As someone visiting NYC, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with the number of options available. When you’re searching for kid-friendly restaurants in Times Square or fun places to eat in Manhattan, it’s hard to figure out which one is best for you.
October 23, 2023
So you decided to take the kids to NYC, and now you’re looking for a kid-friendly restaurant in Manhattan? Well … don’t worry. New York City is a great place to visit with kids, and there are so many options. As someone visiting NYC, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with the number of options available. When you’re searching for kid-friendly restaurants in Times Square or fun places to eat in Manhattan, it’s hard to figure out which one is best for you. Not all are in areas travelers visit; there is no guarantee it is truly good. And when you do find a list, how do you know it's in an area you want to visit as a traveler? We know travelers are searching for a place with good food is near your hotel or the activities you’re doing during the day, which is exactly why we put this list together.
If this is your first time reading our blog, here’s our introduction. We are a team of NYC-based trip consultants who share our knowledge to help travelers discover the NY experiences they want. We use our shared knowledge, connections, and network to give our customers the same experience our friends and family receive when they visit.
This list is curated for people looking for great places to eat in NYC when visiting with kids. We’ve selected the best restaurants in the major tourist areas to cut down on the work you need to do. … Yes … You’re welcome.
Ok, on to the list ...
Step into a world of enchantment at this charming café, a cherished destination for high tea lovers. It's a perfect spot to create beautiful memories with your kids. With three locations in NYC, including the Brooklyn-based Alice’s To Go, this delightful establishment offers a "Menu for the Small" filled with delightful treats like peanut butter and jelly, cookies and milk, and sliced apples with peanut butter or Nutella. The delightful "Wee Tea" package includes a pot of tea or any beverage, one scrumptious scone, a selection from the children's menu, and a delectable dark chocolate mousse.
Situated within the newly relocated American Girl store at Rockefeller Center, this place is a haven for all American Girl enthusiasts. The store boasts a beloved cafe that serves a delightful array of brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner options. However, the true highlight lies in the magical opportunity for young ones to share the fun with their beloved dolls. The restaurant goes above and beyond by offering clip-on highchairs and complete place settings for each doll accompanying the guests. Additionally, the restaurant has extra dolls on hand for those without a doll, ensuring that every child can experience the joy of this enchanting setting.
Step into the eerie realm of Halloween at this spine-chilling East Village gem. Embracing the spirit of fright, it's an ideal haunt for kids and teens who revel in the eerie and macabre (recommended for ages 10 and up). The interior is adorned with captivating movie memorabilia, drawing inspiration from classic films like Edward Scissorhands and The Nightmare Before Christmas. Delight in a themed menu featuring spooktacular options such as the "Edward Burger Hands," "Cheshire Mac & Cheese," and "Poison Berry Lemon Bars." To add to the haunting experience, be prepared to encounter Beetle Juice himself wandering about as you dine.
A beloved haunt for traveling families, this iconic American restaurant on the Upper East Side has been delighting patrons for over 70 years. Their extensive menu caters to all tastes, featuring mouthwatering options like juicy hamburgers, footlong hot dogs with thick-cut fries, comforting country meatloaf, an assortment of four delightful pastas, and a delectable chicken pot pie.
Yet, the show's true star lies in its heavenly desserts, particularly the world-famous frozen hot chocolate from Serendipity. Indulge in this sweet delight, available in classic plain or elevated with salted caramel, mint chocolate, and white chocolate flavors. Another nostalgic treat awaits in the form of oversized sundaes, reminiscent of a bygone era when a night out meant gathering at a charming drugstore soda fountain. With its timeless appeal and delectable offerings, this restaurant is a true treasure for families exploring the city.
The Sugar Factory, a delightful candy-themed restaurant that recently found a new home in New York City's Times Square, debuted on June 3rd, 2023. This enchanting eatery caters to both kids and adults, offering a tantalizing fusion of treats and a classic American brasserie menu, ensuring there's something for everyone to savor. Prepare to be mesmerized by the restaurant's eye-catching presentation, as each item on the menu is crafted to be visually stunning, perfect for capturing those Instagram-worthy moments. Whether young or young at heart, every dish promises to be a scrumptious and delightful experience.
When it comes to family-friendly dining, few places compare to the charm of a diner. Diners offer a warm and inviting ambiance, creating the perfect setting for people of all ages to come together and enjoy a delightful meal. At the Carnegie Diner & Café, families can find the ideal spot to gather for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
This beloved diner caters to various tastes with a diverse menu of classic diner favorites, including fluffy pancakes, mouthwatering omelets, juicy burgers, and delectable sandwiches. There's a special kids' menu featuring smaller portions and kid-friendly choices for the little ones, ensuring everyone leaves with a satisfied appetite.
Benihana is an excellent choice for a truly thrilling and memorable dining experience. With skilled chefs performing their culinary magic right before you, the excitement of watching them chop and dice ingredients to craft delectable meals will surely captivate both kids and adults alike. Even the most discerning eaters will be thoroughly entertained by this captivating display.
As an Asian food chain, Benihana is renowned for its spectacular teppanyaki shows, where shrimp are sent soaring through the air, and kids enthusiastically attempt to catch them in their mouths—a fun and playful experience for the whole family. Beyond the entertainment, the food is nothing short of delicious, boasting a diverse menu catering to all tastes and preferences. From adventurous dishes to familiar favorites, there's something to delight every palate at Benihana. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey filled with joy, flavors, and unforgettable moments.
Originating as a humble concession stand in the 1980s, it has since blossomed into a cherished destination for classic American delicacies. From mouthwatering pulled pork, succulent ribs, and tender brisket to the comforting allure of mac and cheese, burgers, and other delectable offerings, there's something to satisfy every appetite.
Furthermore, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que also extends its warm hospitality to our furry companions. With an outdoor seating area thoughtfully equipped with water bowls and other amenities, four-legged friends are welcome to join in on the dining experience. So whether you're looking to relish in flavorsome dishes or enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que is where everyone can come together to indulge in delicious fare and create lasting memories.
Black Tap stands as a beloved hotspot for burgers. Their menu boasts an array of mouthwatering burgers, catering to diverse tastes with options like bison, chili cheese, vegan, and the classic all-American burger.
Yet, the true star of the show lies in their jaw-dropping milkshakes. These massive concoctions are the real draw for visitors of all ages. Kids are sure to be enamored with timeless favorites such as chocolate, vanilla, peanut butter, and Oreo cookies and cream.
For adults seeking a unique and indulgent treat, Black Tap offers a delightful selection of shakes, including flavors like cotton candy, Brooklyn blackout, and the extravagant $17 cake shake. This extraordinary creation is adorned with a frosted vanilla rim with a sprinkle of rainbow confetti, a slice of funfetti cake, a dollop of whipped cream, and a final touch of a bright cherry on top.
With a rich history dating back to 1920, Nom Wah Tea Parlor proudly holds the title of NYC's inaugural Chinese tea house and dim-sum restaurant. While it has experienced transitions in ownership, it has remained in the hands of Chinese families and devoted long-term employees, preserving its authentic essence.
Nestled in the heart of Chinatown, Nom Wah Tea Parlor has stood as an emblematic establishment, serving genuine Chinese cuisine for well over a century. Its iconic presence has graced numerous New York City films and series, making it a cherished destination that encapsulates the city's cultural and culinary heritage.
Indulge in a delightful dining experience at this renowned Times Square diner, celebrated for its delectable burgers and enchanting tunes. The unique twist lies in its singing waitstaff, who double as talented performers, many of whom hail from Broadway backgrounds. As you and your family eagerly await your meals, these exceptional waitstaff, sometimes donning captivating costumes, will entertain you with their mesmerizing performances.
Imagine relishing scrumptious food while being serenaded by talented artists—it's the perfect combination of cuisine and amusement, all within the warm ambiance of this charming diner. Are you ready for an unforgettable feast for your senses?
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Step 2: Add in restaurants, rooftops & other hidden gems
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