Finding a restaurant that both kids and adults will enjoy in New York City isn’t always easy. Sure, you can grab a slice of pizza or head to a fast-food chain, but sometimes you want somewhere a little more memorable.
I’ve lived in New York for more than 30 years and have taken plenty of my friends’ kids out to eat over the years.
Some restaurants are great because the food is fun, others have entertaining themes, and a few are simply places where you can relax and enjoy a meal without worrying too much about the kids being kids.
In this guide, I’m sharing 24 fun restaurants in NYC for kids, from classic diners and over-the-top desserts to interactive dining experiences and family-friendly neighborhood favorites.
I’ve included options for different budgets, ages, and appetites, so whether you’re visiting New York with toddlers, school-age kids, or teenagers, you’ll find something worth trying.
Let’s find somewhere the whole family will actually be excited to eat!
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10 Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in NYC at a Glance
Multiple Locations
1. Shake Shack
Sometimes, you just need to let the kids eat a burger and fries without turning lunch into a negotiation. That’s where Shake Shack comes in!
This NYC-born burger chain has locations all over the city, making it a convenient option when you’re sightseeing with hungry kids. The menu is simple: burgers, hot dogs, crinkle-cut fries, chicken, and thick milkshakes.
There are vegetarian options, too, including the ‘Shroom Burger.
I also like that the service is generally quick and the menu is easy for kids to navigate. You won’t get a quirky dining experience here, but you will get a reliable meal that most families can agree is a solid restaurant in NYC.
My tip: Shake Shack is a handy fallback when everyone’s hungry, and you don’t want to commit to a long sit-down meal. Check the location nearest your itinerary, since menus, seating, and opening hours can vary.
2. Alice’s Tea Cup
If your kids love fairy tales, Alice in Wonderland, or anything a little magical, Alice’s Tea Cup is a fun place to add to your NYC itinerary.
Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, this whimsical tea room is known for its playful decor, extensive tea menu, and afternoon tea service.
Think pretty teapots, scones, finger sandwiches, and sweet treats that make an ordinary meal feel like a special occasion.
It’s particularly appealing for younger children who enjoy the idea of having their own grown-up tea party. Older kids and teens who love cute cafés and afternoon tea may enjoy it, too.
My tip: Afternoon tea is more of an experience than a quick, budget-friendly lunch, so check the menu and prices before visiting. If you’re planning to go with children, confirm the current location, reservations, and tea-service options in advance.
3. Junior’s
If you want to introduce the kids to a classic New York institution, take them to Junior’s. It’s famous for its rich, creamy cheesecake, but the menu goes well beyond dessert, with diner-style favorites like burgers, sandwiches, salads, and comfort food.
The atmosphere is casual, the menu is familiar, and there’s usually something for even the pickiest eater. That makes Junior’s a useful option when you’re traveling with kids who aren’t quite ready for a more adventurous dining experience.
Of course, you can’t leave without trying the cheesecake. It’s the main reason Junior’s has become such a New York institution, and sharing a slice is a fun way to finish a family meal.
My tip: If you’re sightseeing around Times Square or visiting a Broadway show, the Times Square location is convenient. Check the current menu and hours before you go, and consider sharing dessert if the kids are already full from dinner.
4. Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
If your kids love ribs, pulled pork, and messy finger food, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que is a fun place to take them for a casual meal. It’s a popular barbecue restaurant with a lively, laid-back atmosphere that feels a little more exciting than your average family dinner.
The menu features barbecue favorites like ribs, brisket, pulled pork, chicken, and classic sides. There are options for different appetites, so adults can dig into a full barbecue platter while kids choose something simpler.
This is definitely the kind of place where nobody needs to worry about being too fancy. The atmosphere is relaxed, the food is hearty, and getting a little sauce on your fingers is practically part of the experience.
My tip: Dinosaur Bar-B-Que has had multiple locations over the years, so check its current NYC location, opening hours, and menu before making a special trip.
It’s a good choice for families who enjoy barbecue, but it may be less convenient if you’re looking for a quick meal between sightseeing stops.
5. Eataly
Traveling with kids who can never agree on what to eat? Eataly is a great option because there’s so much variety under one roof.
This Italian marketplace combines restaurants, food counters, cafés, and shops selling everything from fresh pasta and pizza to pastries and gelato. One person can grab a plate of pasta while someone else opts for pizza, a sandwich, or something sweet.
I also like that Eataly gives kids a chance to see and explore different Italian foods without committing to a formal sit-down restaurant. And, of course, gelato makes a pretty excellent incentive for getting everyone through a busy day of sightseeing!
My tip: Eataly has multiple NYC locations, including Flatiron and Downtown, and the dining options differ by location. Check the specific location’s current restaurants, menus, and hours before visiting.
It can get busy around lunchtime, so consider eating a little earlier or later if you’re bringing younger children.
6. Kith Treats
If your kids think ice cream is the perfect food group, Kith Treats is worth checking out. This dessert concept from streetwear brand Kith combines ice cream with breakfast cereal and toppings to create colorful, indulgent treats.
You can choose from signature combinations or build your own, mixing cereal, ice cream, and toppings for a dessert that’s a little different from the usual scoop in a cone.
It’s especially fun for kids who love experimenting with flavors, and it can make a nice treat after a day of sightseeing.
Of course, this is more of a quick dessert stop than a place to sit down for a full family meal. But if you’re looking for something fun and sweet, it fits the bill.
My tip: Check the current Kith Treats locations and menu before heading out, since availability and offerings can change.
If you’re visiting with younger kids, sharing a treat is an easy way to sample something without ordering too much.
Midtown Manhattan
7. Ellen’s Stardust Diner
If your kids love Broadway musicals, add Ellen’s Stardust Diner to your NYC itinerary. Located near Times Square, this retro, 1950s-style diner is famous for its singing servers, many of whom are aspiring Broadway performers.
While you eat classic diner food, including burgers, sandwiches, fries, and milkshakes, the staff perform songs from Broadway shows and popular musicals.
It’s part meal, part live entertainment, and a particularly fun experience for families visiting New York for the first time, easily making it one of the coolest restaurants in NYC.
The atmosphere is lively and often loud, so it may be a better fit for kids who enjoy music and excitement than for anyone hoping for a quiet meal. And because it’s so popular, you should expect crowds, especially during busy tourist seasons.
My tip: Check the current menu, hours, and queue or reservation policy before visiting. If you’re planning to see a Broadway show afterward, leave plenty of time for the meal so you aren’t rushing to make curtain time.
8. S’MAC East Village
If your kids could happily live on mac and cheese, S’MAC is the place to take them. This East Village restaurant specializes in macaroni and cheese, serving up all sorts of cheesy combinations in cast-iron skillets.
You can stick with classic four-cheese mac and cheese or try more adventurous combinations with ingredients like buffalo chicken, cheeseburger toppings, and vegetables.
There are also vegan and gluten-free options, which is helpful if your family has different dietary needs.
It’s a casual, no-fuss spot where the food is the main attraction. And unlike a restaurant with a complicated theme, S’MAC doesn’t require kids to enjoy anything beyond a generous helping of comfort food.
My tip: S’MAC is at 197 First Avenue in the East Village. Check the official website for the current menu and details before visiting
9. Benihana
If your kids love a little dinner-time entertainment, Benihana is a fun choice.
This Japanese steakhouse is known for teppanyaki dining, where chefs cook your meal right at the table, chopping ingredients, flipping utensils, and showing off their cooking skills along the way.
The menu includes hibachi-style steak, chicken, shrimp, seafood, and vegetables, along with sushi and other Japanese favorites. There’s also a dedicated Kabuki Kids menu for children 12 and under, making it easier to find something for younger diners.
The best part is that dinner feels like a show. Kids can watch their food being prepared in front of them, while adults get a full sit-down meal. It’s especially good for birthdays and other family celebrations.
My tip: Request a teppanyaki table when booking, since that’s the experience that makes Benihana special. The restaurant is popular for family dinners, so reservations are a good idea.
The Manhattan location is at 47 West 56th Street, convenient for Midtown sightseeing and Central Park. Check the official Benihana website for current menus and reservations.
10. John’s of Bleecker Street
You can’t visit New York City without eating pizza, and John’s of Bleecker Street is a great place to bring the kids for a classic NYC pizza experience.
This Greenwich Village institution has been serving coal-fired brick-oven pizza since 1929. The pies have a thin, crispy crust, and you can choose from classic cheese and Margherita pizzas to heartier options loaded with toppings.
The menu also includes pasta and other Italian-American favorites, so there’s something for kids who aren’t in the mood for pizza.
The restaurant has an old-school New York atmosphere, with wooden booths and plenty of character. It’s a fun place to enjoy a relaxed family meal after exploring Greenwich Village.
My tip: John’s serves whole pies rather than the quick individual slices you’ll find at many NYC pizza counters.
If you’re traveling with a small group, keep that in mind when ordering. There’s also a kids’ menu with simple options like buttered pasta, marinara pasta, and cheese ravioli.
Location: 278 Bleecker Street, Greenwich Village. Check the official website for current hours and menu details.
11. Serendipity 3
If you want to treat the kids to a seriously over-the-top dessert, head to Serendipity 3. This NYC institution has been around since 1954 and is famous for its Frrrozen Hot Chocolate, enormous sundaes, and wonderfully whimsical atmosphere.
The signature Frrrozen Hot Chocolate is essentially a rich, icy chocolate drink that feels more like dessert than a regular beverage. The menu also features extravagant sundaes, cakes, and plenty of other sweet treats.
And if the kids are hungry for more than dessert, there are burgers, mac and cheese, and other savory dishes, too.
It’s definitely more of a special-occasion restaurant than an everyday budget meal, but that’s part of the fun. If you’re visiting NYC with kids, it’s a memorable place to stop when you want to do something a little different.
My tip: Serendipity 3 has two Manhattan locations: the Upper East Side at 225 East 60th Street and Times Square at 157 West 47th Street.
The Times Square location is especially convenient if you’re sightseeing or seeing a Broadway show. Reservations are available, and I’d book ahead rather than risk a long wait. Check the official website for current menus, hours, and reservations.
12. American Girl Place New York City
If you’re traveling with a child who loves dolls, American Girl Place is much more than a toy store.
It’s an entire experience built around American Girl dolls, with shopping, a doll salon, special events, and a café where kids can even bring their favorite dolls to the table.
The café serves meals and special teatime experiences, with a little treat seat for your child’s doll. Depending on the experience you choose, you can also book doll hairstyling, themed activities, and other special events.
It’s particularly fun for younger kids who love imaginative play and want to make their favorite doll part of the day.
Of course, this isn’t a budget-friendly stop if your child decides they need a new doll and an entire wardrobe to go with it! But if American Girl is already a favorite, the experience can be a memorable part of a family trip to NYC.
My tip: American Girl Place is at 75 Rockefeller Plaza, making it easy to combine with Rockefeller Center, the LEGO Store, or other Midtown attractions.
Some café experiences and special events require reservations, so check the official American Girl New York website before visiting.
13. Cowgirl
If your kids love a little kitsch with their meal, Cowgirl is a fun place to try. This colorful West Village restaurant has a quirky Western theme, a relaxed atmosphere, and a menu full of Texas-inspired comfort food.
You can order classics like burgers, mac and cheese, barbecue ribs, corn dogs, and nachos, so even picky eaters should find something familiar. There are also Tex-Mex dishes and Southern favorites for adults who want something a little different.
The decor gives the restaurant plenty of personality without making the experience feel like a formal night out. It’s a good choice for families who want a casual meal in a neighborhood that’s also fun to explore.
My tip: Cowgirl serves weekend brunch in NYC as well as lunch and dinner, so you have options beyond the usual evening meal. It’s at 519 Hudson Street in the West Village. Check the official website for current hours and menu details before visiting.
14. Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer
If your kids love burgers and milkshakes, Black Tap is a fun place to add to your NYC itinerary. It’s known for its creative burgers and enormous CrazyShake milkshakes, which come piled high with toppings like cookies, cake, and other sweet treats.
The menu includes classic burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries, and salads, so adults can get a proper meal while the kids enjoy the over-the-top desserts.
And if you’re visiting New York with teenagers, the colorful shakes make for some pretty memorable photos, too.
This isn’t the cheapest place to grab a burger, but the novelty is part of the appeal. I’d treat it as a fun lunch or dinner stop rather than just popping in for a quick bite.
My tip: Black Tap has NYC locations in SoHo at 529 Broome Street and on West 35th Street at 45 West 35th Street. Choose whichever fits your sightseeing plans, and check the official locations page for current menus, hours, and reservations.
15. Nom Wah Tea Parlor
If you want to introduce your kids to Chinese food beyond the usual takeout, head to Nom Wah Tea Parlor in Chinatown. This historic restaurant has been around since 1920, making it one of NYC’s oldest and most beloved dim sum spots.
What I love about dim sum for families is that you can order a bunch of smaller dishes and share everything. That way, kids can try something new without committing to an entire plate of food they might not like.
At Nom Wah, you’ll find steamed pork buns, shrimp dumplings, soup dumplings, spring rolls, and other Chinese specialties. And if your kids are adventurous eaters, it’s a fun opportunity to introduce them to flavors they might not have tried before.
The restaurant itself has an old-school Chinatown atmosphere, with vintage decor that gives it plenty of character.
It’s not a themed restaurant with entertainment, but the combination of history, food, and the experience of sharing dim sum makes it a worthwhile family stop.
My tip: Order a few different dishes for the table so everyone can sample something. Nom Wah is popular, and waits are possible during busy periods.
Reservations are currently accepted for parties of three to five on Mondays through Thursdays, while parties of two are walk-in only.
Location: 13 Doyers Street, Chinatown, Manhattan. Check the official Nom Wah website for the latest menu, hours, and reservation policy.
16. Meow Parlour
If your kids love cats, Meow Parlour is a fun alternative to a traditional restaurant. This Lower East Side cat café lets visitors spend time with adoptable cats while enjoying a relaxed break from sightseeing.
It’s a particularly memorable stop for children who love animals, and it also supports cat adoption by partnering with rescue organizations. Just keep in mind that the main attraction is spending time with the cats, rather than sitting down for a full meal.
My tip: Reservations are recommended, and age restrictions apply, so check the current rules before bringing younger children. Visit the official Meow Parlour website for booking details, hours, and current visitor policies.
17. Harlem Shake
If you’re exploring Harlem with kids, Harlem Shake is a fun place to stop for burgers, fries, and milkshakes. This retro-style diner has colorful booths and a relaxed atmosphere, with a menu built around classic American comfort food.
The burgers are the main draw, but the milkshakes deserve attention, too. The signature Harlem Shake is made with ice cream and red velvet cake from a local Harlem bakery, so it’s a particularly fun treat if your kids love dessert.
You’ll also find chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, fries, and a children’s menu with options like mini burgers and chicken tenders.
What I like about this recommendation is that it’s also a chance to explore Harlem rather than sticking entirely to Midtown and downtown Manhattan. It’s casual, family-friendly, and has a strong neighborhood identity.
My tip: Visit the original Harlem location at 100 West 124th Street if you’re exploring the neighborhood, or check out the Brooklyn location if that better fits your plans.
Check the official Harlem Shake website for current hours and menu details before visiting.
18. Lexington Candy Shop
Want to show your kids what an old-school New York luncheonette looks like? Head to Lexington Candy Shop on the Upper East Side. This neighborhood institution has been around since 1925, and stepping inside feels like a little trip back in time.
The menu is full of classic diner favorites, including pancakes, French toast, burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, and milkshakes.
But the real fun is the old-fashioned soda fountain, where you can order drinks like egg creams and classic fountain sodas. It’s a great place to introduce kids to a bit of New York history without needing to turn the experience into a formal history lesson.
Lexington Candy Shop is also a practical option for families visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art or exploring Museum Mile. You can stop for breakfast, lunch, or a sweet treat before continuing your day.
My tip: Don’t let the name fool you—this is a luncheonette rather than a candy store. Breakfast is served throughout the day, so it’s a useful option if your family wants pancakes or French toast outside traditional breakfast hours.
Location: 1226 Lexington Avenue, on the corner of East 83rd Street. Check the official website for current hours and menu details before visiting.
19. Fred’s
If you’re looking for a relaxed, family-friendly brunch spot on the Upper West Side, Fred’s is worth checking out.
It’s a neighborhood restaurant with a casual atmosphere and a menu that includes breakfast favorites, burgers, sandwiches, and comfort food.
There’s an especially good reason to visit if you’ve heard of Good Enough to Eat, the longtime Upper West Side brunch institution that closed in August 2026.
Fred’s now serves many of its best-known breakfast dishes, including pancakes, cinnamon-raisin French toast, and the beloved strawberry butter. So you can still enjoy some of those classic neighborhood flavors at a nearby restaurant.
The menu also includes kid-friendly options such as pancakes, scrambled eggs, mac and cheese, grilled cheese, and chicken fingers, making it an easy choice for families with different appetites.
My tip: Fred’s is at 476 Amsterdam Avenue, near West 83rd Street. Breakfast is served on weekdays, with brunch on weekends. Check the official Fred’s website for current menus and hours before visiting.
Fun Restaurants in NYC for Kids – Brooklyn
20. Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain
If your kids love ice cream sundaes, milkshakes, and old-fashioned soda fountains, Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain is a fun place to visit.
Housed in a restored 1920s apothecary in Carroll Gardens, this charming spot feels like stepping back into another era.
The menu is all about nostalgic treats, including generously topped ice cream sundaes, milkshakes, homemade sodas, floats, and classic New York egg creams.
There are savory options, too, including sandwiches and breakfast biscuits, if you want something more substantial than dessert.
The vintage pharmacy drawers, tiled floors, and old-fashioned soda fountain give the place plenty of character. It’s a lovely stop for families who want a sweet treat somewhere a little more memorable than a standard ice cream shop.
My tip: Brooklyn Farmacy is in Carroll Gardens, so it’s best paired with a day exploring Brooklyn rather than a quick detour from Midtown Manhattan. Check the official website for the current seasonal menu and opening hours before visiting.
Location: 513 Henry Street, Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, NY.
21. Roberta’s Pizza
You can’t come to New York with kids and skip pizza! If you want something a little more memorable than grabbing a slice from a corner shop, Roberta’s is a great option.
This Brooklyn favorite pizza place is known for its wood-fired, Neapolitan-inspired pizzas, with creative toppings alongside classics like Margherita.
The menu also includes handmade pasta, vegetables, and other Italian dishes, so there’s more to choose from than pizza alone.
The original Bushwick restaurant has a relaxed, industrial-style space that feels distinctly Brooklyn. It’s a good fit for families with kids who enjoy pizza and don’t mind a lively dining room.
Just be aware that it can get noisy and busy, especially at peak meal times.
My tip: Roberta’s has more than one NYC location, so choose the one that fits your plans.
The original is at 261 Moore Street in Bushwick, Brooklyn, while the Penn District location is convenient if you’re exploring Midtown. Check the official locations page for current menus and hours.
22. The Chocolate Room
If your kids are serious chocolate lovers, The Chocolate Room in Brooklyn is worth adding to your dessert itinerary.
This cozy dessert café specializes in chocolate, with homemade ice cream, rich hot chocolate, flourless chocolate cake, cookies, and plenty of other sweet treats.
It’s a nice change from the usual ice cream chain, especially if you want somewhere to sit down and enjoy dessert together after exploring Brooklyn.
Adults can get their chocolate fix, too, so this isn’t one of those places where you’re just taking the kids for a treat!
My tip: The Chocolate Room is in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, so it’s best paired with a day exploring the neighborhood rather than a quick stop while sightseeing in Midtown.
Check the official website for the current menu and opening hours before visiting.
Location: 269 Court Street, Brooklyn, NY.
Fun Restaurants in NYC for Kids – Queens
23. Pig Beach BBQ
If your family loves barbecue, Pig Beach BBQ is a fun option for a casual meal in Queens. This lively spot specializes in smoked meats, including brisket, baby back ribs, pulled pork, and smoked turkey, along with sandwiches and classic barbecue sides.
The atmosphere is relaxed and informal, making it a good choice for families who want something a little different from the typical kid-friendly restaurant. There are plenty of options to share, so everyone can try a few different things.
My tip: Pig Beach BBQ is in Astoria, Queens, so it’s best paired with a day exploring the neighborhood rather than a stop on a typical Midtown sightseeing itinerary.
The restaurant doesn’t currently accept reservations, so check its official website for current hours and menu details before visiting.
Location: 35–37 36th Street, Astoria, Queens, NY.
24. The Thirsty Koala
For something a little different, The Thirsty Koala is an Australian-inspired restaurant in Astoria, Queens.
The menu goes beyond typical pub food, with dishes such as Australian beef pies, burgers, seafood, and classic brunch favorites. There are also familiar options for younger diners, including chicken strips and pasta.
It’s a good choice if you’re exploring Queens and want a relaxed neighborhood restaurant with plenty of variety. The menu also includes a number of gluten-free options, making it worth considering for families with dietary needs.
My tip: The Thirsty Koala is in Astoria, so plan to visit while exploring this part of Queens rather than squeezing it into a busy day of Midtown sightseeing.
Location: 35-12 Ditmars Boulevard, Astoria, Queens, NY. Check the current menu and opening hours before visiting.
Map of Fun Restaurants in NYC for Kids
FAQs About Fun Restaurants in NYC for Kids
What are the most fun restaurants in NYC for kids?
For a meal that feels like an experience, try Ellen’s Stardust Diner, where servers sing Broadway songs, or Benihana, where chefs cook right at your table. If your kids are more interested in dessert, Serendipity 3 and The Chocolate Room are fun alternatives.
Are there affordable kid-friendly restaurants in NYC?
Yes! Shake Shack is a good option for burgers and fries, while John’s of Bleecker Street and Roberta’s are worth considering for pizza.
For a casual meal, you can also look at Harlem Shake or Lexington Candy Shop. Prices vary, so check the menu before visiting.
Where can I take kids for dessert in NYC?
New York has plenty of memorable dessert spots. Serendipity 3 is famous for its Frozen Hot Chocolate,
Black Tap is known for its extravagant milkshakes, and Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain serves classic ice cream sundaes and old-fashioned soda fountain treats. The Chocolate Room is another option for families who love chocolate.
Are there restaurants in NYC where kids can do something besides eat?
Yes! Benihana offers an interactive teppanyaki dining experience, Ellen’s Stardust Diner combines a meal with live singing, and Meow Parlour gives cat lovers the chance to spend time with cats.
Check age restrictions and booking requirements before visiting Meow Parlour.
What are the best restaurants in NYC for picky eaters?
Restaurants serving familiar favorites are usually a safe bet. Shake Shack has burgers and fries, John’s of Bleecker Street and Roberta’s serve pizza, and Eataly offers a choice of Italian dishes, including pasta and pizza.
Choosing somewhere with a varied menu can make it easier to find something everyone enjoys.
Should I make reservations at kid-friendly restaurants in NYC?
It depends on the restaurant. Popular destinations, especially those offering a unique experience, can get busy during weekends and school holidays.
Check the restaurant’s official website for its current reservation policy, and book ahead when possible. For restaurants that don’t take reservations, consider arriving outside peak meal times.
Are there kid-friendly restaurants outside Manhattan?
Absolutely! Brooklyn and Queens have some great options. Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain and Roberta’s are in Brooklyn, while Pig Beach BBQ and The Thirsty Koala are in Queens.
These can be good choices if you’re exploring beyond Manhattan and want to make a meal part of your neighborhood visit.
Conclusion
Finding fun restaurants in NYC for kids doesn’t have to mean settling for fast food or choosing somewhere that only appeals to the little ones.
From watching chefs cook at Benihana to indulging in over-the-top milkshakes at Black Tap, New York has plenty of places where the whole family can enjoy the experience.
My biggest tip? Choose a restaurant that fits into your sightseeing plans. With so many great places to eat across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, there’s no need to spend half your day traveling across the city for a meal.
Whether you’re craving classic New York pizza, a memorable dessert, or an interactive dining experience, I hope this list helps you find somewhere your family will love. Happy eating!
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