Family Living


TGS Parent Picks: Favorite Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Minneapolis

Family Living | April 26, 2022
Mom and daughter eating sandwiches outside

Parents at The Gardner School gave us their top picks for family restaurants in Minneapolis, Minnesota. After you’ve spent an exciting day exploring all the Twin Cities has to offer, find a table at one of the following restaurants. These child-friendly establishments will provide a delicious end to the perfect day.

Chatterbox Pub

Nothing goes better with good food than board games! Introduce your family to game night at this local pub committed to making eating more fun. The children’s menu has all the greatest hits: from cheeseburgers and pizza to chicken fingers and grilled cheese. Don’t miss the special Cheshire Cat root beer. Little ones can enjoy theirs in a frosty mug with a scoop of ice cream while you enjoy a local brew and a nostalgic round of MarioKart on a refurbished N64.

Marnas Eatery and Lounge

This aesthetically beautiful and super delicious Costa Rican destination will make you feel like you’re on an island vacation, even with several feet of snow on the ground. Executive Chef Pablo Aguilera moved to Minnesota in 2011 and began working as a part-time employee at Marna’s Catering. A decade later, he’s created an eatery with mouthwatering cuisine and warm hospitality. Minneapolis parents know that children love the arroz con pollo and the classic cheeseburger with fries, while adults can enjoy the weekly seasonal specials that Chef Aguilera creates in his kitchen.

Surly

As you can tell from the name, Surly is a brewery with a strong identity. It started as a craft brewing operation to provide Northerners with their very own beers. It expanded into a beer garden, beer hall, pizza shop, and event space. They have coloring and games for tykes, and plenty of space outside to safely run and play during the warmer months. Don’t be scared away by the name; Surly’s approach to children is downright pleasant.

Pizza Luce

This beloved Minnesota pizza establishment has been serving up hot, delicious pizza since its first restaurant opened in 1993. It specializes in truly unique flavor combinations on a seriously addicting crust. You can order by the slice if everyone in your family has a different preference, or order a whole pie to share. Don’t miss the salads for a perfect complement to the cheesy, saucy entreé. If you have a child with dietary requirements or food sensitivities, Pizza Luce offers options for vegetarians, vegans, and those who eat gluten-free. They’ll feel included in the feast, and you’ll feel confident that they’ll stay healthy.

The Gardner School Helps Children Grow 

The Gardner School of Minneapolis is committed to keeping children healthy and happy. To do that, 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, children develop healthy eating habits in a space that is set apart just for them. With a healthy mix of structured learning 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 us, visit our website or schedule a virtual tour today.