Finding family-friendly restaurants in a bustling city like downtown Buffalo can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But fear not, parents! This comprehensive guide highlights 23 fantastic kid-friendly eateries offering delicious food, welcoming atmospheres, and amenities to keep your little ones happy. We've categorized them for your convenience, focusing on what makes each location special for families.
Kid-Friendly Dining Options in Downtown Buffalo: Categories & Choices
We've broken down our list to help you find the perfect spot based on your needs:
Casual & Quick Bites: Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these spots offer kid-friendly menus and quick service.
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Sophia's: Known for its delicious pizza and family-friendly atmosphere. They often have specials that appeal to kids, and the casual setting means less stress about spills.
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Taqueria Los Mayas: This vibrant spot serves up tasty tacos and other Mexican fare. The kid's menu is simple but satisfying, and the lively atmosphere is usually a hit with kids.
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Dinosaur Bar-B-Que: While the name might seem intimidating, Dinosaur is surprisingly kid-friendly. The spacious layout and laid-back vibe make it easy to manage little ones. Plus, the BBQ is delicious!
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Westside Bazaar: This vibrant food hall offers a diverse range of cuisines, ensuring something for everyone in the family. The casual setting and variety of options are major pluses.
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Thin Man Brewery: Though primarily a brewery, Thin Man often features family-friendly events and has a spacious patio perfect for letting kids run around (with supervision, of course!). They frequently offer kid-friendly food options.
Upscale Casual: A step up in ambiance but still relaxed and welcoming to families.
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The Black Sheep Restaurant: Offers a creative menu with options for picky eaters. Their outdoor seating provides ample space for kids to roam.
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Liberty Hound: Features a welcoming atmosphere and a menu with plenty of choices for adults and kids. Known for their creative cocktails, but also offers great non-alcoholic options.
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Trattoria Aroma: A popular Italian restaurant with a family-friendly menu and a charming atmosphere. The pasta dishes are always a hit with the kids.
Restaurants with Dedicated Kids' Menus: These establishments go the extra mile to cater specifically to children's tastes.
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Yalleys: A local favorite known for its diverse menu, which includes a dedicated kids' section filled with classic favorites.
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Swift Current Bar & Restaurant: Offers a separate kids' menu filled with kid-friendly options like mac and cheese, chicken fingers, and burgers.
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Oliver's Restaurant: Located near the Theater District, Oliver's is well known for its accommodating service and family-friendly ambiance, including a dedicated kid's menu.
Restaurants with Play Areas or Entertainment: For those days when you need extra kid-engaging activities.
- None specifically listed in Downtown Buffalo: Unfortunately, dedicated play areas are less common in downtown restaurants. However, many restaurants with outdoor seating provide ample space for kids to play under close supervision.
Cafes & Bakeries: Perfect for a quick treat or a light meal.
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Just Buffalo Literary Center: While not solely a restaurant, their cafe offers simple, kid-friendly treats and a relaxing atmosphere.
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Flying Bison Brewing Company: While primarily a brewery, they often host family-friendly events and feature food trucks with child-friendly options.
Ethnic Cuisine Options with Kid-Friendly Choices: Exploring different cultures with the whole family.
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Pho Dollar: This Vietnamese restaurant offers delicious and affordable pho and other options. The broth-based soups are surprisingly appealing to kids.
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Enjoy Sushi Restaurant: Sushi might seem like an unusual choice, but many kids enjoy the simple flavors and fun shapes of various rolls. Enjoy offers a welcoming and family-friendly environment.
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Aladdin's Eatery: Middle Eastern cuisine with options for adventurous eaters. Their hummus and pita bread are often a hit with kids.
Breakfast & Brunch Spots: Great options for a weekend family meal.
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Sophia's Restaurant: Offers brunch and has kid-friendly menu options.
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Greco: A classic brunch spot with a more upscale feel but still family-friendly.
Restaurants with Outdoor Seating: Perfect for warmer weather and allowing kids more space to move around.
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The Black Sheep Restaurant: Offers a spacious patio.
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Thin Man Brewery: A large patio is perfect for casual dining.
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Liberty Hound: Outdoor seating available, but availability might change seasonally.
Bonus Pick:
- Explore Canalside: Canalside isn't a restaurant, but it's a great place to grab food from various vendors and enjoy the waterfront views with the kids. Often features family-friendly events during the summer.
Tips for Dining Out with Kids in Downtown Buffalo
- Call ahead: Many restaurants are happy to accommodate families, but confirming kid-friendly amenities or menu options beforehand is always a good idea.
- Make reservations: Especially on weekends or during peak hours.
- Pack snacks and drinks: This can help prevent meltdowns before your meal arrives.
- Bring entertainment: Books, tablets, or small toys can keep kids occupied during the wait.
- Be prepared for messes: Accidents happen! Embrace the chaos and relax.
This list is a starting point. Downtown Buffalo has many more hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Remember to explore, ask for recommendations from locals, and most importantly, have fun dining out with your family!
