From pizza places and casual pubs to delis and diners, there are plenty of budget-friendly dining options in South County. You'll also find one-of-a-kind restaurants when you're ready to treat your clan to a memorable meal.

Lobstermania

The only thing better than eating lobster on a vacation at the Rhode Island shore is eating an excessive amount of lobster! You can do just that at Nordic Lodge (178 East Pasquiset Trail, Charlestown, 401-783-4515, www.nordiclodge.com), home of the All You Can Eat Lobster Buffet featuring unlimited lobster and much more. The price is steep, although a sliding fee scale based on children's ages helps, but for the price, you're guaranteed access to a spread that is unlike anything you've ever seen. While you're there, be sure to sign the restaurant's guest book, as annual mailings include a free live-lobster-to-go offer. Nordic Lodge is open seasonally, as are many of the restaurants in this region.

If you know for certain that a fourth lobster won't tempt you, then you (and your wallet) may be better off heading to the self-proclaimed “Home of the Triple Lobster,” Duffy's Tavern (235 Tower Hill Road, Wickford, 401-295-0073). If a single lobster is adequate for your appetite — and easier on your budget — you'll find tasty crustaceans and scenic views at Harbourside Lobstermania (38 Water Street, East Greenwich, 401-884-6363, www.harboursideri.com), or do as Rhode Island diners have done for more than eighty-five years — enjoy a traditional Rhode Island Shore Dinner in a casual environment at Aunt Carrie's Seafood Restaurant (1240 Ocean Road, Narragansett, 401-783-7930, www.auntcarriesri.com).

Other Seafood Delights

Man (and woman and child) cannot live on lobster alone. Fortunately, there are many restaurants along Rhode Island's shoreline that prepare the bounty of the sea in all of its delicious variety.

In the village of Galilee, you can watch fishermen unloading the day's catch — which might just become your supper — and then dine on the outdoor deck at Champlin's Restaurant (Great Island Road, Narragansett, 401-783-3152) or overlooking Block Island Sound at George's of Galilee (250 Sand Hill Cove Road, Narragansett, 401-783-2306, www.georgesofgalilee.com), known far and wide for its chowder and fried clams.

For fish and chips made with the fresh local catch of the day, head to The Pump House (1464 Kingstown Road, Wakefield, 401-789-4944), where a diverse menu ensures the whole family will be happy.

Historic Settings

If you'd like a side of history with your meal, South County offers some unique places to dine.

The Coast Guard House, (40 Ocean Road, Narragansett, 401-789-0700, www.thecoastguardhouse.com) is known for its all-you-can-eat seaside Sunday brunches. Housed in a historic former Coast Guard lifesaving station that dates to 1888, the restaurant also serves lunch and dinner and has a small selection of children's menu choices.

Wilcox Tavern (5153 Old Post Road/Route 1, Charlestown, 401-322-1829, www.wilcoxtavern.com) serves traditional New England fare inside a 1730 house that was the birthplace of General Joseph Stanton, a member of the Colonial Congress who became Rhode Island's senator to the First Constitutional Congress. The children's menu has plenty of options for fussy eaters.

Children will also feel welcome at the Shelter Harbor Inn (10 Wagner Road, Westerly, 401-322-8883 or 800-468-8883, www.shelterharborinn.com), a lodging and dining property housed inside a farmhouse that dates to the early 1800s.