It is just too hot to meet up at the neighborhood playground these days. Wouldn’t it be nice to grab a good cup of coffee in the a.c. and catch up with a friend at the same time? Here are some of my top picks for kid friendly coffee shops in Austin. Where the kids can hang and you may actually be able to finish a thought.

1. Cherrywood Coffeehouse-east 38th 1/2. Kid friendly and a big fenced in outdoor  area. Bring dump trucks and shovels and the kids can dig in the rocks while you grab a latte or a tasty beer on tap. The breakfast tacos are really good, and for lunch, their fish tacos are my favorite. On Sunday mornings, they often have free kids shows.

2. Ruta Maya– South Congress. It is a big open indoor space with a little play area with toys. They often have free kids shows on Sunday mornings too.

3. Mozart’s– Lake Austin Blvd. Nice deck overlooking Lake Austin. The kids can feed the ducks while you enjoy tasty coffee and fresh pastries.

4. Elixer Coffee Truck– Mueller at the Browning Hangar. They have a sandbox and toys that will entertain the kids. You can grab a sandwich next door at Short Bus Subs and then take the short walk on the trail to Mueller Lake Park. The owner’s daughter is doing storytimes under the hangar on Thursday mornings.5. Irie Bean– South Lamar. Serve organic coffee, beer & wine. Lush back patio where the kids can run around.