Family Fun on the Denton Square

We live in Denton and we love it. The Denton Square and the area just east of the Square has really been growing lately. The A-train has arrived, new restaurants are opening all the time, and the vibe is very cool.

A recent Friday night found us wanting to get out of the house, but not sure where to go. When you have six kids under the age of 10 you have to carefully consider where you go for dinner and entertainment. Add to that the absurd heat and you might find your options limited.

We first tried to go to Rooster’s Roadhouse or Fuzzy’s Tacos, but both proved too crowded for our family. So we headed up Hickory Street to find food. We went to Sweetwater Grill and Tavern. I wasn’t sure this would be a good place for our family, but it was great! We sat in the covered patio area at a picnic table that easily fit our family. The patio area is enclosed and they have fans, so we didn’t feel too uncomfortable in the heat. The great thing about the patio is that it is noisy and busy, so we didn’t have to worry about our kids being too loud or bothering other patrons (not that we let them yell and scream of course). I had the Sliced Grilled Beef Tenderloin sandwich with chips. It is delicious. The beef is tender and flavorful and the bread is sourdough bread from Ravelin Bakery, a local bakery. Their homemade potato chips are wonderful too. Fresh, crisp and just the right touch of salt. I may have had the chips as an appetizer and with my sandwich, but I’m not telling. They have several options for kids too, but drinks are not included with the meals. Still, the whole family was satisfied with our food. Patio seating is first-come, first-serve. After dinner we were not quite ready to head home. And if you’re on the square it is mandatory that you go to Beth Marie’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream anyway. So we walked up the street and claimed a couple of tables. Beth Marie’s is very popular, so there is almost always a line. However, they get you served quickly. All the ice cream is homemade and they have tons of flavors. My kids love cotton candy and bubble gum the most. Husband and I love Turtle Torture, a divine mix of caramel, nuts, chocolate covered caramel and vanilla ice cream. So good. I also love the chocolate chip, big pieces of chocolate in it. After dessert it was time to head home. If we were sans kids we would have stayed to listen to the music being played on the Courthouse lawn and gone to Recycled Books. We’ll definitely have a date night on the Square soon.