Finding the perfect family restaurant can be a challenge. You need a place with delicious food that appeals to everyone, a comfortable atmosphere, and ideally, kid-friendly options. This guide highlights 30 of the best family restaurants in Ithaca, catering to diverse tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking for a casual pizza night or a celebratory dinner, you'll find something here to satisfy your family. We've categorized them to help you narrow down your search.
Casual Family Fun: Pizza, Burgers, and More
This section focuses on restaurants perfect for a relaxed, informal family meal. These places often offer a wide variety of options, making it easy to please picky eaters.
1. Collegetown Bagels: A Ithaca institution, known for their delicious bagels and casual atmosphere. Perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch. Kids love the cream cheese!
2. Ithaca Pizza: A classic choice for pizza lovers. Their generous portions and varied toppings make it a family favorite. Consider ordering a large for the whole family.
3. The Nines: This popular spot offers a diverse menu with burgers, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a kids' menu with familiar favorites.
4. Hector BBQ: If you're craving smoky flavors, Hector BBQ is a fantastic choice. Their BBQ is incredibly flavorful, and they often have outdoor seating, perfect for a warm day.
5. Local Burger Society: A focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients makes this a great choice for families who appreciate good food. They often have specials that cater to kids.
6. Zellars: Offering American staples in a casual setting, Zellars is reliable for families seeking a consistent and well-liked experience.
7. Red Zeppelin: Known for its eclectic atmosphere and generous portions, Red Zeppelin is a popular spot for its American fare and comfort food.
Upscale Family Dining: Special Occasions and Fine Dining
Sometimes, you want something a little more special. These restaurants offer a step up in ambiance and cuisine, ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or other celebrations.
8. Glenwood Inn: This charming inn provides a refined dining experience with an elegant ambiance, but also offers kid-friendly menu options.
9. The Boathouse: Overlooking Cayuga Lake, this restaurant offers stunning views along with delicious seafood and other dishes. While perhaps slightly more formal, they're generally accommodating to families.
10. Agava: While offering a higher price point, Agava provides a memorable dining experience with a diverse menu focusing on Mexican-inspired cuisine. Many family members enjoy Mexican food.
11. State Street Kitchen: Known for its contemporary American cuisine and creative menu, State Street Kitchen is suitable for special occasions or for families who enjoy trying new things.
12. Casablanca: If you and your family enjoy Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food, Casablanca provides a unique and flavorful dining experience.
International Flavors: Expanding Culinary Horizons
Explore diverse cultures with these restaurants offering cuisines from around the world.
13. Thai Basil: Their authentic Thai food is delicious and often features milder options suitable for children.
14. Crepe de Vine: For those craving a taste of France, this restaurant offers savory and sweet crepes, a fun and interactive food experience.
15. Little Thai: Another excellent option for those wanting to explore Thai cuisine.
16. Burrito Loco: This casual spot is great for families who love Mexican food. They offer a variety of burritos, tacos, and other Mexican favorites.
17. Coltivare: This Italian-inspired restaurant offers fresh, high-quality ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for families who love Italian food.
Kid-Friendly Features: Play Areas, Menus, and More
These restaurants go the extra mile to make dining with kids a positive experience.
18. Cinnabon: While primarily a dessert spot, this is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids who love sweet treats.
19. Subway: A classic choice for families on the go, Subway offers customizable sandwiches for all ages.
20. Dunkin' Donuts: A go-to for those who love donuts and coffee.
21. Starbucks: Similar to Dunkin', this is a great spot for a quick family coffee break.
22. Wegmans: While a grocery store, Wegmans also features a food court, perfect for diverse preferences within a family.
23. Walmart: Similarly, Walmart's food court is great for many types of food when you need a quick family bite.
Breakfast and Brunch Spots: Starting the Day Right
24. Waffle Frolic: This Ithaca institution offers delicious waffles and breakfast options for the whole family.
25. Top of the Town: Their scenic views and lovely brunch menu can make any occasion feel special.
Unique and Quirky Options
26. The Moosewood Restaurant: Known for its vegetarian-friendly menu, Moosewood offers a unique dining experience.
27. Epiphany: This upscale restaurant boasts beautiful presentation and a creative menu for adults.
28. Nile Ethiopian Restaurant: For a unique culinary experience, Nile offers a fun introduction to Ethiopian cuisine.
Cafes and Bakeries: Sweet Treats and Coffee Breaks
29. Ithaca Coffee Company: A great spot for coffee, pastries, and a relaxed atmosphere.
30. Connect Coffee Co.: Another excellent local coffee shop perfect for a family coffee break.
This list is not exhaustive, but it provides a great starting point for your family dining adventures in Ithaca. Remember to check restaurant websites or call ahead to confirm hours, menus, and kid-friendly options. Enjoy your meals!
