Gather the fam and head out to one of the best family friendly restaurants in Chicago to celebrate a special occasion, create a new tradition, or simply enjoy quality time together over a shared meal.
Thanks to Chicago’s diverse dining scene, the family can make memories while digging into global flavors ranging from Indian to Greek and Filipino, plus classic American comfort food. Celebrate a family milestone at an iconic steakhouse in River North. Try Filipino fare in a warm and welcoming atmosphere in Lakeview East. Let the kids make their own pizzas in a fun spot with beach house vibes in Lincoln Park.
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Discover Chicago’s 10 best family friendly restaurants.
For elegant American cuisine in a relaxed spot — reserve a table at Daisies (Logan Square)
Daisies is where you head for seasonal, farm-fresh American cuisine in a chic venue. A recipient of a MICHELIN Green Star for sustainability in 2024, chef Joe Frillman’s seasonally inspired menu has kid-approved favorites like chicken parm sandwiches for lunch and stracci pasta with lamb sugo for dinner. Don’t skip out on the peanut butter-cookie dough-brownie gelato as you catch up with loved ones in a spacious booth in the space with exposed brick walls.
For Greek favorites at one of the best family friendly restaurants in Chicago — check out Avli on The Park (Downtown/Loop)
Avli on The Park is one of the best family friendly restaurants in Chicago located close to the Loop. The elegant space with floor-to-ceiling windows sets the stage for a family meal of Greek platters like moussaka, stuffed tomatoes and bell peppers, or smoky lamb chops. Try the baklava ice cream for dessert. Bonus points for the seasonal rooftop terrace.
For a family-owned Filipino restaurant with a bustling atmosphere — book a table at Cebu (Lakeview East)
Gather the whole family for a warm and welcoming meal at Cebu, where you’ll find modern twists on classic Filipino cuisine. Soft rattan pendant lighting, light wood, and exposed brick walls set the scene for a laid-back family meal. Kids will love the Filipino-style chicken barbeque skewers, while adults can savor the crisp-fried pork belly in the chef’s special sisig sauce. Share the flan-style cheesecake in a crisp churro cup for a sweet treat.
For American steakhouse fare at one of the best family friendly restaurants in Chicago — snag a table at Wildfire (River North)
Step into Wildfire and settle into the sophisticated dining room, with its low lighting and smartly dressed servers, where fancy chophouse fare awaits you. This neighborhood favorite is where you go to celebrate a special occasion with the family. Add a signature blue cheese or horseradish crust to your favorite cut while the kids dig into classics like mac and cheese and chicken fingers from a dedicated menu. End on a sweet note with the warm chocolate chip cookie skillet.
For stellar American cuisine in a laid-back spot — grab a table at Summer House (Lincoln Park)
Summer House has everything you’d expect from one of the best restaurants for kids in Chicago. The West Coast beach house-inspired spot is decked out with a retractable glass ceiling, an all-season courtyard, and a cookie bar for sweet treats. Catch up with family as you dig into crowd-pleasing dishes like a prime skirt steak taco platter or Hobbs pepperoni pizza. During the week, kids can craft their own pizzas tableside or with the chefs at the pizza counter.
For crowd-pleasing Mexican cuisine in a lively hotspot — make a reservation at Mercadito (River North)
Mercadito is a buzzy Mexican spot with a lively, laid-back atmosphere. A colorful mural, fun neon signs, and cozy booths make this one of the best Chicago restaurants for families. Order up some pineapple guacamole or mahi mahi ceviche to start your meal before sampling the standout chicken enchiladas and other Mexican hits kids will love. Tres leches cake awaits the crew for dessert.
For all-day breakfast and American comfort food faves — make a beeline for Little Goat (Southport)
Little Goat is where you go with the family for all-day breakfast options and American comfort food. The interior has serious retro vibes, thanks to the red-topped diner stools, mint-colored tables, and vintage decor. Explore a stellar menu of specialty pancakes, patty melt and reuben sandwiches, and hearty beef stew. Cap the meal with playful desserts like a chocolate-covered Cheez-Its sundae.
For a family friendly burger and shake destination with old-school energy — visit R J Grunt’s (Lincoln Park)
Check out R J Grunt’s, one of the best family friendly restaurants in Chicago to enjoy American family favorites and kick back in a relaxed place after a day at the nearby Lincoln Park Zoo. Cozy black vintage booths with wooden tables beg to be loaded up with burgers, triple-decker turkey clubs, and buffalo wraps. Pair your meal with classic sides like mac and cheese, sweet potato fries, and coleslaw. Finish off with hand-scooped milkshakes and root beer floats.
For Indian dishes at one of the best family friendly restaurants in Chicago — head to Thattu (Avondale)
Join the scene at Thattu, where aromatic spices from the coastline of Kerala are the inspiration for the approachable, Indian-forward menu. The industrial-chic dining room is open, light-filled, and inviting. You’re here for the Malabar chicken biriyani and Kadala curry. Meanwhile, little ones can enjoy twists on familiar favorites like tater tots with house chaat masala and spicy beet ketchup. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are an added perk.
For an all-day retreat to gather and share Mediterranean small plates — book a table at Cira (West Loop)
Head to Cira when you want to explore a Mediterranean-forward menu with all-day dining options in a refined venue. Located in the lobby of the Hoxton Hotel, the cheery space has blue velvet banquettes, an elegant bar, and private nooks for family gatherings. Come to experience made-for-sharing plates like goat cheese-stuffed dates or pistachio ravioli. Creative cocktails like the Friends and Family, made with rye, cacao, and walnut bitters, are an added plus for adults.
Sharing a meal with family is an ideal way to unwind, connect, and strengthen relationships while enjoying great food together. From Greek favorites in a family-friendly spot to a chic all-day venue with Mediterranean dips, snacks, and small plates, Chicago’s restaurants make family dining easy. Expect diverse menus, welcoming atmospheres, and something for all ages to enjoy at these top spots.
