Finding family-friendly restaurants that cater to both adults and children can be a challenge, especially when venturing into a new city. Downtown Ithaca, with its vibrant atmosphere and diverse culinary scene, offers a surprising number of excellent choices for families. This guide highlights thirteen of the top kid-friendly restaurants in Downtown Ithaca, ensuring your next family meal is a delightful experience. We've considered factors like kid-friendly menus, atmosphere, location, and overall family-friendliness.
Kid-Friendly Ithaca Eats: Diverse Choices for Every Palate
Choosing where to eat with kids shouldn't feel like a chore. We’ve compiled this list to take the guesswork out of the equation. From casual cafes to upscale eateries with accommodating staff, Downtown Ithaca has something to offer every family. Remember to always check restaurant websites for up-to-date menus, hours, and any special kid-friendly promotions.
Casual Dining Delights: Perfect for Picky Eaters
1. The Ithaca Farmers Market (Seasonal): While not a restaurant in the traditional sense, the Ithaca Farmers Market offers a vibrant atmosphere and a variety of kid-friendly food vendors. Kids love choosing their own snacks and produce! Look for vendors selling fresh fruit, pizza, and other kid-approved treats.
2. Collegetown Bagels: A classic Ithaca institution, Collegetown Bagels boasts delicious bagels, sandwiches, and sides perfect for a quick and satisfying family meal. Their simple menu caters to even the pickiest eaters. Plus, who doesn't love a good bagel?
3. Moosewood Restaurant: Known for its vegetarian and vegan cuisine, Moosewood also offers many kid-friendly options, including mac and cheese and other simple dishes. The welcoming atmosphere makes it a pleasant experience for the whole family.
4. Nando's Peri-Peri: While known for its spicy peri-peri chicken, Nando's offers plenty of milder options that even young children will enjoy. Their sides are also kid-approved, making it a versatile option.
Upscale Options with a Family-Friendly Touch
5. Glenwood Inn: The Glenwood Inn provides a more sophisticated dining experience, but their menu accommodates families with kid-friendly options. Their beautiful ambiance adds a special touch to a family meal.
Sweet Treats and Cafes
6. Cinnabon: A classic treat for kids of all ages. The aroma alone is enough to entice even the fussiest eaters!
7. Just a Taste: Perfect for a quick sweet treat after exploring downtown Ithaca. They offer ice cream, pastries, and other delightful desserts.
Unique and Themed Experiences
8. The Boatyard Grill: Situated on the Cayuga Lake waterfront, The Boatyard Grill offers stunning views and a lively atmosphere. While perhaps slightly more expensive, the experience makes it worth considering for a special occasion.
9. State Street Restaurant & Bar: This versatile location offers a diverse menu and a spacious setting, catering comfortably to families.
Pizza Perfection: A Family Favorite
10. Luna Pizzeria: Luna Pizzeria is a local favorite, offering delicious pizza with various toppings to satisfy everyone. Their casual atmosphere makes it a great choice for families with young children.
11. Apizza: Another excellent pizza option in Ithaca's downtown area, Apizza provides high-quality pizza with various customizable options.
International Flavors
12. Govinda's Vegetarian Restaurant: This Indian vegetarian restaurant offers a delicious and diverse menu with many mild and kid-friendly options.
13. Burrito Shack: This restaurant offers quick and satisfying burritos, with various fillings that cater to different tastes. It's a great option for families on the go.
Tips for Dining Out with Kids in Downtown Ithaca
- Make a reservation: Especially during peak hours or weekends, reservations can ensure you get a table quickly.
- Check menus online beforehand: This helps you choose a restaurant that offers kid-friendly options.
- Bring snacks and drinks: Having snacks and drinks on hand can help avoid meltdowns if your meal takes longer than expected.
- Pack entertainment: Books, games, or tablets can help keep kids occupied while waiting for food.
Downtown Ithaca offers a diverse range of kid-friendly restaurants that cater to every taste and budget. With a little planning, you can ensure that your family dining experience is enjoyable, memorable, and stress-free. Enjoy exploring Ithaca’s culinary scene with your family!
