Eating out with kids is an opportunity for children to try new textures and flavors, practice their table manners, and spend time together in a new space. It can be an even more enjoyable experience when the restaurant is welcoming to younger diners. Restaurants with special menus, flexible seating, and early hours are a benefit for families with children. We asked parents at The Gardner School to share their favorite kid-friendly restaurants in Eagan, and here’s what they had to say.
Noodles and Company
Some days, nothing is more comforting than a bowl of noodles for lunch or dinner. Noodles and Company offer delicious pasta dishes from every part of the globe. Parents love that their kids’ meals come with nutritious sides. And, for kiddos with food sensitivities, Noodles and Company serves up dishes with zucchini noodles to offer even more options.
Classic Saigon
Our palates are formed when we’re young, and early exposure to flavors and ingredients can expand our enjoyment of many types of foods. At Classic Saigon, children can try crisp bean sprouts, chewy spring rolls, and comforting pho soup for cold winter days. Lunch is a great time to stop by. Classic Saigon is family-owned and operated, and they happily welcome Eagan families.
Applebee’s
It started with a catchy marketing slogan, and it evolved into a great deal for both parents and children. On certain days of the week, kids eat free at Applebee’s when an adult purchases a full entrée. Children can choose from a variety of options, including a personal pizza, chicken fingers, a burger, and a taco. Each menu item comes with a side, drink, and dessert for a full meal at an unbeatable price.
Punch Pizza
Authentic Neapolitan pizzas are the name of the game at this regional favorite. Sauce and topping options abound, from classic to creative combinations. Their “bambini” kids’ pizza features deliciously simple tomato and mozzarella, and for the discerning palate, there’s always the option to build your own.
Lone Oak Grill
Lone Oak Grill boasts a made-from-scratch kitchen with specialties ranging from in-house barbeque to local Minnesota-caught walleye. Children 10 years and under can choose from a full kids’ menu—most items come with fries, and each comes with a chocolate chip cookie! For little ones with food-sensitivities, Lone Oak is also allergen-conscious, offering plenty of gluten-free items and substitutions.
Lucky’s 13 Pub
Lucky 13 Pub has the fix for any food craving. Parents especially love the variety the children’s menu has to offer, which includes classics like grilled cheese and noodles as well as health-conscious options like mini salads and steamed veggies.
Inver Grove Brewing
Inver Grove isn’t just a craft brewing company; it’s a thoughtfully family-friendly establishment. In addition to a full children’s menu, they offer crayons and coloring pages. Regular menu options are diverse and well-crafted, ranging from elevated pub classics to noodles, tacos, and pizzas. Kids’ menu items are budget-friendly, and each comes with a drink, fruit, and dessert!
Helping You Grow Healthy Kids
The Gardner School of Eagan is committed to keeping children healthy and happy. We use a variety of learning tools to help children understand the importance of healthy eating during the school day. We offer cooking enrichment classes and help our students learn about health and nutrition. In the Kids Café, our little ones develop healthy eating habits in a space that is set apart just for them.
With a healthy mix of structured enrichment and free play, we give children the guidance they need to start learning healthy habits as soon as they’re ready. To learn more about why Minneapolis parents choose The Gardner School, visit our website or schedule a tour today.