Chicago has plenty of dining options for everyone, so picky eaters and parents alike can find something they love. Along with an abundance of family-friendly things to do in Chicago, the city is also home to food halls, casual diners, fun themed eateries, and so much more. There’s something for diners of all ages.
Here’s a roundup of kid-friendly restaurants with tasty dishes for the whole family.
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Kid-friendly restaurants in downtown Chicago
Downtown Chicago is packed with family-friendly activities, from scenic boat cruises for teens and tweens to whimsical playgrounds where young kids can let off some steam. Here are just a few places to grab a bite to eat between adventures.
- Portillo’s serves up Chicago classics like hot dogs, Polish sausage, and Italian beef, while the quick-service style at this beloved local chain makes for easy in-and-out dining.
- Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe is a tasty brunch and lunch stop across from iconic Millennium Park.
- JoJo’s Shake Bar offers over-the-top milkshakes and desserts your kids will go nuts over, plus fun cocktails for the adults.
- The Sterling Food Hall features a little bit of everything from some of Chicago’s best restaurants, so even picky eaters will find something to love.
- Eleven City Diner is a casual spot with a retro vibe, serving diner favorites for breakfast and lunch in the South Loop.
- Beatrix serves light, healthful food in a comfortable ambiance, plus a kids menu with something for even the pickiest eaters.
Family-friendly dining at Navy Pier
Navy Pier is the ultimate kid-friendly attraction in Chicago — home to the Chicago Children’s Museum, the iconic Centennial Wheel, Pier Park filled with rides and games, and dazzling summer fireworks and winter wonderlands. But you’ll need to fuel up if you want to enjoy everything the Pier has to offer.
- Indulge in fried chicken paired with ice cream floats at Big City Chicken.
- Try the classic “cheezborger” at Billy Goat Tavern.
- Grab a cheesey slice at Frankie’s Pizza.
- Enjoy tasty barbecue dishes at Harry Caray’s Tavern.
- Get a colorful sweet treat from The Original Rainbow Cone.
Check out more places to eat at Navy Pier.
Chicago pizza places for families
Pizza is a kid-friendly favorite and Chicago-style deep dish can feed the hungriest of families.
- Keep it simple with a cheese pie from the Original Gino’s East.
- Get a local favorite like the legendary pie at Pizzeria Uno.
- If your kids crave thin crust, Home Run Inn is a classic spot.
- You can’t go wrong with Lou Malnati’s, a classic option for deep dish.
- Homeslice offers creative thin crust pies in eclectic surroundings.
- Enjoy waterfront views and artisan pizza at Roberts Pizza and Dough Company.
Chicago neighborhood restaurants for families
Feel right at home in Chicago’s welcoming neighborhoods, home to tons of family-friendly dining options.
- Kids will love everything about 2d Restaurant in Lakeview, from the mind-bending hand-drawn interior to the fried chicken and donuts on the menu.
- Let the kids eat with their hands at Chicago Empanada Mama in West Town, serving up the ultimate Puerto Rican finger food in a casual environment.
- Enjoy a laid-back brunch or dinner at Crosby’s Kitchen, located in a prime location on Southport Corridor not far from Wrigley Field.
- Parson’s Chicken and Fish in Logan Square is a spacious spot with a huge patio and picnic tables where kids can settle in to enjoy burgers and fried chicken.
Restaurants for families near The Magnificent Mile
- Aster Hall inside the 900 North Michigan Shops is a sleek food hall with tons of seating and lots of local options.
- If you’ve been shopping at Water Tower Place, head to the American Girl Place Chicago. It’s a charming place for brunch, lunch, or afternoon tea with your little one and their favorite doll.
- Kids will appreciate the playful architecture and massive menu of The Cheesecake Factory in the lower level of 875 N. Michigan Ave. (formerly the John Hancock Center).
- Harry Caray’s 7th Inning Stretch, with American comfort food staples, is right next door to the Chicago Sports Museum
- Eataly offers tons of options in a fun food hall atmosphere, including Italian classics like pizza, pasta, and gelato.
