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Planning a night out with your family but craving something a little more flavour-packed than the usual pub-grub? A smokehouse BBQ dinner may be just what you need.
From the aroma of slow-cooked meats to the relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for a meal that feels both special and easygoing.
However, dining out with family, especially when kids or picky eaters are involved, can come with its own set of challenges. That’s where choosing the right spot makes all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to enjoy a stress-free, satisfying family BBQ dinner. We’ll help ensure your smokehouse experience keeps everyone happy and full, so they’re itching for another.
Ready to make your next family BBQ meal one to remember?
Going out for a family smokehouse dinner isn’t just about the food; it’s also a shared experience. At such restaurants, the range of delicious food on offer and the restaurant vibe are essential for a relaxing evening.
It’s a chance to unwind and spend quality time with your family, while also enjoying good food that appeals to all ages. Whether you’re fancying a rack of ribs to yourself, or want to share a meat platter with your sibling, there’s an abundance of choice!.
Plus, if you find a place with the right setting, you might even want to make it a family tradition! For a fun family BBQ night, book a table with us!
Not all smokehouses are the same, especially when it comes to family dining. If you’re planning a BBQ dinner for a large family, you’ll need to pick the right spot that offers great BBQ flavours and has a family-friendly atmosphere.
If you have younger kids, look for venues with spacious seating, high chairs, kids’ options, and a welcoming vibe for different ages. At Red Dog Saloon, we go beyond just great food, with a relaxed setting, attentive table service, and a diverse menu that caters to everyone, from adventurous eaters to fussy little ones.
Wanting to enjoy a casual weeknight dinner or a special family celebration? Choosing somewhere that is hospitable, friendly and fun will ensure a memorable experience.
The right ambience makes all the difference when you’re dining out with the family. A good smokehouse strikes a balance between lively and laid-back; it’s buzzing enough to be fun, but not so loud that it becomes difficult to have a conversation.
Plus, if there’s warm lighting, rustic décor, and upbeat music, it’ll create a welcoming space where both adults and kids can relax. Parents can enjoy the vibe over a drink, while little ones stay entertained in a friendly, safe setting.
It needs to be an environment that’s designed to make everyone feel at ease, with no stress, no fuss, just good food and good company.
A great smokehouse menu is all about bold flavours and variety. You can expect slow-cooked meats, including brisket, pulled pork, and ribs, alongside crowd-pleasers like burgers, Nashville wings, and loaded fries.
Our menu is crafted to suit all appetites, from BBQ purists to curious little eaters. There are hearty mains for meat lovers, kid-friendly portions, vegetarian options, and sides made for sharing.
Whether you're feeding a big family or juggling different tastes, a good smokehouse menu will offer something for everyone. It'll often be comforting and satisfying, making your family BBQ dinner simple and delicious.
When it comes to BBQ dinners for large families, choosing the right dishes is important to keep everyone happy. Perhaps you could start with shareable classics like BBQ chicken wings or mozzarella sticks, which are perfect for picking and passing.
For mains, pulled pork sandwiches, chuck burgers, and fall-off-the-bone ribs are always great choices. Plus, you can order kid-approved options and lighter sides like mac ‘n’ cheese, tater tots, and crispy fries.
Got a picky eater? No problem! Our menu makes it easy to mix and match. With excellent flavours and comforting favourites, these dishes make for an ideal family BBQ night out.
A well-rounded BBQ meal isn’t complete without the right drinks and sides. For kids, classic choices like soft drinks, milkshakes, or fruity mocktails can add fun to the experience. Meanwhile, the grown-ups can unwind with craft beers and classic cocktails.
As for sides, think beyond chips; you could go for coleslaw, chilli, onion rings, or BBQ pit beans to complement the mains. Our sides are made for sharing, and our drinks list keeps all ages happy. These thoughtful pairings can elevate your family BBQ dinner, making it unforgettable.
If you’re craving a great family BBQ meal with all the right trimmings, visit us in London (Hoxton or Soho), Nottingham, Southampton or Liverpool and explore our full range of drinks, sides, and BBQ classics.
One of the biggest concerns when dining out as a family is making sure everyone’s dietary needs are met. Whether it’s vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, or just plain picky, the right smokehouse will have suitable choices.
For instance, we offer a range of inclusive options, like veggie burgers, salads, and customisable plates, so no one feels left out. Our staff are also happy to help with allergen info and special requests, ensuring a smooth, stress-free meal. This flexibility and variety make for a safe experience for every guest at the table.
Dining out with kids can be fun, but only if you’re prepared. Consider choosing a time that avoids the dinner rush, so there's less waiting and more relaxing. And, it may be worth bringing a colouring book, or some toys to keep little ones entertained while you wait for food.
At Red Dog Saloon, our friendly staff, quick service, and kid-approved menu make families feel right at home. When dining with us, don’t be afraid to ask for highchairs, extra napkins, or custom meals.
Family outings are meant to be fun, not spent waiting for a table with restless kids in tow. Making a reservation will ensure you have a smooth, stress-free start to your evening.
Especially on weekends or during special events, smokehouses like ours can get busy. Booking ahead guarantees your group is seated comfortably and quickly. Plus, it gives you the chance to mention any special requests, like highchairs, dietary needs, or celebrations.
With some planning, your family BBQ dinner can be a relaxed, enjoyable experience from the moment you walk in. Don’t wait, reserve your table today.
Now that you know how to plan an enjoyable family BBQ dinner, are you looking for your nearest smokehouse in the UK?
At Red Dog Saloon, our menu boasts hickory-smoked meats, Nashville hot chicken, loaded burgers and cocktails. Our award-winning smokers have been imported from the USA and are built to recreate the cooking process of those original fire pits.
With locations across the UK, each saloon is slightly different, but they all offer a laid-back vibe perfect for casual dining or private parties.
If you’re looking for the ultimate BBQ experience, book your table today!