Icarus in the South End will take a night off from being uber-cool to being uber-cool AND family friendly tonight, May 14.

For the first time, the restaurant will host a night out with the kids -- with live jazz. (It doesn't hurt that the jazz is loud enough to drown out most whining, bleating and crying. And you won't be able to hear the kids either.)

Yes, Icarus actually has high chairs, general manger Rachel Schwolow tells us. But take note: it is a BYOSC situation (bring your own sippy cup).

The regular a la carte menu will be available. For the tykes who might not want Icarus's signature spicy calamari or saffron risotto, the chef will whip up a few simpler chicken and pasta dishes aimed at the smaller palates, she said.

The idea was cooked up by the wife of one of Icarus's regular jazz musicians, who has a four-month-old infant but hasn't stopped enjoying fine food or a nice night out.

Thus the idea of a nice meal without the added expense of a babysitter. If it works well, Icarus will try another in the near future.

"We're really excited about it. More and more of our guests have kids and we want to accommodate them," Schwolow said.

Here's more information; you can also make reservations, which are recommended.

Any other ideas for destinations where you can get excellent food and bring the kids? Leave a comment or e-mail me at enoonan@globe.com