Want to watch an important sporting event with a beer or glass of wine, but also need somewhere that will keep the kids entertained and contained?
The Brighton Hotel in Queensland can cater to the whole family’s needs with its relaxed outdoor space. You can enjoy a meal or drink or watch a sporting event on one of the screens in the outdoor area, while the children have plenty to keep them entertained.
The Space
A couple of roads back from the ocean, the Brighton Hotel looks like a typical Queensland hotel pub and restaurant, with a car park out the front.
But when you walk through onto the decking, you’ll find the main highlight for kids (and parents sitting nearby) is the outdoor play area, which sits on the decking.
Kids can burn off some energy and enjoy a play in the pirate-themed playground, which features two slides, a fire pole and an interactive play board. Best of all, it’s enclosed, which is ideal for parents trying to keep their little ones from venturing off.
Every Sunday, an entertainer comes down to the play area to keep the kids busy, and once a month, there’s also a petting zoo at the hotel.
For those who would rather sit away from the playground, and maybe don’t want the distractions while eating, there’s indoor seating as well as outdoor seating further away from the playground. Highchairs are available, and it’s very spacious, accessible and pram friendly.
The Kids Menu
The kids’ menu has the usual favourites, such as beef burger, chicken nuggets, fish and chips and pasta, but there’s also a healthier option of a kids’ mezze plate, with carrots, hummus, cheese and Turkish bread. It’s presented nicely for fussy eaters, and there’s a range of dietary requirements catered for across the whole menu.
On Sundays, kids eat free, and the Brighton Hotel is also part of The Pass rewards scheme.
Desserts come in the form of ice cream and a frog in the pond. Portion sizes are standard for children, if not a little on the bigger side, and the whole menu is pretty reasonable, and prices are in line with other Queensland pubs.
The Parent Factor
For parents, the Brighton Hotel works for those who want a quick coffee catch-up in the week or want to have a bigger family meal.
The full menu has the usual pub staples, as well as a variety of salads, steaks, burgers and sandwiches.
One piece of advice would be to book ahead to ensure you can get a table on the deck close to the playground.
Another thing to consider would be those cheeky birds loitering around, who might feel brave enough to swoop in for a sneaky chip.
The Magic Ingredient
This is what sets the Brighton Hotel apart from many other restaurants. Even though the playground isn’t massive, it’s helpful that it’s gated. And even better, a weekly entertainer can keep the kids occupied, playing games or making balloon animals, while you eat or drink in peace, without being too far away on the deck.
The entertainer isn’t there to fully supervise children, so parents must remain within their eyesight. But having someone there to keep the kids busy can help those who have children who get bored easily.
The Facts
Location: 196 Brighton Terrace, Brighton
Highchairs: Yes
Pram access: Yes
Wheelchair accessible: Yes
Outdoor seating: Yes
Kids’ menu: Yes
Parking: Free in the car park outside the venue
Toilets: Within the building, with an accessible toilet and change table
Bookings: Recommended, especially on weekends, but walk-ins are also welcome
Brisbane Kids Says
This is a great place to meet friends for an afternoon coffee with young kids, with the playground helping to keep them entertained. It also works well for family meet-ups or for those with little ones who want to watch a sporting event without too many distractions.
While the playground isn’t remarkably big and is perhaps more suited to younger children, older children can definitely join in and enjoy the entertainment when it’s on.
It might be worth phoning ahead or checking the website to make sure there will be entertainment before heading down there.
The Brighton Hotel is located at 196 Brighton Terrace, Brighton, QLD 4017. Visit their website or phone 07 3051 7646 for more information.
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