Vibe: This low-key pizza eatery smells just about as delicious as it tastes. The warmth and scent of the in-restaurant wood-burning oven will keep you focused on the food the minute you walk through the door. The restaurant has a come-as-you are attitude, especially for lunchtime — a perfect stop with the kids after a morning trip to the museum or movies.
Why It’s Tot Friendly: What youngster doesn’t love cheese? And kids can eat plenty of it at Fireside, from the Four Cheese Bread appetizer ($7), the Fireside Cheese Salad (serves approximately four; $10) or — of course! — cheese pizza. Kids and parents can choose from a list of meats and veggies to create their own wood-fire baked pizza, or choose from the likes of pizzas such as Straight Pie (a not-so-ordinary cheese pizza; $10), Triple ’Roni (the truffle oil puts this one at the top of my list; $14) and Hot n’ Crumbled (a macho meat-eater’s favorite; $14).
Be Sure to Try: Top off their tanks with the Gooey Triple Chocolate Brownie ($6). Yes, it is as good as it sounds.
Good To Know: Fireside does not accept reservations, and the ever-present evening wait can be a deterrent for families. Try to visit the restaurant during the weekdays (or nights) to avoid the crowds. On another note, should you choose to sit on one of the restaurant’s quaint patios — specifically at the Plano location — avoid sitting in the outdoor area to the right of the restaurant. It’s a wind tunnel even on calm-weather days!
Best Times to Go With Kids: When the idea of another greasy pizza from a box just doesn’t work for you. Be prepared to wait during the dinner hours, especially on weekends.
