Finding a restaurant that caters to both adults and children can be a challenge. But Los Angeles, a city known for its diversity and vibrancy, offers a plethora of kid-friendly options, ensuring a delightful dining experience for the whole family. This comprehensive guide highlights 27 top-notch establishments, categorized for your convenience, ensuring you find the perfect spot for your next family outing. We’ve considered factors like atmosphere, menu options, kid-specific amenities, and overall value.
Casual & Fun: Perfect for Picky Eaters
These restaurants understand the realities of dining with kids – sometimes, it’s all about the familiar favorites!
1. In-N-Out Burger: A California classic, In-N-Out is a guaranteed hit with kids who love burgers and fries. The simple menu makes ordering easy, and the fresh ingredients are a plus for parents.
2. The Original Farmers Market at The Grove: This bustling market offers a wide array of kid-approved options, from pizza to tacos to ice cream. The vibrant atmosphere and outdoor seating make it a fun experience.
3. Pink's Hot Dogs: A Los Angeles institution, Pink's is known for its massive hot dogs and creative toppings. It's a fun and slightly messy experience kids will love.
4. Lemonade: This trendy spot boasts a colorful atmosphere and a menu featuring delicious, kid-friendly options like mac and cheese and grilled cheese sandwiches.
5. Shake Shack: Another popular burger chain, Shake Shack offers a fun, fast-casual atmosphere perfect for families on the go. Their delicious shakes are a major draw for kids.
6. California Pizza Kitchen (CPK): While not exclusively kid-friendly, CPK offers a wide range of pizzas and pasta dishes that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy.
Upscale Casual: A Treat for the Whole Family
These establishments offer a more refined dining experience without sacrificing kid-friendliness.
7. The Butcher's Daughter: This vegetarian restaurant offers a creative and delicious menu with plenty of kid-friendly options, including mac and cheese and fresh salads.
8. Gracias Madre: Another excellent vegetarian option, Gracias Madre offers a vibrant atmosphere and a menu that caters to both adults and children.
9. Republique: This popular French bistro offers a kid-friendly menu with classics like mac and cheese and fish and chips. The elegant ambiance creates a special occasion feel.
10. Gjelina: Known for its wood-fired pizzas and seasonal menu, Gjelina has a laid-back atmosphere that welcomes families.
11. Urth Caffé: With multiple locations across LA, Urth Caffé offers a healthy and delicious menu, including organic options for both adults and children.
Themed Restaurants: A Dining Adventure
These restaurants add an extra layer of fun with their unique themes and environments.
12. Rainforest Cafe: A classic choice, the Rainforest Cafe immerses diners in a lush, tropical setting complete with animatronic animals and sounds.
13. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament: A truly unique experience, Medieval Times offers a medieval-themed dinner and jousting tournament. Kids will love the spectacle!
14. Pirates Dinner Adventure: Another themed dinner show, Pirates Dinner Adventure is a high-energy experience with pirates, sword fighting, and delicious food.
Ethnic Cuisine: Exploring New Flavors
Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures, reflected in its diverse culinary scene. These restaurants offer a taste of global flavors in a family-friendly setting.
15. Leo's Tacos Truck: A popular choice for authentic Mexican tacos, Leo's offers fresh, flavorful food at affordable prices.
16. Grand Central Market: This historic market offers a wide variety of ethnic cuisines, from Korean to Japanese to Vietnamese. It's a great place to explore new flavors with the family.
17. Sushi Gen: While sushi might seem like an unconventional choice, Sushi Gen offers a kid-friendly menu with options like tempura and California rolls.
Sweet Treats: Ending on a High Note
No family outing is complete without a sweet treat!
18. Sprinkles Cupcakes: A must-visit for cupcake lovers, Sprinkles offers a wide variety of delicious cupcakes and other baked goods.
19. Diddy Riese: This cookie dough shop offers a fun and interactive experience, where kids can choose their own cookie dough flavors and toppings.
20. Salt & Straw: Known for its unique and creative ice cream flavors, Salt & Straw is a popular choice for families.
Breakfast & Brunch: Starting the Day Right
21. Blu Jam Cafe: This popular breakfast and brunch spot offers a wide variety of kid-friendly options, including pancakes, waffles, and French toast.
22. The Griddle Cafe: Known for its massive pancakes, The Griddle Cafe is a fun and indulgent choice for breakfast or brunch.
Quick Bites & Takeout: Convenience for Busy Families
23. Tender Greens: This healthy fast-casual restaurant offers a variety of salads, bowls, and sandwiches.
24. Sweetgreen: Another healthy fast-casual option, Sweetgreen offers customizable salads and bowls.
Unique & Special Experiences
25. The Great American Meltdown: Enjoy delicious grilled cheese sandwiches with unique and creative combinations. The atmosphere is always lively.
26. Pizzana: High-quality pizza created with attention to detail. Even picky eaters will find something to love!
27. Yard House: A great option for families who want a large selection of beers on tap, alongside a vast menu of diverse dishes.
This list represents just a fraction of the fantastic kid-friendly restaurants in Los Angeles. Remember to check restaurant websites for menus, hours, and any special accommodations they might offer for families. Happy dining!
