When it comes to dining out with the family in St. Louis, finding a restaurant that caters to everyone’s taste buds can be a challenge. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of the top family-friendly restaurants in the area that are sure to satisfy both kids and adults. From food truck parks to classic diners, St. Louis has something for everyone.
9 Mile Garden
Located in Affton, 9 Mile Garden is the state’s first food truck park. It features a rotating selection of food trucks offering a variety of cuisines for both lunch and dinner. In addition to the delicious food, 9 Mile Garden also offers live music and outdoor movie screenings, making it a great spot for the whole family to enjoy. During the winter, the garden closes, but The Canteen, a drafthouse, remains open.
Amigos Cantina
For those craving Mexican cuisine, Amigos Cantina is a crowd-pleaser. This restaurant offers all the classic Mexican dishes, including excellent fajitas. Parents will especially enjoy the trip here because it’s known for having one of the best margarita spots in town. For a relaxing dining experience, be sure to sit on the rear patio.
Amigo Joe’s
Amigo Joe’s is not your average Mexican restaurant. Alongside its delicious shrimp dishes and margaritas, this eatery is also known for its broasted fried chicken. With a menu that combines fried chicken and tacos, it’s a win-win for the kiddos.
Baileys’ Range
Baileys’ Range is not your ordinary burger joint. Located on Shaw, this restaurant offers a unique experience where you can watch the burgers being made and the ingredients being prepared right before your eyes. With 22 flavors of ice cream and sorbet to choose from, it’s truly a feast for the senses.
Billy G’s Kirkwood
Billy G’s Kirkwood is a restaurant that stands out with its Taos Pueblo-inspired exterior. Inside, you’ll find an extensive menu that includes burgers, barbecue, pizzas, and nachos. Parents can enjoy the comfortable bar area, while the spacious terrace features attractive fire pits.
Billy G’s Finer Diner
If you thought Billy G’s was family-friendly, you have to check out Billy G’s Finer Diner. This diner takes things to the next level with over-the-top and classic breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. From dreamy shakes to craveable pancakes and smash burgers, there’s something for everyone. The colorful and eclectic atmosphere adds to the dining experience.
Blueberry Hill
Blueberry Hill is a St. Louis landmark that offers plenty of entertainment for kids. From games embedded in the tabletops to captivating decor, there’s always something to keep the little ones busy. Located on Delmar, this restaurant is a must-visit for families.
The Boathouse-Forest Park
Situated in Forest Park overlooking Post-Dispatch Lake, The Boathouse offers a picturesque setting for lunch and brunch. Kids can feed the fish and ducks while enjoying the pet-friendly sprawling patio. The menu includes favorites from well-known St. Louis eateries Cyrano’s, Hi-Pointe Drive-In, and Sugarfire Smoke House.
Burger Champ
If you’re in the mood for burgers, Burger Champ is the place to go. This Maplewood mainstay offers customizable burgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders, and even apple juice for the little ones. With a team of local culinary rock stars behind the scenes, you can expect a delicious lunch day out for you and your kiddos.
Café Manhattan
Transport yourself back to the ’50s at Café Manhattan, where kids of all ages will love the nostalgic diner memorabilia. From classic burgers with fries to thin-crust pizza and toasted ravioli, there’s a range of options to satisfy everyone’s cravings. Don’t forget to check out the penny candy!
Carl’s Drive-In
Carl’s Drive-In is a St. Louis institution known for its flat-grilled cheeseburgers and homemade root beer served in frozen mugs. Finish off your meal with a Ronnie’s Rocky Mountain, an XL version of a drumstick. With its nostalgic charm, Carl’s is a perfect spot for a family outing.
Chicken Out
Part of the Sugarfire/Hi-Pointe group, Chicken Out serves up fast-casual broasted chicken. Kids can enjoy the Lil’ Peeps chicken strip meal, while adults can indulge in the spicy fried chicken sandwich. The restaurant’s fun murals add to the overall dining experience.
Chicken Scratch
For those with little chicken nugget fanatics, Chicken Scratch offers an elevated option. With locations in Glendale and City Foundry, this eatery serves unbeatable fried and rotisserie chicken dishes that are sure to satisfy. It’s the perfect place for a family meal.
Colleen’s
Colleen’s is a spot that caters to all ages with its creative cookies and sweets, along with a variety of eggs, sandwiches, bowls, and soups. The ‘spot under the dot’ has something for everyone, including penny candy that brings back childhood memories.
The Corner Pub & Grill
The Corner Pub & Grill is known for its extensive gluten-free menu, making it a great option for families with dietary restrictions. From fish sticks to chicken rings and a wide array of side dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The convenient placement of the kids’ menu across from the side dishes is a thoughtful touch.
Crown Candy Kitchen
Crown Candy Kitchen is a St. Louis treasure that takes you back to the good old days. Known for its chocolate candy, classic sandwiches, and serves-two milkshakes and malts, this corner shop is a must-visit. Don’t leave without trying the molasses puffs or heavenly hash.
Crushed Red
While a fresh-chopped salad might not be every child’s idea of nirvana, Crushed Red offers a $8 cheese pizza that is sure to please. Kids will also enjoy the experience of ordering at the counter and having their pizza served within minutes. With multiple locations, it’s a convenient choice for families.
Cyrano’s Café
Cyrano’s Café is a go-to spot for those with a sweet tooth. Known for its fun desserts, like the legendary Cleopatra, this restaurant will satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for a burger or a thin-crust pizza, Cyrano’s has it all.
Dewey’s Pizza
At Dewey’s Pizza, kids can order their own pizza and watch as it’s tossed, topped, and baked. Meanwhile, parents can relax and enjoy a pint. With multiple locations, Dewey’s offers a fun and interactive dining experience for the whole family.
El Burro Loco
El Burro Loco is a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. The colorful décor and wide array of Mexican pop icons create a vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss the namesake mural on one of the walls, it’s sure to be a conversation starter.
Farotto’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
Known for its thin-crust pizza and toasted ravioli, Farotto’s is a legendary St. Louis pizzeria. Alongside Italian classics for grown-ups, the restaurant offers a variety of options that kids will love.
Fitz’s
Fitz’s is the place to go for root beer floats and burgers topped with Kitchen Sauce. Kids can enjoy unique menu items like the Big Bird, a float made with Fitz’s Cardinal Cream soda, while also watching sodas being bottled. With two locations, it’s a great spot for a family outing.
Five Star Burgers
Five Star Burgers prides itself on being the first to introduce custom-blended beef and a unique cooking technique. With a soda fountain that features Maine Root sodas, this restaurant offers an old-fashioned dining experience. The menu includes a variety of burgers and other American fare.
The Fountain on Locust
The Fountain on Locust is a little one’s dream restaurant. With an old-fashioned soda fountain, booths, and a menu that includes treats such as PB-and-banana sandwiches and the world’s smallest hot fudge sundae, it’s a must-visit for families. Located on Locust, this restaurant offers a charming atmosphere and delicious food.
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken is a favorite among adults for its signature spicy chicken. Kids, on the other hand, will love the less spicy chicken fingers. The kids’ menu also offers wings, legs, and grilled cheese sandwiches.
Happy Joe’s
Happy Joe’s offers a variety of pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches that are sure to keep the whole family happy. The kids’ menu includes crowd-pleasers such as oven-baked spaghetti, small traditional pizzas, and a macaroni and cheese pizza. And of course, don’t forget to indulge in some ice cream for dessert.
Hi-Pointe Drive-In
Hi-Pointe Drive-In has become a go-to spot in St. Louis for shakes and burgers. With locations in Kirkwood and The District, this restaurant offers a petite play camper at the Kirkwood location and the convenience of grabbing a beer at 4 Hands Brewing at The District location. It’s a win-win for the whole family.
Hodak’s Restaurant
Hodak’s Restaurant is a chicken lover’s paradise. Kids will love the variety on the menu, which goes beyond the standard chicken nuggets. Hot dogs, burgers, and grilled cheese are also available for the little ones. Located on Gravois, Hodak’s provides a kid-friendly dining atmosphere.
Honey Bee’s Biscuits and Good Eats
Honey Bee’s Biscuits and Good Eats started as a beloved vendor at the Kirkwood Farmers’ Market before opening a brick-and-mortar location downtown. Known for their honey-glazed, maple bacon, and chocolate chip biscuits, this eatery is a standout. The menu also includes a variety of biscuit and gravy options.
Jilly’s Cupcake Bar, Café, & Ice Cream Bar
Jilly’s Cupcake Bar is famous for its award-winning cupcakes, which have been featured on Food Network’s Cupcake Wars. Kids can enjoy regular and mini-sized cupcakes, as well as soups, salads, sandwiches, and a homemade ice cream bar inspired by cupcake flavors. Located on Delmar, Jilly’s is a sweet spot for the whole family.
Katie’s Pizza & Pasta Osteria
Katie’s Pizza & Pasta Osteria offers modern interiors, sprawling patios, and fresh ingredients. With a kids’ menu that includes 7-inch pizzas and generous portions of pasta, it’s a family-friendly restaurant. To keep the little ones entertained, Katie’s even offers balls of dough to play with. Be sure to check out their frozen pies with elevated ingredients and their Ballpark Village location, perfect for a pre-Cardinals game meal.
Kingside Diner
Kingside Diner, brought to you by the owners of Herbie’s, is a chess-themed diner that offers a unique dining experience. With a second-floor terrace boasting the best views, you can enjoy blue-plate specials, breakfast, or a double griddle burger with cheese fries. It’s a perfect spot for the whole family.
Mike Duffy’s Pub and Grill
Mike Duffy’s Pub and Grill is a classic neighborhood sports bar that offers a menu packed with sandwiches, wings, pizza, and more. With a myriad of burger varieties available on the “Burger Heaven” menu, it’s a great spot for families to enjoy a casual meal.
Mission Taco Joint
Mission Taco Joint specializes in house-made corn tortillas and authentic Mexican street food. With options like carne asada fries and brisket birria, there’s something for everyone. Parents can also enjoy handcrafted cocktails, and the Kirkwood location even has an arcade for added entertainment.
Olive + Oak
Olive + Oak is a popular Webster Groves spot that offers a changing menu of light snacks and full meals. From the perfect butterscotch pot de crème to inventive mixed drinks, there’s plenty to satisfy everyone’s cravings. The restaurant also offers a cleverly designed kids’ menu with lots of choices. For a more relaxed vibe, you can visit neighboring Perennial on Lockwood, where Mom and Dad can enjoy beer brewed on-site, and the kids can choose from the kids’ menu.
The Original Pancake House
The Original Pancake House is known for having some of the best pancakes in town. Families can enjoy a wide range of pancake options that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With locations in Ladue and Chesterfield, it’s a great spot for a pancake breakfast.
The Parkmoor
Reimagined in Webster Groves, The Parkmoor offers kids’ favorites such as burgers, grilled cheese, and 55 flavors of Sno-Balls. It’s a great place to grab a meal that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Pastaria
Pastaria is a family-oriented Italian restaurant that serves up house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and delicious gelato. With its informal “town hall” feel, it’s a great spot for a family dinner. The restaurant now takes reservations, making it even more convenient for families.
Pi Pizzeria
Pi Pizzeria offers a unique dining experience with its thick cornmeal crust pizza and thin crust options. Don’t forget to try their signature dessert, a cornmeal-crusted slice of apple “pi” a la mode. Located on Euclid, Pi Pizzeria is a great place to satisfy your pizza cravings.
P’sghetti’s Pasta and Sandwiches
At P’sghetti’s Pasta and Sandwiches, kids will have no trouble pronouncing the name of the restaurant. The family special is sure to satisfy any appetite with enough mostaccioli to last a week. Don’t forget to try their signature bread, which is good enough to fight over. Be sure to join their Kids’ Birthday eClub for special deals.
Pioneer Bakery Cafe
Pioneer Bakery Cafe is a simple yet interesting cafe that offers a menu suited for all ages. With several items geared toward children under 12, including chicken rings, egg with bacon and toast, turkey and cheese sandwich, macaroni and cheese, and grilled cheese sandwich, there’s something for everyone. Located on Kirkwood, this cafe is a great spot for a family meal.
Rock & Brews
Rock & Brews is a rock ‘n’ roll-themed restaurant that serves scratch-made American fare. With a dog-friendly conservatory that includes a play area for kids, it offers a fun and lively atmosphere. Located on Chesterfield Airport, this restaurant is worth a visit for the whole family.
Rockwell Beer Garden
Rockwell Beer Garden is located in Francis Park and offers wood-fired pizza, beer for the adults, and park playtime all in one place. With seasonal markets and festivities, it’s a great spot for a family outing. Be sure to check their social media pages for any weather-related closures.
Rooster
Rooster is a breakfast and lunch spot that offers a unique dining experience. Located on South Grand, it features a three-tiered dining room with rooster art created by a third-grade class. Alternatively, you can opt to dine on the large patio with picnic tables. With a menu that caters to all tastes, it’s a great spot for families.
Salt + Smoke BBQ
St. Louis-style barbecue is always a good idea, and Salt + Smoke BBQ offers a kids’ menu that matches the adult-friendly options. From sandwiches and burgers made for smaller hands to the heavenly white cracker mac, there’s something for everyone at this barbecue joint.
Shack
Shack is a breakfast and lunch place that has been a Reader’s Choice winner for several years. With walls where kids and parents can Sharpie their names, paper crowns for everyone to wear, and delicious food, it’s a fun spot for the whole family. Located in multiple metro area locations, it’s a convenient option.
The Soda Fountain
The Soda Fountain is the place to go for ice cream, fudge, and sprinkles galore. While enjoying griddled burgers, tuna melts, and other sandwiches, kids can indulge in a wide variety of sweet treats. Located on S. 18th, it’s a great spot for a post-wheel family meal.
Steve’s Hot Dogs
Steve’s Hot Dogs is a local favorite that offers a variety of hot dog and fries selections. With multiple locations, it’s a great place to take the family for a quick and delicious meal.
Taco Buddha
Taco Buddha is known for its chef-driven menu that features tacos, appetizers, quesadillas, and sides. With a variety of beverages, including a selection of beers, it’s a great spot for parents to enjoy a handcrafted cocktail. Don’t miss their Taco Tuesdays for discounted prices. Taco Buddha has locations in two places, Pershing and Manchester.
Three Kings Public House
Three Kings Public House offers upscale pub grub that’s perfect for the whole family. Kids can choose from a special menu that includes dishes like chicken strips, butter pasta, and grilled cheese. With multiple locations, it’s a convenient choice for families.
Woofie’s
For an old favorite, head to Woofie’s for a regular hot dog or customize your own. Adults, make sure to try a Chicago-style dog. Located on Woodson, Woofie’s is a great spot for a quick and tasty meal.
Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro
Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro, located near Faust Park, offers an upscale dining experience for the whole family. Kids will be delighted to discover the toy box at the hostess stand, where they can pick a toy before digging into their complimentary desserts. With its Euro-inspired touch of class, Ya Ya’s is perfect for a special family outing.
Please note that it’s advisable to call ahead or check social media for current service methods and hours of operation. The restaurants listed here have been chosen by our editorial staff based on their family-friendliness. We accept no advertising or other consideration in exchange for listings.
FAQs
Q: Are these restaurants suitable for all ages?
A: Yes, these family-friendly restaurants cater to diners of all ages, including children.
Q: Do these restaurants have kids’ menus?
A: Yes, most of these restaurants offer dedicated kids’ menus with options that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Q: Can I make reservations at any of these restaurants?
A: Yes, some of these restaurants accept reservations. It’s advisable to call ahead or check their websites for more information.
Q: Do these restaurants have vegetarian or gluten-free options?
A: Yes, many of these restaurants offer vegetarian and gluten-free options. They are dedicated to accommodating various dietary needs.
Conclusion
St. Louis is home to a wide range of family-friendly restaurants that offer something for everyone. From food truck parks to classic diners and Italian trattorias to barbecue joints, there’s a restaurant to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking for a casual outing or a special celebration, these family-friendly spots are sure to satisfy both kids and adults. So gather your loved ones and head out to one of these top family-friendly restaurants in St. Louis for a truly memorable dining experience.