Eating out with children 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. Ravenswood restaurants with special menus, flexible seating, and early hours are perfect for families with children. Parents at The Gardner School of Ravenswood gave us their top picks for successful family dining restaurants near Chicago. After you’ve spent an exciting day exploring all that Chicago has to offer, find a table at one of the following restaurants for a surefire parenting win.
Pick Me Up Cafe
This colorful cafe is open for every meal of the day, serving tasty soups, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, pasta, and a full breakfast menu that’s available open to close! Pick Me Up was one of the first Chicago, ravenswood restaurants to offer vegan and vegetarian options, so you can be sure everyone in the family will find something to love. For those with food sensitivities, plenty of gluten-free options are also available.
Basant Modern Indian
For refined dining in a family-friendly atmosphere, parents love coming to Basant. There’s something for every palate on this menu, from fluffy samosas to spicy mulligatawny. With so many creative appetizers and shareable entrees, Basant is an excellent place for children to try new tastes and textures. For those with dietary restrictions or spice sensitivity, menu items are clearly marked and include plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
Parson’s Chicken and Fish
Parson’s is a Chicagoland staple for famous chicken sandwiches or a fabulous weekend brunch. Little ones love to pair an order of hand-cut chicken nuggets with a side of Parson’s parmesan breadcrumb-topped mac n’ cheese or dig into a Belgian waffle and fried chicken on the weekends. This spot is made for indulging in nostalgic moods and satisfying special cravings for parents and children alike.
La Boulangerie & Co.
When you’re out running errands with your child, it’s always a good idea to have a destination to look forward to when the journey is over. La Boulangerie is just that place. Stop in for the perfect sandwich, sweet treat, or special drink. Not only that, their garden patio is the perfect urban oasis to savor the weather and relax.
The Warbler
Families love coming to Supper Club at the Warbler, a cost-effective family-style dining experience available Monday through Friday, from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m. It’s a great way to enjoy a night out without the added expense of a formal fine-dining experience, and families can get home in time for early bedtimes, too. Dishes served at the Supper Club are both accessible and refined. They’re perfect for appetites of all ages, and the kitchen always makes sure everyone gets enough to eat!
Coda di Volpe
Whether you’re young or old, Italian food done right is popular with just about everyone. That’s why parents and children both love coming to Coda di Volpe. With a choice selection of simple house-made pasta, Neapolitan pizzas, focaccia, and antipasti, every member of the family can find something to love. Repeat guests know to save room for a piece of the classic tiramisu to finish off a perfect meal.
Swift and Sons Tavern
Swift and Sons Tavern is a local favorite for catching a game while enjoying premium-cut steaks and fresh seafood. It’s also a Chicago parent’s best-kept secret since children eat free with the purchase of an adult entree every day from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m. every day. Children can choose between delicious buttered noodles, chicken tenders, roast chicken, and more, always accompanied by healthy, hearty sides of steamed broccoli and mashed potatoes. For an early morning treat, stop by on the weekends to check out their children’s brunch meal!
Crosby’s
Crosby’s is a cozy diner that offers Midwestern-inspired comfort food that’s sure to please. The staff are very accommodating to children and work hard to make sure they have a good time. You can’t go wrong with their dinner menu and definitely give brunch a try—no one can get enough of their signature monkey bread! Chicago parents know the best part of Crosby’s: children eat free from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. every single day of the week.
Tuco and Blondie
This family-friendly taco spot hosts special events for children almost every week. They serve killer tacos that consist of a soft cloud of fresh tortillas piled high with the meat of your choice. Even better are their sizzling fajitas, served with everything: rice, beans, and guac. Savvy parents know that just like at its sister restaurant, Crosby’s, children eat free from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m., and they finish every meal with an ice cream cone.
A Chicago Preschool that Helps You Grow Healthy Children
The Gardner School locations in Chicago are 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 at our Ravenswood location. 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 up 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 Chicago parents choose The Gardner School, visit our website or schedule a tour today.