It’s no secret that New Jersey is full of great restaurants. But things can get somewhat challenging when searching for a place that’s also just as great for kids. That’s why Best of NJ is showcasing a list of The Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in New Jersey. These are spots that kids won’t just tolerate eating at, but actually look forward to visiting.
The entries on this list all offer an experience with children in mind; from unique and extra-mile kids’ menus to on-site activities and entertainment, these restaurants make dining out fun. Plus, parents can be at ease bringing their energetic children to these welcoming kid-friendly restaurants.
Quick Click Guide: Select an NJ Region below to find The Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants near you.
North Jersey | Central Jersey | Jersey Shore | South Jersey
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North Jersey
The Barnyard & Carriage House
Address: 754 Totowa Rd, Totowa
Details: With its charmingly rustic interior and a roaring fireplace, The Barnyard & Carriage House is perfect for family dinners. In the warmer months, they also offer dining out on their expansive patio. As a bonus, kids can explore the beautifully landscaped grounds, which include lots of blooming flowers and a gazebo. As for the menu, their appetizer list is full of kid-friendly favorites. It includes mozzarella sticks, chicken fingers, and Bavarian pretzels with cheese.
Why I like it: The Barnyard has over a century of history, first starting out as a dairy farm.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
Blue Moon Mexican Cafe
Address: 23 E Palisade Ave, Englewood
Details: The kids’ menu at Blue Moon gives kids coloring and activities all while learning some Spanish vocabulary, too. Of course, their menu offers Mexican options like tacos and quesadillas, but they also have American items; this includes hot dogs, grilled cheese sandwiches, hamburgers and more. Which means even younger guests unwilling to try Mexican food will find something to eat. Likewise, adults have plenty of traditional Mexican options to choose from.
Why I like it: Sunday brunch at Blue Moon includes fan favorites like Churro French Toast and Huevos Rancheros.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
Chit Chat Diner
Address: 410 Eagle Rock Ave, West Orange
Details: Chit Chat Diner’s wild and wacky colors and decor bring thoughts of Alice in Wonderland to mind. From the multicolored upholstery to the checkered floors, it’s as much a feast for the eyes as the mouth. Kids will enjoy the french fries section of the menu, which includes waffle fries and house made potato chips. For adults who want a potatoey snack, there’s the Pulled Pork Tots with hot sauce, bacon, and cheddar cheese. Everyone will also love the desserts.
Why I like it: The Chit Chat Diner is typically open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
The Hive
Address: 1000 Park Ave, Hoboken
Details: Co-founders – and moms – Kristin and Catherine opened The Hive with families in mind. In fact, this spot perfectly represents a kid-friendly eatery. Marketed as “not your average coffee shop”, The Hive has a dedicated play space for children. This area is filled with toys, books, and activities so parents can enjoy their coffee or baked treat; while kids can burn off their excess energy in a safe environment. (The play space also accepts reservations.)
Why I like it: They sell wellness, beauty, lifestyle, and non-toxic toys from local makers as well.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
Mama’s Cafe Baci
Address: 260 Mountain Ave, Hackettstown
Details: Mama’s lives by the authentic Italian tradition of treating guests like family. In addition to top notch hospitality, they keep kids in mind during dinner. For instance, children receive crayons to color with and a menu of classic favorites; Mama’s serves penne, spaghetti, pizza, mozzarella sticks, chicken fingers, and more. But there’s more, because they also offer a DIY pizza kit for $12 that even includes a pizza cutter. (For a fun at-home dining experience.)
Why I like it: Special gluten-free, vegetarian, dairy-free, and vegan menus are all available at Mama’s.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
Sorriso Kitchen
Address: 252 Main St, Chatham
Details: The cheerful vibe of this brunch spot evokes the owners’ personal commitment to giving back to the community. In particular, Sorriso Kitchen works hard to empower the special needs community. Every Monday, the restaurant closes to host service and hospitality training programs for young adults with special needs. (Graduates of the program can then work at Sorriso.) The menu features locally-sourced breakfast, brunch, and lunch fare like paninis and deluxe pancakes.
Why I like it: Sorriso Kitchen also offers an a la carte dinner menu once a week, returning soon.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
Central Jersey
Char Burger & Creamery
Address: 779 US-202, Bridgewater
Details: The name of this restaurant is basically a beacon for kids, as they serve both burgers and sweet treats. In particular, the creamery part of the menu includes ice-cream, shakes and floats. Meanwhile, their signature Char Burger boasts American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and special sauce on a brioche bun. Other options include fries, floats, hot dogs, chicken, and more. There’s also a playground right next to the patio with picnic tables.
Why I like it: At Char Burger, the grilled cheese is made with (what else?) hamburger buns!
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
Chimney Rock Inn
Address: 800 Thompson Ave, Bound Brook
Details: Chimney Rock Inn is known for being friendly and accommodating to everyone, including its younger guests. For example, kids can enjoy playing games in the game room while waiting for their food; from a menu of ravioli, tacos, burgers, chicken sandwiches, and more. Meanwhile, adults can pick from an extensive menu that includes salads, burgers, ribs, pasta, and pizza. The latter ranges from thin-crust, vegan, gluten-free, to even Mac and cheese pizza.
Why I like it: The Big Kahuna teriyaki burger includes pineapple rings, bacon, cabbage, pepper jack, and spicy mayo.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
Clinton Station Diner
Address: 2 Bank St, Clinton
Details: For kids that love trains, Clinton Station Diner offers the chance to eat inside a train car. It’s true, families can choo-choo-choose (not sorry) to eat breakfast, lunch, or dinner on the train section. (There is also a traditional dining room as well.) Kids receive a placemat they can color, and choices such as chicken fingers, spaghetti, or hot dogs. Plus, all kids’ meals come with a drink and dessert. Their newly added drive-thru makes pickup orders a snap.
Why I like it: Their famous cheesecakes and 7 lb burger kits are both available to ship nationwide.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
The Station Bar & Grill
Address: 99 Center St, Garwood
Details: Kids and parents alike look forward to dining at The Station Bar & Grill. Parents love that kids eat free off the kids menu’ every Saturday (with purchase of one adult meal); meanwhile, kids enjoy the menu of favorites like pizza, pasta, chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks and burgers. Plus, the kids menu includes a small soda and ice cream. For adults, we recommend the buffalo shrimp starter, followed by “The Hoboken” sandwich, and cheesecake dessert.
Why I like it: The Station’s famous Brian Brothers’ wings come in mild, medium, serious, teriyaki, or honey BBQ flavor.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
Winberie’s
Address: 1 Palmer Square, Princeton
Details: Kids are always welcome at Winberie’s, part of the Princeton community since 1984. (They also have a second location in Summit.) In addition to crayons and a coloring page, kids get special treatment at this spot. For instance, all meals from the children’s menu come with one side, a drink, and ice cream for dessert. The meals themselves range from standard fare (pizza, chicken bites) to options like grilled salmon and grilled chicken breast.
Why I like it: Winberie’s frequently hosts events and specials, such as their weekly Wine Wednesday.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
Jersey Shore
Angelo’s Fairmount Tavern
Address: 2300 Fairmount Ave, Atlantic City
Details: Angelo’s is an Atlantic City landmark, open since 1935 and operated across three generations of the Mancuso family. The eatery offers generous portions of classic Italian fare in a relaxed, casual setting. But what sets it apart from other kid-friendly restaurants is how they treat children like little adults. Their children’s menu features ravioli with meatballs or sausage, chicken parm, fried flounder, and fried shrimp. They also offer Family-style takeout meals.
Why I like it: New York Yankees baseball fans will enjoy the wall of Yankee memorabilia.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
Duffer’s
Address: 5210 Pacific Ave, Wildwood
Details: No list of kid-friendly restaurants is complete without a spot that also sports an arcade. Duffer’s fills that role, as the establishment offers mini-golf, a full arcade, and more. In fact, this place doubles as a day trip, with a menu that offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert. (The latter features their famous homemade ice cream in a variety of flavors.) The kids’ menu offers typical options, but they also serve Slushie Sensations that come with a crazy straw.
Why I like it: The dessert portions are huge at Duffer’s, especially when it comes to ice cream sundaes.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
Rosalita’s Roadside Cantina
Address: 180 US-9 North, Englishtown
Details: Rosalita’s Roadside Cantina knows how to throw a party. They have drink or food specials nearly every day of the week, but Wednesdays are the real fiesta; that’s because kids eat free all day long with the purchase of one adult entree. The restaurant also hosts regular events that include face painting, balloon animals, and even the occasional special guest. (For instance, the Grinch usually stops by around Christmas.) Don’t miss their various desserts.
Why I like it: Those desserts include the Apple Empanada, Choco Taco, Cheesecake Chimi, and Fried Ice Cream.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
Shut Up and Eat!
Address: 804 Main St, Toms River
Details: We know the name is harsh, but we promise it’s all in good fun. Shut Up and Eat is a breakfast and lunch restaurant that feels like a Saturday morning at home. The servers wear pajamas (and patrons can, too), the menu is huge, and the decor is wacky. Plus, kids can rearrange the magnets on the wall to their heart’s content. In particular, they serve favorites like waffles, pancakes, and French toast with all sorts of fillings, flavors, and toppings.
Why I like it: Anyone can create their own French toast by choosing a “glue” and a “stuffing”.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
Tacos el Tio
Address: 6400 E Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township
Details: If the kids are into Mexican food, Tacos el Tio is the spot to bring them. This lively Mexican joint has colorfully painted walls, festive string lights, and an expansive menu. The spot sports all the Mexican mainstays, such as tacos, burritos, quesadillas, fajitas, and chimichangas. But they also have specials like Churrasco Steak and Tequila Shrimp, plus chicken, Enfrijoladas, and Entomatadas. The menu includes vegetarian, gluten-free, and spicy dishes, too.
Why I like it: Moms and dads will appreciate the extensive list of handcrafted cocktails, like the coconut mojito.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
South Jersey
Amy’s Omelette House
Address: 637 High St, Burlington
Details: Amy’s Omelette House (in Burlington and Cherry Hill) specializes in breakfast and lunch; both locations are open from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm daily. Kids enjoy fun food choices like Mickey Mouse pancakes or the Man in the Moon waffle; which is half a waffle dusted with powdered sugar. Likewise, grownups love the Wafflewich, an omelette sandwich that uses two waffles as bread; this comes with turkey bacon, scallion, cheddar cheese, and crispy chicken.
Why I like it: Amy’s offers family-style meals for up to eight people, each packed with breakfast favorites.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
The Green Olive
Address: 610 Shiloh Pike, Bridgeton
Details: The Green Olive serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a dedicated children’s menu section for all three meals. For instance, the breakfast kid’s menu includes French toast sticks and Batman baby pancakes. Then the lunch menu offers grilled cheese, chicken fingers, penne pasta, and more. Finally, the dinner menu for kids includes everything on the lunch menu, plus a baked mac & cheese entree. All kid’s meals are reasonably priced and come with a soda.
Why I like it: The Green Olive always accommodates children, making families feel welcome at all times.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
Johnny Longhots
Address: 1692 Clements Bridge Rd, Deptford
Details: Johnny Longhots merges the best of both worlds, serving Philly cheesesteaks and New York style brick oven pizza. This spot offers fixed $4.99 kid’s meals, with options such as hot dogs and mac & cheese bites. All kid’s meals come with a kid’s size order of fries and either soda or a juice box. In addition, the restaurant declares every Wednesday as “Kid’s Day”; each week, they offer one free Kids’ meal with every adult meal purchase of $10 or more.
Why I like it: Adults can pick between hot subs, cold hoagies, burgers, pasta, pizza, soups, desserts, and more.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
The Pop Shop
Address: 1 S Main St, Medford
Details: The Pop Shop blends the fun and friendliness of a 1950s soda fountain with delicious all-day dining. In addition to a menu filled with classic favorites from French toast to chicken cheesesteak, they also serve ice cream; in fact, they have an ice cream window serving everything from deluxe sundaes and gelato to triple-thick milkshakes. The Pop Shop also hosts a large number of children’s events, like Fairy Tale Fridays and Saturday Morning PJ Parties.
Why I like it: Their rotating monthly specials include new desserts, like the Coconut Caramel Shake with caramel deLites.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
The Pub
Address: 7900 Kaighn Ave, Pennsauken
Details: This South Jersey landmark has been around since the 1960s. The Pub is famously known for its food cooked in an open charcoal hearth. The unique decor and eclectic menu delight both kids and adults, especially when it comes to their meat options. For instance, the children’s menu features barbecued spare ribs as well as boneless prime rib or beef. Plus, all dinner entrees come with one of their signature Pub Free-Bees, like the Heath baked Pub Bread.
Why I like it: The Pub’s storied history includes a catastrophic fire and being the last of a franchise.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
Sabrina’s Cafe
Address: 714 Haddon Ave, Collingswood
Details: The casual and cozy Sabrina’s Cafe in downtown Collingswood is ideal for either breakfast or brunch. The kid’s menu (for eight and under) offers items such as scrambled eggs, grilled cheese, and French toast stix. They also have buttermilk pancakes and a handful of toppings like fruits, walnuts, and chocolate chips. Meanwhile, adults can try the more exotic creations including cannoli French toast, eggs Benedict, and vegetarian Huevos Rancheros.
Why I like it: Sabrina’s Cafe frequently features themed Brunch specials, such as the Valentine’s Kiss Stuffed French Toast.
More info: Look for them online to learn more.
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Top (Hero) Photo: Sorriso Kitchen / Facebook
Other Photos (in Order):
The Hive / Instagram
Char Burger & Creamery / Facebook
Duffers / Instagram
The Pop Shop / Facebook
