Eating out is an enjoyable experience that seems easy enough to dive into — just figure out what kind of food you and your friends would love to try (or try again), and you can head out to the highly recommended places or any fun new dining concepts that you recently learned about online or by word of mouth.
Choosing a place when the whole family — kids included — is with you, however, is a different endeavour altogether because you have to factor in the following details:
- Everyone must be able to find something on the menu that they will like. The top priority in this regard, of course, are the kids — some will be picky eaters, others will have dietary restrictions, and some will simply have their preferences.
- The space should welcome — and be able to accommodate — the presence of large groups with kids. The restaurant you choose should have enough seating and space for kids (who will typically be moving around and making noise), the parents, and grandparents with limited mobility. Everyone on your group should be comfortable throughout the meal.
- Since families are large groups, a restaurant that offers special rates and promotions for kids' meals would be a keeper.
So which restaurants in Sydney fit the bill? Here are some of the top family restaurants in the city:
La Scala on Jersey
This warm establishment is a big hit among little ones thanks to fun (and still healthful) menu items like rainbow pasta with organic tomato sauce, tender sirloin steak, and Nutella pizza. During weekdays (before 7 p.m.) and on Saturdays (until 6:30 p.m.), children under 12 get a free meal with every adult meal ordered at full price.
Goblin Cafe
Fun name, right? Although its excellent food and artisan coffee prove popular with adults, what is sure to draw parents' eyes toward this establishment is the absolutely kid-friendly space. Prams can easily navigate the spacious seating areas, there's a children's table full of toys, and high chairs are provided for customers with toddlers.
Bitton Gourmet Cafe
Older family members will love the French-inspired all-day breakfasts and lunch fare in this lovely Alexandria bistro. The little ones in tow can enjoy the kids' menu and spend time in the play area at the back terrace section, from which parents can keep close watch while lingering over their food and drinks.
North Bondi Fish
Customers of all ages are welcome here. The young ones are sure to delight in the highly popular sand pits located out front, and the tasty treats (delectable fish and chips, little crab sliders, and house-made popsicles) will keep every little tyke happily sated.
In addition to these top 4 dining spots for families, you can also check out the following notable spots:
Lowenbrau Keller offers delicious sausages that adults and kids alike will love, plus there's a bargain-priced kids' menu to look through, too. This place can prove to be exceptionally fun for kids once the oom pah-pah band begins to play and make loud, glorious music.
Addie's Specialty Tea Room is the best place for little kids who want to experience high tea events — all the lovely china, crisp white linens and delicate tea sets will make for a lovely afternoon.
Australian Hotel and Brewery, despite its name, has plenty of kid-friendly provisions: a kids' menu, kids' club, spacious play areas, free Wi-Fi, prams and high chairs, and face painting and colouring activities.
Burnt Orange is a favourite among young Sydneysiders because of their lunch specials that come with a smartie cookie plus milk or juice. There's also a boutique where families can pick up toys, books, games and clothes for the little ones.
WA Japanese Restaurant Cafe offers something different: a special "beetle" car bento box for kids that contain fun Japanese fare in little bites: gyoza, chicken karage, tempura and California rolls. The boxes also come with a toy.
The Henson is a definite haven for kids hungry for simple yet very comforting foods: chicken tacos, fried eggs on toast, and ice cream sandwiches. A play space is also provided for kids' enjoyment.
Check out our list and share good food and great memories with your loved ones in the best restaurants in Australia.