There are still a few weeks left before school starts for most of Houston on August 25, and in that interum, parents will be getting in as much time as possible with their little bundles of joy--assuming they aren't already itching to hand them off to teachers the first moment they can.

While soaking up the last several weeks of summer vacation, why not head out and have a fun family meal with the whole gang in tow? Though Houston made national news last year for La Fisheria's announcement that children would be banned after 7 p.m., local restaurants are mostly very family friendly.

And if you want to eat out without fear of a screaming child ruining your lovely evening? Well, consider this a guide to where NOT to go.

10. Pizaro's Pizza Napoletana Because it's a family-run place, Pizaro's is welcoming to folks of all ages. You'll often find owner Bill Hutchinson or one of his sons manning the wood-burning oven at the front of the restaurant, and kids will love to watch the pizza dough being rolled, tossed and then fired. If they're lucky, one of the pizza-makers might even through a ball of dough their way. And what kid doesn't like a fresh, crisp pizza?

9. Cottonwood Though it's first and foremost a bar, Cottonwood before dark is a veritable playground for children and canines alike. With giant Jenga and bocce ball, kids can stay entertained on the large outdoor patio, while mom and dad drink a bucket of beer enjoy some of Houston's best burgers and fries. Wee ones will enjoy chowing down on the "plain Jane burger" and chicken fried steak bites, while adults come for the craft beer selection and laid-back, relaxed vibe.

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