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Pizzeria Stella
Max Grudzinski

20 Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Philadelphia

Where to take the whole family out to eat

by Sarah Maiellano Updated
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Pizzeria Stella
| Max Grudzinski
by Sarah Maiellano Updated

Dining out with kids can be a challenge, but some restaurants make it easier with dedicated menus, roomy booths, and comfort food.

Pizza places are usually a safe bet — this map includes a handful of the best ones for families. Brunch spots and diners also tend to be accommodating to kids. Outdoor-oriented spots like Cherry Street Pier, Lola’s Garden, and Franklin Square usually work well. Chocolate-themed Max Brenner offers one of the most fun kids menu in town, but with an indoor playground and an on-site brewery, Craft Hall may be the coolest place for young families to spend an afternoon. A couple of new suburban spots make for extra space to move around, which may be just the ticket to enjoying a fun family meal.

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The Landing Kitchen

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Room to run makes Nick Elmi’s new suburban cafe a go-to for families. The riverside patio has room for playing and coloring with chalk, while parents enjoy the Top Chef winner’s all-day fare and drinks. Think: Grilled cheese and BBQ fries for the kids — avocado toast and sparkling rose for the parents.

617 Righters Ferry Rd, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
(484) 434-8765
(484) 434-8765
Penn Group

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Lola's Garden

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With an inviting grassy area that runs through a pedestrian-friendly shopping center, Ardmore’s Suburban Square is a popular spot for families. New this year is Lola’s Garden, from the team behind Harper’s Garden and Morgan’s Pier. Outdoor dining shines here, thanks to a big, covered al fresco section. Kids are welcome and get their own menu with cheeseburgers, hot dogs, chicken fingers, shells and cheese, and grilled cheese.

51 St Georges Rd, Ardmore, PA 19003
(484) 412-8011
(484) 412-8011

Thirsty Dice

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Take a break from screen time with the little ones for a throwback experience at Thirsty Dice, where the biggest challenge will be choosing from the selection of 800 board games to play. Kid-friendly food — including tater tots with ketchup and mac and cheese with Cheeto crumb crust — rules on this spot’s approachable menu.

1642 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130
(215) 765-2679
(215) 765-2679

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Honey's Sit 'n Eat

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Honey’s is frequently full of families. In addition to one of the best brunches in town, Honey’s offers high chairs and a kids menu with simple options like pancakes, eggs, fruit, and burgers. Fair warning: Get there early. There’s typically a wait during the height of brunch.

800 N 4th St, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 925-1150
(215) 925-1150

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Craft Hall

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With an indoor pirate ship-themed playground, freshly brewed beer from Mainstay Independent Brewing Company, and a menu full of upgraded comfort food, Craft Hall checks all the boxes for a day of family-friendly fun. Good news: Craft Hall guests can now park next door in Lot A at Rivers Casino.

901 N Delaware Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19123
(267) 297-2072
(267) 297-2072
Craft Hall [official]

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Sabrina's Cafe (multiple locations)

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While adults enjoy stuffed French toast, fluffy omelets, and thick sandwiches at Sabrina’s Art Museum or University City locations, kiddos have their own menu to peruse with options like grilled chicken, buttermilk pancakes with chocolate chips or fruit, and scrambled eggs with cheese. In the suburbs, find Sabrina’s in Wynnewood and over the bridge in Collingswood.

1804 Callowhill St, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 636-9061
(215) 636-9061

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SquareBurger

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Inside Philly’s most family-friendly park, kids go crazy for the carousel, Philly-themed mini-golf course, and playground. When they get hungry, it’s SquareBurger to the rescue. In addition to a menu full of burgers, find chicken fingers, hot dogs, waffle fries, and the signature Cake Shake, made with Tastykake Butterscotch Krimpets.

200 N 6th St, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 629-4026
(215) 629-4026

French Toast Bites

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One of Philly’s most popular vendors at events and festivals, Charisse McGill now has a permanent home for her French Toast Bites operation. The name says it all: bitesize French toast pieces that can come topped with berries, whipped cream, maple syrup, chocolate syrup, or caramel drizzle. A vegan option is available and so is French toast infused coffee. The poppable treat is available year ‘round at Cherry Street Pier and it’s also open for the summer season at Spruce Street Harbor Park.

Cherry Street Pier, 121 N Christopher Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19106
(267) 312-8339
(267) 312-8339
Kory Aversa

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Sunset Social

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The menu of burgers, dogs, and fries at University City’s Sunset Social works well for families. Half pints of ice cream and the sweeping views of Center City from this rooftop hot spot make it a good time for all. Easy parking is available in the attached garage. Bring a picnic blanket.

129 S 30th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
(267) 634-6779
(267) 634-6779

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Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant

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Iron Hill has more than a dozen area restaurants and now one in Center City. Parents get to enjoy freshly brewed beer while little ones get a beverage and two sides with every kids menu entree — for $5 or $6. There are half a dozen options for kids to choose from and as many side dishes.

1150 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
(267) 507-7365
(267) 507-7365

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Marathon Grill (multiple locations)

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Center City has two Marathon restaurants within a few blocks of each other. The broad menu is geared to please both grownups — with salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and moderately priced entrees — and littler guests. A large kids menu features upgraded takes on typical offerings, such as curly cavatappi pasta with marinara or bolognese and a hummus plate. Don’t worry: Chicken fingers, mac and cheese, and PB&J are also options.

121 S 16th St, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 569-3278
(215) 569-3278

The Bourse

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With plenty of room to spread out and a wide variety of vendors, the food hall at the Bourse works well for the whole family. Kids will especially enjoy the chicken soup spot, grilled cheese counter, pasta place, and ice cream sundae maker. It’s a perfect place to get a meal while sightseeing at Independence Mall.

111 S Independence Mall E, Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 625-0300
(215) 625-0300

Also featured in:

Max Brenner

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This international chocolate-themed restaurant has one of the biggest and most playful kids menus in town. Children can “paint” their food with ketchup, get sliders in a mini-spaceship, and share the Chocolate Mess Party: warm chocolate mud cake in a chocolate swimming pool, with whipped cream mountains, ice cream bowling balls, chocolate rocks, and toffee sauce.

1500 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 344-8150
(215) 344-8150

Miles Table (multiple locations)

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At the north end of Graduate Hospital and newly available in the BOK Building, Miles Table promises a quick, casual, cozy experience with fulfilling, fresh meals. Everything on the kids menu — chicken fingers and fries, grilled cheese and chips, and scrambled eggs with sliced apples — is under $6. Plus, breakfast is served all day.

1620 South St, Philadelphia, PA
(267) 318-7337
(267) 318-7337

Pizzeria Stella

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Just off South Street in Headhouse Square area and walkable from Independence Mall, families gather around wood-fired pizzas and gelato at this member of the Starr Restaurants group. Picky eaters will find plain pizza and the adventurous will enjoy more gourmet options, like a pie with black truffle and an egg.

420 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 320-8000
(215) 320-8000
Max Grudzinski

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Bridget Foy's

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When Bridget Foy was a newborn baby, her parents named their restaurant after her. It’s been a family-friendly joint ever since. Now, Foy, a mom herself, runs the casual South Street destination. On the menu, find kid-accessible dishes like tomato soup with grilled cheese, pizza bruschetta, and pasta.

200 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 922-1813
(215) 922-1813

Hawthornes

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Hawthornes is a go-to spot for area families, especially for brunchtime pancake specials. Kids will also enjoy tater tot apps, pierogies, muffins, and pizza (after 4 p.m.). Grown-ups appreciate the big beer list and espresso drinks in the morning.

738 S 11th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 627-3012
(215) 627-3012

Also featured in:

Sam’s Morning Glory Diner

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A stone’s throw from the Italian Market, Morning Glory is a family-friendly spot with filling diner fare. Even the pickiest kids can find something on the menu, like pancakes, bagels, biscuits, or scrambled eggs. Bonus: There’s a playground across the street.

735 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 413-3999
(215) 413-3999

Also featured in:

Slice (multiple locations)

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Kids love pizza and Slice makes it easier for parents to take their families out for a pie. The restaurant offers high chairs, kids-eat-free nights, and make-your-own pizza kits.

1180 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 463-0868
(215) 463-0868

Also featured in:

P'unk Burger

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With seven kids of their own, P'unk Burger owners Marlo and Jason Dilks opened their East Passyunk eatery with young families in mind. Kids get their burgers and shakes, but with an organic spin. P’unk supports children’s charities throughout the year, has arcade games, and offers a kids menu.

1823 Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148
(215) 468-7865
(215) 468-7865
P’unk Burger [official photo]

Also featured in:

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The Landing Kitchen

617 Righters Ferry Rd, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004

Room to run makes Nick Elmi’s new suburban cafe a go-to for families. The riverside patio has room for playing and coloring with chalk, while parents enjoy the Top Chef winner’s all-day fare and drinks. Think: Grilled cheese and BBQ fries for the kids — avocado toast and sparkling rose for the parents.

617 Righters Ferry Rd, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
(484) 434-8765
(484) 434-8765
Penn Group

Lola's Garden

51 St Georges Rd, Ardmore, PA 19003

With an inviting grassy area that runs through a pedestrian-friendly shopping center, Ardmore’s Suburban Square is a popular spot for families. New this year is Lola’s Garden, from the team behind Harper’s Garden and Morgan’s Pier. Outdoor dining shines here, thanks to a big, covered al fresco section. Kids are welcome and get their own menu with cheeseburgers, hot dogs, chicken fingers, shells and cheese, and grilled cheese.

51 St Georges Rd, Ardmore, PA 19003
(484) 412-8011
(484) 412-8011

Thirsty Dice

1642 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130

Take a break from screen time with the little ones for a throwback experience at Thirsty Dice, where the biggest challenge will be choosing from the selection of 800 board games to play. Kid-friendly food — including tater tots with ketchup and mac and cheese with Cheeto crumb crust — rules on this spot’s approachable menu.

1642 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130
(215) 765-2679
(215) 765-2679

Honey's Sit 'n Eat

800 N 4th St, Philadelphia, PA

Honey’s is frequently full of families. In addition to one of the best brunches in town, Honey’s offers high chairs and a kids menu with simple options like pancakes, eggs, fruit, and burgers. Fair warning: Get there early. There’s typically a wait during the height of brunch.

800 N 4th St, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 925-1150
(215) 925-1150

Craft Hall

901 N Delaware Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19123

With an indoor pirate ship-themed playground, freshly brewed beer from Mainstay Independent Brewing Company, and a menu full of upgraded comfort food, Craft Hall checks all the boxes for a day of family-friendly fun. Good news: Craft Hall guests can now park next door in Lot A at Rivers Casino.

901 N Delaware Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19123
(267) 297-2072
(267) 297-2072
Craft Hall [official]

Sabrina's Cafe (multiple locations)

1804 Callowhill St, Philadelphia, PA

While adults enjoy stuffed French toast, fluffy omelets, and thick sandwiches at Sabrina’s Art Museum or University City locations, kiddos have their own menu to peruse with options like grilled chicken, buttermilk pancakes with chocolate chips or fruit, and scrambled eggs with cheese. In the suburbs, find Sabrina’s in Wynnewood and over the bridge in Collingswood.

1804 Callowhill St, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 636-9061
(215) 636-9061

SquareBurger

200 N 6th St, Philadelphia, PA

Inside Philly’s most family-friendly park, kids go crazy for the carousel, Philly-themed mini-golf course, and playground. When they get hungry, it’s SquareBurger to the rescue. In addition to a menu full of burgers, find chicken fingers, hot dogs, waffle fries, and the signature Cake Shake, made with Tastykake Butterscotch Krimpets.

200 N 6th St, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 629-4026
(215) 629-4026

French Toast Bites

Cherry Street Pier, 121 N Christopher Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19106

One of Philly’s most popular vendors at events and festivals, Charisse McGill now has a permanent home for her French Toast Bites operation. The name says it all: bitesize French toast pieces that can come topped with berries, whipped cream, maple syrup, chocolate syrup, or caramel drizzle. A vegan option is available and so is French toast infused coffee. The poppable treat is available year ‘round at Cherry Street Pier and it’s also open for the summer season at Spruce Street Harbor Park.

Cherry Street Pier, 121 N Christopher Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19106
(267) 312-8339
(267) 312-8339
Kory Aversa

Sunset Social

129 S 30th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

The menu of burgers, dogs, and fries at University City’s Sunset Social works well for families. Half pints of ice cream and the sweeping views of Center City from this rooftop hot spot make it a good time for all. Easy parking is available in the attached garage. Bring a picnic blanket.

129 S 30th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
(267) 634-6779
(267) 634-6779

Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant

1150 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Iron Hill has more than a dozen area restaurants and now one in Center City. Parents get to enjoy freshly brewed beer while little ones get a beverage and two sides with every kids menu entree — for $5 or $6. There are half a dozen options for kids to choose from and as many side dishes.

1150 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
(267) 507-7365
(267) 507-7365

Marathon Grill (multiple locations)

121 S 16th St, Philadelphia, PA

Center City has two Marathon restaurants within a few blocks of each other. The broad menu is geared to please both grownups — with salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and moderately priced entrees — and littler guests. A large kids menu features upgraded takes on typical offerings, such as curly cavatappi pasta with marinara or bolognese and a hummus plate. Don’t worry: Chicken fingers, mac and cheese, and PB&J are also options.

121 S 16th St, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 569-3278
(215) 569-3278

The Bourse

111 S Independence Mall E, Philadelphia, PA 19106

With plenty of room to spread out and a wide variety of vendors, the food hall at the Bourse works well for the whole family. Kids will especially enjoy the chicken soup spot, grilled cheese counter, pasta place, and ice cream sundae maker. It’s a perfect place to get a meal while sightseeing at Independence Mall.

111 S Independence Mall E, Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 625-0300
(215) 625-0300

Max Brenner

1500 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA

This international chocolate-themed restaurant has one of the biggest and most playful kids menus in town. Children can “paint” their food with ketchup, get sliders in a mini-spaceship, and share the Chocolate Mess Party: warm chocolate mud cake in a chocolate swimming pool, with whipped cream mountains, ice cream bowling balls, chocolate rocks, and toffee sauce.

1500 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 344-8150
(215) 344-8150

Miles Table (multiple locations)

1620 South St, Philadelphia, PA

At the north end of Graduate Hospital and newly available in the BOK Building, Miles Table promises a quick, casual, cozy experience with fulfilling, fresh meals. Everything on the kids menu — chicken fingers and fries, grilled cheese and chips, and scrambled eggs with sliced apples — is under $6. Plus, breakfast is served all day.

1620 South St, Philadelphia, PA
(267) 318-7337
(267) 318-7337

Pizzeria Stella

420 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA

Just off South Street in Headhouse Square area and walkable from Independence Mall, families gather around wood-fired pizzas and gelato at this member of the Starr Restaurants group. Picky eaters will find plain pizza and the adventurous will enjoy more gourmet options, like a pie with black truffle and an egg.

420 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 320-8000
(215) 320-8000
Max Grudzinski

Related Maps

Bridget Foy's

200 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

When Bridget Foy was a newborn baby, her parents named their restaurant after her. It’s been a family-friendly joint ever since. Now, Foy, a mom herself, runs the casual South Street destination. On the menu, find kid-accessible dishes like tomato soup with grilled cheese, pizza bruschetta, and pasta.

200 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 922-1813
(215) 922-1813

Hawthornes

738 S 11th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Hawthornes is a go-to spot for area families, especially for brunchtime pancake specials. Kids will also enjoy tater tot apps, pierogies, muffins, and pizza (after 4 p.m.). Grown-ups appreciate the big beer list and espresso drinks in the morning.

738 S 11th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 627-3012
(215) 627-3012

Sam’s Morning Glory Diner

735 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA

A stone’s throw from the Italian Market, Morning Glory is a family-friendly spot with filling diner fare. Even the pickiest kids can find something on the menu, like pancakes, bagels, biscuits, or scrambled eggs. Bonus: There’s a playground across the street.

735 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 413-3999
(215) 413-3999

Slice (multiple locations)

1180 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Kids love pizza and Slice makes it easier for parents to take their families out for a pie. The restaurant offers high chairs, kids-eat-free nights, and make-your-own pizza kits.

1180 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 463-0868
(215) 463-0868

P'unk Burger

1823 Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148

With seven kids of their own, P'unk Burger owners Marlo and Jason Dilks opened their East Passyunk eatery with young families in mind. Kids get their burgers and shakes, but with an organic spin. P’unk supports children’s charities throughout the year, has arcade games, and offers a kids menu.

1823 Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148
(215) 468-7865
(215) 468-7865
P’unk Burger [official photo]

Related Maps