Finding family-friendly restaurants can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But fear not, parents of San Francisco! Bernal Heights, with its charming atmosphere and vibrant community, offers a surprising number of fantastic options perfect for dining with kids. This guide highlights 14 of the best, catering to diverse tastes and budgets. We've considered everything from high chairs and kid-friendly menus to outdoor seating and overall ambiance. Whether you're looking for a casual bite or a special occasion dinner, this list has you covered. Let's dive into the best kid-friendly restaurants Bernal Heights has to offer!
Casual Eats for the Whole Family
These spots are perfect for a relaxed meal, offering kid-friendly options without sacrificing delicious food for the adults.
1. El Rio: A Bernal Heights Institution
El Rio is a Bernal Heights staple known for its lively atmosphere, extensive beer selection (for the grown-ups!), and surprisingly kid-friendly vibe. While not explicitly a children's restaurant, the outdoor patio is spacious and accommodating, and the casual setting makes it easy to relax with little ones. They also have a good selection of vegetarian and vegan options for those with dietary restrictions.
2. Pizzaiolo: Delicious Pies and Family Fun
Pizzaiolo offers delicious wood-fired pizzas that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. While not specifically designed for kids, the spacious dining area and casual setting make it a great choice for families. Plus, who doesn't love pizza? Consider ordering a few different pizzas to cater to everyone's preferences.
3. Burma Superstar (Slightly Further Afield, But Worth It!)
Okay, this one's a bit outside the strict Bernal Heights boundaries, but it's close enough and so beloved that it deserves a mention. Burma Superstar is known for its incredible Burmese cuisine and relatively kid-friendly atmosphere. The flavorful dishes (although maybe not all of them are kid-approved) and generally lively atmosphere usually means there are other families there. Just be prepared for a potential wait.
Upscale Options for a Special Occasion
Sometimes, you need a nicer dining experience, even with kids in tow. These restaurants offer a more refined atmosphere while still being accommodating to families.
4. The Progress: A Refined but Family-Friendly Experience
The Progress is a bit more upscale, but their delicious menu and welcoming staff make it a suitable option for a family celebration. The outdoor patio can be great for kids, and the staff is generally quite patient. While not a dedicated kid's menu, many dishes are adaptable to younger palates.
5. Foreign Cinema: An Ambiance for Grown-Ups, Fun for Kids
Foreign Cinema boasts a unique ambiance with its outdoor movie screen and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. The outdoor seating area is spacious and accommodating, and the lively yet sophisticated atmosphere makes it a memorable dining experience for the whole family. However, this is on the pricier side.
Quick Bites and Casual Take-Out
Sometimes, you need something quick and easy. These places offer grab-and-go options or quick-service dining for busy families.
6. Bernal Heights Neighborhood Center Cafe: A Community Hub
This cafe within the Bernal Heights Neighborhood Center is a local favorite for its casual atmosphere and friendly service. It's a great option for a quick lunch or coffee, and often has events geared towards families.
7. La Boulangerie: Pastries and More!
La Boulangerie offers delicious pastries, sandwiches, and coffee – a perfect spot for a quick and tasty breakfast or lunch. The outdoor seating is a plus, and the simple menu makes it easy for even the pickiest eaters to find something they like.
Sweet Treats and Dessert Stops
No meal is complete without dessert! These spots offer delectable treats perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
8. The Ice Cream Bar: A Bernal Heights Classic
The Ice Cream Bar offers a wide array of delicious ice cream flavors, making it a perfect treat after a meal. Kids will love the many options!
Restaurants with Specific Kid-Friendly Features
These restaurants go above and beyond to make families feel welcome.
9. Little Skillet: Comfort Food with a Kid-Friendly Vibe
Little Skillet serves classic comfort food in a relaxed, family-friendly environment. Expect creative takes on breakfast and lunch staples.
10. Gracias Madre: Vegan Mexican Food, Family-Friendly Too
Gracias Madre offers delicious vegan Mexican food in a vibrant setting. While the cuisine is sophisticated, it's adaptable to picky eaters, and the atmosphere is casual enough for families.
11. Precita Eyes Mural Arts Center: A Unique Setting
While not strictly a restaurant, Precita Eyes often hosts events and pop-ups with food options and is located in a beautiful and visually engaging location. This is great for a more unique experience.
Further Afield, But Worth Considering
These options may be slightly outside Bernal Heights proper, but they are worth the short trip for families.
12. Rainbow Grocery: A Cooperative Market with Unexpected Delights
Rainbow Grocery isn't a restaurant per se, but their prepared foods section has a surprisingly wide range of kid-friendly options for a quick and easy meal. Plus, it's a fun experience in itself!
13. Tartine Bakery: Delicious Breads and Pastries
Tartine Bakery, a San Francisco institution, offers an array of delicious breads, pastries, and sandwiches. While it can get crowded, it's a perfect spot for a special breakfast or brunch.
14. Mission Cheese: A Fun and Unique Experience
Mission Cheese offers a selection of delicious cheese, sandwiches, and wine. While not a traditional kid-friendly restaurant, it can be a fun and unique experience for families who enjoy trying new things.
Conclusion:
Bernal Heights offers a delightful array of kid-friendly restaurants catering to various tastes and budgets. Whether you're seeking a casual bite or a more refined dining experience, this list provides a starting point for your next family outing. Remember to check restaurant websites or call ahead to confirm hours, menus, and any specific kid-friendly amenities. Enjoy your next meal out in beautiful Bernal Heights!
