Top 18 Family Restaurants In Philadelphia

3 min read 20-12-2024

Top 18 Family Restaurants In Philadelphia

Philadelphia offers a diverse culinary scene, and finding family-friendly options that cater to diverse tastes and budgets can be a challenge. This guide highlights eighteen excellent choices, encompassing various cuisines and price points, ensuring a memorable dining experience for the whole family. We've considered factors like kid-friendly menus, ambiance, and overall value when compiling this list.

Upscale Family Dining

Talula's Garden: This acclaimed restaurant offers a refined, yet welcoming atmosphere. While not explicitly a "kid's menu," their seasonal dishes often feature fresh, approachable ingredients that even picky eaters can enjoy. The elegant setting provides a special occasion feel.
Fork: Known for its farm-to-table ethos, Fork presents a sophisticated yet approachable menu with options for children. The vibrant ambiance is inviting, making it suitable for family gatherings.
Amada: This Spanish tapas restaurant boasts a lively atmosphere perfect for families. While tapas are generally small plates, they offer a variety of options to please everyone, making it a fun and interactive dining experience.

Mid-Range Family Favorites

Sabrina's Cafe: A Philadelphia institution, Sabrina's is beloved for its classic American comfort food. Generous portions and a friendly atmosphere make it a consistent family favorite.
McGillin's Olde Ale House: A historic pub, McGillin's offers a surprisingly extensive menu beyond its famed beers. They cater well to families, offering classic pub fare in a casual, historic setting.
Reading Terminal Market: Not a single restaurant, but a collection of diverse vendors, the Reading Terminal Market provides an unparalleled variety of choices. From cheesesteaks to Amish baked goods, there's something for everyone in the family.
Jim's Steaks: A Philly classic, Jim's serves up iconic cheesesteaks that even the pickiest eaters often enjoy. It's a casual, quick, and affordable option.

Budget-Friendly Family Eats

Ishkabibble's: This iconic Philadelphia institution is known for its whimsical atmosphere and delicious, affordable burgers and fries. It's a perfect spot for a casual family meal.
John's Roast Pork: Another Philly institution, John's Roast Pork provides high-quality roast pork sandwiches at reasonable prices. It's a simple but satisfying choice for families.
Federal Donuts: While primarily a donut shop, Federal Donuts also offers savory options like chicken and waffles, making it a unique and budget-friendly family outing.
Shake Shack: This popular burger chain provides a consistent, reliable, and family-friendly experience with its classic burgers, fries, and shakes.

Diverse Culinary Experiences

Han Dynasty: This modern Sichuan restaurant offers a bold and flavorful experience. While the spice level might be intense for younger palates, they often offer milder options.
Zahav: This Israeli restaurant boasts a sophisticated menu with a focus on sharing plates. The vibrant ambiance and flavorful food provide a unique dining experience for the whole family. (Note: Prices are on the higher end.)
Little Nonna's: This Italian restaurant offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Their classic Italian-American dishes are generally appealing to a wide range of tastes.

Kid-Friendly Considerations

The Franklin Fountain: This old-fashioned ice cream parlor is a must-visit for families with a sweet tooth. Their homemade ice cream is a treat for all ages.
Parc: A classic French bistro, Parc has a refined yet welcoming ambiance and a menu with kid-friendly options. Outdoor seating is available, which can be appealing for families.
Bar Bombon: This Spanish-inspired cafe features a bright and cheerful ambiance perfect for families, with plenty of delicious pastries and sandwiches.

Special Mention

Your Neighborhood Pizzeria: While not a specific restaurant, exploring local pizzerias is always a safe bet for family dining. Most offer a familiar menu and are generally affordable.

This list provides a diverse range of options to suit different family preferences and budgets. Remember to check restaurant websites or call ahead for menus, hours, and potential reservations. Enjoy your Philadelphia family dining experience!