Kids deserve a little treat after the long, exhaustive year they’ve had. I wanted to take my oldest out to dinner on an outdoor patio before school starts. His only request? A place with crispy fish. Hamilton Walker’s had fish and chips on the kids’ menu, so we went out.
Photo by Alyssa Buckley.
We asked for (and were sat at) a table outside and served by masked staff. It felt like a nice, safe way to celebrate my kid. There’s a lot to love about the kids’ menu here including the provided crayons. The choices include meatloaf, cheeseburger, fish and chips, mac and cheese, grillled cheese, and a three ounce filet. Plus, everything comes with a kids’ drink and a scoop of ice cream for dessert.
Photo by Alyssa Buckley.
Almost every restaurant has a kids’ menu, but this one came with crayons. My kid practically squealed with joy. It has been probably two years since he’s been out to eat at a place with a coloring menu, and the novelty was exciting.
Photo by Alyssa Buckley.
My son ordered the fish and chips ($12), and he proclaimed it the best fish he’s ever had — but you don’t have to take his word for it. The fish was crispy and salted well. I thought it was great, especially with the side of fries. The piece was large, and it made a filling, delicious dinner.
Photo by Alyssa Buckley.
My son had a blend of half pineapple juice and half orange juice included in the price of his meal, and I enjoyed my favorite cocktail at Hamilton Walker’s: the Mamie Taylor ($9). Made with Cutty Sark blended scotch, lime, ginger, and soda water, this cocktail just hits. It’s fruity, boozy, and tasty.
Photo by Alyssa Buckley.
I ordered the filet mignon with a side of macaroni. I mean, when you’re with a kid, you have to get the mac. The macaroni at Hamilton Walker’s is deliciously creamy, cheesy, and topped with seasoned bread crumbs. My filet was cooked a perfect medium rare, and it was a great way to spend an evening talking with my son about the upcoming school year (and Pokémon, too).
The outdoor seating at Hamilton Walker’s is pretty plentiful, but I would suggest making a reservation and adding a note about your preference for sitting outside. The kids’ menu offers lots of options for kids, but worst case scenario, just order them a bowl of that macaroni.
Hamilton Walker’s
201 N Neil St
Champaign
W-Su 4 to 8 p.m.
Top image by Alyssa Buckley.
