Introduction
Looking for the best family-friendly restaurants St. Louis has to offer? Whether you’re a local or visiting with the kids in tow, this guide will walk you through top dining spots where children are welcome, entertained, and well-fed — all while parents can enjoy a great meal too.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why St. Louis Is a Great City for Dining with Kids
- What Makes a Restaurant Family-Friendly?
- Top 15 Family-Friendly Restaurants in St. Louis
- Fitz’s Root Beer
- Blueberry Hill
- Sweetie Pie’s
- Sauce on the Side
- Pi Pizzeria
- Crown Candy Kitchen
- The Magic House Café
- Joey B’s Food & Drink
- Pappy’s Smokehouse
- Mission Taco Joint
- Sugarfire Smoke House
- Seedz Café
- The Boathouse at Forest Park
- Schlafly Bottleworks
- Anthonino’s Taverna
- Best Kid’s Menus in the City
- Outdoor and Patio Dining for Families
- Allergy-Friendly and Special Diet Options
- Restaurants with Entertainment or Play Areas
- Affordable Dining Options for Families
- Birthday and Celebration-Friendly Spots
- Family Brunch Favorites in St. Louis
- Hidden Gems Worth Exploring
- Tips for Dining Out with Children
- FAQs About Family-Friendly Restaurants in St. Louis
- Final Thoughts
Why St. Louis Is a Great City for Dining with Kids
St. Louis is known for its hospitality, welcoming neighborhoods, and vibrant food culture. It’s filled with places that cater to families without compromising on flavor, service, or ambiance.
What Makes a Restaurant Family-Friendly?
- Kid-friendly menus
- High chairs and booster seats
- Quick service
- Entertainment options
- Safe, spacious seating
- Welcoming staff and atmosphere
Top 15 Family-Friendly Restaurants in St. Louis
1. Fitz’s Root Beer (Delmar Loop)
A favorite for kids and adults alike with live root beer bottling, a fun soda bar, and tasty burgers.
2. Blueberry Hill
Famous for its vibrant decor and kid-approved classics. A St. Louis landmark.
3. Sweetie Pie’s
Home-style Southern cooking and big portions that families love.
4. Sauce on the Side
Hand-crafted calzones and salads. Quick, casual, and perfect for fussy eaters.
5. Pi Pizzeria
Delicious deep-dish pizzas with an engaging atmosphere. Gluten-free options too.
6. Crown Candy Kitchen
Old-fashioned diner with candy, malts, and classic sandwiches. Great for a family treat.
7. The Magic House Café
Connected to the Magic House Children’s Museum, this café is the perfect mid-day break.
8. Joey B’s Food & Drink
Spacious seating and a large menu with something for everyone.
9. Pappy’s Smokehouse
Voted best ribs in St. Louis — a hit with BBQ-loving families.
10. Mission Taco Joint
Tacos, games, and a lively vibe make this a top pick.
11. Sugarfire Smoke House
Casual, creative BBQ with kid-friendly sides and combos.
12. Seedz Café
Healthy and vegan-friendly — proving that family meals can be nutritious too.
13. The Boathouse at Forest Park
Paddleboats and lakeside dining! Great for warm weather adventures.
14. Schlafly Bottleworks
Brewpub with a great kid’s menu and a spacious outdoor beer garden.
15. Anthonino’s Taverna
Greek and Italian comfort food in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Best Kid’s Menus in the City
Many family-friendly restaurants in St. Louis offer thoughtfully crafted children’s menus. Look for places with options beyond just chicken nuggets — like pasta, fruit plates, and veggie sides.
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Outdoor and Patio Dining for Families
Enjoy the fresh air with kid-friendly patio seating at places like:
- The Boathouse
- Schlafly Bottleworks
- Mission Taco
- Fitz’s
Patio spaces allow kids to move freely while parents dine comfortably.
Allergy-Friendly and Special Diet Options
From gluten-free crusts at Pi Pizzeria to vegan options at Seedz Café, the best family-friendly restaurants in St. Louis are adapting to every dietary need.
Restaurants with Entertainment or Play Areas
- Magic House Café – Attached to a kids’ museum
- Fitz’s – Watch soda bottling while you wait
- Crown Candy – Retro arcade vibe
- Mission Taco – Bright, fun environment with music
Affordable Dining Options for Families
Great meals don’t have to cost a fortune. Some budget-friendly favorites include:
- Sauce on the Side
- Joey B’s
- Sugarfire Smoke House
- Sweetie Pie’s
Birthday and Celebration-Friendly Spots
Looking for the perfect place to celebrate? Restaurants like Fitz’s and Blueberry Hill are great for group dining, with festive decor and large portions.
Family Brunch Favorites in St. Louis
Brunch with the kids? Try:
- Half & Half (for pancakes and eggs)
- Rooster (crepes and breakfast tacos)
- Winslow’s Table (farm-to-table goodness)
All are family-approved!
Hidden Gems Worth Exploring
Lesser-known spots also shine in the family-friendly restaurants St. Louis scene:
- Chris’ Pancake & Dining
- SqWires Annex
- Fozzie’s Sandwich Emporium
- The Mud House
Tips for Dining Out with Children
- Go early to avoid crowds
- Call ahead for reservations or high chairs
- Bring small toys or books
- Let kids choose their meals
- Be patient and have fun!
FAQs About Family-Friendly Restaurants in St. Louis
Q: Are there restaurants with play areas?
Yes! Fitz’s and Magic House Café are top choices.
Q: Where can I find vegan kid-friendly options?
Seedz Café and Pi Pizzeria are excellent picks.
Q: What are the best restaurants near attractions?
Try Crown Candy near the City Museum or Boathouse in Forest Park.
Final Thoughts
With its mix of cuisine, charm, and child-friendly service, St. Louis makes dining out with kids easy and enjoyable. From BBQ joints to soda shops, family-friendly restaurants St. Louis ensure everyone leaves with a smile — and a full belly.
Whether you’re exploring downtown, the Loop, or cozy neighborhood gems, there’s always a welcoming table for you and your little ones in the Gateway City.
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