Places to order at the counter with kids in Novato

A downtown Novato staple: big salads, sandwiches and tater tots with a play structure in the outdoor area and live music on weekends - dinner that doubles as an outing.

The Bay Area's better-burger chain in Novato's Hamilton Marketplace: fast counter service, mini burgers sized for kids, indoor-outdoor seating and a fountain out front that toddlers love.

Oakland's hot-chicken chainlet with a Novato-only Tuesday kids-eat-free deal, a bright, colorful room and classic video games to keep littles busy while you wait.