The age-old phrase” kids eat free” is magic to any parent’s ears.
Have you ever been out to dinner with your family and next thing you know you’re paying upwards of $8 for a tiny plate of mac & cheese that you’re pretty sure came from a box?
Don’t throw away your hard earned cash, keep making memories with your kids, and go easy on your budget.
Check out this list of the top budget-friendly restaurants where your kids can eat for free all summer long.
1. TGI Fridays
Bring your kids on Monday and Tuesdays for the perfect summer dinner, that’s easy on your finances.
With the purchase of any adult entree, kids eat free.
They have a menu for both little and big kids; let your children feel special choosing anything they wish on the kid’s menu.
2. IKEA
This one seems a bit weird-I know. But trust me, they have more than just ready to assemble furniture.
Their food courts are quite impressive, and kids 12 and under can eat for free all day every Tuesday.
They also offer free baby food. While most stores across the nation offer this deal, be sure to call before driving out to claim your free kid’s meal.
Plus, if you need to do some summer furniture shopping, might as well get a free meatball on the way.
3. Denny’s
Who doesn’t love breakfast for dinner during the summer months?
The classic American diner serves kids aged 10 and under free meals every Tuesday between 4 and 10 pm.
Not only does Denny’s serve yummy breakfast for dinner options, but it’s also easy on the budget! Parents only have to purchase one adult entree to receive two kids’ meals completely free.
4. Pizza Hut
This famous chain restaurant offers free meals to children dining with an entree-buying adult.
The kids’ meal from Pizza Hut has additional savings, as it typically comes with salad, ice cream, and a drink.
Delight your kids next Tuesday with a pizza night!
5. IHOP
The International House of Pancakes offers their special free-meal-deals every day from 4 to 10 pm.
For every adult entree, one child can choose from the robust kids’ menu offering items like silver dollar pancakes, french toast, and chicken and waffles.
Let your little one dress their own stack of pancakes with whipped cream and chocolate sauce for an extra special treat.
6. Chick-fil-A
The national fast-food chain famous for making signature chicken sandwiches offers a free Nuggets kids’ meal on Tuesdays from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm.
The deal comes with their famous waffle fries and a choice of a 4 or 6 piece nugget meal.
Note that not all locations offer this deal, so be sure to call ahead before loading the kids up in the car.
7. Quiznos
The giant sandwich chain gives children 12 and under a free meal every Saturday with the purchase of an adult meal.
With no time limit, take the kids for a budget-friendly lunch or dinner on Saturdays.
8. Uno’s Pizzeria & Grill
Another tasty Tuesday treat for you and the whole family!
Kids 12 and under can get a kids’ meal or a thin crust pizza with the purchase of an adult meal.
If you or your kids have a gluten allergy, you’ll be happy to know not only do they offer gluten-free crust, but it tastes great too!
9. Fuddruckers
One of America’s favorite burger joints has a kids’ meal deal every Monday from 5 to 9 pm.
Kids can enjoy a free or deeply discounted meal. While Fuddruckers is a chain, the rules of the deal may change between locations.
Call to make sure your local restaurant is participating.
10. Holiday Inn
Your kids will be surprised to eat dinner at a hotel. The hotel chains have onsite restaurants where kids eat free.
No need to be a guest in the hotel either, and for each family, up to four kids can enjoy a free meal.
11. Ruby Tuesday
This American classic serves up steaks, burgers, pasta, and so much more. Every day from 5 to close, kids can eat free.
Give your kids a taste of rock n roll history on the drive there. I’ll help start the history lesson: did you know the restaurant was named after the Rolling Stones song?
12. Applebee’s
On Monday and Tuesday, kids eat free, or for 99 cents. Let your kids chose from mini cheeseburgers, grilled cheese, chicken fingers, and more.
Be aware this deal is location dependent, so do a quick online search or give your local Applebee’s a call before heading out.
13. Steak ‘n’ Shake
No need to wait for Tuesday night to get a deal at this chain restaurant.
Enjoy free kids’ meals all weekend long with a purchase of $9 or more. Kids will be happy to choose from their fun foods like mini corn dogs, mac & cheese, grilled cheese, and more.
Make next weekend a Steak ‘n’ Shake weekend.
14. Beef ‘O’ Brady’s
This family sports pub is fun for the entire family. Parents can enjoy a meal while kids eat free every Tuesday from 4 to 8 pm.
Kids can have their chose of anything on the kids’ menu, as long as an adult entree order is placed.
15. White Castle
Kids eat free at this famous burger joint on Sundays from 4 to 8 pm with a purchase of an adult meal $4 or over.
Let your kids chose between a burger, chicken slider, or a have some fun with chicken rings. Kids can choose between applesauce or fries.
Conclusion
Summer is here; the kids are home from school, and parents are looking for new ways to keep the little ones entertained without breaking the bank.
Make this summer one to remember by checking out some of the restaurants on the list. There’s no need to put a damper on your finances this summer, take your kids on budget-friendly night out.
They won’t know the difference, and your wallet will thank you by the end of the summer.
Use these nights to bond with your loved ones and have some good quality family time-not to mention coming home to no dirty dishes from dinner!
Did we miss any of your favorite restaurants on this list, or do you have a secret gem to get a top-notch free kids’ meal? Leave us a comment and let us know!
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