EATING out with the family is a fun experience for all. Until the baby starts screaming, the toddler starts acting up and your teenager won’t put down their latest gadget. Then suddenly, a family meal turns into an embarrassing scene.

After the tears and tantrums pass, you wonder if you’ll ever eat out again.

But don’t panic – there are plenty of eating places where the staff understand how to cater for children, with friendly service, great facilities, and good menus for your little ones.

These are some of the best.

Nino’s Restaurant & Pizzeria, Bacup Road, Rawtenstall

Ninos’s creative Italian cuisine uses the finest produce with a strong emphasis on healthy living. It’s a great way to get the family eating well, with some of the freshest seafood specials. Families are made to feel very welcome, especially on big occasions, when sparklers are given out, which all the children love to watch. It’s a modern restaurant with separate bar area for the adults and high chairs for the babies. If you are not able to book, it’s worth waiting for a table, although this might be better for those with older children, who can control their hunger.

Frankie & Benny’s, LOWER AUDLEY, Blackburn

Frankie and Benny’s is always a great place to visit after the cinema or bowling because of its ideal location. It’s an Italian-American 50s-style UK chain. Children are given an activity pack to keep them entertained. High chairs and baby- changing facilities are good. The menu is as good for little ones as for the adults.

Ivy Palace, Albert Road, Colne

If you are looking for a great Chinese that has a good atmosphere, look no further than Ivy Palace. Food is reasonably priced for the portion sizes which means children can share or a smaller portion can be ordered. There’s a good atmosphere and it’s well worth visiting with teenagers who want to enjoy themselves as much as the adults on that special occasion. Little ones are catered for and can enjoy the chopstick challenge.

Molly’s, Moor Lane, Clitheroe

Busy mums, who are looking for a place to stop off after a day of shopping in Clitheroe, will be comfortable here. It’s a great little venue for a spot of lunch or a coffee. A nice, friendly cafe, it’s probably not for special occasions or romantic evenings, but it does serve good, wholesome food. The curly chips will keep little ones happy, and adults will love the cream tea. There is also a range of gluten-free products.

Harvester, Accrington Road, Hapton, Burnley

Famous around the town for their young guests’ menu choice. They can get the same freshly-cooked grills, sauces and sides as grown-ups, but in sizes that are just right for them – great for smaller appetites. For adults, there are good deals – making it an affordable visit. Highchairs and baby-changing facilities are great.

Mangiamo Ristorante, Bolton Road, Darwen

If you are blessed with a large family, Mangiamo is a good restaurant for catering to your needs. Group bookings are welcomed and usually there’s some entertainment to keep you all occupied. The restaurant has a pleasant atmosphere and is friendly, offering high chairs and a good children’s menu.

Healy’s At Lily Mae’s, King Street, Accrington

A great, family-friendly venue with a good atmosphere offering contemporary British dishes. It’s often described as the town’s best kept secret, although it is very well-established. The restaurant is open for lunch or dinner and young families are well catered for. There are comfy seats and sofas, if you’re after a snack, or tables and high chairs for those wanting a full meal.