Dining out with kids can be tough, especially in a city like Los Angeles. And, while some families avoid eating out with their children to avoid public meltdowns, complaints about the food or simply due to a lack of time, studies show that eating as a family is actually very beneficial.
Studies actually show that when families eat together it offers unique opportunities for children to learn as they hear longer discussions. And, children are 24% more likely to eat healthier foods when they regularly eat out with their parents and other family members.
Dining out with kids doesn’t have to be difficult. All you have to do is look for kid-friendly restaurants that either cater to a kid-friendly atmosphere or offer space for them to play while you eat dinner. If you live in LA, there are plenty. But, we’ll start you off with some of the top ten. Click restaurant names for more info.
1. Button Mash
When it comes to kid-friendly dinner ideas, it’s hard to beat what they’re offering over at Button Mash. This fun, lively restaurant in Echo Park offers guests the chance to relive their childhood or simply help ensure their kids enjoy theirs. Stocked to the brim with vintage arcade games, from Pac-Man to pinball, this spot has something for kids to enjoy while parents sip on craft beers and graze their way through tasty treats.
2. The Trails Cafe
Hiking through Griffith Park with your kids is a fantastic idea for a weekend activity. It’s a nice way to enjoy the great outdoors together while helping them get their energy out. And, when you all get hungry, you can head over to the kid-friendly The Trails Cafe. It’s tucked away inside of the trails, serving simple sandwiches, pastries and a quaint woodland outdoor seating area to enjoy.
3.Giggles N’ Hugs
The all-day breakfast they serve here is a huge pull for sure. But, there’s a lot more to Giggles N’ Hugs than tasty food (even though the menu truly is pretty tasty). It’s consistently ranked as the No. 1 family restaurant in Los Angeles for a reason. They offer “high-end, organic food with active, cutting-edge play and entertainment for children.” So, not only can kids and their parents eat healthily, but they can have fun while doing so.
4. Spitz
This Mediterranean street food spot mixes all the best of California art with Berlin-style treats. They serve fresh döner kebab, falafel, salads, bowls and award-winning fries. And, they do it all in a space where parents can enjoy craft beer and creative cocktails. While you’re kicking back with a glass of sangria, kids can enjoy the art-filled environment and even a chalk wall at one of their locations.
5. Proud Bird Food Bazaar
If you’re worried about your kids being cooped up in a small restaurant then perhaps the Proud Bird Food Bazaar is a great place for you and your family. Just across from LAX, this food hall features an open-air atmosphere that’s got panoramic views of LAX’s approaching runways. This means that you and the kiddos can marvel as the planes arrive for landing or simply browse the aeroplane-themed memorabilia as you enjoy your food.
6. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is an easy choice for one of the most kid-friendly restaurants in LA. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual and it’s situated right along the Santa Monica Boardwalk. So, you can entice the kiddos out to the boardwalk for a few games at the arcade and a ride in the Ferris wheel, have a play in the sand below and then head back up to the restaurant for a quality shrimp dinner.
7. Free Play
Similar to Button Mash, Free Play is a spot where you’ll be able to eat, drink and play games. This Downtown LA hotspot serves nostalgic American classics amidst vintage arcade games. The menu is inspired by a variety of local LA flavours, featuring craft cocktails and beers. While you’re chowing down on the delightful dishes they serve, your kids can enjoy a slice of pizza and hit the pinball machines.
8. Rock & Brews
When you find out that Rock & Brews is a rock 'n' roll-themed beer garden serving over 100 different kinds of craft brews, you might not automatically think “kid-friendly.” However, like a beer garden, there’s lots of open space for kids to run around in and enjoy. To top it all off, they even offer a small playground area for little tykes and encourage families to bring their dogs along with them. It’s truly friendly for the entire family.
9. Twinkle Twinkle Kids Cafe
At first glance, Twinkle Twinkle Kids Cafe might just look like a fun indoor playground. But, at its core, it’s actually a restaurant at heart. Here, parents can relax as kids work out their energy. The best part? Adults get in free if you purchase something off of the menu. And, trust us, you’re definitely going to want to. The menu includes everything from gourmet burgers to unique fusion plates.
10. Back on the Beach
What’s more kid-friendly than a restaurant where you can send the kids out to sea as you enjoy your dinner? Okay, kidding. But, here you can enjoy actual seating in the sand and spectacular sea views. Chow down on seasonal California cuisine and, if the kids start to get a little restless, let them run around on the beach as they wait for their meal. It’s a win-win for everybody.
Saving Money For Family Dinners
From paying with the right kind of credit card to earning more on your savings, saving money for family dinners is a great way to ensure you can always enjoy the outing. If you’re able to optimise your savings then you’ll never need to make the excuse that you don’t have money to invest in those kinds of family experiences.
An easy way to do this is to sign up for a debit card that works with and for you to ensure you’re maximizing your savings without even really needing to do anything else. Never heard of a card like this?
Our 0 fee debit card comes with saving bonus and cashback. So, even when you’re spending your money, you’re saving more with us.
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