Finding family-friendly restaurants that cater to both parents and children can be a challenge. This comprehensive guide highlights the top 30 kid-friendly restaurants in Ithaca, NY, ensuring your next family meal is a delightful experience. We've considered factors like kid-specific menus, high chairs, play areas, and overall atmosphere to create this curated list. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch or a special dinner celebration, you'll find something to suit your family's needs here.
Casual Dining Delights: Kid-Approved Eats
This section focuses on restaurants offering casual, kid-friendly atmospheres with options that please even the pickiest eaters.
Pizza Perfection: A Kid's Favorite
- Collegetown Bagels: While known for bagels, their pizza is a kid favorite, offering familiar flavors. They also have a decent selection of kid-friendly sides.
- Pizza Tree: A local favorite, offering a wide variety of pizzas, including build-your-own options. Great for catering to different preferences.
- Ithaca Pizza: A classic Ithaca institution, known for large portions and tasty pizzas. Plenty of space for families.
Beyond Pizza: Diverse Options
- The Nines: Offers a creative, family-friendly menu with burgers, sandwiches, and salads. They also have a great outdoor patio.
- Hector BBQ: Delicious BBQ with a fun, casual setting. They have kid-sized portions available.
- State Street Deli: A classic deli with sandwiches, soups, and salads. A reliable choice for picky eaters.
- Moosewood Restaurant: While not specifically a kid's restaurant, they offer flexible and accommodating service. Their vegetarian options are excellent.
- Local Roots Restaurant and Bar: This restaurant focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Though not explicitly a kid's restaurant, their flexible menu makes it family-friendly.
Upscale Dining with Kid-Friendly Touches
These restaurants offer a more sophisticated dining experience while still maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for children.
- Agava Restaurant: While more upscale, they offer a kid's menu and are generally accommodating to families.
- Glenwood Restaurant: Offers beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere. Their menu has options suitable for children.
- The Boathouse Restaurant: With its location on Cayuga Lake, this restaurant provides a stunning view, and often has family-friendly hours.
Fast Food Favorites (with a Twist)
Sometimes, fast food is just what the doctor ordered. Here are some Ithaca options that go beyond the typical chain experience.
- Burrito Loco: Offers customizable burritos, making it easy to cater to kids' preferences.
- Ithaca Bakery: Offers fresh sandwiches, soups, and salads, perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Sweet Treats and Desserts: A Kid's Dream
- The Ithaca Coffee Company: Offers delicious treats like cookies and pastries to satisfy everyone's sweet cravings.
- Rulloff's Ice Cream: Ithaca's favorite ice cream parlor offers a wide variety of flavors.
Kid-Specific Amenities: Making Dining Easier
Several restaurants in Ithaca go the extra mile to make dining with children enjoyable. Look for these amenities:
- High chairs: Most restaurants on this list provide high chairs.
- Kids menus: Many restaurants offer menus specifically designed for children with simpler options.
- Play areas: Some restaurants have dedicated play areas to keep children entertained.
- Family-friendly atmosphere: Look for restaurants with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that accommodates noisy children.
Finding the Perfect Fit: Tips for Choosing
To make choosing the perfect restaurant easier, consider these factors:
- Your child's age and preferences: A toddler will have different needs than a teenager.
- Your dining budget: Prices vary widely across restaurants.
- The occasion: A casual lunch will require a different atmosphere than a celebratory dinner.
- Location and convenience: Consider the restaurant's proximity to your destination.
Beyond the List: Exploring Ithaca's Culinary Scene
While this list provides a great starting point, Ithaca has a vibrant and diverse culinary scene. Don't be afraid to explore and discover your family's new favorite restaurants.
This guide provides a strong foundation for planning family meals in Ithaca. Remember to check restaurant websites for menus, hours, and special offers. Happy dining!
Note: This list is not exhaustive and restaurants may change their offerings or close. Always call ahead to confirm information before your visit. The rankings are not indicative of quality but rather a diverse representation of Ithaca's culinary landscape.
