Boston's Best Family Friendly Breakfast Spots

- By Lauren O'NeillWho doesn't love to indulge by going out to breakfast every once in a while? But who loves getting "the eye" from the table next to you when your kid is covered in maple syrup and the waiter annoyed over a little spilled milk? *Crickets* That's what we thought, so we put together the best Boston area places to enjoy a family-friendly breakfast. Any one of these spots is prepared to cater to your adult needs and the kids' too.

Hours: Monday – Saturday: 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Sunday: 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

I had breakfast at Johnny's recently and it was as though I was the only one without little kiddos! Johnny's staff was more than accommodating to a table of 5 kids and 2 parents sitting next to me; outfitting them with crayons, coloring place-mats, kiddie cups, booster seats - you name it they hooked it up. The decor is pretty fun to boot- 50's diner retro theme.  Johnny's is a no-brainer if you are looking for family friendly. Nothing on the menu will break the bank.  And if your kids can't sit still very long, you can call ahead to order!

Hours: 6:30a.m. - 3:00p.m. Everyday (Major Holidays Excluded)

This is one occasion we say it's OK to judge a book by its cover.  In A Pickle is just as light-hearted and carefree as their name suggests.  Serving up American Style breakfast and lunch, the menu boasts a huge variety of options and unlimited "build-your-own" choices to suit even the most finicky eaters' palate.  The owner, Tim, prides himself on the community feeling of his restaurant. Everyone is welcome - even the wee little ones.  Great from cover to cover.

Hours: Monday – Friday: 6:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Saturday: 7:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Sunday: 7:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

The Rox Diner in West Roxbury is a perfect family breakfast spot.  It's just one of those places everybody is a regular, with a nice comfy laid-back diner feel. But don't be fooled by the word "diner" the food isn't that of your typical greasy spoon. Yes you can get your regular pancakes, French toast, eggs and bacon, but they also serve up specialties like Lobster Benedict and Banana Nutella French Toast.  The Rox is an un-expected twist on the traditional American diner.

Hours: Daily 8:00a.m. - 10:00p.m.

Zaftigs has breakfast with a Jewish-style spin down pat (don't fret, they serve bacon!). They boast large cozy booths, stroller friendly table arrangements, crayons and a bucket of books for all your little ones' enjoyment.  But beware - the other Brookline families have caught on, try to get there before 10:00 a.m. if you don't want to wait in line, and be prepared to pay a little more for their not-your-average diner food breakfast (the portions will make up for it we promise)!

Now eat up and enjoy!

Lauren is a Boston area transplant trying to figure out life in the city after graduating from art school.

Read more of her pursuits on her blog,Packn' Play.