While most parents can wax poetic on the fun parts of being a parent, from the sweet kid art that adorns your fridge, impromptu dance parties, and all that jazz, there are moments when cooking just isn’t in the cards  (or maybe you’re just done with the cooking complaints). That’s when you can hit up these Toronto restaurants that will hook your mini-me up with free meals.

Barque Smokehouse

A favourite for parents and kids, Barque Smokehouse is Roncesvalle’s local for and ridiculously good barbecue. Their family-style atmosphere is fun and allows guests to really relax after a long day. The menu, a little different than those of southern barbecue, is composed of refined smokehouse dishes that are fit for the whole family.  On Mondays, kids 12 and under  eat fore free (with the purchase of one entrée and can choose one main — chicken fingers, beef brisket, chopped BBQ port, baby back ribs or grilled cheese (no crusts, of course!) a scrumptious side including shoestring fries and Mac and cheese and a drink to wash it all the yumminess down.

McSorley’s Wonderful Saloon & Grill

On Wednesdays from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. your kiddos can dine and dash at McSorley’s (with the purchase of an adult entrée and drink). Not only can they chose from delicious dishes like fish n chips and beef tacos, they’ll also be treated to a magical night courtesy of Nicholas Silva, who puts on a spectacular magic show that will be sure to mesmerize your little ones while they eat — no iPad needed.

The Old Mill

Weekends usually whirl by in a blur as you dash your kids from one extracurricular gig to the next. But here’s a breather: if your little ones are aged three or under, they can chow down at Old Mill’s weekend buffet brunch or dinner for absolutely nada. And hey, even if your brood is a bit older (between four and eleven), there’s still a silver lining — they’ll dig into the same spread for a reduced rate of just $25 during brunch or dinner.