Picante! Oaxacan goodness in a setting where no one cares if your kids are freaking out. This place is always hopping, and for good reason.

On the other hand, why not line the pockets of your favorite babysitter and go out as a twosome (hint: MARGARITAS). Taqueria Picante, at Sixth and Gilman in West Berkeley, is the real deal, offering casual but absolutely delicious, fresh, authentic Mexican specialties. And it's the love-child of Chez Panisse alums, so you know the quality is top notch. 

Lunch or dinner. Party of two. Yum.