London’s Top 12 Family-Friendly Restaurant Options

Looking for family-friendly restaurants in London? Here’s a quick guide to the top 12 spots that cater to kids and adults alike, offering great food, engaging activities, and accommodating dietary needs. From jungle-themed dining to DIY pizza-making, these places ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Highlights:

• Dishoom Kensington: Indian cuisine with kids' menus and nearby attractions like the Science Museum.
• Rainforest Cafe: Immersive jungle-themed dining with kids' activity packs.
• The Ivy St. John’s Wood: Stylish British dining near Regent’s Park and London Zoo.
• Sticky Fingers: Rock-and-roll vibes with classic comfort food.
• Giraffe World Kitchen: Global flavors and "Kids Eat Free" deals.
• Pizza Pilgrims: Neapolitan pizzas with interactive cooking options.
• The Parlour at Fortnum & Mason: Ice cream sundaes and children’s afternoon tea.
• Honest Burgers: Quick bites with options for kids and dietary preferences.
• Flat Iron: Affordable steakhouse with a casual atmosphere.
• Masala Zone: Indian thali platters and spice-level customization.
• Megan’s on the Hill: Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a cozy setting.
• Riding House Café: British-European fusion with family-friendly brunches.

Quick Comparison Table:

Restaurant	Price Range	Cuisine	Location	Unique Feature
Dishoom Kensington	££	Indian	Kensington	Kid-friendly Indian dishes
Rainforest Cafe	££	American	Piccadilly	Jungle-themed dining
The Ivy St. John’s Wood	£££	British	St. John’s Wood	Elegant setting near attractions
Sticky Fingers	££	American	Kensington	Rock-and-roll theme
Giraffe World Kitchen	££	Global flavors	⁂	"Kids Eat Free" deals
Pizza Pilgrims	£	Italian	⁂	DIY pizza kits
The Parlour at F&M	£££	British	Piccadilly	Ice cream and children’s tea
Honest Burgers	£	British	⁂	Quick, simple meals
Flat Iron	££	Steakhouse	⁂	Affordable steaks
Masala Zone	££	Indian	Covent Garden	Interactive thali platters
Megan’s on the Hill	££	Mediterranean	Balham	Relaxed, cozy dining
Riding House Café	££	British-European	Fitzrovia	Family-friendly brunch options

Plan ahead, book during quieter hours, and enjoy a stress-free meal with your family at these top picks!

10 Best Places to Eat Out With Kids in London

1. Dishoom Kensington

Located in the historic Barkers Building on Kensington High Street, Dishoom Kensington offers families a glimpse into the charm of 1940s Bombay. With its Art Deco interiors and live jazz performances on Thursday and Friday evenings, it creates a lively yet relaxed dining environment that welcomes all ages. There's plenty of room for families, complete with high chairs for little ones. Plus, every meal helps provide one for a child in need, thanks to their partnership with charitable organizations.

Dishoom stands out for its kid-friendly approach, offering a children's menu priced between £5.50 and £8.50. This menu includes milder versions of Indian favorites like Chicken Tikka, Cheese Naan Pizza, Vada Pau (a spiced potato bun), and a chocolate chai pudding. Drinks like the sweet mango lassi are a big hit with younger guests. For families navigating dietary restrictions, Dishoom makes things easier with clear allergen information and well-trained staff.

For a quieter experience, visit on weekday mornings (8-11am) or opt for an early dinner (5-7pm) to avoid the crowds. Its location is perfect for families exploring nearby attractions like Kensington Gardens, the Science Museum, and the Natural History Museum. With mains priced between £9 and £16, it offers a central London dining option with great value. Ranked #339 on TripAdvisor with over 2,200 reviews, Dishoom is a popular choice. For groups of six or more, advance bookings are recommended.

2. Rainforest Cafe

Rainforest Cafe in Piccadilly Circus offers families a lively jungle-themed dining experience complete with animatronic elephants and simulated thunderstorms. This restaurant focuses on creating an immersive atmosphere, prioritizing entertainment and engagement over speedy service.

The space is packed with kid-friendly touches, including the "Coconut Creative Corner", where little ones can enjoy coloring activities while waiting for their meals.

The kids' menu is full of fun, with dishes like "Jurassic Chicken Tidbits" and "Python Pasta." For £12.50, children get a two-course meal, while the £15.50 option includes an activity pack featuring coloring books, pencils, a frog mask, and stickers. According to Mrs. Bishop's blog, it’s "the best children's activity pack".

For those with dietary restrictions, options like gluten-free chicken nuggets and vegan mac 'n' cheese are available. Adults can choose from a variety of main courses priced between £15 and £30.

If you're planning to visit during busy times, make sure to book in advance. While you wait, you can explore the retail village's aquariums. Conveniently located near Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery, Rainforest Cafe has earned a 3.8/5 rating on OpenTable from 1,747 reviews.

3. The Ivy St. John’s Wood

If you're looking for a more polished dining experience near major attractions, The Ivy St. John's Wood is a great choice. Located close to Regent's Park and London Zoo, this restaurant combines a stylish setting with family-friendly touches, earning it a 4.3/5 rating from 1,246 Google Reviews.

The space is designed to be both elegant and welcoming for families. Kids are treated to activity sheets and a thoughtfully crafted menu (£8.50-9.75), which includes:

• Mini cheeseburgers with fries
• Fish goujons with peas
• Tomato spaghetti
• Chocolate brownie with ice cream

For adults, the menu offers a mix of British favorites and international dishes. They also cater to various dietary needs, providing gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options for all ages.

Planning to visit during busy hours? Be sure to book in advance.

4. Sticky Fingers

Sticky Fingers offers a rock-and-roll dining experience that’s perfect for families, blending fun themes with comfort for parents. Much like the Rainforest Cafe, it focuses on creating memorable moments but swaps jungle theatrics for musical nostalgia. It holds a solid 4/5 rating from 2,285 TripAdvisor reviews.

The restaurant is filled with rock memorabilia and plays classic hits at a volume that keeps the energy alive without drowning out conversations. Unlike louder themed spots, this setup ensures a lively yet manageable atmosphere for families.

The kids' menu (£7.50) includes favorites like mini burgers and mac 'n' cheese, while the main menu (£12-25) offers BBQ platters, steaks, and clearly labeled vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Peak times, such as weekends and school holidays, can mean waits of 30-45 minutes, so reservations are a smart move for larger groups. The music provides just enough background noise to cover typical kid chatter while still allowing for easy conversations, making it a hit with families looking for both fun and practicality.

Pro tip: Visit during off-peak hours for faster seating and a more relaxed vibe.

5. Giraffe World Kitchen

Giraffe World Kitchen shifts the focus from rock memorabilia to a celebration of global flavors, offering a welcoming spot for families. This restaurant chain blends international dishes with thoughtful family-friendly features at its London locations.

Family dining is made easier with amenities like buggy parking, baby-changing facilities, and attentive staff ready to replace dropped cutlery without fuss. The kids' menu, priced at £12.50, includes options like pancakes and fresh fruit, while adult mains remain affordable, coming in under £25.

The menu spans the globe, featuring dishes such as American Po'boys, Mexican huevos rancheros, and Indian-style naan breakfast sandwiches. Seasonal "Kids Eat Free" deals make dining out with the whole family easier on the wallet. The relaxed atmosphere ensures parents can enjoy their meals without added stress.

Similar to Dishoom and Masala Zone (section 10), Giraffe also prioritizes clear allergy details and offers gluten-free choices, catering to a wide range of dietary needs.

6. Pizza Pilgrims

Pizza Pilgrims brings a taste of Italy to London, offering a mix of delicious Neapolitan pizzas and family-friendly features. Founded by brothers James and Thom Elliot, this spot is ideal for families exploring the city, with locations near Covent Garden and Kensington High Street.

The pizzas, known for their soft and chewy crusts, are made in open kitchens where kids can watch the process - a fun touch for little ones. Thanks to wood-fired ovens, meals are served quickly, keeping even the most impatient diners happy.

Pricing:

• Adult pizzas: £9-14
• Kids' pizzas: £6-8
• Family deals: £40-60

Dietary Options:

• Gluten-free bases
• Vegan cheese
• Customizable toppings

Families will also find helpful amenities like high chairs, baby changing stations, and coloring supplies at certain locations.

Tips for Families:

• Visit between 3pm-5pm to avoid long waits .
• Take advantage of their takeaway or delivery services.

For a fun at-home experience, try their "Pizza in the Post" kits , which let you recreate their restaurant-quality pizzas in your own kitchen. With over 1,000 reviews and a 4.5/5 rating on TripAdvisor , Pizza Pilgrims is a great choice for parents looking for a dining spot that caters to both kids and adults.

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7. The Parlour at Fortnum & Mason

Located on the first floor of Fortnum & Mason in Piccadilly, The Parlour offers a charming mix of tradition and family-friendly dining. It takes the essence of British tea culture and adds a playful twist, making it an ideal spot for families celebrating special occasions. Much like The Ivy St. John's Wood (see section 3), it strikes a balance between elegance and comfort.

The space is bright and inviting, with colorful interiors and both booth and table seating to accommodate families. High chairs are available for younger children, and the "Design Your Own Sundae" experience is a favorite among families looking for something fun and interactive.

Menu Highlights

• Ice Cream Sundaes (£12-18): Create your own or enjoy classics like Knickerbocker Glory
• Milkshakes (£7-9): Offered in timeless flavors
• Children's Afternoon Tea (£25): Includes mini sandwiches and sweet treats
• Light Meals (£10-20): Options like sandwiches and quiches

The Parlour also caters to dietary preferences with gluten-free and dairy-free ice cream options. For a smoother experience, visit on weekdays before 3pm to avoid the busier hours, especially on weekends (11am-4pm).

With a 4.0/5 rating on TripAdvisor from 341 reviews, visitors often highlight the quality of the ice cream. During holiday seasons, the festive decorations add an extra layer of charm to this already delightful spot.

8. Honest Burgers

If you're looking for a relaxed spot to enjoy a meal with the family after exploring London's tea rooms, Honest Burgers is a great pick. With locations across the city, their Covent Garden branch stands out for its family-friendly vibe and convenient spot near theaters and street performers . It offers a mix of quality food that adults appreciate and simple options kids love.

The restaurant is designed with families in mind. There's plenty of space between tables for strollers, and high chairs are readily available . The menu has something for everyone, including options for those with dietary restrictions.

Menu Highlights:

• Kids' Meals: £6.50 (includes a burger or nuggets, fries, and a drink)
• Adult Burgers: £9.50-£13.50, served with rosemary salted chips
• Family Bundle: £50-70 for four people

They also cater to specific diets with gluten-free buns and plant-based choices . Their fresh, daily-made rosemary salted chips are a hit with customers . To make busy times less stressful, the restaurant uses a text-based queuing system so families can avoid standing in line .

For a smoother visit, it's a good idea to go during quieter hours or book in advance. Honest Burgers holds a solid 4.0/5 rating on TripAdvisor from over 1,000 reviews . They also occasionally run "Kids Eat Free" promotions during school breaks .

On top of serving tasty food, Honest Burgers takes steps to reduce its environmental impact. They use compostable packaging and source beef from regenerative farms . Plus, their in-house butchery in London ensures top-notch quality .

9. Flat Iron

Flat Iron brings you from burger spots to steak dining with a laid-back vibe and great pricing. With 11 locations across London as of 2023, it’s easy to find one near popular landmarks or shopping hubs.

Their £13 signature steak is a standout, made from beef aged and butchered on-site, ensuring top quality every time. The menu is simple, making it easy for families to decide what to order, much like the approach at Pizza Pilgrims.

The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for families, offering a dining experience free of formalities. Plus, the open kitchen adds a fun, interactive element to your visit.

Family Features	Details
Main Course Price	£13 for signature steak
Kid-Friendly Sides	Dripping-cooked chips, creamed spinach
Atmosphere	Casual dining with open kitchen
Wait Time Management	No reservations; walk-ins only

To avoid long waits, aim for off-peak times like 5-6 pm. While they don’t take reservations, their quick table turnover and smooth service keep things moving. High chairs are available, and the staff is known for being accommodating to families with young kids.

The menu focuses on crowd-pleasers. Along with the juicy steak, sides like roasted aubergine are great for those with smaller appetites.

With over 1,500 reviews and a 4.5/5 rating on TripAdvisor, Flat Iron strikes a rare balance: quality steak at prices that won’t break the bank. It’s a win for families looking for great meals in London.

10. Masala Zone Covent Garden

Masala Zone Covent Garden offers families a chance to explore Indian cuisine in a vibrant setting, complete with murals depicting lively street scenes. This immersive environment provides more than just a meal - it’s an opportunity to experience a slice of Indian culture. Located in the bustling Covent Garden area, it’s a convenient stop for those visiting the West End theaters, the London Transport Museum, or enjoying the street performances at Covent Garden Piazza.

The menu strikes a balance between authentic Indian flavors and family-friendly options. The thali - a platter featuring a variety of small dishes - encourages interactive dining, much like the hands-on experience at Pizza Pilgrims (section 6). For younger diners, there’s a dedicated kids' menu priced at £6.95, which includes a main dish, a side, and a drink.

Family Features	Details
Kid's Menu Price	£6.95 (main, side, drink)
Adult Mains	£9.50 - £14.95
Family Amenities	High chairs, changing facilities
Special Offers	Kids under 7 eat free (select periods)

The restaurant also caters to different spice preferences and dietary needs, ensuring that everyone in the family can enjoy their meal.

With over 2,400 reviews on TripAdvisor and a solid 4.0/5 rating, Masala Zone Covent Garden is praised for balancing cultural exploration with family convenience. Similar to Dishoom’s charitable initiatives (section 1), it combines a focus on authentic cuisine with practical touches like thali deals and pre-theater menus.

"The restaurant provides colorful decor inspired by Indian folk art, creating an engaging environment for children". This makes it an ideal spot for introducing kids to Indian food in a fun and approachable way.

11. Megan's on the Hill

Megan's on the Hill in Balham is a go-to spot for families looking to enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes throughout the day. The warm, fairy-lit interior paired with vibrant floral decor creates a cozy and welcoming vibe for diners of all ages, offering a touch of Mediterranean charm to London's family dining scene.

The menu is packed with options, including favorites like Shakshouka and the hearty Turkish Brunch Feast. For the kids, there's a dedicated menu featuring smaller portions of adult dishes and classic options tailored to younger palates.

The restaurant's spacious design makes it stroller-friendly, and during sunny days, families can take advantage of the outdoor terrace. To keep little ones entertained, complimentary coloring sheets are available, and the menu thoughtfully caters to a variety of dietary needs.

With a solid 4.0/5 rating on TripAdvisor, Megan's on the Hill has earned its reputation as a trusted choice for family meals in South London. Its relaxed, family-friendly vibe combined with flavorful Mediterranean cuisine makes it a standout dining destination in the area.

12. Riding House Café

Riding House Café in Fitzrovia blends sophisticated dishes with kid-friendly classics, making it a great stop near Oxford Street and the British Museum . Like Giraffe World Kitchen (section 5), it features communal seating but has its own distinct vibe.

The spacious setup includes banquettes and large tables, perfect for groups. Kids can enjoy activity sheets alongside a £6-8 menu with options like mini burgers and chicken goujons . Plus, smaller portions of adult meals are available for more variety .

Feature	Detail
Kids' Meals	£6-8
Amenities	High chairs, stroller storage
Main Courses	£14-25

Open from breakfast to dinner, the restaurant caters to families with baby-changing facilities and attentive staff . This practical approach is similar to Megan's (section 11), but with a central London flair.

Main dishes, priced between £14-£25 , include standout breakfasts and globally inspired flavors, reminiscent of Giraffe World Kitchen's style (section 5).

Tips for your visit:

• Book weekend brunch ahead of time.
• Share small plates for variety.
• Stop by between museum visits.

This Fitzrovia spot is a dependable choice for families, offering something for every generation.

Restaurant Quick Facts

Here's a handy table summarizing key details about our top 12 restaurant picks to help families choose the best spots:

Restaurant	Price Range	Cuisine	Location	Best For
Dishoom Kensington	££	Indian	Kensington	Enjoying a shared experience
Rainforest Cafe	££	American	Piccadilly Circus	Immersive, sensory dining
The Ivy St. John's Wood	£££	British	St. John's Wood	Celebrating special moments
Sticky Fingers	££	American	Kensington	Relaxed, casual meals
Giraffe World Kitchen	££	Global street food	⁂	Laid-back dining
Pizza Pilgrims	£	Italian	⁂	Fun DIY pizza activities
The Parlour at F&M	£££	British	Piccadilly	Indulgent afternoon treats
Honest Burgers	£	British	⁂	Quick, satisfying bites
Flat Iron	££	Steakhouse	⁂	Cozy family dinners
Masala Zone	££	Indian	Covent Garden	Interactive dining experience
Megan's on the Hill	££	Mediterranean	⁂	Relaxing Turkish brunch
Riding House Café	££	British-European fusion	Fitzrovia	Family-friendly brunches

Price Guide:

• £: Under £15 per main dish
• ££: £15-£25 per main dish
• £££: Over £25 per main dish

⁂ = Available at multiple locations across London

When planning your visit, look out for unique features like Pizza Pilgrims' DIY pizza stations or Megan's outdoor seating options. Both add a fun twist to your dining experience!

Final Tips

From casual pizzerias to elegant tea rooms, here are some practical tips to make your dining experience smoother and more enjoyable:

Timing Is Everything
Reserve your table during quieter hours to enjoy better service and a more relaxed atmosphere. Weekday early-bird specials often offer great deals.

Communicate Your Needs
When booking, mention specific requirements like high chairs or dietary restrictions to ensure the restaurant can accommodate you.

Choose Seating Wisely
Opt for larger branches of chain restaurants, which often have more spacious layouts - perfect for families.

Smart Menu Choices
Look for restaurants that provide:

• Clear allergen details
• Adjustable portion sizes
• Options to customize spice levels

Bring Backup Entertainment
While many venues offer activities for kids, packing a few small games or toys can help keep everyone entertained.

Manage Costs Effectively

• Take advantage of lunch specials and sharing platters.
• Check out weekday deals at international cuisine spots.
• Visit during lunch hours for affordable set menu options.

Speed Up Service
Order appetizers as soon as you sit down, and ask if the kitchen can prioritize kids' meals - they often can.