Children who only eat at family-friendly restaurants (Frankie & Benny's, Pizza Express) don't develop skills to handle adult restaurants. Occasional adult restaurants with children — early evening, lower-pressure — teach the skills.
When this works
Older children (5+) ready to learn restaurant behaviour. Quieter mid-range restaurants. Early dinner times (5-6pm). Brief total time (90 minutes max).
What kids learn
Quiet voices in adult environments. Patience with multi-course meals. Trying unfamiliar food. Conversation skills. Restaurant social norms.
Skip restaurants requiring exceptional behaviour or extended duration. The skill develops gradually with appropriate exposure.