Joe's Crab Shack   

Joe's Crab Shack originated here in Houston, and its casual attitude toward decor, combined with its serious pursuit of serving the best crab in the country have made it one of the most prolific restaurant chains this side of Red Lobster. Joe's is casual and cool, with a comfortable patio that overlooks the huge "beach" playground and a lively bar that's usually filled with couples waiting their turn to pound on Joe's yummy stone crabs. Kids get a kick out of the energetic waitstaff, who often dance on the tabletops to Jimmy Buffett tunes. Joe's offers plenty of menu choices for mom and dad, while serving the basics on any kid's diet: corn dogs, burgers, chicken fingers, mac 'n' cheese, pizza and popcorn shrimp. The waitstaff is friendly and attentive, and the food is simply prepared to be full of flavor. Come early and stay late because the boat is always rockin' at Joe's. -- Amy Kerr