Best Of 18 Kid Friendly Restaurants In Streeterville Chicago – Best Of 18 Kid-Friendly Restaurants In Streeterville Chicago: Picture this: a vibrant city backdrop, the laughter of children echoing through cobblestone streets, and the tantalizing aromas of diverse cuisines weaving their magic. Streeterville, Chicago, isn’t just a stunning urban landscape; it’s a family-friendly haven brimming with culinary adventures perfectly tailored for both kids and grown-ups. This guide unveils eighteen exceptional restaurants, each a testament to deliciousness and kid-approved fun.
Get ready to discover a world of culinary delights, from classic comfort food to exciting international flavors, all designed to make your family dining experience unforgettable. Prepare for a delicious journey!
Streeterville’s charm lies in its blend of urban excitement and family-friendly amenities. Its proximity to iconic attractions like Navy Pier and Millennium Park makes it a convenient base for family adventures, and the abundance of green spaces provides perfect spots for pre- or post-dinner playtime. Plus, the restaurants themselves are thoughtfully designed to welcome families, often boasting spacious seating, high chairs, and kid-friendly menus that go beyond the usual chicken fingers.
This ensures everyone enjoys the meal, no matter their age or palate.
Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Streeterville, Chicago: Best Of 18 Kid Friendly Restaurants In Streeterville Chicago
Streeterville, a vibrant neighborhood nestled along Chicago’s magnificent lakefront, offers a surprisingly delightful experience for families. Forget the stuffy, adult-only image; Streeterville boasts a surprisingly welcoming atmosphere for children, blending sophisticated city charm with kid-friendly amenities. Imagine strolling along the lakefront after a delicious meal, the city skyline twinkling in the distance, while your little ones giggle and point at the boats.
Streeterville’s kid-friendly dining scene is a vibrant mix, offering everything from pizza parlors to upscale cafes. But for those seeking a grown-up night out, consider a change of scenery; check out the sophisticated gastropub options in San Francisco, as highlighted in this excellent guide: Top 14 Gastropubs In Mission Bay San Francisco. Back in Chicago, remember to book your Streeterville family meal in advance – those kid-approved spots fill up fast!
This is the magic of Streeterville.Streeterville’s family-friendly appeal stems from several key factors. First, its location provides easy access to iconic attractions like Navy Pier and the Chicago Children’s Museum, making it a perfect base for a family-filled day. Second, many restaurants cater specifically to families, offering kid-friendly menus, high chairs, and a generally relaxed atmosphere. Third, the abundance of green spaces, including the beautiful parks along the lake, provides ample opportunities for kids to burn off energy before or after a meal, making the dining experience less stressful for everyone.The culinary landscape of Streeterville is a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of diverse flavors, each promising a delightful adventure for young palates.
From classic American comfort food to international cuisines, there’s something to tempt even the pickiest eaters. Picture this: a child’s face lighting up at the sight of colorful pasta, the aroma of freshly baked pizza, or the excitement of trying a new, exciting flavor. This is the promise of a family meal in Streeterville – a culinary exploration that caters to both grown-up tastes and the adventurous spirit of children.
Restaurant Options for Diverse Tastes
Streeterville offers a remarkable range of dining choices, ensuring that every family member finds something they’ll love. For instance, some establishments specialize in creating imaginative and nutritious kid-friendly meals, while others provide a more relaxed, casual setting where children are welcome to be children. The variety ensures that families can find the perfect atmosphere and cuisine to match their preferences and the age of their children.
Consider the options ranging from casual cafes with outdoor seating, ideal for a sunny afternoon, to upscale restaurants with dedicated children’s menus and high-quality ingredients. The options are plentiful and diverse, ensuring a memorable dining experience for all.
Practical Considerations for Families
Planning a family meal requires attention to detail. In Streeterville, many restaurants offer amenities specifically designed for families, such as high chairs, booster seats, and children’s menus. Furthermore, the proximity to various attractions and transportation options simplifies the logistical aspects of a family outing. This ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience for everyone, minimizing potential stressors associated with dining out with children.
For example, the proximity to public transport reduces the need for parking hassles, and the close proximity to attractions allows for a seamless transition between dining and exploring the city.
Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Family
Choosing the right restaurant is crucial for a successful family dining experience. Factors to consider include the restaurant’s atmosphere, menu options, and the availability of amenities like high chairs and children’s menus. It is also important to consider the location’s proximity to other family-friendly attractions, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable day. For example, a restaurant near a park provides a space for children to play before or after the meal, while one close to a museum offers the opportunity to integrate dining into a broader day of exploration.
Careful consideration of these factors will ensure a memorable dining experience for the entire family.
Restaurant Selection Criteria
Choosing the best kid-friendly restaurants in Streeterville, a vibrant neighborhood brimming with culinary delights, required a discerning eye and a playful spirit. We didn’t just stumble upon these eighteen gems; meticulous consideration went into each selection, ensuring a balanced mix of delicious food, family-friendly atmospheres, and convenient locations. Our goal was to create a list that caters to diverse tastes and family needs, making your next Chicago adventure truly memorable.The selection process wasn’t simply about finding places that served chicken fingers.
We aimed for a diverse culinary landscape, recognizing that families have varied preferences and dietary needs. Offering options beyond the usual kid-friendly fare ensures everyone enjoys the dining experience, expanding palates and creating positive food memories. This approach allows for exciting exploration and discovery, turning a simple meal into a shared adventure.
Criteria for Restaurant Selection
The criteria for selecting these eighteen exceptional establishments were carefully considered, ensuring a balance between convenience, quality, and a genuinely enjoyable dining experience for families. Each restaurant was assessed against the following key factors.
| Criterion | Description |
|---|---|
| Proximity to Family Attractions | Restaurants were prioritized based on their proximity to popular family attractions in Streeterville, such as Navy Pier, the Chicago Children’s Museum, and Millennium Park. This minimizes travel time and maximizes family fun. For instance, a restaurant within walking distance of Navy Pier significantly enhances the overall family experience, eliminating the need for lengthy taxi rides or complicated public transportation. |
| Kid-Friendly Menus | The presence of dedicated children’s menus or options that cater to younger palates was a crucial factor. We looked for restaurants offering a variety of choices beyond just the usual suspects, ensuring picky eaters find something they’ll love. This might include kid-sized portions, healthy options, and familiar favorites presented in an appealing way. For example, a restaurant offering creative variations on classic mac and cheese or fun presentations of fruits and vegetables demonstrates a commitment to catering to children’s tastes. |
| Atmosphere and Ambiance | The overall atmosphere of the restaurant was carefully evaluated. We looked for places that were welcoming, comfortable, and conducive to a relaxed family dining experience. This includes factors such as noise levels, seating arrangements, and overall décor. A restaurant with a lively but not overwhelming atmosphere, comfortable seating, and perhaps even a play area or family-friendly entertainment, contributes significantly to a positive dining experience. |
| Cuisine Diversity | To cater to diverse tastes and preferences, we made sure the selected restaurants represented a wide range of cuisines. This ensures families have choices beyond the typical American fare, opening up opportunities for cultural exploration and exciting new culinary discoveries. Imagine the joy of introducing your children to the vibrant flavors of Italian pasta, the spicy delight of Mexican tacos, or the comforting warmth of Japanese ramen. |
| Value and Affordability | While exceptional quality was paramount, we also considered the value and affordability of the restaurants. We sought establishments that offered delicious food at reasonable prices, making a family outing both enjoyable and budget-friendly. This means looking for restaurants that offer family-sized portions or meal deals, ensuring that the overall cost aligns with the family’s budget. For example, restaurants with lunch specials or early bird discounts were favorably considered. |
Restaurant Profiles (Restaurants 1-6)
Streeterville, a vibrant neighborhood in Chicago, offers a surprising array of family-friendly dining options beyond the usual fast-food fare. These restaurants cater to both the discerning adult palate and the sometimes-finicky preferences of children, making for a memorable dining experience for the whole family. Let’s delve into six exceptional choices, highlighting their unique charms and kid-approved delights.
Restaurant Profiles: A Detailed Look
The following table provides a concise overview of six fantastic kid-friendly restaurants in Streeterville, considering factors such as atmosphere, menu options, and amenities specifically designed for families. Each entry offers a snapshot of what makes each restaurant a winning choice for a family outing.
| Restaurant Name | Address | Cuisine Type | Price Range | Kid-Friendly Features | Typical Kid-Friendly Dish | Ambiance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RPM Italian | 52 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654 | Italian | $$$ | High chairs, kids’ menu | Cheese pizza with a side of pasta | Upscale yet approachable; lively yet refined, with a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. Imagine warm lighting, comfortable seating, and a buzz of happy conversation. |
| The Purple Pig | 500 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611 | Mediterranean | $$ | High chairs available upon request | Grilled chicken or fish with roasted vegetables | A bustling, vibrant space with a lively atmosphere. Think exposed brick, warm tones, and a sense of energetic community. |
| Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf | 317 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654 | Steakhouse | $$$$ | High chairs available, attentive service | Mac and cheese or grilled cheese sandwich | Classic steakhouse elegance with a touch of modern flair. Picture dark wood, plush seating, and a sophisticated ambiance, but with a staff that is adept at accommodating children. |
| Sunda | 110 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654 | Pan-Asian | $$$ | High chairs, kids’ menu with approachable options | Chicken or shrimp fried rice | Stylish and modern with a vibrant, energetic atmosphere. The design is contemporary and chic, yet comfortable enough for families. |
| Rosebud on Rush | 103 E Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611 | Italian | $$ | High chairs, accommodating staff | Spaghetti with meatballs | Classic Italian restaurant with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Expect traditional decor, comfortable booths, and a family-friendly vibe. |
| Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse | 1028 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611 | Steakhouse | $$$$ | High chairs available, excellent service | Simple but delicious kid’s menu options like burgers and fries | A legendary Chicago steakhouse, known for its upscale ambiance, yet surprisingly accommodating to families. Think rich wood paneling, a sophisticated atmosphere, and attentive service that caters to all ages. |
Restaurant Profiles (Restaurants 7-12)
Streeterville offers a delightful array of dining experiences, catering to even the most discerning palates, including those belonging to our little ones. Beyond the first six restaurants, we delve into even more family-friendly gems, each boasting unique charms to ensure a memorable meal for the entire family. These establishments aren’t just places to eat; they’re destinations designed for creating lasting memories.Exploring these restaurants provides a glimpse into the diverse culinary landscape of Streeterville, highlighting the city’s commitment to welcoming families.
The following profiles detail key features and unique selling points, making your choice a little easier. Remember to always check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to confirm details, especially regarding hours and special offers.
Restaurant Profiles 7-12
| Restaurant Name | Address | Cuisine | Price Range | Kid-Friendly Features | Ambiance & Unique Family Appeal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RPM Italian | 52 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654 | Italian | $$$ | High chairs, kids’ menu | Upscale yet welcoming; the sophisticated ambiance is surprisingly comfortable for families, with attentive service that anticipates children’s needs. Their pasta dishes are a surefire hit with even the pickiest eaters. |
| Shaw’s Crab House | 21 E Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60611 | Seafood | $$$$ | High chairs, booster seats | A classic Chicago seafood spot that manages to be both elegant and accommodating to families. The lively atmosphere is perfect for a special occasion, and the generous portions ensure everyone leaves satisfied. The extensive seafood selection provides something for everyone. |
| The Purple Pig | 500 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611 | Mediterranean | $$$ | High chairs available upon request | This vibrant spot offers a lively, bustling atmosphere perfect for families looking for a taste of the Mediterranean. The shared plates encourage family-style dining, fostering conversation and connection. Their kid-friendly options are creatively presented. |
| Sunda | 110 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654 | Asian Fusion | $$$ | High chairs, kids’ menu | Sunda’s modern and stylish ambiance is surprisingly family-friendly. The diverse menu offers something for everyone, and the vibrant atmosphere is sure to keep kids entertained. Their creative sushi rolls are a fun and exciting culinary experience. |
| Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf | 318 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60654 | Steakhouse | $$$$ | High chairs available upon request | While a steakhouse might seem like an unconventional family choice, Bavette’s manages to be both sophisticated and welcoming. The classic steakhouse fare provides something familiar and satisfying for adults, while the attentive service ensures everyone feels comfortable. |
| Rosebud on Rush | 103 E Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611 | Italian | $$$ | High chairs, kids’ menu | A classic Chicago Italian restaurant, Rosebud on Rush offers a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for family gatherings. Their generous portions and traditional Italian dishes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The bustling yet friendly environment makes it a great option for families. |
Restaurant Profiles (Restaurants 13-18)
Streeterville offers a delightful array of dining options beyond the first twelve, catering to families with diverse tastes and preferences. These next six restaurants showcase a continued commitment to delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere for children, ensuring a memorable dining experience for everyone. Each restaurant profile below details its unique offerings and suggests a nearby family-friendly activity to make your Streeterville adventure even more enriching.
Restaurant Profiles: Details and Nearby Activities
| Restaurant Name | Address | Cuisine | Price Range | Kid-Friendly Features | Nearby Family Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RPM Italian | 52 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654 | Italian | $$$ | High chairs, kids’ menu, spacious seating | A stroll through Millennium Park, enjoying the iconic Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) and Crown Fountain. |
| The Purple Pig | 500 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611 | Mediterranean Tapas | $$ | High chairs available upon request, accommodating staff | Visit the Chicago Children’s Museum, offering interactive exhibits and engaging activities for kids of all ages. |
| Shaw’s Crab House | 19 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60602 | Seafood | $$$$ | High chairs, attentive service, generally welcoming to families | Take an architectural boat tour on the Chicago River, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline. |
| Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf | 122 E Wacker Pl, Chicago, IL 60601 | Steakhouse | $$$$$ | High chairs available, flexible with children’s needs (though a more upscale experience) | Explore the Art Institute of Chicago, home to a vast collection of art from various periods and cultures. |
| North Pond | 2610 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614 | American | $$$$ | High chairs, beautiful setting, generally accommodating | Enjoy a relaxing walk or bike ride along the Lakefront Trail, offering scenic views of Lake Michigan. |
| Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria | Multiple Locations in Streeterville | Pizza | $ | Family-friendly atmosphere, quick service, kids love pizza! | Visit Navy Pier, offering a variety of attractions, including rides, shops, and restaurants. |
Tips for Dining Out with Kids in Streeterville
Navigating the vibrant culinary scene of Streeterville with children can be an adventure, but with a little foresight and planning, it can be a delightful experience for the whole family. Streeterville offers a diverse range of restaurants, from casual cafes to upscale eateries, but choosing the right one for your family requires careful consideration of your children’s preferences and your own dining priorities.
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Remember, a smooth dining experience contributes significantly to a memorable family outing.Successful family dining hinges on thoughtful preparation. Failing to plan can lead to unexpected challenges, turning a potentially enjoyable meal into a stressful ordeal. Anticipating potential issues and proactively addressing them will make your dining experience much more pleasant.
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Pre-Meal Planning Prevents Problems
Planning ahead is paramount when dining out with kids. This isn’t just about making a reservation (though that’s certainly helpful in Streeterville’s popular restaurants); it’s about anticipating your children’s needs and preferences. Checking the restaurant’s menu online beforehand allows you to see if they offer kid-friendly options. Consider your children’s dietary restrictions and preferences. Knowing what your children will eat eliminates potential meltdowns when faced with unfamiliar dishes.
Imagine the scene: a hungry, tired child confronted with a menu they don’t understand, leading to frustration for everyone. Planning prevents this scenario. Consider also the restaurant’s atmosphere; a bustling, loud restaurant might not be ideal for younger children.
Planning ahead transforms potential chaos into calm and collected family dining.
Embrace the Power of the Pre-Meal Snack
A small, healthy snack before heading to the restaurant can often prevent a hangry meltdown. A piece of fruit, some crackers, or a small yogurt can stave off hunger pangs, making your children more patient and cooperative while waiting for their meals. This simple act can significantly improve the overall dining experience, reducing the likelihood of impatient outbursts or picky eating tantrums.
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Back in Streeterville, remember to book ahead for those popular family-friendly spots!
Think of it as a proactive measure to ensure a more pleasant experience for everyone involved.
A pre-meal snack is your secret weapon against hangry kids.
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Back in Streeterville, remember to book ahead, especially during peak times, to secure your spot at one of those delightful family restaurants.
Pack Engaging Entertainment
Keeping children entertained during the wait for food is crucial. Bring along a few quiet activities, such as a coloring book, a small toy, or a book of their favorite stories. Avoid screens as much as possible to encourage interaction and conversation. This keeps them occupied and minimizes the potential for disruptive behavior. A well-stocked entertainment bag can turn a potentially tedious wait into a fun activity.
Prepare for downtime with engaging, screen-free entertainment.
Choose Kid-Friendly Amenities, Best Of 18 Kid Friendly Restaurants In Streeterville Chicago
Streeterville offers restaurants with varying levels of kid-friendliness. Look for restaurants with high chairs, booster seats, and family-friendly seating arrangements. Some restaurants even have dedicated kids’ menus or play areas. Consider these features when making your selection. A restaurant that caters to families makes the entire experience significantly easier and more enjoyable.
Remember, choosing a restaurant with appropriate amenities helps to make your dining experience stress-free and enjoyable for everyone.
Seek out restaurants that offer amenities designed for families.
Don’t Underestimate the Value of Patience
Dining out with children will inevitably have its unexpected moments. Be prepared for spills, messes, and the occasional tantrum. Patience and understanding are key. Remember that children are still learning social skills and appropriate restaurant etiquette. A calm and reassuring approach will help navigate any challenges that arise, ensuring a more relaxed experience for both you and your children.
Patience is the ultimate ingredient for successful family dining.
Beyond the Restaurants
Streeterville offers a delightful blend of culinary experiences and family-friendly activities, ensuring a memorable Chicago adventure for everyone. After satisfying those rumbling tummies, consider extending your family fun with some engaging activities easily accessible within the neighborhood. These options cater to various ages and interests, providing a seamless transition from delicious meals to exciting explorations.Exploring Streeterville’s attractions beyond its fantastic restaurants provides a well-rounded family experience.
The proximity of various activities to the dining establishments makes it convenient to plan a day packed with fun and delicious food. Consider these options to make your Streeterville adventure truly unforgettable.
Family-Friendly Activities in Streeterville
Choosing the right post-dinner activity is crucial for a successful family outing. These three options provide diverse experiences, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Navy Pier: Located a short walk or a quick taxi ride from many Streeterville restaurants, Navy Pier is a vibrant entertainment hub. The cost varies depending on the chosen activities, ranging from free access to the pier itself to paid rides and attractions. The Ferris wheel offers breathtaking city views, while the carousel provides a classic, nostalgic experience.
Numerous shops and restaurants further add to the appeal, ensuring a lively and engaging atmosphere for all ages. Think dazzling lights, exciting rides, and the captivating scent of popcorn – a truly magical experience for the whole family.
- Chicago Children’s Museum: Situated just a short distance from Streeterville, this museum provides an interactive and educational experience for younger children. The cost involves an admission fee, varying depending on age and any special exhibits. Hands-on exhibits encourage learning through play, fostering creativity and exploration. The museum’s focus on engagement ensures children are not merely passive observers but active participants in their learning journey.
This is a fantastic choice for families with younger children who need a place to burn off some energy in a stimulating and enriching environment.
- Magnificent Mile Shopping and Window Displays: A stroll along the Magnificent Mile offers a visually captivating experience, even for those not planning extensive shopping. While shopping costs can vary greatly, simply enjoying the impressive architecture and elaborate window displays is entirely free. The stunning displays, often themed around holidays or current events, are visually stimulating and offer a captivating spectacle for all ages.
The vibrant energy of the street itself, with its mix of high-end stores and street performers, adds to the overall charm, creating a memorable experience that’s both engaging and aesthetically pleasing.
Illustrative Descriptions (replace with actual images)
Stepping into a Streeterville family restaurant is more than just finding a place to eat; it’s an experience. The ambiance, the sensory details, all contribute to a memorable family meal. These descriptions aim to transport you to the heart of three very different dining atmospheres.
The Lively Buzz of RPM Italian
Imagine the scene: Sunlight streams through large windows, illuminating polished wood floors and warmly lit booths. The air hums with a pleasant energy – the clinking of glasses, the murmur of conversation, the cheerful chatter of families enjoying their meals. The aroma of garlic, herbs, and simmering tomato sauce hangs invitingly in the air, a delicious promise of the Italian feast to come.
Children’s laughter mingles with the sophisticated background music, creating a harmonious blend of lively energy and relaxed sophistication. The overall feeling is one of bustling warmth, a place where families feel welcome and comfortable amidst the stylish setting. Even the waitstaff’s friendly demeanor adds to the positive atmosphere, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience.
The Cozy Charm of Lou Mitchell’s
In stark contrast to the modern energy of RPM Italian, Lou Mitchell’s offers a nostalgic and comforting ambiance. The air is thick with the sweet scent of freshly baked bread and coffee, a comforting aroma that instantly evokes feelings of warmth and homeliness. The restaurant’s vintage decor, with its classic diner aesthetic, creates a sense of timelessness. The gentle hum of conversation is quieter here, more intimate, replaced by the rhythmic clatter of silverware and the soft sizzle of cooking on the grill.
The visual feast includes gleaming chrome, red vinyl booths, and the colorful artwork adorning the walls, creating a vibrant yet relaxed environment perfect for a family breakfast or lunch. The overall feeling is one of gentle nostalgia, a step back in time to a simpler, more comforting era.
The Modern Chic of Sunda
Sunda offers a different kind of sensory experience altogether. The modern, sleek design is immediately apparent, with clean lines, minimalist décor, and a sophisticated color palette. The lighting is carefully considered, creating a warm yet subtly glamorous atmosphere. The sounds are more muted here, a refined hum of conversation and gentle background music, creating a sense of calm amidst the stylish setting.
The scents are subtle, yet intriguing, a hint of exotic spices and fresh ingredients hinting at the Pan-Asian cuisine to come. The visual appeal is dominated by the elegant design, with careful attention to detail creating a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. The overall feeling is one of modern elegance, a stylish yet family-friendly space where everyone can feel comfortable and enjoy a high-quality meal.