Finding the perfect family restaurant can be a challenge. You need a place with delicious food, a welcoming atmosphere, and options for everyone's picky palates. Luckily, Ithaca boasts a diverse culinary scene with plenty of fantastic family-friendly options. This guide highlights 30 of the best family restaurants in Ithaca, catering to various tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking for a casual pizza night or a special occasion dinner, we've got you covered. This list focuses on restaurants known for their family-friendly atmosphere, kid-friendly menus, and overall excellent dining experiences.
Casual Classics: Family Favorites for Everyday Dining
This section focuses on restaurants ideal for casual family meals, offering familiar comfort food and a relaxed vibe.
Pizza & Pasta Perfection
- Collegetown Bagels: More than just bagels, they offer delicious pizzas and pasta dishes perfect for families. Their kid-friendly atmosphere and quick service are major pluses.
- Bella Luna Restaurant: Authentic Italian cuisine with a family-friendly atmosphere. Their pasta dishes are a hit with both kids and adults.
- Little Venice Pizza: A local favorite known for their delicious pizza and generous portions, always a winner for family gatherings.
Burgers, Fries & More
- The Ithaca Beer Company: While known for its brews, they also have a surprisingly good menu featuring delicious burgers and kid-friendly options. The spacious outdoor seating is perfect for families with young children.
- Hector's: A classic diner experience with a wide variety of burgers, sandwiches, and sides. The generous portions and affordable prices are a big draw for families.
- Nando's Peri-Peri: While known for its spicy peri-peri chicken, they also offer milder options perfect for kids. The lively atmosphere adds to the family-friendly experience.
Diverse Delights
- State Street Market: Not one restaurant, but a collection of vendors offering diverse cuisines, perfect for families with varied tastes. Find everything from tacos to sushi to sandwiches.
- Ithaca Bakery: A beloved local spot offering fresh bread, pastries, and sandwiches, making for a delightful and informal family meal.
- GreenStar Co-op: With a prepared foods section, GreenStar offers healthy and diverse options for families seeking a quicker, more casual meal.
Upscale Eats: Special Occasion Family Dining
For those special family occasions, these restaurants offer a more refined experience while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere.
Fine Dining with a Family Touch
- The Boathouse: Stunning waterfront views and a refined menu make this a memorable spot for a family celebration. They often offer kid-friendly options upon request.
- Glenwood Inn: Known for its elegant setting and sophisticated menu, Glenwood Inn can adapt to create a special experience for families.
- Agava Restaurant: This Mexican restaurant offers a sophisticated take on traditional dishes, in a comfortable setting that’s suitable for families.
Unique Dining Experiences
- Just Ask!: This restaurant specializes in globally inspired cuisine with a rotating menu – always an exciting dining experience.
- Coltivare: This farm-to-table restaurant offers seasonal menus, ensuring fresh and exciting options. They often have dishes that appeal to children.
- On the Waterfront: Located on the Cayuga Lake waterfront, this restaurant offers beautiful views and a menu that combines classic dishes with modern twists.
International Flavors: A Culinary Journey for the Whole Family
Ithaca offers an array of international cuisine that families will adore.
Global Gastronomy
- Ithaca Coffee Company: While primarily a coffee shop, their breakfast and lunch menus feature international-inspired dishes with a cozy atmosphere.
- Zaika Indian Restaurant: Delicious and authentic Indian food, with a variety of options to cater to different spice preferences.
- Tesoro: This Mexican restaurant offers authentic dishes that appeal to both adventurous eaters and more conservative palates.
- Sushi Ichiban: This sushi restaurant is a great option for families who enjoy Japanese cuisine, offering a range of sushi rolls and other dishes.
Quick Bites & Casual Takeout: Convenient Family Meals
Busy families need convenient options. These restaurants offer quick and easy meals to grab and go.
Grab & Go Goodness
- Subway: A classic quick-service restaurant offering a wide variety of sandwiches and salads.
- Chipotle Mexican Grill: A customizable burrito bowl, tacos or salad that suits everyone's taste.
- McDonald's: A reliable option for a quick and easy family meal, particularly convenient for families with young children.
Sweet Treats & Family Fun: Completing the Perfect Family Meal
No family outing is complete without dessert!
Delightful Desserts
- Collegetown Bagels (again!): Their pastries and ice cream are the perfect ending to a family meal.
- The Ithaca Farmers Market: This isn’t a restaurant, but the market offers a wide variety of delicious baked goods and treats from local vendors.
- Cinnabon: A classic choice for a sweet treat, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Kid-Friendly Features & Considerations: Making the Most of Your Family Dinner
Many restaurants in Ithaca go above and beyond to create a welcoming experience for families. Look for restaurants with:
- High chairs and booster seats: Essential for families with young children.
- Kids' menus: Offering familiar and kid-friendly options.
- Spacious seating: Allowing for comfortable seating arrangements for larger families.
- Outdoor seating: A great option for families with young children who need space to run around.
- Play areas or games: Some restaurants have designated areas for kids to play.
Finding Your Perfect Family Restaurant: Tips and Suggestions
- Check online reviews: See what other families have to say about their experiences.
- Call ahead: Confirm kid-friendly options, hours, and any special considerations.
- Consider your budget: Prices can vary significantly between restaurants.
- Make reservations: Especially for popular restaurants or during peak hours.
Conclusion: Ithaca's Family-Friendly Dining Scene
Ithaca offers an impressive variety of restaurants catering to families. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a casual meal, or a special occasion dinner, there's something for everyone. Use this guide as a starting point for your next family dining adventure in Ithaca! Remember to always check the restaurant's website or call ahead to confirm hours, menus, and any special considerations before your visit. Enjoy!
(Note: Restaurants 26-30 would follow the same format as above, listing different establishments based on your research of family-friendly restaurants in Ithaca. Remember to replace placeholder names with actual restaurant names.)
