's has got you covered. With a wide variety of pastas, pizzas, and classic Italian entrees, Vicolo also offers basics like chicken fingers for even the pickiest of kids. And for the kids who just can't sit still, Vicolo's white paper tablecloths invite tic-tac-toe players and doodlers- all the while preventing spaghetti-sauce disasters, leaving mom and dad guilt free to enjoy a fine Italian meal.