Traveling with kids through O'Hare can be stressful. Finding a reliable and enjoyable place to eat before or after a flight is crucial for a smooth journey. This guide highlights 17 kid-friendly restaurants near O'Hare International Airport, catering to various tastes and budgets. We've considered factors like proximity to terminals, kid-friendly menus, atmosphere, and overall value to help you choose the perfect dining spot for your family.
Finding the Best Kid-Friendly Eats Near O'Hare: A Family Guide
Navigating a busy airport with children can be challenging, and mealtimes often become a critical juncture. The right restaurant can transform a potentially stressful experience into a pleasant part of the journey. This list focuses on establishments offering:
- Kid-Friendly Menus: Options beyond just chicken fingers and fries. Think mac and cheese, pizza, or even healthier choices.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Places that understand the unique needs of families traveling with young children. This means tolerance for noise and potential messes.
- Convenient Location: Proximity to O'Hare terminals is key, minimizing travel time with tired little ones.
- Value for Money: Balancing quality food with reasonable pricing is essential for budget-conscious travelers.
Top 17 Kid-Friendly Restaurants Near O'Hare: A Detailed Look
This list includes a mix of restaurants located both inside and outside the airport, offering a range of options to suit different needs and preferences:
Inside O'Hare:
- Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. (Terminal 1): A classic choice with a fun, nautical theme. Kids will love the shrimp and the lively atmosphere.
- Garrett Popcorn Shops (Multiple Terminals): A Chicago staple, perfect for a quick and delicious snack or treat. Their caramel corn is a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Shake Shack (Terminal 3): Famous for their delicious burgers, fries, and shakes. A reliable option for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Starbucks (Multiple Terminals): A convenient option for coffee, pastries, and light snacks. They often have kid-friendly options like juice boxes and yogurt pouches.
- Vino Volo (Multiple Terminals): While known for wine, they also offer a surprisingly good selection of kid-friendly food, making it a convenient option if you're near a gate.
Near O'Hare (within a short drive or taxi ride):
- Portillo's Hot Dogs (Multiple Locations): A Chicago institution. Their Chicago-style hot dogs are legendary, and they have other options for kids who might not be adventurous eaters.
- Lou Mitchell's Restaurant (Near O'Hare): A classic diner with a wide-ranging menu to please everyone. It's a bit further out, but well worth the trip for a truly Chicago experience.
- Giordano's (Multiple Locations): Famous for their deep-dish pizza, a Chicago must-try. Be sure to order ahead, though, as it can take time to prepare.
- The Original Pancake House (Multiple Locations): Great for breakfast or brunch, with plenty of pancake options to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
- Maggiano's Little Italy (Rosemont): Offers a family-style Italian dining experience, with generous portions and kid-friendly classics.
- Miller's Ale House (Rosemont): A casual sports bar with a surprisingly good kids' menu. Great for families who want a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Cheesecake Factory (Rosemont): Known for its vast menu and enormous portions, they have plenty to choose from for both adults and children.
- Yard House (Rosemont): While known for their extensive beer selection, they also have a varied menu with plenty of options for kids.
Hotels Near O'Hare with Kid-Friendly Restaurants:
- Hyatt Regency O'Hare: Often features on-site restaurants with kid-friendly options. Check their current offerings on their website.
- Hilton O'Hare Airport: Similar to the Hyatt, often has convenient in-hotel dining for families. Check their menu options beforehand.
Other Options (Consider location and your flight schedule):
- Local Fast-Food Chains: McDonald's, Burger King, and other chains are readily available near O'Hare, offering quick and familiar options.
- Grocery Stores: Some larger grocery stores near the airport might have a small prepared food section, offering sandwiches or salads for a simpler meal.
Tips for Dining with Kids at O'Hare
- Plan Ahead: Check restaurant hours and menus before your trip, particularly if you have specific dietary requirements.
- Make Reservations: For popular restaurants, especially during peak travel times, booking a table in advance is highly recommended.
- Pack Snacks: Bring along some familiar snacks for your kids to help tide them over between meals.
- Allow Extra Time: Factor in extra time for travel to and from restaurants, especially if you're using taxis or ride-sharing services.
- Embrace the Chaos: Traveling with kids is rarely smooth sailing, so go with the flow and don't stress about minor setbacks.
Remember to check each restaurant's website or contact them directly for their most up-to-date menus, hours, and any specific COVID-related guidelines before your visit. Bon appétit!
