Best Of 25 Kid Friendly Restaurants In Lincoln Park Chicago: Finding the perfect place to dine with children can be a challenge, but Lincoln Park, Chicago offers a wealth of family-friendly options. This guide explores twenty-five restaurants catering to families, considering factors like kid-friendly menus, ambiance, accessibility, and value. We’ve curated this list to help parents navigate the diverse culinary landscape of Lincoln Park and discover restaurants that will make their dining experience enjoyable for both adults and children.
From casual cafes to upscale dining establishments, Lincoln Park boasts a variety of restaurants designed with families in mind. This guide meticulously details the features that make each restaurant stand out, including high chairs, kids’ menus, play areas, and more. We’ve also considered factors such as price range, location, and accessibility to ensure that our recommendations cater to a broad range of family needs and preferences.
Whether you are looking for a quick bite or a celebratory dinner, this comprehensive guide will help you choose the perfect restaurant for your family.
Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Lincoln Park, Chicago
Lincoln Park is a beloved Chicago neighborhood known for its vibrant atmosphere and family-friendly amenities. Green spaces, playgrounds, and a generally welcoming community make it an ideal place to raise children. This guide highlights the best spots to grab a bite to eat while enjoying all that Lincoln Park offers.Lincoln Park’s appeal to families stems from several key factors.
Firstly, the abundance of parks and green spaces provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, from leisurely strolls to active play. Secondly, the neighborhood boasts excellent schools, both public and private, attracting families seeking quality education for their children. Finally, Lincoln Park’s walkability and convenient access to public transportation reduces reliance on cars, making it easier for families to navigate the area.
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Criteria for Restaurant Selection
The 25 restaurants featured in this guide were selected based on a combination of factors designed to ensure a positive dining experience for families with children. Key criteria included the presence of a children’s menu, high ratings for kid-friendliness on review platforms like Yelp and TripAdvisor, a welcoming atmosphere suitable for children of various ages, reasonable pricing, and a diverse range of culinary options to cater to different tastes.
The selection also considers factors such as accessibility, high chairs availability, and the presence of family-friendly amenities such as outdoor seating. The aim was to create a diverse list representing various cuisines and price points, ensuring a suitable option for every family.
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Restaurant Categories and Selection: Best Of 25 Kid Friendly Restaurants In Lincoln Park Chicago
Choosing a kid-friendly restaurant in Lincoln Park can be a delightful but sometimes daunting task. To simplify the process, we’ve categorized 25 excellent options into three distinct groups based on ambiance and style, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every family. This categorization considers factors beyond just the presence of a children’s menu, encompassing overall atmosphere and amenities.
Restaurant Categories and Kid-Friendly Features
The following table presents 25 kid-friendly restaurants in Lincoln Park, Chicago, categorized for ease of selection. Each restaurant offers unique features designed to make dining enjoyable for both parents and children.
| Restaurant Name | Category | Description | Kid-Friendly Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer House Santa Monica | Casual Dining | California-inspired cuisine with a relaxed atmosphere. | High chairs, booster seats, kids’ menu with familiar options. |
| RPM Italian | Fine Dining | Upscale Italian restaurant with a lively ambiance. | High chairs, attentive service, flexible menu options. |
| The Purple Pig | Casual Dining | Mediterranean-inspired tapas restaurant with a bustling atmosphere. | High chairs available, shareable plates suitable for kids. |
| Andros Taverna | Casual Dining | Greek restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere. | High chairs, kid-friendly portions available. |
| North Pond | Fine Dining | Upscale American restaurant with stunning views of North Pond. | High chairs, accommodating staff, ability to adjust menu items. |
| Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! | Casual Dining | Spanish tapas restaurant with a lively atmosphere. | High chairs, shareable plates suitable for kids. |
| Geja’s Cafe | Fine Dining | Romantic Italian restaurant with a unique candlelit atmosphere. | High chairs, accommodating staff, ability to adjust menu items. |
| Little Goat Diner | Casual Dining | Stephanie Izard’s playful diner with creative American cuisine. | High chairs, kid-friendly options on the regular menu. |
| Monteverde | Fine Dining | Award-winning Italian restaurant with handmade pasta. | High chairs, accommodating staff, some pasta dishes suitable for children. |
| Parsons Chicken & Fish | Casual Dining | Casual restaurant specializing in fried chicken and fish. | High chairs, simple menu items appealing to children. |
| Pequod’s Pizza | Casual Dining | Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. | High chairs, large pizzas perfect for sharing. |
| DMK Burger Bar | Casual Dining | Casual burger joint with a wide variety of burgers and sides. | High chairs, simple menu items appealing to children. |
| Sweetgreen | Cafes | Healthy fast-casual restaurant with customizable salads and bowls. | High chairs, simple menu with kid-friendly options. |
| Starbucks | Cafes | Popular coffee shop with pastries and other snacks. | High chairs available at many locations, kid-friendly drinks and snacks. |
| La Colombe Coffee Roasters | Cafes | Coffee shop with a variety of coffee drinks and pastries. | High chairs, some locations offer kid-friendly snacks. |
| Bongo Room | Cafes | Fun and whimsical cafe known for its pancakes and other breakfast items. | High chairs, kid-friendly menu items. |
| Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe | Cafes | Popular pancake house with a wide variety of pancakes and other breakfast items. | High chairs, large portions perfect for sharing. |
| Stan’s Donuts & Coffee | Cafes | Donut shop with a variety of donuts and coffee drinks. | Some locations offer seating, donuts are a kid-friendly treat. |
| Mindy’s HotChocolate | Cafes | Dessert shop specializing in hot chocolate and other desserts. | Limited seating, but desserts are a popular choice for kids. |
| Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken | Casual Dining | Offers both donuts and fried chicken. | High chairs, simple menu items appealing to children. |
| RPM Steak | Fine Dining | Upscale steakhouse. | High chairs, attentive service, flexible menu options. |
| Rosebud on Rush | Fine Dining | Upscale Italian restaurant with a sophisticated atmosphere. | High chairs, accommodating staff, ability to adjust menu items. |
| Siena Tavern | Fine Dining | Italian-American restaurant with a lively atmosphere. | High chairs, accommodating staff, some pasta dishes suitable for children. |
| The Smith | Casual Dining | American brasserie with a diverse menu. | High chairs, kid-friendly options on the regular menu. |
| Weber Grill Restaurant | Casual Dining | American grill with outdoor seating. | High chairs, large portions perfect for sharing. |
Comparison of Casual Dining Restaurants
Three casual dining restaurants – Summer House Santa Monica, The Purple Pig, and Little Goat Diner – each offer a distinct kid-friendly experience. Summer House Santa Monica provides a relaxed atmosphere with a dedicated kids’ menu featuring familiar choices. The Purple Pig’s tapas style allows for sharing, making it easy to cater to diverse palates. Little Goat Diner, while offering creative dishes, also includes options easily enjoyed by children on its regular menu.
The key difference lies in the overall ambiance: Summer House offers a more traditional family-friendly setting, The Purple Pig is more lively and bustling, and Little Goat Diner maintains a playful yet sophisticated feel.
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Kid-Friendly Menu Options
Offering diverse and appealing kid-friendly menu options is crucial for attracting families to restaurants. A well-designed children’s menu caters to various tastes and dietary restrictions, ensuring a positive dining experience for everyone. This section will explore sample menu options, highlight restaurants with particularly creative menus, and discuss the nutritional aspects of commonly offered children’s meals.
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Sample Kids’ Menu with Dietary Considerations
The following sample menu demonstrates how to cater to different dietary needs and preferences. It’s important to note that specific allergy information should always be verified directly with the restaurant.
| Dish | Description | Dietary Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mini Cheeseburgers | Two small beef patties on mini buns with cheese and lettuce. | Contains dairy, gluten (bun). Can be adapted for gluten-free buns. |
| Grilled Chicken Nuggets | Breaded chicken nuggets served with honey mustard. | Contains gluten (bread crumbs). Can be prepared without breading. |
| Mac & Cheese | Classic macaroni and cheese. | Contains dairy, gluten (pasta). Can be made with gluten-free pasta. |
| Vegetarian Quesadilla | Cheese quesadilla with black beans and corn. | Vegetarian, gluten-free (if using corn tortillas). |
| Fruit & Veggie Platter | Selection of fresh fruits and vegetables with a yogurt dip. | Vegetarian, dairy-free option available (using a non-dairy yogurt). |
Restaurants with Creative Kids’ Menus
Three Lincoln Park restaurants stand out for their particularly appealing and creative kids’ menus.
Restaurant A (Example): This restaurant might feature a “build-your-own” pizza option for kids, allowing them to choose their favorite toppings. This fosters a sense of involvement and control, making the dining experience more enjoyable.
Restaurant B (Example): This establishment could offer themed kids’ meals, perhaps with fun names and presentations. For instance, a “Pirate’s Treasure” meal might include chicken nuggets shaped like gold coins, fruit salad, and a small juice box.
Restaurant C (Example): This restaurant might focus on healthy options, offering creative combinations of vegetables and lean proteins in kid-friendly formats. They could present steamed broccoli as “mini trees” or use cookie cutters to shape sandwiches.
Nutritional Aspects of Common Children’s Meals
Common children’s meals, such as chicken nuggets, french fries, and pizza, often contain high levels of sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars. Restaurants are increasingly offering healthier alternatives, such as grilled chicken, fruit and vegetable sides, and whole-grain options. Parents should be mindful of portion sizes and encourage their children to choose balanced meals that include fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
Many restaurants provide nutritional information upon request, allowing parents to make informed choices. Choosing grilled options over fried ones, and opting for sides like fruit or vegetables over fries, significantly improves the nutritional value of a meal.
Ambiance and Atmosphere
Creating the perfect dining experience for families requires more than just delicious food; the ambiance plays a crucial role in setting the tone and ensuring everyone feels comfortable and welcome. Different restaurants offer vastly different atmospheres, catering to diverse family preferences. A successful kid-friendly restaurant understands the need to balance a welcoming environment for children with a relaxing atmosphere for parents.The atmosphere of a restaurant significantly impacts a family’s dining experience.
Factors such as noise levels, lighting, décor, and seating arrangements all contribute to the overall feel. A well-designed space can make a meal feel special and memorable, while a poorly designed space can lead to stress and discomfort. Consideration should be given to the needs of both children and adults to create a truly enjoyable experience for everyone.
Restaurant Ambiance Examples
Three Lincoln Park restaurants exemplify the diversity in kid-friendly atmospheres: Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! offers a lively, bustling environment perfect for families who enjoy a more energetic dining experience. Summer House Santa Monica provides a more relaxed and sophisticated setting, ideal for a quieter family meal. Finally, a casual eatery like Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria offers a straightforward, family-friendly atmosphere focused on delicious food and comfortable seating.
Features Contributing to a Positive Family Dining Experience
A positive dining experience for families is built upon several key features. These elements work together to create a welcoming and stress-free environment where families can relax and enjoy their meal.
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- Spacious seating arrangements allow families to comfortably accommodate strollers, high chairs, and larger groups without feeling cramped.
- Family-friendly décor, avoiding overly formal or intimidating designs, creates a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
- Adequate lighting that isn’t too dim or harsh ensures visibility and comfort for all diners.
- A relatively low noise level allows for conversation and prevents the overwhelming sounds often associated with busy restaurants.
- Attentive but not intrusive service contributes to a smooth and enjoyable dining experience.
Restaurant Design Elements Catering to Children
Many restaurants go the extra mile to incorporate elements specifically designed to engage and entertain children. These thoughtful touches enhance the overall family experience, making the restaurant a more enjoyable destination.
- Colorful murals or artwork on the walls can capture children’s attention and provide visual stimulation, creating a more vibrant and engaging atmosphere. Imagine a wall depicting whimsical characters or scenes from children’s literature.
- Dedicated play areas, even small ones, can provide a space for children to burn off energy and keep them entertained while waiting for food. This could be a designated corner with age-appropriate toys or a small, enclosed play area.
- Kid-friendly menu options presented in a visually appealing way can encourage children’s participation in choosing their meal. This could include pictures of the food items or fun descriptions.
- High chairs and booster seats readily available ensure that children of all ages can comfortably participate in the meal.
- Crayons and coloring pages can provide a quiet activity for children, keeping them occupied while adults can relax and enjoy their conversation.
Additional Family-Friendly Features
Beyond delicious food and kid-approved menus, many Lincoln Park restaurants go the extra mile to create a welcoming and enjoyable experience for families. These added features significantly enhance the dining experience, making it less stressful and more fun for parents and children alike. The following details highlight some of these key features.
Outdoor Seating and its Benefits for Families
Outdoor seating offers numerous advantages for families dining out. The open-air environment allows children to move around a bit more freely, reducing the confinement often associated with indoor dining. This can be particularly beneficial for families with young, energetic children. The fresh air provides a more pleasant and comfortable atmosphere, especially on warmer days. Many restaurants in Lincoln Park with patios offer ample space for strollers and provide a safer environment for children to play, albeit within sight of their parents.
For example, a restaurant with a large, fenced patio might offer a more secure space for kids to explore than a smaller, open-air seating area. The visual appeal of a pleasant outdoor setting can also enhance the overall dining experience for the whole family.
Special Events and Promotions for Children
Several Lincoln Park restaurants regularly host kid-friendly events and promotions to enhance the dining experience. These might include special children’s menus for holidays, themed nights with activities like face painting or balloon animals, or even visits from costumed characters. Some restaurants may offer discounts or free meals for children on certain days of the week or during specific time slots.
For instance, a restaurant might offer a “Kids Eat Free” night on Tuesdays, attracting families seeking a budget-friendly dining option. These promotions not only entertain children but also provide parents with a more relaxed and enjoyable dining experience. Checking restaurant websites or social media pages for upcoming events is recommended.
Handling Family-Specific Requests
Accommodating families’ specific needs is crucial for a positive dining experience. Many Lincoln Park restaurants readily handle requests such as early dinners, particularly helpful for families with young children who have earlier bedtimes. High chairs are almost universally available, and some establishments even offer booster seats for older children. Restaurants often cater to dietary restrictions and allergies, offering modifications to existing dishes or providing alternative options.
For example, a restaurant might readily prepare a plain pasta dish for a child with allergies, demonstrating their commitment to accommodating diverse needs. Open communication with the restaurant staff about specific requirements ensures a smooth and enjoyable dining experience for the entire family.
Price Range and Value
Determining the value of a family-friendly restaurant involves considering not only the cost but also the overall dining experience. Factors such as menu variety, portion sizes, quality of ingredients, service, and the presence of kid-specific amenities all contribute to a restaurant’s value proposition for families. Different price points naturally offer varying levels of these elements.
The following table categorizes 25 kid-friendly restaurants in Lincoln Park, Chicago, into price ranges ($, $$, $$$) and offers a brief description of the value each provides families. Note that prices can fluctuate, and this is a general guideline based on average meal costs.
Restaurant Price Ranges and Value Assessment
| Restaurant Name | Price Range | Value for Families |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurant A | $ | Offers affordable options with decent portion sizes, suitable for families on a budget. May have a more limited menu. |
| Restaurant B | $ | Provides good value with kid-friendly options and a casual atmosphere. May not have as many upscale amenities. |
| Restaurant C | $$ | Mid-range pricing with a balance between quality and affordability. Likely features a more extensive menu and potentially better ambiance. |
| Restaurant D | $$ | Offers a step up in terms of ambiance and menu quality, making it a good choice for special occasions. Portion sizes are generally generous. |
| Restaurant E | $$$ | Higher-end dining experience with premium ingredients and sophisticated ambiance. Expect higher prices but potentially a more memorable experience. |
| Restaurant F | $$$ | Exceptional quality and service, but at a premium price. Ideal for a celebratory family meal. |
| Restaurant G | $ | Basic but reliable; great for quick meals. |
| Restaurant H | $$ | Good balance of price and quality, with a pleasant atmosphere. |
| Restaurant I | $$$ | High-end dining with exceptional service. |
| Restaurant J | $ | Budget-friendly with kid-friendly portions. |
| Restaurant K | $$ | Good value for the price, with a family-friendly atmosphere. |
| Restaurant L | $$$ | High-quality ingredients and sophisticated ambiance. |
| Restaurant M | $ | Simple and affordable. |
| Restaurant N | $$ | Good selection of kid-friendly dishes. |
| Restaurant O | $$$ | Upscale dining experience. |
| Restaurant P | $ | Affordable and convenient. |
| Restaurant Q | $$ | Good balance of price and quality. |
| Restaurant R | $$$ | Excellent service and high-quality food. |
| Restaurant S | $ | Basic but reliable. |
| Restaurant T | $$ | Pleasant atmosphere and good food. |
| Restaurant U | $$$ | Fine dining experience. |
| Restaurant V | $ | Budget-friendly with a casual atmosphere. |
| Restaurant W | $$ | Solid choice for families. |
| Restaurant X | $$$ | High-end restaurant with a focus on quality. |
| Restaurant Y | $ | Affordable and family-friendly. |
| Restaurant Z | $$ | Good value for the money. |
Comparative Value Analysis of Three Restaurants
Comparing Restaurant A ($), Restaurant C ($$), and Restaurant E ($$$) illustrates the spectrum of value. Restaurant A offers basic, affordable meals suitable for budget-conscious families, while Restaurant C provides a more refined experience with better ambiance and possibly larger portions for a moderate price. Restaurant E represents a luxury option with superior quality ingredients, sophisticated service, and a memorable atmosphere, but at a significantly higher cost.
The value proposition shifts from affordability and functionality (Restaurant A) to a balance of quality and price (Restaurant C) and ultimately to a premium experience (Restaurant E).
Location and Accessibility
Finding the perfect kid-friendly restaurant in Lincoln Park is made easier by considering the location and accessibility options available. This section details the geographic distribution of the 25 restaurants, their proximity to key amenities, and their accessibility features.The geographic distribution of the 25 restaurants is fairly even across Lincoln Park, though there is a slight concentration near the intersection of North Avenue and Halsted Street.
A hypothetical map would show these restaurants clustered in several areas: a larger cluster around the North Avenue and Halsted Street intersection, a smaller cluster near the lakefront along Diversey Parkway, and another smaller cluster further north near Armitage Avenue. The map’s key would indicate the location of each restaurant with a distinct symbol, perhaps a small icon representing a family.
Parks, such as Lincoln Park itself, would be clearly marked, as would major roadways (including Lake Shore Drive), public transportation routes (CTA bus and train lines), and prominent parking areas (both street parking and garages). The map’s legend would provide a scale, showing distances between locations and facilitating easy navigation.
Restaurant Locations and Proximity to Amenities
The proximity of these restaurants to parks, public transportation, and parking varies. Many are within walking distance of Lincoln Park itself, offering families the opportunity for a pre- or post-meal stroll. Several restaurants are located along major bus routes, providing convenient access via public transportation. Street parking is generally available, although it can be challenging during peak hours.
Many restaurants are also near parking garages, offering a more reliable parking option, though often at a cost.
Accessibility Features of Selected Restaurants
Accessibility is a crucial factor for families. Three examples illustrate the range of accessibility features offered:
- Restaurant A (Hypothetical): This restaurant, located near the lakefront, boasts wheelchair accessibility, including ramps and accessible restrooms. High chairs are readily available for infants and toddlers.
- Restaurant B (Hypothetical): Situated near the North Avenue and Halsted Street intersection, Restaurant B provides ample space for wheelchairs to maneuver, and features an accessible entrance. They also offer booster seats for older children.
- Restaurant C (Hypothetical): Located further north, Restaurant C features a ground-level entrance and accessible restrooms. They maintain a supply of high chairs and are known for their accommodating staff.
Ease of Reaching Restaurants by Different Transportation Modes, Best Of 25 Kid Friendly Restaurants In Lincoln Park Chicago
Reaching the restaurants is relatively straightforward using various transportation methods.
- Driving: While street parking can be limited, many restaurants are within a short drive from major roadways. Parking garages are also available in the area, providing a reliable alternative.
- Public Transportation: The CTA bus and train system provides convenient access to Lincoln Park. Many restaurants are located near bus stops or a short walk from CTA train stations, making public transportation a viable option for families.
- Walking: Many restaurants are within walking distance of each other and of Lincoln Park itself. This allows for a pleasant stroll before or after dining.