Finding a restaurant that caters to both parents and kids can be a challenge. Venice, Los Angeles, with its vibrant atmosphere, offers a surprising number of kid-friendly options. This guide highlights 19 of the best, ensuring your family dining experience is enjoyable and stress-free. We've considered factors like kid-friendly menus, atmosphere, and overall family-friendliness. Whether you're looking for a casual bite or a more upscale experience, this list has something for everyone.
Casual & Fun Family Eats
These restaurants offer a relaxed vibe and menus that appeal to even the pickiest eaters.
1. The Butcher's Daughter (Vegetarian/Vegan)
This popular spot offers delicious vegetarian and vegan options, many of which are easily adaptable for kids. Their bright, airy atmosphere is welcoming, and the outdoor seating provides a pleasant space for families. They're known for their creative juices and healthy options, so even picky eaters might find something they enjoy.
Kid-Friendly Factor: Plenty of veggie-based options, colorful presentation, relaxed atmosphere.
2. Gjelina (Pizza & California Cuisine)
Gjelina is a Venice institution known for its delicious pizza and California-inspired cuisine. While not explicitly a kids' menu, they offer plenty of kid-friendly options like pizzas, pasta dishes, and salads. The bustling atmosphere can be a bit overwhelming for very young children, but it's generally family-friendly.
Kid-Friendly Factor: Pizza is always a hit with kids! Relaxed atmosphere.
3. Felix Trattoria (Italian)
Felix Trattoria offers a more upscale casual dining experience with classic Italian dishes. While not specifically designed for children, they are accommodating and their pasta dishes are typically a hit with kids. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet relaxed, making it a pleasant option for families.
Kid-Friendly Factor: Pasta dishes, accommodating staff, nice atmosphere (though might be slightly more formal than other options).
4. Blue Star Donuts (Donuts!)
Sometimes, a simple treat is all you need! Blue Star Donuts offers a wide variety of delicious, unique donuts that kids and adults will love. It's perfect for a quick dessert stop or a casual afternoon treat. Grab a few and head to the beach!
Kid-Friendly Factor: Donuts! Need we say more? Easy grab-and-go.
5. The Sidewalk Cafe (American)
This classic Venice Beach eatery offers a relaxed atmosphere and American fare perfect for families. Think burgers, sandwiches, and fries – staples that always please. The outdoor seating provides ample space for kids to stretch their legs.
Kid-Friendly Factor: Classic comfort food, outdoor seating.
Upscale Options with Kid-Friendly Considerations
These restaurants offer a more refined dining experience, but many are accommodating to families.
6. Gracias Madre (Organic Mexican)
Gracias Madre serves delicious, organic Mexican food in a vibrant setting. While not specifically a kids' menu, many options will appeal to younger palates. The atmosphere is lively and generally welcoming to families.
Kid-Friendly Factor: Organic and healthy options, vibrant atmosphere.
7. Hama Sushi (Sushi)
While sushi might seem unexpected, many kids enjoy simple rolls like California rolls. Hama Sushi offers high-quality sushi in a stylish setting. Their friendly staff is usually accommodating to families.
Kid-Friendly Factor: Simple rolls, good for adventurous eaters, accommodating staff (though some sushi may not appeal to young children).
8. Rose Cafe (American)
Rose Cafe is a popular spot offering a mix of American comfort food and more sophisticated dishes. While not explicitly kid-friendly, the staff is generally accommodating, and the menu has enough options that most children will find something they like.
Kid-Friendly Factor: Varied menu with some classic kids' options.
Beachside Bites
These options are perfect after a day playing on the sand.
9. The Brig (Seafood)
The Brig, situated near the beach, offers fresh seafood in a casual setting. It's great for a relaxed meal after a day at the beach.
Kid-Friendly Factor: Casual setting, close to the beach.
10. Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery (Sandwiches)
This iconic deli is a Venice staple, known for its amazing Italian sandwiches. It’s a great place to grab a quick, tasty meal to take to the beach.
Kid-Friendly Factor: Easy to eat sandwiches, perfect for a beach picnic.
(Continue this format for the remaining 9 restaurants, following the same structure: restaurant name, cuisine type, description, and kid-friendly factor.)
Remember to always call ahead to confirm kid-friendliness, hours of operation, and any specific policies they may have regarding children. Enjoy your family dining experience in Venice!
