Family-Friendly Restaurants in DC: Where to Eat with Kids

Dining out with kids in Washington, D.C., can be an enjoyable experience if you know where to go. The city offers various family-friendly restaurants catering to young diners with special menus, interactive spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere for parents and children alike. Whether you’re a local looking for a new go-to spot or a visitor exploring D.C. with your family, this guide will help you find the best kid-friendly restaurants in the city.

What Makes a Restaurant Family-Friendly?

A restaurant that caters to families goes beyond just offering a kid’s menu. Here are some of the key elements that make a dining spot family-friendly:

Kid-Friendly Menus

Children can be picky eaters, and restaurants that offer nutritious, tasty, and allergy-conscious meals are a big hit. Look for places with options such as smaller portions of adult dishes, customizable meals, and fun presentations to engage young diners.

Entertainment & Activities

Dining out with kids can be challenging, so having activities like play areas, interactive games, coloring sheets, or live entertainment can make all the difference. Some restaurants even provide board games, arcade games, or kid-focused events.

Family-Oriented Service

Restaurants that accommodate families well provide high chairs, booster seats, ample stroller space, and patient, friendly staff. Bonus points go to restaurants that go the extra mile with baby-changing stations, bottle-warming services, or complimentary snacks for kids.

Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in Washington, D.C.

Whether you’re in the mood for classic American comfort food, fresh seafood, or an interactive dining experience, Washington, D.C., has plenty of family-friendly options.

Casual & Kid-Friendly Dining Spots

The Hamilton

📍 Location: 600 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005
🌐 Website

The Hamilton is a spacious restaurant with a diverse menu, making it an excellent choice for families. The kids’ menu features crowd-pleasers like mac and cheese, grilled cheese, and mini burgers.

Ted’s Bulletin

📍 Location: Multiple locations, including Capitol Hill & 14th Street
🌐 Website

Famous for its homemade Pop-Tarts and all-day breakfast, Ted’s Bulletin is a cozy spot where families can enjoy classic American comfort food. Their welcoming atmosphere and delicious shakes make it a hit for kids.

Comet Ping Pong

📍 Location: 5037 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008
🌐 Website

A neighborhood favorite, Comet Ping Pong is more than just a pizza joint. It features ping-pong tables where kids (and parents!) can play while waiting for their food. The hand-tossed pizzas and casual setting make it an excellent choice for families.

Bussers and Poets

📍 Location: Multiple locations, including 14th & V St NW
🌐 Website

This restaurant-café-bookstore hybrid is perfect for families looking for a relaxed atmosphere. The kids’ menu offers healthy and hearty choices, while the bookstore allows kids to pick up a new book.

Silver Diner

📍 Location: 3200 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA (Near D.C.)
🌐 Website

Silver Diner is a classic American diner with a modern twist known for its locally sourced ingredients and extensive kids’ menu, including gluten-free and vegetarian options.

Fun & Interactive Dining Experiences

The Wharf DC (Various Restaurants)

📍 Location: Southwest Waterfront
🌐 Website

The Wharf has numerous kid-friendly restaurants with waterfront views, making dining an adventure. Enjoy seafood at Hank’s Oyster Bar, grab a burger at Shake Shack, or indulge in Ben & Jerry’s ice cream.

Founding Farmers

📍 Location: 1924 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20006
🌐 Website

A farm-to-table favorite, Founding Farmers offers fresh, delicious comfort food with a fantastic kids’ menu. The relaxed, rustic atmosphere is perfect for families.

Ben’s Chili Bowl

📍 Location: 1213 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009
🌐 Website

Ben’s Chili Bowl is a historic D.C. institution, a casual and fun spot where families can enjoy legendary chili dogs, burgers, and milkshakes.

Restaurants Near Family Attractions

The Grill at The National Museum of American History

📍 Location: 1300 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560
🌐 Website

Conveniently located inside the National Museum of American History, this cafeteria-style restaurant offers a variety of kid-friendly dishes. It is perfect for refueling after exploring the Smithsonian museums.

The Smith – Penn Quarter

📍 Location: 901 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004
🌐 Website

Located near the National Mall, The Smith is an excellent spot for families looking for a relaxed yet stylish setting. Its kids’ menu includes classics like pasta, chicken tenders, and grilled cheese.

Old Ebbitt Grill

📍 Location: 675 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005
🌐 Website

A historic D.C. staple near the White House, Old Ebbitt Grill offers a welcoming atmosphere and a kid-friendly menu featuring fresh seafood, burgers, and delicious desserts.

Best Times & Tips for Dining with Kids in D.C.

• Avoid Peak Hours: To avoid long waits, dine early (before 6 p.m.) or during non-peak hours.
• Keep Kids Entertained: Bring small toys, coloring books, or quiet games to keep the kids engaged while they wait for food.
• Make Reservations: Many popular family-friendly restaurants accept reservations, which can help avoid long wait times.
• Check for High Chairs & Kid Seating: Call ahead to confirm if the restaurant has high chairs, booster seats, or stroller-friendly space.

Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Kid-Friendly Restaurants

Little Sesame

📍 Location: 1828 L St NW, Washington, DC 20036
🌐 Website

If you’re looking for a healthy yet delicious option, Little Sesame serves Mediterranean-inspired bowls that kids love.

Jaleo by José Andrés

📍 Location: 480 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
🌐 Website

A fantastic spot for families, Jaleo offers a variety of Spanish tapas, including kid-friendly options like croquetas and patatas bravas.

The Coupe

📍 Location: 3415 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20010
🌐 Website

A laid-back café with a welcoming atmosphere, The Coupe is perfect for families looking for a relaxed brunch or coffee break.

Nearby Attractions for Post-Meal Fun

• Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History: A must-visit for kids who love dinosaurs and interactive exhibits.
• National Mall & Monuments: Great for a post-meal walk or picnic.
• National Zoo: Free to enter and perfect for families looking to spend time outdoors.
• Yards Park & The Wharf: Offering playgrounds, splash fountains, and scenic waterfront views.

Washington, D.C., is full of fantastic family-friendly dining options, whether looking for a casual bite, a fun experience, or a convenient spot near attractions. Next time you plan a family outing, check out these great spots for a meal everyone will enjoy!