When my husband and I were first married, we rarely ate a meal at home. We were selfish DINKS (dual income, no kids) with no particular interest in cooking our own dinner, so we relied on fast food and restaurants for most of our meals. Nine years and two kids later, it’s exactly the opposite. I’ve had to learn my way around the kitchen and even how to be creative with ground beef because frankly, dining out is expensive.

If you have a family of four, or more, you know loading up the family truckster and taking everyone out to eat can be a fiscal challenge, though it sure is a nice change of pace. We’re pinching our pennies pretty hard at the Stone Casa, but there are times when I can’t help but agree with my kids when they say, “Mama, we’re tired of house food.”

While most restaurants offer menus with kid-friendly options, often for a cheaper price than adult entrees, frankly, I want more – I want FREE! Recently I called several popular Wichita restaurants to see if they offered weekly kid specials. I was pleased to find several that have great bargains for families on a serious budget. If you’re willing to visit your favorite restaurant on a particular night and be a little flexible with your time, you’re sure to find a deal.

IHOP - 4 to 10 p.m. daily – Kids eat free during the month of April.

Red Robin – On Mondays, all kids receive a free milkshake with meal purchase, plus they have a balloon artist from 5 to 8 p.m. Weeee! Balloons!

Abuelo’s – Monday is Family Night. This special includes two adult entrees, two kids entrees, an appetizer and select desserts, all for just $29.99. Each additional child is an additional $2.50.

Shorty Small’s – On Mondays, for each paid adult meal, you receive two kids’ meals. With an extensive kids’ menu and Fudgsicles for dessert, this is one of the best bargains in town.

Jason’s Deli – On Tuesdays from 5 to 10 p.m. , receive one free kids meal with each adult purchase. On this kids’ menu, you’ll find lots of options, including organic items.

Granite City – On Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 p.m. to close, receive one free kids’ meal with each adult purchase. Kids get appetizers too – carrot sticks served with ranch dressing before the meal.

Applebees - On Tuesdays and Thursdays (all day), purchase an adult meal and receive a child’s meal for only 99 cents. Applesauce and French fries are just two of the tasty sides.

Buffalo Wild Wings – On Wednesdays from 5 p.m. to close, kids 12 and under eat for 99 cents with each adult entrée purchased. Boneless wings for the baby dolls are lightly breaded with less sauce.

Jose Pepper’s – Children’s entrees are $1.99 on Wednesdays (versus regular price of $4.99). Must be 12 and under.

In researching this article, I was surprised to find so few restaurants offering discounts for kids, so please let me know if I missed any. When you load up the little tykes and have time for a sit-down meal, not just a Happy Meal, where do you like to go for good food at a reasonable price?

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