Did you know that according to survey studies that 80% of Americans don't know what they are having for dinner when 4pm rolls around?

Here is a list of some of the restaurants I've found that make it easy for a family to eat out at dinner time in this tough economy.

Captain D's Seafood Kitchen invites kids to eat their fishies for free on Thursdays; families receive two free children's meals with any adult entree purchase at regular price, dine-in only.

Locally owned Culpeppers lets kids under 12 eat free every Monday evening, with the purchase of an adult entree, burger, or sandwich.

The Pasta House Co., offers kids a free meal every Sunday with the purchase of an adult entree.

A few pub-style venues wants you and your kids too - Family Night happens every Tuesday at Creve Coeur's The Gas House Grill, and children (10 & under) eat free with an adult purchase. Growlers Pub lets kids eat free every Sunday night.

Steak 'n Shake - Kids eat free all day on Saturdays and Sundays. Get one kids meal free with each $8 order. Dine in only.

Kids eat free every Sunday at Dickey's Barbecue Pit, and folks scream for soft-serve ice-cream at Dickey's because it's always free!

Olga's Kitchen- Delicious food and kids eat free everyday.

Sweet Tomatoes only treats kids under four. The buffet-style restaurant often hosts special freebie events, like Pajama Day, which is held a few times a year and offers free brunch to kids 12 and under who are dressed in their jammies.

Hu Hut - Kids under 3 eat FREE everyday. Kids 4-10 can dine for $4.49.

Smokey Bones - Kids 12 & Under eat free on Mondays from 5-7p

Locos Grill & Pub - Kids eat free Monday thru Thursday, all day. One child per paying adult.