Heading out for a meal with kids can feel like a gamble.
Will there be space for the pram? Will the food come out in time? Is it one of those places where you feel like you have to keep shushing everyone?
At The Courthouse Hotel Smythesdale, we’ve leaned into being a spot where families can actually relax. It’s still a proper country restaurant and venue – just one that understands what it’s like to eat out with little (and not-so-little) ones in tow.
Kids Aren’t an Afterthought Here
From locals popping in after sport to bigger family catch-ups, we see families in the venue all the time – and we like it that way.
You won’t get funny looks for bringing the kids. Instead, you’ll find:
- A warm, casual atmosphere where a bit of noise is normal
- Room to move, so high chairs, prams and bags don’t feel like a puzzle
- Flexible seating so we can find a spot that suits your family – corner tables, bigger tables, or a space where kids can sit together
We know family outings aren’t always perfectly calm, and that’s alright. You’re not the first to walk in with a hungry toddler or a tired teen.
Real Food, Not “Just for Kids” Food
We don’t believe in throwing a handful of frozen options on a kids’ menu and calling it a day.
At The Courthouse, kids’ meals are treated with the same care as the main menu. That means:
- Proper, cooked-in-the-kitchen meals
- Familiar, kid-friendly options that still feel like real food
- Sensible portions so younger diners don’t get overwhelmed
Got a picky eater? Just let the team know. Where we can, we’re happy to:
- Keep toppings simple
- Put sauces on the side
- Adjust small things to help keep the peace at the table
The goal is simple: you eat well, they eat well, everyone leaves happy.
Timing That Fits Around Bedtime
When you’ve got kids with you, timing is everything.
We keep an eye on:
- Getting drinks and kids’ meals out promptly, especially at earlier sittings
- Making sure families aren’t left waiting ages for food
- Helping you move things along if you mention you’re on a schedule
You can book ahead for an early dinner, pop in for a casual lunch, or message/call us if you’re bringing a bigger group so we can be ready.
Sometimes you want to linger, sometimes you need to be home by a certain time – we get both.
Birthdays, Family Dinners and “Everyone’s in Town” Moments
When the whole crew is around – grandparents, cousins, friends – trying to host at home can become a lot.
The Courthouse is set up for:
- Family birthdays and small celebrations
- Long lunches that stretch into the afternoon
- “Everyone’s back in town” get-togethers
We can help you:
- Reserve an area that works for your group
- Suggest food options that share well across the table
- Make things feel a bit special without turning it into a big formal event
You focus on catching up and taking photos; we’ll worry about the plates, glasses and clean-up.
A Team That Knows Families Are the Regulars
Our staff are used to:
- Grabbing extra napkins when needed
- Helping move chairs and high chairs around
- Answering “What’s that?” questions from curious kids
- Being patient when ordering takes a little longer
We know that if the kids have a good experience, you’re far more likely to enjoy yourself too. That matters to us.
Your Local Spot for Easy Family Meals
If you’ve been putting off eating out because it just feels too hard with the kids, consider this your sign to give it another go.
At The Courthouse Hotel Smythesdale, you’ll find:
- A relaxed, family-friendly venue
- Real, satisfying food for all ages
- Space, warmth and staff who genuinely don’t mind the chaos that comes with a family table
📍 The Courthouse Hotel Smythesdale
🍽️ Family-friendly lunch and dinner (open 7 days a week, 11:30AM – late)
👨👩👧👦 Kids welcome, always
